7+ Best Heaven on Earth Books for Spiritual Seekers


7+ Best Heaven on Earth Books for Spiritual Seekers

A literary work titled “Heaven on Earth” can embody numerous genres, from utopian fiction and philosophical treatises to journey guides and self-help books. For instance, a journey information would possibly concentrate on a particular location, detailing its pure magnificence and cultural richness, implicitly or explicitly presenting it as a fascinating, idyllic vacation spot. Alternatively, a self-help guide would possibly information readers towards reaching interior peace and contentment, suggesting a path to a private “paradise” attainable on this life.

Such works usually faucet right into a basic human want for happiness, achievement, and an escape from struggling. They will present inspiration, solace, and sensible steering for people in search of a greater life. Traditionally, the idea of an earthly paradise has appeared in varied cultures and non secular traditions, reflecting a timeless craving for perfect situations. This enduring theme continues to resonate with modern audiences, suggesting a persistent want for hope and steering in navigating life’s complexities.

Additional exploration may study particular examples of works utilizing this title, analyzing their thematic content material, audience, and cultural impression. Alternatively, one may delve deeper into the historic and philosophical underpinnings of the “heaven on earth” idea, tracing its evolution throughout completely different eras and perception techniques. A comparative evaluation of various interpretations of the theme may additionally present precious insights.

1. Utopian Visions

Utopian visions characterize a core ingredient throughout the “heaven on earth e-book” idea. These visions depict idealized societies or states of being, usually serving as blueprints or inspirational fashions for reaching a greater life. Inspecting particular aspects of utopian visions supplies deeper perception into their reference to the pursuit of an earthly paradise.

  • Social Concord

    Utopian visions steadily emphasize social concord, portraying societies free from battle and inequality. Examples embody fictional communities the place assets are shared equitably and people dwell in peaceable coexistence. Inside the “heaven on earth e-book” framework, social concord represents a key aspiration, suggesting that an ideal society is integral to reaching a state of earthly paradise.

  • Technological Development

    Technological progress usually performs a big position in utopian visions, providing options to sensible issues and enabling a extra comfy and environment friendly existence. From automated techniques offering for primary must superior medical applied sciences eliminating illness, such developments contribute to a imaginative and prescient of a world the place human potential is maximized. In a “heaven on earth e-book,” know-how may be offered as a vital software for creating perfect dwelling situations.

  • Environmental Sustainability

    Many utopian visions prioritize environmental sustainability, recognizing the interconnectedness between human well-being and a wholesome planet. Sustainable agricultural practices, renewable power sources, and harmonious coexistence with nature are widespread themes. “Heaven on earth books” usually depict idyllic pure environments, emphasizing the significance of preserving and respecting the pure world as a vital part of reaching paradise.

  • Religious Achievement

    Utopian visions steadily tackle non secular achievement, exploring paths to interior peace and a way of goal. This will contain communal non secular practices, philosophical inquiry, or private growth strategies geared toward reaching enlightenment or self-realization. “Heaven on earth books” specializing in interior transformation usually draw upon these utopian beliefs, presenting non secular progress as a pathway to creating a private paradise.

These aspects of utopian visions collectively contribute to the “heaven on earth e-book” idea. Whether or not specializing in exterior societal constructions or inner particular person transformation, these works provide a glimpse into idealized prospects, inspiring readers to try in direction of a greater future and suggesting pathways for reaching a extra fulfilling and harmonious existence.

2. Inside Peace Guides

Inside peace guides characterize a big class throughout the “heaven on earth e-book” panorama. These works posit that real paradise resides throughout the particular person, achievable by means of cultivating interior peace and contentment. They provide sensible methods and philosophical frameworks for navigating life’s challenges and reaching emotional equilibrium, thus creating a private “heaven on earth,” no matter exterior circumstances. This connection stems from the understanding that lasting happiness can’t solely depend on exterior elements however should be cultivated internally. Eckhart Tolle’s “The Energy of Now” exemplifies this strategy, advocating mindfulness practices to transcend ego-driven struggling and discover current second consciousness as a supply of interior peace. Equally, Buddhist texts just like the Dhammapada present steering on moral conduct, psychological self-discipline, and knowledge cultivation as paths to liberation from struggling and the attainment of Nirvana, usually described as a state of profound peace and bliss.

The significance of interior peace guides throughout the broader “heaven on earth e-book” theme lies of their emphasis on private accountability and company. They empower people to actively form their expertise of actuality reasonably than passively in search of exterior validation or perfect circumstances. This strategy acknowledges that exterior situations are sometimes past particular person management, whereas interior peace, although requiring effort and self-discipline, stays attainable no matter exterior elements. The sensible significance of this understanding lies in its potential to foster resilience, emotional regulation, and a extra fulfilling life expertise. By cultivating interior peace, people can navigate challenges with better equanimity and discover contentment amidst life’s inevitable ups and downs.

In abstract, interior peace guides provide a definite perspective throughout the “heaven on earth e-book” idea. They shift the main target from exterior utopias to the cultivation of interior tranquility because the true supply of lasting happiness. This strategy acknowledges the constraints of in search of exterior validation and emphasizes the ability of particular person transformation. Whereas exterior situations could contribute to total well-being, real and sustainable “heaven on earth” finally resides throughout the particular person, cultivated by means of practices that foster interior peace and contentment. The enduring recognition of such guides underscores a persistent human want for sensible methods and philosophical frameworks for reaching lasting happiness, unbiased of exterior circumstances.

3. Journey and Place

Journey and place characterize integral parts throughout the “heaven on earth e-book” idea. These works steadily showcase particular areas, highlighting their distinctive attributes and portraying them as embodiments of earthly paradise. This connection stems from the human tendency to affiliate perfect environments with happiness and achievement, in search of locations that supply respite from each day life and evoke a way of surprise or tranquility. Exploring the assorted aspects of journey and place supplies deeper insights into their position in shaping the “heaven on earth” narrative.

  • Pure Magnificence

    Pure magnificence performs a vital position in establishing a location’s “heavenly” standing. Majestic mountains, pristine seashores, and luxurious forests evoke a way of awe and tranquility, usually related to non secular renewal and escape from city pressures. Journey books showcasing such landscapes capitalize on this innate human appreciation for pure magnificence, presenting these locations as potential embodiments of earthly paradise. As an illustration, descriptions of the Himalayas would possibly emphasize their non secular significance and breathtaking vistas, implicitly suggesting a connection to the next realm.

  • Cultural Richness

    Cultural richness provides one other layer to the “heaven on earth” narrative. Places with distinctive traditions, vibrant arts scenes, and welcoming communities usually attraction to vacationers in search of genuine experiences and a deeper reference to a spot. “Heaven on earth books” could spotlight these cultural features, portraying them as integral to a location’s idyllic character. A e-book about Bali would possibly concentrate on its intricate rituals, inventive heritage, and communal values, presenting them as components contributing to its perceived paradise-like environment.

  • Tranquility and Escape

    The promise of tranquility and escape serves as a robust motivator for journey. Places perceived as secluded, peaceable, and faraway from the stresses of recent life usually develop into synonymous with the “heaven on earth” perfect. Journey literature steadily emphasizes this side, portraying locations as havens of peace and rejuvenation. Descriptions of distant islands or quiet mountain villages would possibly concentrate on their serenity and lack of city distractions, implicitly suggesting an escape from the pressures of each day life.

  • Private Transformation

    Journey can facilitate private transformation, providing alternatives for self-discovery and progress. “Heaven on earth books” usually spotlight this transformative potential, suggesting that sure areas possess a novel energy to encourage, heal, and facilitate private progress. Accounts of pilgrimages to sacred websites or immersive experiences in nature would possibly emphasize the profound impression these journeys can have on particular person views and values, suggesting a pathway to interior transformation and the belief of a private “heaven on earth.”

These aspects of journey and place contribute considerably to the “heaven on earth e-book” idea. By showcasing particular areas and highlighting their distinctive attributes, these works faucet right into a basic human want for escape, connection, and transformation. They provide glimpses into potential paradises, inspiring readers to hunt out their very own variations of “heaven on earth,” whether or not by means of bodily journeys to breathtaking locations or by cultivating interior peace and contentment inside their very own lives.

4. Religious Journeys

Religious journeys represent a big theme throughout the “heaven on earth e-book” idea. These journeys, usually depicted as quests for enlightenment or self-realization, characterize a path in direction of interior transformation and the creation of a private paradise. This connection arises from the understanding that true happiness usually lies not in exterior circumstances, however in reaching interior peace and a deeper understanding of oneself and the universe. Exploring the aspects of non secular journeys reveals their profound implications throughout the “heaven on earth” narrative.

  • Inside Transformation

    Inside transformation represents a core ingredient of non secular journeys. This course of includes shedding limiting beliefs, confronting interior demons, and cultivating constructive qualities like compassion and knowledge. “Heaven on earth books” usually depict characters present process profound interior modifications, suggesting that true paradise lies in reaching the next state of consciousness. For instance, narratives of people overcoming habit or discovering forgiveness after trauma illustrate this transformative energy, implying that non-public progress is important to making a “heaven on earth” inside oneself.

  • Reference to the Divine

    Many non secular journeys contain in search of a deeper reference to the divine or the next energy. This connection can manifest by means of varied practices like meditation, prayer, or immersion in nature. “Heaven on earth books” could discover these practices, portraying them as pathways to experiencing a way of unity and transcendence. Descriptions of mystical experiences or profound encounters with nature can illustrate this connection, suggesting that experiencing the divine can create a way of awe and surprise, akin to experiencing a glimpse of paradise.

  • Self-Discovery and Function

    Religious journeys usually entail a strategy of self-discovery, resulting in a clearer understanding of 1’s goal and values. “Heaven on earth books” could depict characters embarking on quests for which means, finally discovering achievement by means of aligning their actions with their genuine selves. Examples embody people discovering their passions or discovering their calling to serve others. This emphasis on self-discovery means that understanding one’s goal is integral to making a significant and fulfilling life, a key part of the “heaven on earth” perfect.

  • Launch from Struggling

    A central purpose of many non secular journeys is liberation from struggling. This includes understanding the character of struggling, growing coping mechanisms, and cultivating interior peace. “Heaven on earth books” could painting characters overcoming adversity and discovering solace by means of non secular practices or philosophical insights. Tales of people discovering peace amidst grief or sickness illustrate this side, suggesting that even within the face of hardship, interior peace can create a way of tranquility and resilience, important to experiencing “heaven on earth” regardless of life’s challenges.

These aspects of non secular journeys contribute considerably to the “heaven on earth e-book” idea. By emphasizing interior transformation, reference to the divine, self-discovery, and launch from struggling, these works provide a path in direction of creating a private paradise, no matter exterior circumstances. They recommend that true “heaven on earth” lies not in in search of exterior utopias, however in cultivating interior peace, understanding one’s goal, and discovering reference to one thing better than oneself. This concentrate on inner transformation empowers people to actively form their expertise of actuality, fostering resilience and a deeper appreciation for the current second.

5. Private Development

Private progress represents a vital ingredient throughout the “heaven on earth e-book” idea. These works usually posit a powerful hyperlink between interior transformation and the belief of an idealized state of being. This connection stems from the understanding that lasting happiness and achievement usually come up not from exterior circumstances, however from cultivating interior peace, self-awareness, and a powerful sense of goal. Private progress, due to this fact, turns into a pathway to creating a private “heaven on earth,” no matter exterior realities. For instance, Stephen Covey’s “The 7 Habits of Extremely Efficient Individuals” emphasizes character ethic as a basis for effectiveness and happiness, suggesting that non-public growth is vital to reaching a satisfying life. Equally, Viktor Frankl’s “Man’s Seek for Which means” explores the significance of discovering which means in struggling, demonstrating that even within the face of adversity, interior progress can result in a way of goal and interior peace.

The significance of private progress as a part of the “heaven on earth e-book” theme lies in its emphasis on particular person company. These works empower readers to take an lively position in shaping their lives and cultivating interior assets, reasonably than passively in search of exterior validation or perfect circumstances. This concentrate on self-improvement can result in better resilience, emotional intelligence, and a extra profound sense of which means and goal. Sensible purposes of this understanding embody setting private growth objectives, partaking in self-reflection, in search of mentorship or steering, and adopting practices like mindfulness or meditation to domesticate interior peace. The challenges related to private progress usually contain confronting limiting beliefs, overcoming ingrained habits, and navigating emotional obstacles. Nevertheless, the potential rewards, together with elevated self-awareness, improved relationships, and a better sense of achievement, underscore the importance of this pursuit.

In abstract, private progress performs a pivotal position throughout the “heaven on earth e-book” idea. These works emphasize the significance of interior transformation as a prerequisite for reaching a state of lasting happiness and achievement. By specializing in private growth, people can domesticate the interior assets essential to navigate life’s challenges, discover which means and goal, and create a private “heaven on earth,” no matter exterior circumstances. This emphasis on particular person company empowers readers to take an lively position in shaping their lives and realizing their full potential.

6. Philosophical Inquiry

Philosophical inquiry performs a vital position in shaping the “heaven on earth e-book” idea. These works usually discover basic questions on human nature, happiness, and the best society, offering frameworks for understanding the pursuit of an earthly paradise. This connection stems from philosophy’s enduring concentrate on exploring the great life and the situations crucial for human flourishing. Inspecting particular aspects of philosophical inquiry reveals its profound implications throughout the “heaven on earth” narrative.

  • Ethics and Morality

    Moral and ethical frameworks present a basis for outlining the ideas of a simply and harmonious society, usually a central concern in “heaven on earth books.” Advantage ethics, as an illustration, emphasizes the cultivation of particular person character traits like compassion and justice as important for reaching each private and societal well-being. Utilitarianism, alternatively, focuses on maximizing total happiness and minimizing struggling because the guideline for moral motion. These philosophical views inform depictions of perfect societies, providing completely different fashions for reaching “heaven on earth.” Plato’s Republic, for instance, explores the idea of justice and the best state, providing a philosophical blueprint for a harmonious society.

  • Metaphysics and Ontology

    Metaphysical and ontological inquiries discover the character of actuality and existence, influencing how “heaven on earth books” conceptualize the connection between the person, the world, and the divine. Ideas like pantheism, which posits that God is immanent in all issues, can inform depictions of nature as sacred and interconnected, suggesting that experiencing the divine is feasible by means of communion with the pure world. Conversely, dualistic philosophies, which distinguish between the fabric and non secular realms, would possibly painting “heaven on earth” as a state achieved by means of transcending the bodily world. These differing metaphysical views form the portrayal of earthly paradise, both as immanent throughout the present world or as a separate realm to be attained.

  • Political Philosophy

    Political philosophy examines the group and governance of societies, offering frameworks for understanding energy dynamics, social constructions, and the position of the state in selling human flourishing. “Heaven on earth books” usually draw upon these philosophical frameworks to depict idealized political techniques, starting from anarchist communities based mostly on voluntary cooperation to benevolent dictatorships guided by enlightened rulers. Thomas Extra’s Utopia, as an illustration, presents a fictional island society with communal property and a concentrate on social concord, providing a political mannequin for reaching an earthly paradise. These philosophical explorations of governance present numerous views on how political constructions can contribute to or hinder the belief of “heaven on earth.”

  • Epistemology

    Epistemological inquiries discover the character of information and perception, influencing how “heaven on earth books” depict the acquisition of knowledge and understanding as important for reaching a satisfying life. Rationalism, which emphasizes motive and logic as the first sources of information, would possibly painting “heaven on earth” as a state attained by means of mental enlightenment and philosophical inquiry. Empiricism, which emphasizes sensory expertise as the premise of information, would possibly painting direct expertise of the pure world as a pathway to understanding and reference to the divine. These epistemological views form how characters in “heaven on earth books” acquire data and perception, finally influencing their path in direction of reaching a state of earthly paradise.

These philosophical inquiries collectively contribute to the richness and complexity of the “heaven on earth e-book” idea. By exploring basic questions on human existence, ethics, and the character of actuality, these works present a framework for understanding the various interpretations of earthly paradise. Whether or not specializing in creating perfect societies, fostering interior transformation, or in search of reference to the divine, philosophical inquiry supplies a basis for exploring the assorted paths in direction of reaching a state of “heaven on earth.”

7. Idealized Places

Idealized areas characterize a core ingredient throughout the “heaven on earth e-book” idea. These areas, usually imbued with symbolic which means, embody the human craving for an ideal atmosphere, free from the imperfections and hardships of peculiar life. They function each literal and metaphorical locations, representing the end result of a seek for peace, concord, and achievement. Understanding the assorted aspects of idealized areas supplies deeper perception into their significance throughout the “heaven on earth” narrative.

  • Utopian Societies

    Utopian societies characterize a standard manifestation of idealized areas inside “heaven on earth books.” These fictional communities usually embody particular social, political, or financial beliefs, portraying a world the place human potential is maximized and societal ills are eradicated. Examples vary from Plato’s Republic, with its emphasis on justice and philosophical rule, to extra modern visions of eco-conscious, technologically superior communities. These idealized societies provide a glimpse into potential futures, inspiring readers to think about alternative routes of organizing human life and striving in direction of a extra excellent world. Their presence in “heaven on earth books” underscores the human want for a greater society and the enduring attraction of utopian beliefs.

  • Pure Paradises

    Pure paradises represent one other outstanding sort of idealized location. Unspoiled landscapes, usually characterised by pristine magnificence and tranquility, evoke a way of awe and surprise, providing an escape from the pressures of recent life. Descriptions of lush forests, secluded islands, or majestic mountains faucet right into a deep-seated human appreciation for nature, portraying these environments as havens of peace and rejuvenation. Inside “heaven on earth books,” pure paradises usually symbolize a return to a primordial state of concord, suggesting that true happiness lies in reconnecting with the pure world.

  • Religious Sanctuaries

    Religious sanctuaries characterize areas imbued with sacred significance, usually related to non secular awakening or enlightenment. These areas may be bodily locations, akin to temples, monasteries, or pilgrimage websites, or metaphorical areas, akin to states of interior peace or greater consciousness. “Heaven on earth books” usually depict characters in search of solace and enlightenment in these non secular sanctuaries, suggesting that true paradise resides not in exterior circumstances, however in reaching interior peace and reference to the divine. These areas symbolize the transformative energy of non secular observe and the potential for locating “heaven on earth” by means of interior progress and self-realization.

  • Misplaced Worlds

    Misplaced worlds, usually depicted as hidden or forgotten civilizations, characterize one other intriguing sort of idealized location. These areas usually embody a way of thriller and intrigue, suggesting the existence of other methods of life past the confines of standard society. “Heaven on earth books” could painting these misplaced worlds as possessing historic knowledge or superior applied sciences, providing a glimpse into potential futures or different paths of human growth. The attract of misplaced worlds lies of their potential to problem standard notions of progress and provide different visions of “heaven on earth,” usually rooted in numerous cultural or non secular traditions.

These numerous manifestations of idealized areas inside “heaven on earth books” collectively mirror the human pursuit of a greater life. Whether or not by means of utopian societies, pure paradises, non secular sanctuaries, or misplaced worlds, these areas embody the enduring human craving for peace, concord, and achievement. They function each locations and symbols, inspiring readers to hunt their very own variations of “heaven on earth,” whether or not by means of exterior exploration or inner transformation. By inspecting these idealized areas, we acquire a deeper understanding of the advanced and multifaceted nature of the human quest for paradise.

Continuously Requested Questions on “Heaven on Earth” Books

This part addresses widespread inquiries concerning literary works exploring the “heaven on earth” theme. The main focus stays on clarifying conceptual and thematic features reasonably than particular titles.

Query 1: Do “heaven on earth” books primarily concentrate on spiritual interpretations of paradise?

Whereas some works inside this class draw upon spiritual or non secular traditions, the theme encompasses broader interpretations of earthly paradise, together with secular utopias, idealized areas, and private states of achievement.

Query 2: Are these books solely involved with escapism?

Whereas some provide escapism by means of depictions of idyllic settings, many discover sensible methods for reaching a greater life, specializing in private progress, social concord, and interior transformation. Due to this fact, they are often each inspirational and instructive.

Query 3: Is the idea of “heaven on earth” inherently unrealistic?

Whereas reaching an ideal society or state of being could stay elusive, the idea serves as a robust motivator for constructive change. These books encourage reflection on perfect prospects and encourage efforts in direction of creating a greater future, each individually and collectively.

Query 4: Do these works usually provide sensible recommendation or primarily philosophical discussions?

The spectrum encompasses each sensible steering and philosophical inquiry. Self-help manuals present concrete methods for private progress, whereas philosophical treatises delve into the conceptual underpinnings of happiness and perfect societies. Journey guides provide sensible info whereas implicitly selling sure areas as approximating an earthly paradise.

Query 5: What distinguishes a “heaven on earth” e-book from different genres like fantasy or science fiction?

Whereas overlaps exist, the defining attribute lies within the central theme: the pursuit of a really perfect state or location, attainable inside this lifetime or earthly realm. This focus distinguishes it from pure fantasy or science fiction, which can discover otherworldly realms or purely imaginative eventualities.

Query 6: How can one successfully select a “heaven on earth” e-book aligned with one’s pursuits?

Contemplate particular areas of curiosity: private growth, social change, journey, or non secular exploration. Studying opinions and summaries might help determine works specializing in related themes and approaches. Style issues additionally play a task: select utopian fiction for imaginative explorations, self-help books for sensible recommendation, or philosophical treatises for conceptual evaluation.

Understanding the various interpretations of “heaven on earth” is essential for navigating this literary panorama. These books, whether or not fictional or non-fictional, provide precious insights into the enduring human pursuit of happiness, achievement, and a greater world.

Additional exploration may contain inspecting particular subgenres, analyzing particular person authors, or evaluating completely different cultural interpretations of the “heaven on earth” theme.

Ideas for Exploring “Heaven on Earth” Literature

The next ideas provide steering for navigating the various panorama of “heaven on earth” literature, facilitating a deeper understanding of this multifaceted theme.

Tip 1: Outline Private Goals.
Clarifying private goalswhether in search of sensible recommendation, philosophical insights, or imaginative explorationhelps refine searches and choose related works. A reader in search of stress discount would possibly prioritize self-help manuals specializing in mindfulness, whereas somebody concerned with utopian societies would possibly gravitate in direction of speculative fiction.

Tip 2: Contemplate Style Preferences.
“Heaven on earth” encompasses numerous genres, from journey guides and philosophical treatises to utopian fiction and self-help books. Deciding on a most popular style helps slim the search and determine works aligned with particular pursuits.

Tip 3: Discover Various Interpretations.
“Heaven on earth” can characterize bodily areas, utopian societies, or inner states of being. Exploring these assorted interpretations broadens understanding and divulges the multifaceted nature of this idea. Evaluating completely different views enhances appreciation for the theme’s complexity.

Tip 4: Analysis Authors and Specialists.
Investigating the backgrounds and views of authors contributing to this theme affords precious context. Understanding an creator’s philosophical or non secular orientation can illuminate their strategy to the “heaven on earth” idea.

Tip 5: Analyze Cultural Contexts.
“Heaven on earth” interpretations usually mirror particular cultural or spiritual traditions. Inspecting these cultural influences supplies deeper insights into the various expressions of this common human aspiration.

Tip 6: Interact with Essential Evaluations.
Consulting crucial opinions and analyses supplies precious views on particular person works and the broader theme. Essential engagement enhances understanding and facilitates knowledgeable choice.

Tip 7: Replicate on Private Resonances.
“Heaven on Earth” themes evoke private reflections on values, aspirations, and beliefs. Journaling or discussing insights with others deepens engagement with the fabric and facilitates private progress.

By using these methods, one can successfully navigate the various panorama of “heaven on earth” literature and acquire precious insights into this enduring human pursuit.

The next concluding part synthesizes key ideas and affords remaining reflections on the importance of the “heaven on earth” theme.

Conclusion

Exploration of the “heaven on earth e-book” idea reveals a multifaceted theme encompassing numerous genres and interpretations. From utopian visions and interior peace guides to journey narratives and philosophical treatises, these works discover the human craving for an idealized state of being, whether or not positioned in exterior realities or cultivated inside. Key aspects examined embody the pursuit of social concord, the significance of private progress, the transformative energy of non secular journeys, and the attract of idealized areas. The idea transcends mere escapism, prompting reflection on basic questions on human nature, happiness, and the best society. Whether or not providing sensible methods for self-improvement or exploring philosophical ideas of utopia, “heaven on earth” literature supplies a framework for understanding the enduring human quest for a greater life.

The enduring attraction of “heaven on earth” literature underscores a persistent human want for hope, inspiration, and steering in navigating life’s complexities. These works, no matter style or particular strategy, provide precious insights into the human situation and the continued seek for which means, goal, and achievement. Continued exploration of this theme guarantees additional insights into the various expressions of this common human aspiration and its potential to encourage constructive change, each individually and collectively. The hunt for “heaven on earth,” whether or not literal or metaphorical, stays a robust driving pressure in shaping human values, aspirations, and the continued pursuit of a extra fulfilling and harmonious existence.