If anyone hasn't already heard of Jill Bolte Taylor I highly recommend watching this 18 minute video - it's fascinating and contains some extraordinary insights into what might be termed states of enlightenment, awakening or nirvana as she puts it.

Jill is a neuro-scientist who experienced a massive stroke, which gave her a taste of enlightenment.

http://www.thoughtware.tv/videos/show/1613

The implications are fascinating. Enjoy.

Oh, and her book, also called A Stroke of Insight, is also well worth reading!