Upcoming Books - Sister of the Soul: Forbidden Love of a Buddhist Monk

The Colombo International Spiritual Foundation (CISF) is excited to announce the upcoming release of a powerful new book by our beloved Patriarch, Venerable Ananda Thero. Titled Sister of the Soul: Forbidden Love of a Buddhist Monk, this autobiography will provide an intimate and transformative look into the life of our esteemed meditation master, detailing his personal journey from his lay life to his monastic path, and offering profound insights into the concept of past lives and their influence on our present mindset.

A Deep Dive Into the Life of Venerable Ananda Thero

This deeply reflective book will take readers on a journey through the early years of Venerable Ananda Thero’s life, when he was not yet a monk but a lay person with dreams, desires, and attachments—just like any other. The narrative explores his personal struggles, the temptations of worldly life, and his ultimate realization that true peace and fulfillment cannot be found in the external world but in the cultivation of the inner self.

One of the most poignant elements of the book is the exploration of the concept of forbidden love. As a Buddhist monk, Venerable Ananda Thero took a vow of celibacy, yet the powerful emotions of love and attachment still arose from deep within him. This book sheds light on the struggle between his spiritual vows and the longings of the heart, drawing parallels with the challenges faced by so many who seek enlightenment in this world of attachments.

Exploring the Connections Between Past Lives and Present Mindset

As the book unfolds, Venerable Ananda Thero delves into the profound wisdom of how our present mindset and experiences are shaped by our previous lives. Through his own introspective journey, he reflects on how the actions, thoughts, and desires from past incarnations leave imprints on our present existence, influencing the way we think, feel, and react.

Through vivid anecdotes and thoughtful reflections, the book highlights the teachings of karma and rebirth, showing readers how the seeds we plant in our previous lives continue to bloom in the present moment. This perspective not only helps us understand our habitual tendencies but also offers the key to transforming those habits and attitudes for a more peaceful and enlightened life.

Venerable Ananda Thero’s personal experiences in the monastic life are an embodiment of this wisdom. His story of how he gradually overcame attachments and misconceptions—developing a deeper understanding of impermanence, suffering, and the nature of the self—serves as a powerful guide for anyone seeking to free themselves from the bondage of their own desires.

Understanding the Reality of Life: Finding True Peace and Fulfillment

The central theme of Sister of the Soul is the search for true peace and fulfillment. Venerable Ananda Thero invites readers to confront the reality of life as it is—full of suffering, impermanence, and constant change. The book offers a candid examination of how our attachments to the material world, relationships, and even our own identities can hinder us from experiencing lasting peace.

Through his own journey, Venerable Ananda Thero teaches us how to transform our perspective on life. By understanding the impermanent nature of all things, the illusion of self, and the true meaning of liberation, we can find peace that is not dependent on external circumstances. It is through the practice of mindfulness, meditation, and self-awareness that true fulfillment is achieved—not by pursuing fleeting desires but by letting go of attachment and embracing the present moment.

A Guide for Spiritual Seekers and the Curious Mind

Forbidden Love of a Buddhist Monk is not just a personal memoir; it is a spiritual guide that will resonate with anyone on a journey of self-discovery. Whether you are a seasoned practitioner of Buddhism or someone simply curious about the deeper questions of life, this book offers invaluable insights into how we can navigate the complexities of existence with wisdom, compassion, and clarity.

Venerable Ananda Thero’s journey from a layperson with worldly attachments to a realized Buddhist monk is an inspiring testament to the transformative power of the teachings of Lord Buddha. By understanding how past lives shape our present reality and how we can let go of the attachments that bind us, we are given the opportunity to truly transcend suffering and find peace.

We invite you to join us on this spiritual journey by picking up a copy of Sister of the Soul: Forbidden Love of a Buddhist Monk when it is released. The wisdom contained within these pages is sure to inspire deep reflection, encourage personal growth, and guide you toward the true peace and fulfillment that we all seek in this lifetime.

Stay tuned for more details on the release date and availability of Venerable Ananda Thero’s upcoming book.