*New with minor shelf wear 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. —THE DALAI LAMA The Dalai Lama shares some of his key teachings on the practice of compassion, presenting a collection of meditations designed to help readers open their hearts when dealing with others, and introduces the fundamental philosophy of Buddhism and its core concepts. 300,000 first printing.