Is there more to Buddhism than sitting in silent meditation? Is modern Buddhism relevant to the problems of daily life? Does it empower individuals to transform their lives? Or has Buddhism become too detached, so still and quiet that the Buddha has fallen asleep? This book tells the story of the Soka Gakkai International, the largest, most dynamic Buddhist movement in the world today -- and the one that has done more than any other to wake up and shake up Buddhism so it can once again work in ordinary people's lives. Drawing on his long personal experience as a Buddhist teacher, journalist, and editor, Clark Strand offers broad insight into how and why the Soka Gakkai, with its commitment to social justice and its egalitarian approach, has become a role model, not only for other schools of Buddhism, but for other religions as well. Readers will be inspired by the struggles and triumphs of the Soka Gakkai's three founding presidents -- individuals who staked their lives on the teachings of the Lotus Sutra and the extraordinary power of those teachings to help people become happy.

Beak Open, Feet Relaxed offers a poetic chronicle of one woman's journey on her way to mastering the Way of Haiku. Award-winning poet Priscilla Lignori elevates the traditional 5-7-5 form to the level of serious art, producing images that capture the essence of nature and touch the depths of the human heart. Here is the poetry of life itself, expressed in a mere handful of syllables-a collection of small, perfect miracles that only haiku can capture in words.

Winner of the 2013 Basho Award, Priscilla Lignori invites readers to join her on a path that has been lost to many modern people, following nature and returning to nature-and restoring us in the process to our deepest, truest selves.

Begin to meditate—or renew your practice—with this straightforward guide that is free from pretension and complication. Is there a way you can learn to slow down and experience yourself more fully, your life more deeply, and other people in the present moment without adopting a new religious or philosophical ideology? Clark Strand answers with a clear and simple "yes!" Short, compelling reflections show you how to make meditation a part of your daily life, without the complication of gurus, mantras, retreats, or treks to distant monasteries. What is the proper way to breathe? Where should I meditate? What should I sit on? How often should I practice? You'll find the answers surprising as Strand breaks down modern-day stereotypes about meditation and leaves the one thing a successful meditation practice truly needs: you.

Begin to meditate—or renew your practice—with this straightforward guide that is free from pretension and complication. Is there a way you can learn to slow down and experience yourself more fully, your life more deeply, and other people in the present moment without adopting a new religious or philosophical ideology? Clark Strand answers with a clear and simple "yes!" Short, compelling reflections show you how to make meditation a part of your daily life, without the complication of gurus, mantras, retreats, or treks to distant monasteries. What is the proper way to breathe? Where should I meditate? What should I sit on? How often should I practice? You'll find the answers surprising as Strand breaks down modern-day stereotypes about meditation and leaves the one thing a successful meditation practice truly needs: you.