The Complete Foundation: The Systematic Approach to Training the Mind

According to the traditions of Tibetan Buddhism, the Dalai Lama is the fourteenth reincarnation of this religious leader. He is now eighty-three years old and still going strong, although he is debating about being the very last Dalai Lama because of Tibet’s political situation with China. This is his ninetieth book. They all sell very well since he is one of the world’s most popular figures. The interviews I have seen of him reflect an always cheery and positive personality who likes to laugh as much as meditate. From his humble beginnings being born on a straw mat in a cowshed to a family of sixteen children, he has since traveled to all parts of the world.

This reviewer has a bias against obfuscation–that is, language that tends to obscure meaning. I believe that jargon tends to create unnecessary divisions. For me, clarity is always appreciated. That being said, this is a religion with powerful traditions created by the use of certain language, even though a non-believer such as I might find it confusing. There are powerful prayers and practices outlined in this book that will be especially meaningful for the practitioner.