With comments by Donald Rothberg

We explore the tendencies to polarize inner and outer practices, the vision of connecting them, some socially engaged Buddhist exemplars, and how the principles of transformation are the same whether in individual, relational or collective domains.

There are precise and profound parallels between what Buddhism says about our usual individual predicament and our collective ecological predicament today.

As we free our hearts from contraction, fear, anger and selfishness, we receive the world with a tender heart. This tender heart cares for others and from this, generous actions flow.

We explore, through stories, poems and teachings, four inter-related ways to practice with difficult emotions, 1- using antidotes, 2- cultivating the "heart practices" of loving-kindness, compassion, joy, forgiveness, etc, 3- cultivating mindfulness and 4- bringing wisdom to the experience