Book 2, Beads 56-72 Summary and Analysis

Liz catches herself daydreaming about where to stay after her travels and decides to try the Vipassana meditation at sundown when the mosquitoes come out. Having never missed an opportunity to swat a mosquito in her life, Liz sits still for two hours. She has endured far worse in her life, but this time she ignores reflexes. All religions have rituals, scriptures, and clergy promising rewards (and punishments for the lapsed), but faith demands an irrational, courageous leap. It is not an insurance policy. Liz's prayers grow deliberate and specific as she does her part, figuring out what she wants God to do for her. Destiny is also a divine/human relationship between grace and self-effort. Liz grows more careful about with whom she interacts, what she eats and reads, and how she looks at things. Richard...