How to Practice: The Way to a Meaningful LifeAuthor: Lama, DalaiGenre: Religious Publisher: Pocket Books Released: 2002 |
A Review by John Nesbit
10/01/2005
It was easy to understand why some teens I overheard described him as a Yoda clone. The image that stays with me is of the Dalai Lama sitting in his traditional lotus position cracking up during a humorous anecdote while simultaneously slapping his right thigh. For a man to genuinely express such joy when he has seen so much suffering and remains in exile from his homeland, is a testament to His spiritual stature. It also draws people to him from all backgrounds—just as it did that afternoon in Arizona. He is a true Bodhisattva!
If we each could linger in His presence, we'd surely absorb some of his wisdom, but that's not practical. What we can do is glean pearls of wisdom from his numerous writings. One of the better introductory texts is How to Practice: The Way to a Meaningful Life, which is translated and edited by Jeffry Hopkins, PhD. Although it serves a a primer to the basic principles of Buddhism, people of all religious persuasions will find practical guidance for enhancing their spiritual lives through the suggested daily practices here.
Briefly introducing the Buddha's life as an example of enlightenment, the Dalai Lama examines the Four Noble Truths, declaring that renunciation requires at least a partial understanding of them:
1. True sufferingThe Dalai Lama emphasizes compassion throughout his writings (just as he did in the public talk I witnessed), always expressing how achieving this quality can lead to happiness. It's also the main focus of this book, as he explains there are two ways to create happiness:
2.True sources of suffering
3.True cessations of suffering and its sources
4.True paths for actualizing true cessations
The first is external. By obtaining better shelter, better clothes, and better friends we can find a certain measure of happiness and satisfaction. The second is through mental development, which yields inner happiness.Needless to say, he focuses on the second aspect with the goal of achieving “peace of mind.” While some parts may get too mind boggling for some—discussions concerning the concept of “nothingness” and various forms of meditation for example, he always includes a “Summary for daily practice” at the end of each section that offers concrete exercises that can only lead to greater understanding and self awareness. One simple meditation exercise requires a visualization in which you contrast your “selfish self” against a group of destitute and suffering strangers. Easy to see that daily practice of just this visualization is certain to affect your attitude and behavior.
A rather small book, it “can” be a fast read, but that's certainly not the wisest way to put the Dalai Lama's principles into practice. Open minded people who sincerely want to improve their spiritual outlook and quality of life may find that one gem that provides the key. This book provides that practical guide while also hinting that far more esoteric topics can be explored for those who seek deeper understanding. As such, How to Practice: The Way to a Meaningful Life serves as an excellent introduction to the Dalai Lama and his wisdom.
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