2, No, I didn't learn all of this from MLC Books. My knowledge comes from a variety of sources including my own personal experience, not once, but twice w/people going through mlc. I created a thread many years ago...2001/2002 called Highly Recommended Reading Materials. I would suggest you check out the MLC Archives and you should find it there, along with some really great threads from others.
Knowlege is power and you should not limit your reading to MLC. Depression is the most powerful driver behind MLC.
Sit quietly, the answers will reveal themselves when you least expect them to. The past is gone, the present is a gift and you need to focus on today, allow the future to reveal itself when it is ready.