My Thoughts on "Courage" by Osho

I must admit that I was a bit hesitant to begin reading this book. Osho proved to be unapologetic about his practical theories on sex and super-consciousness, and a part of me was afraid to have him rip the cute little bandage off my fears; but curiosity got the best of me and I began to read. Within the first 15 pages I was blown away by his accurate representation of how fear has dictated our lives or lack of life. He goes on to explore the various causes and effects on humanity, constantly pointing the finger at the priests and politicians. He believed it was their desire for a perfect society that begin the cycle of fear in us which begins at birth. His arguments were very compelling.

Osho offers techniques for overcoming fear by ultimately transforming fear into love. He advises this is first done physically through sex when orgasm is achieved. Next the mind is released of fear through meditation, then the spirit through prayer; but not prayer in the traditional sense, he describes prayer as an expression of the love achieved through meditation, a deep expression of gratitude. Finally all is released when we become aware of our connection to the "whole," or divinity, when brahmacharya is achieved. Here you are in a state of total mindless, timelessness where even words do not exist. Seems simple right?

As I neared the end of the book I had achieved an inner calm. I had digested his theories and humorous anecdotes and felt I had a fare understanding of how fear would be uprooted from my life. Then in just the last five pages, Osho shattered my very foundation. Truths I thought I had revealed to myself years ago became painfully real. The crutch was exposed, no it more than exposed. It was the dryer lint on your black shirt as you danced under the black light in the middle of the dance floor. I was terrified. Now, an hour later I am trying to feel greatful knowing that I am truly closer to really living, but I am still having difficulty accepting this mountain that only hours ago was a mole hill. But five little words seal it all, "there is nothing to fear."

Thank you Osho.