Cultivating the Buddhist Heart: How to Find Peace and Fulfillment in a Changing World

The world of Buddhism is just that: a world unto itself, complex, deep, and difficult to fathom to its depths. In fact, Buddhism can be so complex that Buddhists (and those seeking inspiration in the Buddhist tradition) can lose track of the simple and practical spirit of Shakyamuni's teachings, becoming caught up in exotic terminology and increasingly intricate systems of thought. But, at the end of the day, Buddhism isn't just a philosophy, or even just a religion; it is truly a way of life, a different approach to reality. "Cultivating the Buddhist Heart", by Nichiko Niwano, is a powerful tool to help us recapture the warm, pure, practical emphasis of the Buddha's original teachings. Niwano is the president of Rissho Kosei-kai, a Buddhist lay organization with millions of members around the world. What is the nature of "salvation" in Buddhism? How should the Buddha's realization of transience affect our lives today? What role should a Buddhist play in the world? Niwano examines such crucial questions carefully and deeply, in terms that anyone can easily understand. The fact that he is able to do so reflects the author's deep realization, nourished by his deep devotion and study. There are many who will give this book to their friends and family, to help them understand what Buddhism is all about. I can't think of a better book to use for that purpose. But I also believe this book will serve as an important tool for longtime Buddhists; when we need to refresh the spirit of our practice, or to remind ourselves why we're practicing in the first place, we can turn again and again to this book, and find inspiration.