Also Available as a Time Warner AudioBook and as a Digital Audiobook Download

It is my hope that the reader of this small book will take away a basic understanding of Buddhism and some of the key methods by which Buddhist practitioners have cultivated compassion and wisdom in their lives. The methods discussed have been taken from three sacred texts of Buddhism. I would like to stress at the outset, however, that one doesn’t have to be a Buddhist to make use of these meditation techniques. Meditation is merely the process whereby we gain control over the mind and guide it in a more virtuous direction. Meditation may also be thought of as a technique by which we diminish the force of old thought habits and develop new ones. Yet the techniques themselves do not lead to enlightenment or a compassionate and open heart. That is up to you, and the effort and motivation you bring to your spiritual practice.

For the first time, the Dalai Lama presents his vision and the most important teachings of Buddhism to the general public. Perhaps the key difference between Buddhism and the rest of the world's religions resides in our understanding of the core of our identities. The existence of a soul or an "I," which is an essential aspect of Hinduism, Christianity, and Islam, is refused in Buddhism. Furthermore, Buddhism considers the belief of an "I" the key source to our problems in life. A thorough understanding of these beliefs does not carry any nihilistic or cynical views of the world around us. By contrast, an authentic understanding of our mind and identity leads us to true happiness and a greater compassion for others. While the Dalai Lama presents us with a complete comprehensive guide of his teachings about the fundamental aspects, he also demonstrates how to actively integrate this knowledge in everyday life.