Talk 16a: The Divine Ascent - Easwaran provides insights and inspiration from the mystical traditions of Eastern and Western Christianity, for the practice of meditation. He draws upon two mystics who have exercised great influence in Eastern Orthodox Christian traditions: St. John of the Ladder and St. Maximus the Confessor.
Talk 16b: The Fruits of Meditation - Easwaran comments on lines by the medieval German mystic and poet, Mechthild of Magdeburg. Teacher and counselor to many disciples, Mechthild was recognized as a saint in her own day. She lived a vibrant and productive life for more than seventy years. To Easwaran, her longevity, her creativity, and her endurance are representative of the benefits that come to sincere seekers on the spiritual path.