Pema Chodron is a beautiful writer. Her view of things has grown from decades as a practicing Buddhist nun and teacher. She describes our condition, always trying to avoid suffering, and the ways we typically react to the events of our lives, with humour and real compassion for our constant daily dilemma. Her way of presenting these teachings gives us high quality encouragement to open up and stay in the moment, dealing with whatever it brings with fearlessness and compassion.

From the editor's Preface:
Though we actively work at clearing away the obstacles to achieving our natural state, we are intimidated by its unconditional openness. Our heart feels so vulnerable and tender that we fabricate walls to protect it. It takes determined inner work even to see the walls, and a gentle approach to dismantling them. We don't have to tear them down all at once. Learning to rest in openhearted basic goodness is a lifelong process. The teachings in this book offer gentle and precise techniques to help us along the way.

What we call uncertainty is actually the open quality of any given moment. When we can be present for this openness, as it is always present for us, we discover that our capacity to love and care for others is limitless.

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