How to Read a Haiku

How do we read a haiku? A surprising primer on this art comes from a slim volume by Yoel Hoffmann titled Japanese Death Poems: Written by Zen Monks and Haiku Poets on the Verge of Death. In the introductory part of the book, we learn that a haiku consists of seventeen syllables written in three … Read more

The More of Less: Joshua Becker on Universal Benefits of Minimalism

“Too many people spend money they haven’t earned, to buy things they don’t want, to impress people they don’t like,” Will Rogers famously said. Indeed, in our relentless pursuit of buying and accumulation, we have become the pack-horses of our possessions. Things are in the saddle and run our lives. Instead of bringing relief, every … Read more

Tashi and the Monk: How Lobsang Phuntsok Created a Safe Haven for Unwanted Children

Tashi and the Monk

“We survive and thrive only in an environment of concern, affection, and warmheartedness — or in a single word, compassion,” wrote the Dalai Lama in reflecting on how to live a more purposeful and meaningful life. “The essence of compassion is a desire to alleviate the suffering of others and to promote their well-being. This … Read more