Open heart, clear mind

This practical introduction to Buddhism focuses on the application of Buddhist psychology to modern life. Thubten Chodron, an American Buddhist nun, presents the basic points of this path for understanding ourselves and improving the quality of our lives. In a straightforward style and with warmth and humor, Chodron gives us the fundamental points of the Buddha's teaching on transforming habitual attitudes and realizing our full human potential.

The Buddhist approach.

Working effectively with emotions. Where is happiness : looking closely at our experience -- Taking the ache out of attachment : leading a balanced life -- Love vs. attachment : distinguishing genuine care from unrealistic projections -- Managing anger : transforming fear and aversion -- Closed-mindedness : dealing with differences -- Accurately viewing ourselves : antidotes for false pride -- From jealousy to joy : letting go of a painful heart -- Catching the thief : recognizing the disturbing attitudes -- The culprit : selfishness.

Our current situation. Rebirth : bridging life to life -- Karma : cause and effect -- Cyclic existence : the Ferris wheel of recurring problems.

Our potential for growth. Buddha nature : our inborn goodness -- Our precious human life : using a good opportunity.

The path to enlightenment. The four noble truths : teachings of the realized beings -- The determination to be free : developing the courage to free ourselves from a bad situation -- Ethics : relating to others constructively -- Nurturing altruism : the open heart of love and compassion -- Wisdom realizing reality : cutting the root of ignorance -- Meditation : devel…