Most of us chase after things in life that do not really bring any satisfaction. Happiness eludes us at every stage of life. We live our life in a confused state and end our lives that way. Through Eckhart Tolle’s book, “A New Earth,” an enlightenment movement has been initiated that tries to bring an end to all of our confusions.

The movement of “A New Earth” is based upon three basic keys that are essential for achieving enlightenment. The three keys are non-attachment, non-judgment and non-resistance. A number of famous personalities are taken up by the approach of Eckhart Tolle. One of the most famous personalities, Oprah Winfrey, supports this enlightenment movement strongly. Oprah has even joined Eckhart Tolle on weekly webcasts that teach the principles found in “A New Earth”.

Enlightenment and the quest to achieve it are not new topics. The quest for enlightenment has been undertaken for thousands of years, with the classic example being Buddha in 6th century B.C. Enlightenment is not an easy concept to define with words, nor is there an easy way to achieve it. Enlightenment is not something that can be taught. Rather, it is a state of mind that all of us aspire to reach. Some of us reach this state easily, while others struggle with the idea of enlightenment. There is no general rule regarding who can achieve enlightenment and who cannot.

One of the basic principles of enlightenment identified by Eckhart Tolle is non-attachment. This principle is so important, it is even applied to the individual’s quest for enlightenment itself. Only when we reach a state of non-attachment will we be able to attain enlightenment.

Although her “book club” has traditionally been limited to novels and memoirs, Oprah has made an exception with “A New Earth”. The webcasts began March 3rd, 2008 and are scheduled to air for 10 weeks. All seminars are offered to the public through webcast, and are free of cost.

Some people may be asking, “What is the use of enlightenment? What am I missing in life?” Not knowing what we are missing is itself a clear sign that we are not enlightened. The enlightened self will first realize what is lacking before it moves on to appreciate what it has.

The story of the ring with the inscription, “This too will pass” in the book offers a great lesson about the transitory nature of life and hence the need for non-attachment to maintain equanimity.

Oprah Winfrey is known for recommending books that eventually become best-sellers. If she supports the enlightenment movement of Eckhart Tolle, then we can understand how powerful the concepts of this movement can be for us all.