Lama Surya Das’ text is a bit too full of Chicken Soup for the Buddhists Soul type anecdotes…. however, having come out of and reflecting on the text, I consider it a highly beneficial read for those seeking help in the process of awakening and meditating. I do feel, though, that one could chop up the text, make it a third the size, save some trees, some time, and recieve the same impact. I feel as though I know all the worlds pain, trifles, and fears. It is a bit exhausting, but in the end, worth it. I feel great appreciation for having finished the book. It has, indeed, changed my life.