Thích Nhất Hạnh was a Vietnamese Buddhist monk, teacher, author, poet and peace activist who then lived in southwest France where he was in exile for many years. Born Nguyễn Xuân Bảo, Thích Nhất Hạnh joined a Zen (Vietnamese: Thiền) monastery at the age of 16, and studied Buddhism as a novitiate. Upon his ordination as a monk in 1949, he assumed the Dharma name Thích Nhất Hạnh. Thích is an honorary family name used by all Vietnamese monks and nuns, meaning that they are part of the Shakya (Shakyamuni Buddha) clan. He was often considered the most influential living figure in the lineage of Lâm Tế (Vietnamese Rinzai) Thiền, and perhaps also in Zen Buddhism as a whole.
Smiled all the way through this book. A must read before bed. Uplifting meditation techniques and stories to sooth the weary peaceful warrior. Picked this up at a used book store. A gem of a find!!
As the summer matures, I've gotten back into meditating - 15 minutes in the morning, first thing. Thich Nhat Hanh's gentle directions for mindfulness help set the stage. Discovered it at the swap shop at the Stockbridge dump! OK, now it's December and I haven't meditated in...5 months. I haven't finished his work but it feels good knowing it's on the shelf when I need it.
This is a collection of four of Thích Nhất Hạnh's books, from 1976, 1987, 1988 and 1992, respectively. It is an excellent introduction to Thay's work, but readers of Nhất Hạnh should not end with these books. "The Heart of the Buddha's Teaching" is also essential.
Another great book (this time a collection) marred by what I consider to be a cheesy title. More than your average Zen author, TNH gets his books named cheesily.
I re-read this special volume I found years ago, when I'm feeling so out of touch with myself and the world around me. Thich Nhat Hanh has wisdom for the ages. A true spiritual, mindful guide.