The Book of Joy; Lasting Happiness in a Changing World - Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu - 4 1/2 stars

[Kelly]

I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this book. In it the exiled Tibetan leader, the Dalai Lama, and South African Archbishop, Desmond Tutu, have a weeklong discussion on the topic of 'Joy'. Desmond Tutu travels to India to visit the Dalai Lama for his 80th birthday. Here topics and questions have been planned out by Douglas Abrams who facilitated the talks. The answers given were important, and they do not overlook the many bad things going on in the world today that cause people to struggle. However, their personal respect for each other came through so clearly that the book was a pleasure to read. They joke, hold hands, care about the others health, and show true friendship. They share personal stories of their lives as examples. Data and theories from outside experts are also woven in throughout.

The book discusses joy, suffering, obstacles, stress, perspectives and reasons. The two spiritual leaders are aware that the world now has become more materialistic, but that we need to concentrate more on inner values. They say to focus on the 'mind and the heart'. There should also be a shift from ourselves to thinking of others. Amongst many other things they talk of acceptance, compassion, gratitude, generosity and hope. This book was excellent.

[Amy]

Was really drawn to this - and you! Just sent you a friend request. One of my climbing the stairs stairs is Spirituality. This seems to be the tricky one for me, the only one of the six that truly stretches and challenges me aside from time travel. And of course I can tolerate one of those. Spirituality is an interesting category, because I tend to shy away from anything Christian, or too religious, and anything too too preachy. Plus, I am already pretty highly joyful and spiritual, so I am picky about what floats my boat. But I have like twelve choices to see what draws me. And now 13. Thanks to your review.

[Kelly]

Thank you! Just got your friend request.

[LibraryCin]

This one was gifted to me at Christmas. Not sure how I'll feel about it.

[Kelly]

LibraryCin wrote: "This one was gifted to me at Christmas. Not sure how I'll feel about it."

I hope you like it.

[LibraryCin]

I do hope so, as well!

[Nileema]

This looks like a lovely book - I'm excited to add it to my TBR!

[Nicole]

I had never heard of this before now but I just added this to my TBR! Thanks for sharing Kelly!

[Sherling]

Thanks Kelly! I'm always looking for books related to Tibetan Buddhism while I can hardly find anything religious or spirituality-related in local bookstores. This seems to be a good choice.