In his introductory chapters, Ladner lays out the problem and begins to teach about how the practicing Buddhists' view of the world differs from Westerners'. He clearly explains who the Buddha was, what Buddhist practice is, and how it can be helpful to people who normally come to psychotherapists for help. The rest of the book deals with meditation practices that guide the practitioner to discovering the reality about the Four Noble Truths and ways to then bring their newly found compassion to others. Ladner realizes that this process will not be one for the person seeking a quick fix. These practices, however, are ongoing and will benefit the person seeking to discover true happiness and meaning in his or her life. That, he says, comes from being in the present moment and experiencing compassion, not only for others, but for yourself, as well.

I found Ladner's compassion akin to Jesus' bringing love (with a capital L) to the world. In many ways, it is much the same thing. It is a compassion or love that doesn't think of reward or hardship, but just loves and reacts to the needs of others without thought. It just is.

The Lost Art of Compassion: Discovering the Practice of Happiness in the Meeting of Buddhism and Psychology is easy to read and understand. The hard part comes from the work of the exercises. But then, that is the often the path to enlightenment.