After the Ecstasy, the Laundry

I was initially introduced to Jack Kornfield through Clare Bowditch’s book “Your Own Kind of Girl”.  I initially read through “A Path with Heart” which I found ok.  It wasn’t until this book that I really grew to appreciate him.

“After the Ecstasy, the Laundry” is now one of my most favourite books on spiritual wisdom.  The book explores the challenges that individuals may face after experiencing profound spiritual experiences, such as a sense of oneness with the universe, deep inner peace, or feelings of ecstasy.

Kornfield acknowledges that these experiences can be transformative and life-changing, but he also emphasizes that they are not an endpoint. He argues that the real work of spiritual practice begins after these experiences, as individuals return to their everyday lives and face the challenges of relationships, work, and personal growth. (Eugh – thanks for the reminder)

The book provides insights and guidance on how to integrate spiritual insights into daily life. He shares delightful personal stories and anecdotes from his own life and from the lives of his students, as well as teachings from various spiritual traditions, to offer practical advice on how to cultivate mindfulness, compassion, and wisdom.

Throughout the book, Kornfield emphasises the importance of developing a daily practice of meditation and mindfulness to cultivate spiritual awareness and to sustain that awareness in daily life. He also stresses the importance of community and the support of fellow practitioners to provide encouragement and accountability on the spiritual path.

For me, “After the Ecstasy, the Laundry” is a wonderful concentration of spiritual wisdom seen through the lens of an average, sometimes mundane life.  It continues to remind me that meaning in life can often be quite ordinary, but no less important.

Favourite Quote:

“‘Be a lamp unto yourself, make of yourself a light’ were the last words of the Buddha. No teacher or outside authority can give us the truth or take it away. In the end, we will find that our heart holds the simple wisdom and unshakable compassion that we have sought all along.”

Jack Kornfield