Buddhism has influenced Western thinking like no other Eastern religion, and even people who have no interest in adopting it wholeheartedly acknowledge its wisdom. This beautiful collection of quotations, insights, and short tales form an introduction to Buddhism in all its richness and variety. The texts cover such basic themes of universal relevance as the beauty of nature, good and bad karma, how to deal with stress and anxiety, how to meditate successfully, how to be happy, and the joy to be found in service to others.