Anam Thubten - Choosing Compassion: How to Be of Benefit in a World That Needs Our Love

Many of us have a strong habit of getting bogged down by the exterior aspects of life: politics, news, work, relationships, and finances to name a few. This can cause us to feel that were stuck with a life that is devoid of meaning and joy. Not only that, but this can bind us to a limiting version of reality, and we suffer as its consequence. The interior world of mind and heart are neglected when our whole focus is given to external values. Therefore, spiritual teachings often invite us to pause and turn our attention inward to cultivate the wealth of wisdom, love, and compassion. My hope is that Choosing Compassion will do this very job for whomever comes across it.

Books have their own life and mission just like people. They go to places where an author has never been and reach people an author has never met, hopefully giving them the inspiration they might be looking for. This is not my first book. During my lecture tours, now and then a new face will show up with one of my books filled with marks, and the person will tell me it helped them. Knowing that my work is benefiting someone out there has inspired me to teach and write more. My books also have been wonderful bridges between many people around the world and me. As long as my books are helping people, it feels worthwhile to continue to write them. As individuals, we constantly change, along with our culture. New ideas and refreshing language that address our problems and solutions are very much needed.

We live in a very interesting time in the history of humankind, due to rapid changes on all levels. The systems that used to make sense are collapsing. We are anxious about a very uncertain future as ecological crises hit us stronger and stronger each year. Yet, there is a sanctuary where we can take refuge. It is not out there in the world; it is in the love and wisdom that can be found within our heart. And so, in addition to, and perhaps because of, the challenges that are being presented to us collectively and individually, this is also a potent time for our inner growth. There is usually an upside to the experiences we go through in this life, regardless of whether we can see this upside immediately or not.

Choosing Compassion is based on my talks given at our temple in Point Richmond, California: a quaint historical town with magical sunsets and views of the famous Golden Gate Bridge that can get anyone drunk with bliss. Almost every other week, people come to the temple and we meditate together as a community, followed by a talk. Much of the audience already has a strong foundation in various wisdom traditions. In many ways, this book doesnt just belong to me; it also belongs to all these wonderful people. It only came into being because they inspired me to teach.

Let me take this as an opportunity to express my gratitude to everyone who worked to make this book available. It has taken the efforts of many, who have helped by recording talks, transcribing them, editing them, and more. I am especially grateful to Sharon Roe, who continuously helps my books take form thanks to her contagious enthusiasm and sharp editing.