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‘The Book of Joy’ by Dalai Lama and Desmond Tutu with Douglas Abrams
Unlike many self help books, “The Book of Joy” follows the friendship of two unique people — one a refugee and the other a member of the Anglican Church. Meeting for one week in Dharmsala, India, these conversations are an invitation to the world to discover the true nature of joy and lasting happiness in this changing world. Calling himself a “simple monk,” His Holiness the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Desmond Tutu have collaborated with Douglas Abrams to bring simple conversations about enduring happiness, outstanding joy and lasting peace in times of trouble and turmoil.
They remind us that joy is our birthright as human beings, more so than happiness, because joy is “much bigger than happiness” and not dependent upon external circumstances. This state of mind is the main topic of these dialogues. Weaving together modern science, Buddhist philosophy and Christian theology, this little book of joy patiently teaches us that trying to find joy or happiness through our external senses is “like trying to quench thirst by drinking saltwater.”
Author Douglas Abrams captures the conversations between these two great minds with a candid and hilarious tone. Reading the original stories, it feels as though you are sitting at the table with these two great leaders. Infused within the book is great meaning and poignancy. In exile for more than 50 years, the Dalai Lama and the Tibetan people have suffered unspeakable tragedy, the demise of their religion and homeland, and torture of their people. Likewise, Archbishop Tutu has witnessed great suffering though the long, terrible fight against apartheid in South Africa. Yet, both men persist in their belief that their struggles were “blessings in disguise.”
Believers and nonbelievers alike will receive much joy by reading this book. There are exercises at the end of the book, practices followed by the Dalai Lama and Archbishop Tutu for anyone wishing to develop lasting joy and happiness. The practices of “Journaling for Gratitude” and “Developing Mental Immunity” (much like developing physical immunity) are from the traditions of Buddhism and Christianity. Sharing in a world that builds upon trust and a lasting belief that our humanity connects us all, this little “Book of Joy” is a true gem.
Karen Vasil-Busch, a licensed massage therapist and registered Ayurvedic practitioner, can be reached at 207-336-2065.
