The Endless Path

***WINNER, 2011 Storytelling World Resource Award – Best Storytelling Collection The jataka tales—stories of the Buddha’s past lives (in both human and animal form)—were first said to have been told by the Buddha himself 2,500 years ago. Five hundred and fifty jataka tales comprise part of the oldest Buddhist text, the Pali Canon. From this wealth of folklore, award-winning author and storyteller Rafe Martin has chosen ten tales that illustrate the ideals of the Buddhist paramitas, or “perfections” of character: giving, morality, forbearance, vitality, focused meditation, wisdom, compassionate skillful means, resolve, strength, and knowledge. Artist and designer Richard Wehrman helps bring the spirit of these stories alive with rich illustrations that open each chapter. Endless Path presents these ancient stories, usually reduced to children’s tales in the West, for adults, reconnecting modern seekers with the more imaginative roots of Buddhism. The jatakas help readers see their own lives, their failures and renewed efforts, in the same light as the challenges the Buddha faced—not as obstacles but as opportunities for developing character and self-understanding. Endless Path demonstrates the relevance of these tales to Buddhist lay practitioners today, as well as to those more broadly interested in Buddhist teaching and the ancient art of storytelling. From the Trade Paperback edition.

The Endless Path follows Gunny's struggle to survive rare and near fatal illnesses with fierce determination, as well as our amazing adventures living all around the world. It is knowing the edge of death that deepened Gunny's commitment to life -and his reflections on life, love, relationships, and what it all means are astonishing.

"The Endless Journey Of Our Love (A Journey which will never end)" is a heartfelt and poetic way of expressing a love that is eternal and everlasting. This phrase suggests that the love between two people is so profound and enduring that it will never come to a conclusion or reach an endpoint. It will continue to flourish and evolve, like an eternal journey with no destination. This sentiment is often used in romantic poetry, love letters, and wedding vows to emphasize the idea that the love shared between two individuals transcends time and obstacles. It conveys the notion of a love that will persist indefinitely, weathering all challenges and remaining as strong and passionate as ever. It's a beautiful way to express deep and enduring affection for someone special.

You are Soul, an evolving divine spark of God consciousness. Thoughts and experiences are presented to enhance understanding and appreciation for the gift of life on Earth and the infinite great beyond. The book provides one unique pathway toward finding the divine love, inner peace, joy, and the more meaningful existence that awaits all those who are willing to seek God within themselves and within all life.

***WINNER, 2011 Storytelling World Resource Award – Best Storytelling Collection The jataka tales—stories of the Buddha’s past lives (in both human and animal form)—were first said to have been told by the Buddha himself 2,500 years ago. Five hundred and fifty jataka tales comprise part of the oldest Buddhist text, the Pali Canon. From this wealth of folklore, award-winning author and storyteller Rafe Martin has chosen ten tales that illustrate the ideals of the Buddhist paramitas, or “perfections” of character: giving, morality, forbearance, vitality, focused meditation, wisdom, compassionate skillful means, resolve, strength, and knowledge. Artist and designer Richard Wehrman helps bring the spirit of these stories alive with rich illustrations that open each chapter. Endless Path presents these ancient stories, usually reduced to children’s tales in the West, for adults, reconnecting modern seekers with the more imaginative roots of Buddhism. The jatakas help readers see their own lives, their failures and renewed efforts, in the same light as the challenges the Buddha faced—not as obstacles but as opportunities for developing character and self-understanding. Endless Path demonstrates the relevance of these tales to Buddhist lay practitioners today, as well as to those more broadly interested in Buddhist teaching and the ancient art of storytelling.

'The Endless Path Series' celebrates and explores the inspirational philosophies, religions and civilizations of the world.