"I am encouraged that this book came about as a consequence of the interaction between the Karmapa Rinpoche and a group of young, intelligent American university students. The result is not so much a presentation o f a Buddhist point o f view, but an example of the contribution Buddhist ideas can make to contemporary con­ versation. Rinpoche repeatedly explains how we can tap into our basic good human qualities, the noble heart o f the title, as a source of good motivation and positive action. The important thing is to go beyond mere good wishes to actually taking action, whether it concerns dealing with emotions and transforming the mind or steps to protect the natural environment.

I am sure that readers who pay attention to what is discussed here and try it out in their own lives will not only feel happier with­ in themselves, but will also contribute to making a happier, more peaceful world for the twenty-first century. -- H.H. Dalai Lama