"Welcoming the Unwelcome" (Pema Chodron)

Shambhala Publications (shambhala.com); Ashley Wells, Crystal Q. (eds.), Wisdom Quarterly

The Teaching is not simple. In sum it is clear: "Do all that is good. Purify the mind/heart."

Welcoming the Unwelcome: Wholehearted...

From the bestselling author of When Things Fall Apart, an open-hearted call for human connection, compassion, and learning to love the world just as it is during these most challenging times.

In her first new book of spiritual teachings in over seven years, American-born Buddhist nun Pema Chödrön offers a combination of wisdom, heartfelt reflections, and the signature mix of humor and insight that have made her a beloved figure to turn to during times of change.

In an increasingly polarized world, she shows us how to strengthen our abilities to find common ground, even when we disagree, and influence our environment in positive ways.

American nun Pema Chodron

Sharing never-before told personal stories from her remarkable life, simple and powerful everyday practices, and directly relatable advice, Pema Chodron encourages us all to become triumphant bodhisattvas -- compassionate beings -- in times of hardship.

Welcoming the Unwelcome: Wholehearted Living in a Brokenhearted World includes teachings on the true meaning of karma, recognizing the "basic goodness" [Buddha nature] in ourselves and the people we share our lives with -- even the most challenging ones, transforming adversity into opportunities for growth, and freeing ourselves from the empty and illusory labels that separate us.

She also provides step-by-step guides to a basic sitting meditation and a compassion meditation that anyone can use to bring light to the darkness we face, wherever and whatever it may be. More

• The 9 Levels of Consciousness, a Tibetan Buddhist perspective (OperationMeditation.com)