Product Description
The world's greatest spiritual leader teams up with a psychiatrist to share, for the first time, how he achieved his hard-won serenity and how we can fine the same inner peace. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

A Western Approach to the Eastern Practice of Happiness
This book is an entertaining, informative, and easy read. It is written by a western psychiatrist, Howard C. Cutler, M.D., and contains exceprts of interviews between the author and The Dalai Lama. Through out the book philosophical wisdom is provided in an easy to understand language. One does not have to be Buddhist in order to benefit from this read. It is not written in a concise handbook format, but reads like a narrative novel. The author's writing is more abundant than The Dalai Lama's words, so if you are looking for a book written by The Dalai Lama, this is not the book for you. This is an excellent book for western people to learn some simple concepts on how to be happy through employing eastern philosophies. Athough Buddhism is mentioned briefly here and there, it is definitely not a book on Buddhism. Anyone of any faith can gain insight through reading this book. The author's personal depictions pertaining to his learning process and occaisional missteps are refreshingly honest. The author thoughtfully provides a list of The Dalai Lama's books in the back of the book to facilitate one's desire to delve deeper into the subject of Buddhism from The Dalai Lama's perspective. The only reason I gave this book 4 stars instead of 5 was that I was looking for a book written by The Dalai Lama and was mislead by the cover of the book, which implies greater input from The Dalai Lama than is present in the book. However, this book is a worthy read in its own right.

A VERY PLEASANT READ
I thought this was a really good book. The Dalai Lama has a wonderful way of relating to people without sounding too preachy. As the book goes on, it does go a little bit more into the religion, but I like the appeal to humanity and his writing style. if you're of a speciffic faith and not interested in Budhism, you'll still really enjoy most of this book. I'd love to attend one of his lectures!

Cameras for Kids: Fun and Inexpensive Projects for the Little Photographer (Volume 1)

Animal Portraits With The Digital Photography Of John Crippen: Learning Photography With Animals

The Art of Happiness
The book will help you to achieve happiness through training your mind. I really like this book because it combines Buddist view of Dalai Lama and scientific view of the psychiatrist (Howard Cutler, MD). It is easy to understand.

Simple yet profound
A very easy book to read and a great antidote to the excesses of our western life style of consumption and greed.

It provides an easily digestible look at practical ways to live simply and happily.

It can seem patronising and too simple in places, it discusses things that are pretty obvious to most but that is because there is much truth in what the Dalai Lama says and his philosophy is pretty simple.

Live Happily!

Simple yet profound
A very easy book to read and a great antidote to the excesses of our western life style of consumption and greed.

It provides an easily digestible look at practical ways to live simply and happily.

It can seem patronising and too simple in places, it discusses things that are pretty obvious to most but that is because there is much truth in what the Dalai Lama says and his philosophy is pretty simple.

Live Happily! ... Read more

Product Description
The poetry and life of a remarkable and very unusual Dalai Lama T he Sixth Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso (1683-1706), refused to take full monastic vows, returned the vows that he had already taken, and loved alcohol, archery, and women with a passion that perhaps suggests he had a premonition of his early death at the age of twenty-four. He also wrote a remarkable collection of love poetry. In this book, the author offers a completely new translation of the erotic poems attributed to the Sixth Dalai Lama. With hints on how to read the verses, as well as explanations of obscure points or allusions, the author makes this extraordinary Dalai Lama and his verses accessible to those with no background in the study of Buddhism or Tibet. This first translation to be based on the latest critical edition will be of great interest to those eager to learn more about Eastern religion and spirituality. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Outstanding Poetry
Now, this is NOT the edition I have read. I actually picked up my copy from the Tibetan Library - a small book priced at under $2! However, the content is the same - the love songs of the Sixth Dalai Lama, Tsangyang Gyatso (1683-1706).

The 'Sixth', as he is popularly known, remains a venerated enigma in the history of Tibet - he was a profligate, a `debauch' and a touching poet...Gyantsang Gyatso ("ocean of melodious songs") has gone down in the memory of the Tibetans as one who will never enable them to reconcile the awe they have for the institution (and person) of the Dalai Lama and the character of the Sixth.

He wrote several love songs, most dedicated to lovers he had by the number...he sang, was a passionate archer and an inveterate lover of chang (local wine)... over the years he has captivated the imagination of Tibetans and students of Tibetan Buddhism so much that they have forgotten that he never accepted his monastic vows and while he did remain in the Potala palace as the resident Dalai Lama, he was not the spiritual head...fantastically irreverent, spiritually advanced in his own way and a tender poet...

Does anyone see similarities between this and Sufi poetry? Write.

Fascinating book and excellent translation
This book is excellent for those who want to be able to read the poetry of the VIth Dalai Lama in clear and simple english. However what is especially good about this translation is that the poetry does not lose its haunting beauty in translation. Also this book offers a fascinating overview of the VIth Dalai Lamas life and times placing the poems in context. Explanatry notes are also offered for each poem, which assist with understanding the more obscure verses. All in all this is an excellent book that I highly recommend! ... Read more

Product Description
The Dalai Lama's smile and his ability to forgive mean so much more when you know the circumstances of his life. Author Andrew Crowe, meeting a young Chinese tourist on the Potala Palace roof in 2002, tells her the marvelous story, forbidden to her people, of the 14th Dalai Lama. He tells of the Dalai Lama's remote and humble family home and how, at the age of two and a half, he was already a child with an extraordinary presence and sense of destiny when he was recognized as the next spiritual leader of Tibet. How he and his family trekked to the vast Potala Palace in Lhasa for the start of his training, while all the long journey, pilgrims prostrated themselves before him and sought the four-year-old's blessing.In this well-crafted story, Crowe details His Holiness' strange childhood in the world s largest palace; his friendship with Austrian Heinrich Harrer whose escape from an Indian POW camp and trek through the Himalayas is one of the world's incredible survival stories; the boy's fascination for film and for learning; his spiritual development and self-improvement, especially in tackling a ferocious temper.When the Dalai Lama was just fifteen China invaded Tibet and full political power was foisted on him. despite a meeting with Mao, a tour of "The Four directions" of China, and numerous efforts towards a peaceful agreement with the invaders, in 1959 the Dalai Lama was forced to flee his country, in part at least to protect the masses of Tibetans who swarmed about him in the holy city. We learn about his final tortuous trek to safety through the mountains, pursued by Chinese troops, and the bittersweet arrival in India where news arrives of the tens of thousands slaughtered, and 6,000 desecrated monasteries back in Tibet. Few world leaders have been as respected and revered as the 72-year-old Kundun who in 1989 was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. For despite the ongoing suffering of his people, he continues to remind the world that hatred will not cease by hatred . The Dalai Lama's early life is vividly told here for younger readers. It is illustrated throughout with photographs, ink drawings and maps. Awards and Prizes CLFNZ Notable Books List 2008:The unpublished manuscript of The Dalai Lama Story won the $10,000 Ashton Wylie Charitable Trust Award in 2005. ... Read more

Product Description
In his lucid, straightforward commentary, His Holiness shows us how to cultivate wisdom and compassion in our daily lives.Amazon.com Review
The mind is central to all human experience. Whether one is in harmony with the world or not depends upon one's relative emotional and spiritual health. For this reason, the core teachings of Buddhism have always emphasized various forms of mind training. In Transforming the Mind, based on an edited series of his lectures, the Dalai Lama provides a succinct overview of the basic techniques of spiritual development in Tibetan Buddhism. He introduces several aspects of mind training, combining the insights of traditional scholarship with his personal warmth and humanity.

The book begins with a lucid account of the basic teachings of Buddhism--the nature of the human predicament and how it can be overcome. Then two key aspects of mind training involving the development of altruism and insight are described. This is essential, since Buddhism teaches that true mental transformation requires a sense of responsibility for others, together with the attainment of insight into the dynamic working of the human psyche and the world. Included in the book is the short traditional text on mental transformation, which the Dalai Lama used to structure his illuminating presentation of Buddhist practice. As an added bonus, the book concludes with a message for the millennium, giving the Dalai Lama's views on the role of Buddhist-inspired ethics in this newly dawning era.

Though not aimed at complete beginners, this book will appeal to readers who are seriously committed to bringing about change in the world through developing their own spiritual capabilities, whether they are Buddhists or not. --Stephen Hodge, Amazon.co.uk ... Read more

Customer Reviews (8)

A MAP TO PEACE OF MIND
This is probably the most useful and moving book I own.The lessons are direct and easy to understand, but extraordinarily difficult to do - one of those progressive "walk the talk" kind of things where you have to face yourself and your actions with bold honesty to truly change your own mind. This is about learning to cultivate wisdom and compassion in every part of our daily lives.The word cultivate is important here -- these are things that must be fostered, weeded and tended to - a constant effort that has as its reward true peace of mind. If you buy no other "instruction" book on Buddhism, buy this one.

Enlightment leads to spiritual freedom which leads to inner peace.
The Dalai Lama gives us words of wisdom:

Rely on the message not the person.
Rely on the meaning not the words.
Rely on your wisdom mind.
Rely on your deep experience.

True wisdom comes from within each one of us.We have to trust the process and be firmly grounded.This will bring us to "Nirvana" spiritual freedom.

Other books for your consideration:
Meister Eckhart, from Whom God Hid Nothing: Sermons, Writings, and Sayings by Meister Eckhart.
Compassion and Self Hate: An Alternative to Despair by Theodore I. Rubin
The Dance of Life: Weaving Sorrows And Blessings into One Joyful Step by Henri J. M. Nouwen
Heart of the Enlightened by Anthony De Mello

One of my favorite books of this type...
The teachings in this book are timeless.The Dalai Lama has a wonderfully peaceful way of sharing this wisdom and reminding us how we can free ourselves from the suffering we create with our attachments.Whether you are Buddhist, or not, the information and wisdom teachings in this book transcend religion -- all humans with a mind would benefit from reading this book.I'm not a Buddhist; but I greatly admire and deeply appreciate the wisdom, compassion, and peace at the core of these teachings.

The examples and remedies provided in this book are applicable in most lives; and the advice for transforming your mind by transforming your thoughts is critical to any path of self-realization or self-actualization.It is always refreshing to hear wise words; and this is another one of those books you can open to any page for as much wisdom as you can stand...

This is a great book for anyone who wants to look inside the heart and mind of Tibetan Buddhism as it teaches compassion and release from suffering.

A Wise Teacher for Our Times
This book is based upon a series of lectures given by H.H. the Dali Lama in London in 1999.The theme of the book is the attainment of human happiness through self-understanding, introspection and, as the title states, "Trasnforming the Mind."

The theme of this book is similar to a book called "The Art of Happiness" that recounts an American psychiatrist's conversations with the Dali Lama.The analysis in this book, however, is deeper and more difficult.The Dali Lama discusses Buddhist beliefs amd doctrines as well as Tibetan texts.He presents a considerable treatment of a difficult, and fundamental Buddhist principle called "Dependent Origination." He discusses the nature of human selfhood and compares differences in various schools on this difficult topic.

The purpose of the book is humanistic and pragmatic at its core: it is to encourage the reader on a path to overcome suffering through self-understanding and reflection.He offers two broad, interlocked paths towards inner transformation: altruism, or the attempt to bring benefits and good to other people rather than thinking solely of oneself and insight into the nature of reality, to be gained by introspection.

The means by which the Dali Lama presents his teaching are at least as significant as the substance of his message.Difficult teachings are presented with the simplicity that comes only from knowledge.The Dali Lama is candid and self-effacing: he reiterates many times that he has himself no personal experience of the state of emptiness that that constitutes full realization of insight meditation.Again and again he points out that religious people of whatever denomination can find their way to peace through following their own traditions.Futher, those individuals with a secular outlook can also find peace by understanding themselves.One of the most interesting parts of the book is the question and answer sessions where the Dali Lama offers succinct and insightful answers to good questions.

I enjoyed learning about the different schools of thought within Mahayana Buddhism.The Dali Lama discusses early Buddhist thinkers of the Mahayana school, particularly Nagarjuna and Shantideva and I was pleased to learn something of what he had to say about specifically Buddhist thinkers.Also, the book includes a short Tibetan text called "Eight Verses on Transforming the Mind" and a commentary by the Dali Lama.

Some of this book is presented in a deceptively simple manner. The Dali Lama observes that "personal experience" (p.24) rather than mere book reading is required to understand the nature of consciousness and of awareness.He also encourages the reader to press on, not to become discouraged and to realize that the growth of wisdom takes lifetimes to develop, not minutes, hours, or months.

I found this book valuable both for its teachings on Buddhism and for its more general advice on attaining peace and happiness in one's life.There is much in the book of healing and hope, for secular people, for followers of non-Buddhist religions, and for people who are students of the Buddha.

Crystal clear and beautiful!
I absolutely love this book! There is also a little companion book called "The Book of Transformation," which breaks "Transforming the Mind" down to its most integral ideas. I keep the little one at work (it's a blessing there) and the other at home.

The Dalai Lama is so completely clear in his ideas here, it is impossible not to come away with something after reading this book. He talks about learning how to generate compassion, which he feels is absolutely necessary to leading a happy life.If only the entire world could see this wisdom and put it into action. What an amazing place this would be. HH does it again (and again, and again, and again...) ... Read more

Product Description
In The Fourteen Dalai Lamas, author Glenn H. Mullin vividly brings to life the myth and succession of all 14 Dalai Lamas in one volume for the first time. The book contains a chapter on each Dalai Lama (except Dalai Lamas 9-12, who are covered in one chapter). Each chapter opening features an illustration of the Dalai Lama who is the subject of that chapter. Mullin has also included characteristic excerpts from the Dalai Lamas' teachings, poetry, and other writings that illuminate the principles of Tibetan Buddhism expressed in their lives.
The 14th Dalai Lama, spiritual and temporal leader of the Tibetans in exile, is well-known, but the 600-year tradition to which he is heir is less familiar. From the birth of the first Dalai Lama in a cowshed in 1391, each subsequent Dalai Lama has been the reincarnation of his predecessor, choosing to take up the burdens of a human life for the benefit of the Tibetan people. For almost six centuries, the Dalai Lamas have served as the Tibetans' spiritual leader and have held secular power for almost half that time. All the Dalai Lamas are revered as incarnations of Avalokiteshvara, the Buddhist deity of compassion, but each has been a unique individual with different abilities and temperaments.
Over the ages, various Dalai Lamas have been poets, statesmen, builders, philosophers; most have been disciplined monastics, but one was a lover of women. The potential of some was tragically lost when their lives were cut short, possibly the victims of political intrigue, while others lived long enough to shape entire eras of Tibetan history. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

a 'must have'
Mullins' book is a 'must have' for students of Tibetology. Well written, insightful-and very well researched-Mullins' 'Fourteen Dalai Lamas' is endlessly interesting. I have referenced this book many times for my own research projects. Excellent!

The Fourteen Dalai Lamas
This a great read for anyone interested in The Dalai Lama, Tibetan Buddhism, and / or Tibetan history.A great and informative read!

With a forward by his holiness, the fourteenth Dalai Lama
With a forward by his holiness, the fourteenth Dalai Lama, Glenn Mullin's The Fourteen Dalai Lamas: A Sacred Legacy Of Reincarnation showcases the sacred mythology associated with six hundred years of the Dalai Lamas who stood as the principal spiritual leaders of Central Asia. here is to be found a magnificently presented spiritual and political history of these amazing men who stood as gurus and spiritual advisors to Mongolian Khans and Chinese emperors, as well as the millions of peoples inhabiting the dozens Central Asian kingdoms spread over more than half a millennium. The Fourteen Dalai Lamas is an essential, core addition to any personal, academic, or community library collection on Buddhist history, beliefs, and biographies.

History of the Dalai Lamas
Glenn Mullin has written several books on Tibetan Buddhism, biographies of several Dalai Lamas, has been trained in Tibetan Buddhism by many senior spiritual masters and has known the current 14th Dalai Lama since the 1970's. With this as a basis he has produced the first history of the Dalai Lamas, in terms of them as an institution, as a beacon of spiritual leadership as well as showing the unique personalities of the Dalai Lamas and their close associates. This remarkable work should be of interest to anyone who likes a great story, whether they are Buddhists or not, religious or not.It shows a view of Tibetan history from the political intrigues of medieval Asia, the Great Game of Britain and Russia, to the genocide of Tibetans and their culture at the hands of the Communist Chinese. Its a fascinating look at one of the world's great spiritual traditions.It provides insight into one of the world's great tragedies - the refusal of the Chinese government to allow the Tibetan people their right to self determination. And it shows that the Dalai Lama is a not only a supreme credit to the Tibetan Race - but to the Human Race. ... Read more

Product Description

With this illuminating and instructive handbook, His Holiness the Dalai Lama, winner of the Nobel Peace Prize, offers sensible, everyday guidelines for transforming self-centered energy into outwardly directed compassion. Drawing on exercises and techniques established in Tibetan monasteries more than a thousand years ago, the Dalai Lama describes a seven-step, self-directed program to help us open our hearts and minds to the experience of unlimited love, transforming every relationship in our lives -- and guiding us ever closer to wisdom and enlightenment.Amazon.com Review
Continuing the literary work he began with The Art of Happiness, in this book, Tibet’s revered spiritual teacher the Dalai Lama discusses the importance of giving and receiving love as the quintessential step to achieving a life of true happiness and fulfillment. In his characteristic direct and simple-to-understand fashion, the Dalai Lama offers guidelines and illustrative examples from his own life that instruct readers on how to move away from self-centered egotistic concerns and habitual tendencies to rigidly judge and categorize others, in order to become more compassionate and accepting of everyone we encounter throughout the day. To assist this process, he also shares exercises and techniques that have been part of Tibetan Buddhist teachings for many centuries.

By committing ourselves to becoming more compassionate and nonjudgmental about others, the Dalai Lama maintains, we are primarily benefiting ourselves, for the end result is one of open-hearted relationships capable of transforming all aspects of our lives and leading us ever closer to a life guided by the principles of wisdom and unshakeable joy. As with all of his writings, How To Expand Love is written in a simple yet elegant style, while imparting profound and powerful teachings that, if committed to, can lead to a realization of our true state of oneness with all of life. This is a very valuable book for today’s fractious times. Larry Trivieri Jr. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

Wonderful
Another wonderful book in the Dalai Lama's collection.I particularly enjoy this translator, Jeffrey Hopkins, he translates the Dalai Lama's message with a beautiful simplicity.This book is excellent for beginners or for experienced practitioners who want to firm up on the basics, and get some great material for reflection!

AUDIOBOOK CD's are excellent

Jeffrey Hopkins read this book for the CD's.I found his voice to be pleasant, calm, and not distracting.This made it easy to concentrate on the message of the book.

His Holiness gives advice and exercises to expand our awareness.He urges us to make a total commitment to help all beings.But first we have to understand the close connections between all people.Our goal is to cherish other people as a mother cherishes her child.

The book is well organized and it works!By the time you are finished with the five CD's, you will see your friends and enemies in a new light.

reincarnation and visualizations
...As sweet and well intentioned as the Dali Lama may be, the methods taught in this book really depend on both a belief in reincarnation (although he says you can get benefit just pretending) and on the ability to visualize very well. This seems to severely limit the usefulness of the methods taught here. Hence three stars.
...Also surprisingly there is no mention of the buddhist philosophy of the illusory nature of a 'permanent separate self' , rather there is an emphasis on the equality of everyone, that paradoxically seems almost communist.
...Thus although one may admire his forgiving the chinese, one probably would not want such a man in charge of a swat team at Columbine high school. Complex moral and ethical issues are avoided. The text really seems most suitable for nuns and monks. Hallucinating that someone shooting kids was your mother in some distant lifetime seems silly.
...If you are into reincarnation, an imaginative vivid visualizer, (and willing to work long and hard with numerous repetitive exercises using these qualities) it is probable that the methods presented in this book will eventually bear some fruit. If these characteristics do not describe you, you will probably be disappointed by this book.
...and you may come to the conclusion that if your aim is what the title purports, that you might be better off, if your time is valuable, simply doing some volunteer work?
...And if one's aim is to understand Buddhism or learn to meditate this is definitely, not the place to start.
...Both vipassana, and breath following techniques lead to the experiences of meditation much more directly, than a long course of intricate visualizations.
...Now there are multiple web sites that have free dharma talks available from many different teachers, in both audio and text format, fromboth vipassana and theravada angles; as well as lots of information on Advaita Vedanta.
...If you are already a meditator, and want something with Tibetan roots, but without the 'baggage' , you might findthe practice of Tonglen to be worthwhile. Two reasources here at amazon are:

Good Medicine: How to Turn Pain into Compassion with Tonglen Meditation [AUDIOBOOK] [UNABRIDGED] (Audio CD)
byPema ChodronISBN-10: 1564558460
---------------------------
Training the Mind: And Cultivating Loving-Kindness (Paperback)
by Chogyam Trungpa , ISBN-10: 1590302524

Love your enemies?
Jesus asked us to love our enemies but has anyone ever given you a workshop on how to do that?That is what this book is.It is simple and direct and provides immediate benefits.Trying this out is a lot of fun and very peaceful.I do Zen practice but do not ignore other voices.This is one voice to listen to!

Practical and inspiring
This book is very practical and very easy to read and outlines the basic principles for practicing peace of mind and loving kindness. This approach is very useful in working with all the competitiveness, conflict and anger in our world today. The book can be read in small bites each day to help work with the principles on a daily basis. ... Read more

Product Description
For the first time, His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama presents his views concerning the Self in Buddhism. In the process, he explains how Buddhist teachings differentiate the person and the eternal soul. An inspiring book that encourages religious and spiritual dialogue. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

A Gift
Book well received, and well loved!
This is for anyone who wantes to read some good positive text!

notself
To say that Buddhists do not believe in a soul is an overstatement.Some prefer to say that Buddhists believe in the Latinate "consciousness," as opposed to the Anglo-Saxon "soul." As I remember, early Buddhist theologians, and no, they were notmonotheists, differentiated themselves from Hindus by coining the phrase"anatman," or not self, in distinction to the Hindu"atman," or self, to emphasize its lack of "inherent"existence, or existence outside of consciousness.They did not declarethat they did not believe in the existence of an atman, or a self. Buddhist frequently must differentiate themselves from"Nihilists" on such matters.This books is good starting pointfor detangling this semantic knot, and resolving related, central issuesfor oneself in the process.

He is the Man. No doubt about it!
I think that Dalai Lama is a Spiritual Leader regardless of the your or my Religion. He is a very smart guy and that is the reason why we have to read it. An Advise: Always read and Listen to the smart people. They have almostalways something important to say that might change you life forever.

Garbled and misleading
This is yet another example of a book allegedly by the Dalaia Lama which is in reality nothing more than an interview with him. In this case the interviewer is so muddled in his thinking that he hasn't even understoodthat Buddhism does not accept the existence of soul. ... Read more

Product Description
In these lively exchanges the Dalai Lama exhibits clear and penetrating insight into issues that are most important to Western students. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

An important and core contribution to Buddhist studies
In India it has become the tradition for the Dalai Lama to spend several days giving teachings to Buddhists from all over the world in an informal discussion group manner. Answers gathers the fruits of his discussions with Western Buddhists, pairing questions and answers in a format which lends to leisure browsing. Answers is an important and core contribution to Buddhist studies and reference collections. ... Read more

Product Description

"Everyone dies, but no one is dead," goes the Tibetan saying. It is with these words that Advice on Dying takes flight. Using a seventeenth-century poem written by a prominent scholar-practitioner, His Holiness the Dalai Lama draws from a wide range of traditions and beliefs to explore the stages we all go through when we die, which are the very same stages we experience in life when we go to sleep, faint, or reach orgasm (Shakespeare's "little death").

The stages are described so vividly that we can imagine the process of traveling deeper into the mind, on the ultimate journey of transformation. In this way, His Holiness shows us how to prepare for that time and, in doing so, how to enrich our time on earth, die without fear or upset, and influence the stage between this life and the next so that we may gain the best possible incarnation. As always, the ultimate goal is to advance along the path to enlightenment. Advice on Dying is an essential tool for attaining that eternal bliss. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Wonderful small book by H.H. Dalai Lama on dying and living
Precious book for Buddhists and other inquiring individuals interested in facing death before it hits and making the best of this adventure /opportunity. I find it easy to read. Every sentence is a gem.

Excellent book
This is another, excellent book from HHDL, on the buddhist perspective of life and death. It is written in a clear, concise and understandable manner. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in the subject.

Excellent Book
This book is an excellent reading on the subject of life and death.I hope that when I am ready to leave this life that a loved one will read it to me as I go.It is beautiful like a warm spring morning. ... Read more

Product Description
This collection of wisdom on a wide range of topics is a pocket-sized inspirational companion for anyone—and the perfect short introduction to the Dalai Lama for the beginner. It includes short gems from many of his teachings made popular in such books asThe Art of Happiness andEthics for the New Millennium, as well as on subjects such as religion, politics, peacework, and human rights. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Good
Be sure and understand this is a "pocket".Very small book.
Anythings good from the Dalai Lama.

Pocket Dalai Lama
Nice little book I can pick up at any time for some quick, inspirational words.

Bite-sized morsels of radiant wisdom
"The Pocket Dalai Lama" is compiled and edited by Mary Craig.This is an anthology of short excerpts from the teachings of the fourteenth Dalai Lama, the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhists.A note on the copyright page of this Shambhala Pocket Edition notes that this book is an abridged edition of "The Dalai Lama: In My Own Words," first published in the UK.

The excerpts are grouped together in several sections which are titled as follows: "Looking for Happiness in a Secular Society"; "The Real Troublemakers"; "Religion, Religions, and No Religion At All"; "Wanted: A Spiritual Revolution"; "Ethics and the Good Society"; "Democracy and Human Rights"; "Oneness: Taking Responsibility for the World"; "Tibet and Non-Violence"; "Forgiving the Enemy"; "Suffering, Impermanence, and Death"; "World Peace"; and finally, "Invitation to Action."Also included are an introduction by Craig, a postscript about the Dalai Lama's life and exile, and a bibliography.

Many of the passages are followed by a note showing the source of that particular passage.These sources are quite varied: a 1959 letter to U.N. Secretary-General Dag Hammarskjold; a 1985 address at Westminster Abbey; a 1992 address to a summit in Rio de Janeiro; a 1993 article from the "Times of India"; a 2000 talk at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington, DC; and much more.These sources give an indication of the Dalai Lama's global travels and diverse interests.

In her introduction editor Craig describes the Dalai Lama as "the most human human being" she has ever met.The Dalai Lama offers a truly global vision that embraces all of the world's people.These passages indicate that he's not trying either to convert people to his faith or to create some new religion; rather, he invites practitioners of any religion (or of no religion) to focus on common values and engage in a meaningful dialogue.Although he speaks with pride and love of his own Tibetan people and culture, he also celebrates the essential "oneness of humanity."He champions the dignity and worth of each human life, and looks to the potential for joy, love, and compassion in our interrelationships.I recommend this inspiring and challenging book to all seekers of wisdom. ... Read more

Product Description
Tenzin Gyatso, the 14th Dalai Lama, is respected and loved, not only by the people of Tibet, but also by millions of people around the world. Born into a peasant family, the Dalai Lama was two years old when he was recognized as the reincarnation of his predecessor. WORDS OF WISDOM captures some of the Dalai Lama's most sage and sensible thoughts on topics that range from global peace to the meaning of life and compassion. Here the Tibetan spiritual leader's words resonate with everyone from world leaders to the common man.

Quotes from the Dalai Lama:
"My religion is very simple. My religion is kindness."
"A learned person will become noble only when he or she has put into practice what has been learned, instead of just mere words." ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Excellent book
Great and nicely formatted collection of His Holiness's quotes. I sincerely appreciate that this book was made.

Would Be A Great Gift Book
Watch Video Here: http://www.amazon.com/review/R1QYB0X0JPSZIN

Needs more depth
This is a nice little book to keep on your coffee table or bedside, but it really lacks depth. The Dalai Lama is so good at explaining the meaning of life, I often go out of my way to read his writings. This collection just left me a little flat, no disrespect to His Holyness.

Ocean of Wisdom
In Tibetan, the title "Dalai Lama" means "Ocean of Wisdom." After reading this collection of enlightening quotes, I believe that the phrase will be easier to comprehend.

The author, Ms. Gee, superbly provides a concise selection of inspirational thoughts from one of the great thinkers of our time, His Holiness, the Dalai Lama. The quotes contain personal reflections from his own life, along with observations about the human spirit. The quotes range from incisive one liners, along with more detailed reflections. The reader will discover humor, candor, and most of all, compassion.

The book is small, and could be read over a lunch break. But to truly digest its meanings, no doubt you will read it many times. The simplicity in the message, along with the depth of compassion, will enlighten and provide solace to the reader.

Thank you for the opportunity to review this book. ... Read more

Product Description
Included is a foreword written by The Dalai Lama.

When the thirteenth Dalai Lama died in 1933, the highest holy men in Tibet searched throughout the land for his successor. They were spiritually guided to the humble dwelling of a loving family high in the Himalayas. When the search party greeted the youngest son, the child told them, "Now I am going home!" At last the fourteenth Dalai Lama had been found, and at the age of two, the young boy was taken to the capital city, Lhasa, where he began his training to become the spiritual leader of Tibet.

The work of the Dalai Lama and the fate of Tibet are topics of evergrowing international focus. In simple language and glorious art, Demi pays tribute to the fourteenth Dalai Lama's remarkable life. She captures the beauty of Tibetan culture, as well as the charm, talent, and vision of one of the world's best-known spiritual figures.
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Customer Reviews (4)

Great Book
We have a few books by Demi and thought this would be equally as good as the others.Definitely a terrific book and not only did I love it but my 5 year old daughter loved it.

a perfect book for this saber rattling period
This book is both beautifully written and illustrated. The Dalai Lama's message that love, not war, is the answer to the world's problems is presented quite well. Children will enjoy recognizing that this great man once was a child like them.

Highly spiritual book with a eye on human rights.
This book will be shared with my students.They have oftenendured many hardships in their lives and would enjoy hearing others' stories.The Dalai Lama is a very important person in the world and can not be ignored.

Complex story told clearly and with beautiful illustrations
Demi tells a potentially complicated story with clarity and simplicity. The illustrations are beautiful and evocative of the magical land in which the story is set. Where the takeover by Chinese Communist forces isconcerned, you may need to fill your child in on some of the politicalbackground. Otherwise, the book is very accessible. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Good Book
I started studying Buddhism a few years ago and really it haschanged my life for the better. Most of the problems I experience center around work. Dealing with the personalities in the corporate world and how people tend to forget we are all human and that none of us are gods (regardless of how much money we make and our job titles) is at the root of many of my issues. The book opens with the Dalai Lama pointing this out--that we are all human beings regardless of our differences. He approaches all people the same way--as human beings.

Since I was raised in a struggling working class family we found other things (other than money and status) to create happiness. So, working in a corporate environment where everyone seems to be greedy is quite a culture shock to me. I read this book before, but having to slave so hard to get a 10% raise (something that allowed me to better take care of my family) really made me want to get back into not only studying Buddhism, but applying its tennants to my life again. I think that although this is NOT a how to book, the reader has to basically "get it" and "read between the lines" to be able to walk away with something after reading the book. For example, the book mentions that we can find happiness by doing more of the things that have brought us happiness in the past and less of the things that do or have not brought us happiness. Well, that's a no-brainer, but the Western mind tends to lean towards having more, more, more (money, status, bigger car or house) as a means to finding happiness. My sister and I, who are both doing well financially tend to lean toward our past where since we didn't have much money we had to choose between walking to the ice cream store or paying for the bus ride to get us there, for example. We improvised and we'd walk to get ice cream and walk back all the while taking in the sights and sounds of summer. In all of our material achievements, that is what we have found to be our happiness. This is what this book teaches. It doesn't come right out and say it, but I assure you that this will not be the last time I read this book.

I recommned to anyone to have some insight when reading the book. Sometimes the search for meaning in and of itself is the reward. That search may be what brings you peace.

Simple yet profound
A very easy book to read and a great antidote to the excesses of our western life style of consumption and greed.

It provides an easily digestible look at practical ways to live simply and happily.

It can seem patronising and too simple in places, it discusses things that are pretty obvious to most but that is because there is much truth in what the Dalai Lama says and his philosophy is pretty simple.

Live Happily!

A Light Discussion On Happiness

This book is a dialogue between psychiatry (Cutler) and Tibetan Buddhism (Dalai Lama).Despite claiming to be a "handbook" it is not full of 'how-to-do-it' gems.It is more a philosophic exchange on the subject of happiness.As it is written for a western audience some of the metaphysical elements of Buddhism, such as karma and reincarnation, receive only a brief mention.Compassion, however, receives a lengthy treatment, as does living in the moment and dealing with anger.There are a few meditation exercises included.

The book is very readable and maintained my interest all the way through.If I have a criticism it is that the book does not contain enough psychiatry or enough Buddhism.Some how it seems to fall between the two disciplines.It reads like a first contact encounter between East and West, rather than a well developed, deeply contemplated thesis.
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Product Description
When you are in the presence of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, you are in the presence of compassion itself. But how many of us will have the opportunity to personally experience the man known as "The Ocean of Wisdom"? Now, Living Wisdom gives you the chance to immerse yourself in the grace of His Holiness, and to receive the transformative power of his teachings in your own home, including:

• 47-minute DVD spanning twenty-five years of Don Farber’s photography of His Holiness with more than 400 extraordinary images set to sacred Tibetan music
• 145-page book gleaned from His Holiness’s classic lessons on The Six Transcendent Perfections. These are the way of the bodhisattva—the qualities we must cultivate in order to reach enlightenment
• Musicians, monks, and nuns honor His Holiness through time-honored chants and original compositions on CD. Includes traditional chanting by the Dalai Lama
• 36 photographs of His Holiness, each with a contemplation from his teachings on The Six Transcendent Perfections
• Mini-easel to display your daily contemplation on your desk or home altar

This program was created with the cooperation and authorization of His Holiness The Dalai Lama. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

would have been a 5 star
Its a wonderful set Iam very pleased with it my only problem was there was no cd in it.and I contacted amazon and they never got back to me so it really ruined it for me I would have enjoyed hearing the music.

Beautiful Collection of The Dalai Lama's Wisdom
"For as long as space endures,
And for as long as living beings remain,
Until then may I too abide
To dispel the misery of the world. "
~ The Dalai Lama, December 31, 2005

This boxed set includes many intriguing items along with a47-minute DVD spanning 25 years of freelance photographer, Don Farber's photography, with 400 pictures of intricately beautiful scenes featuring His Holiness the Fourteenth Dalai Lama.

The card set features 36 photographs on one side and contemplations on the other side. A mini-easel is included so you can display a wisdom-quote card on your desk each day.

"If we really want to be happy, we should understand that when we get angry, we are crating the causes for more of our own suffering. But if we cultivate patience, we are creating the causes for more long-lasting and uninterrupted happiness. That is what we are really striving for." ~ Tenzin Gyatso, The Fourteenth Dalai Lama

The CD includes traditional chanting, the Heart Sutra as sung by Chinese Buddhist Nuns, soul-soothing music by Nawang Khechog and Techung's beautiful "Snow Lion of Peace."

"Living Wisdom with His Holiness The Dalai Lama Study Guide" makes the teachings accessible and includes:

A Letter from His Holiness the Dalai Lama
An Aspiration for the Use of Living Wisdom
Ocean of Wisdom, an introduction
The Middle Way
A Prayer for Generating Bodhicitta
An Introduction to the Six Transcendent Perfections
The Awakened Heart and the Sic Perfections (Generosity, Ethics, Patience, Joyful Exertion, Meditative Concentration, Wisdom)
Long-Life Prayer

Reading the booklet while listening to the CD is a healing experience and it helped me understand the qualities admired by Buddhist traditions. If you are struggling with negative emotions, trying to find your way in the world or are looking for a new life purpose, this can give you hope and inspire you on a way to a life with less suffering and more joy. The glossary is helpful to explain words like "Bodhicitta" which means "the awakened heart/mind." Burning incense while reading is optional, but I found it enhanced the experience.

The DVD is stunning in beauty, the CD is healing and the booklet gives you practical wisdom you can use in your life to make your existence more meaningful. This set has universal appeal and concerns itself with love, compassion, equanimity and kindness.

~The Rebecca Review

a real Blessing
A beautiful gift set. The cards are wonderful as is the music, dvd and book. Best of all, the wisdom of the Dalai Lama.

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Customer Reviews (6)

surprisingly informative
These conversations between the Ekman and the Dalai Lama are surprisingly illuminating of both men's thoughts on emotion. Although I'd read Ekman's popular books and widely in Buddhist literature prior to listening to these CDs, I learned a great deal.

Not 5 stars only because the CDs are abridged.

An introduction to Buddhist soft "Science"
If you are familiar with the Mind and Life institute and the many books its produced (Destructive Emotions, etc), you will find many similiar issues covered. This book goes into those "Buddhist" topics in vaster detail, with emphasis on translating many Buddhist terms into a "Western Psychology" viewpoint. This is a must have book for a broad audience, including skeptics of Buddhism, any level of Buddhist practioner, Ekman/Darwin fans or anyone interested in psychology/self-help in general. Ekman and the Dalai Lama have a unique bond, and this book brings out a wealth of information in a conversasion type format. Throughout the book you will find many excerpts ranging from half a page to over a page long from the likes of B. Alan Wallace, Paul Ekman, Geshe Dorji Damdul, and many others. The only thing that might steer you away if you are looking for information only on body language/facial expressions, which Paul Ekman has written some books on.

Superlative work, not all that well framed.
The ideas and opinions that are shared by the Dalai Lama and Paul Ekman are absolutely invaluable. It is also a very good comedy album in some places because it is edited together pretty poorly. Richard Geere did not do an exceptional job of reading the lines...to be kind.It might have helped if he and Ekman had been in the same room.I guess we will never know.
If you are like me, you can get through the deficits to the real gems that are inherent in the conversations.I simply can't more strongly recommend it.

Chatting on emotional evolution
Ekman gets a whole 39 hours with the Dalai Lama, discussing the world of emotion. The two trade personal stories and research findings, basically talking like friends at the coffee shop. How are emotions triggered? What causes the big differences in intensity, duration, and quality of emotion between people? What aspects of emotional life are shared with animals? (This comes up a lot, and it's fascinating.) What kinds of emotion have survival value? How do moods shape and limit our fields of awareness? What works in overcoming our emotional blinders towards life?

Throughout the discussion these elder gents pull in brief testimonies from social scientists or Buddhist teachers. They think up whole new directions for psychological research. It's fruitful.

Helpful
This augmented transcript of talk between these two men highlights several interesting ideas and the best and most helpful information comes out when they drop any pretense of being "learned" and just talk like a couple of guys. I listened to the audio book and Richard Gere plays the part of the Dahli Lama, affecting the speech pattern with a curious tone and pace. ... Read more

Product Description
His Holiness the Dalai Lama said, "Studying Buddhist teaching is a bit like doing construction work on our mind." Bettering our minds leads to knowledge, compassion, strength, discipline, and peace--all things he advocates. Each page of the Insight from the Dalai Lama 2011 Day-to-Day Calendar contains a straightforward and uplifting quote from the Dalai Lama, on topics such as altruism, meditation, equality, and nonviolence. He may consider himself "a simple Buddhist monk--no more, nor less," but his impact is felt worldwide by many who aspire to live simpler and more harmonious lives.

Copyright (c) 2010 Andrews McMeel Publishing, LLC ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Great calendar for desks
I bought this as a gift after receiving one myself as a Christmas present.I enjoyed the quotes from the Dalai Lama, it fit nicely on my desk without taking up much space and I always had note paper handy when I tore off the pages of the previous days. ... Read more

Product Description
His Holiness, the Dalai Lama, is one of the most respected spiritual leaders and teachers living in the world today. He is revered by Buddhists as the living god of love and compassion, and yet he refers to himself as a simple monk. His gentle, humorous expression of wisdom and compassion serves as an inspiration to millions.
The Dalai Lama, Heart of Wisdom 2011 Wall Calendar features twelve photographs from Alison Wright, who has spent a lifetime traveling the world in an attempt to capture the universal human spirit through her images of endangered cultures and documenting issues concerning the human condition. Wright's photographs have been published in worldwide periodicals and books.
The interior pages of this calendar are printed on 100% recycled, 50% post-consumer paper, processed chlorine free and printed with soy based inks. ... Read more

Product Description
Buddhist beliefs impact the world. Its teachings are found in todays media, entertainment, education, government and other places where Christians interact. How can Christians defend their faith in ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Agressive Religious Intolerance
An attempt by a practitioner of one religion to convert people of another.Any religious discussion that begins with the perspective of I am right and you are wrong is never a good idea, the idea that a person that is opposed to a faith can teach about it accurately is preposterous.

Wonderful!!
This is a well documented book, detailing the historical foundation for their Tibetan Buddhist beliefs. Highly recommended.

A Compelling Read on Buddhism
Even for a person who has limited knowledge of Buddhism, one would find Tsering's writing style and arrangement of the book a very compelling read.It is a fascinating compilation of history, from the ancient times to the present, with stories and clear explanations of the tenets and background of Buddhism.In addition, the author skillfully compares and contrasts Buddhism and Christianity, and gives us a real sense of the people who live in Middle Asia.

Roger Converse, InterVarsity Christian Fellowship ... Read more

Product Description
As recent scientific research shows, the simple act of praying can be emotionally, spiritually, and even physically healing. With Prayers for Healing, Maggie Oman invites readers into a healing space that can transform both mind and body. Organized in daybook form, the book focuses on healing in all its dimensions - physical, emotional, interpersonal, social, and environmental. Quotations range from sources such as the Bible, the Tao Te Ching, the Koran, the Torah, and Native American texts, as well as from Deepak Chopra, Rumi, Martin Luther King Jr., Marianne Williamson, and others. Together they create a tapestry of comfort and inspiration for rejuvenation and renewal.Amazon.com Review
In times of sickness or adversity, humans tend to seek comfortand healing from a greater power. We know this quest as prayer;universally it has brought solace and healing to many seekers. Forthose who lack the words, inspiration, or familiarity with prayer,Maggie Oman has assembled a collection of healing prayers for everyday of the year. Included are voices as familiar as Duke Ellington("Every man prays in his own language, and there is no languagethat God does not understand."), Bobby McFerrin, and May Sarton,along with voices as reverent as the Chinook Indians, Kahlil Gibran,and Mother Teresa. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

A Few Prayers- to various gods- mostly poems and meditations
I have been very interested in faith healing- the powerful healing effects of prayer (in the name of Jesus, or God). I was looking for specific prayers to enable physical and mental healing from disease such as cancer, diabetes, etc. and from things like back pain and mental anxieity, panic attack, etc. There have been tremendous books and CD's by Bill Johnson and others with thousands of testemonies about actual miraculous modern day healing taking place through prayer. So I was looking for powerful Christian prayers to bring about healing.

It is quite true that I SHOULD have looked at the subtitle to the book, which really should have been the TITLE. Because the book is indeed filled with lovely blessings, poems, and meditations. These are from all different religious beliefs as well. There are odd Christian/ pagan combined prayers that say Jesus Christ is the gentle moon and joyful stars. Other prayers are to the great spirit, prayers to the goddess, writings by Rumi. A few years ago I would have enjoyed this very much, but what I was really looking for now was actual prayer, not calming enjoyable writings.

a rich source for the world's best quotes on healing.
this book is just wonderful... give it to anyone who is suffering physically, mentally, or spiritually.almost every page offers a prayer, quote, poem or passage that is deeply gratifying.

Excellent choice!
This little book has been a wonderful resource.I am a parent who lost a child due to sudden cardiac arrest.I go to this book when I need a little blessing to help me through the week.It's organized by calendar days & I'm amazed at how the writings give me peace. I went back to Amazon and purchased 5 more of the books to send to friends.

Prayers for Healing - a rich little treasure
Not only will the beautiful cover of this collection edited by Maggie Oman inspire you but the contents, a selection for each day of the year, will offer comfort, peace, and hope no matter what might be taking place in your life.There are entries written by an African-Ameican Abolitionists in 1863, one by Mary Baker Eddy in that same century, another by the Dalai Lama in our own day and yet anotherby Marianne Williamson.The entries are so good I find myself using the book each morning and then turning back to it throughout the day.I highly recommend it!

An excellent resource
I have used this volume for several years in my personal prayer/meditation practice.I order so many copies because I give it to friends anytime there is a crisis, a health concern or a loss. There are meditation for every religious or philosophical style.ost are beautifully-written and touching.I recommended it highly.
Jane ... Read more