This week, an acquaintance asked me to recommend an introductory book about Buddhism. Now, I have read a great number of books written by monastics and most of these books are quite well written. But my impression is that they all presuppose a certain level of understanding and the person who asked for the recommendation is just starting to explore our tradition.

This was not the first time I have been asked for the same referral. I have searched for introductory books before and even bought a few for distribution. But I have always been a bit disappointed. The majority of these books are dry and academic. The best introductory books I have found are actually written for children but I think an educated adult might be put off by the offer of a children’s book in response to a request.

Buddhism is a religion of action. It requires the cultivation of character traits including generosity, morality, meditation, truthfulness, goodwill, compassion, wisdom and equanimity to name but a few. It is not enough to read about these traits. We must practice them in in our daily lives. Luang Por Chah, founder of the Thai Forest lineage I follow, famously said, “A cow is an animal that eats grass. If the animal doesn’t eat grass it isn’t a cow. A Buddhist practices [the Dhamma]. If the person doesn’t practice, he isn’t a Buddhist.”

So, by way of introduction, here are two short videos which illustrate Buddhist practice in action.

Practicing Buddhism is simple but it isn’t easy. Our society promotes and celebrate actions that are decidedly not Buddhist. To be a practitioner, one must exercise resolve. The good news is that when we practice, we create a world that is beautiful for ourselves and others. A world with a little less suffering. A world with a little more joy. And that, my friends is the world I want to live in.

But don’t take my word for it. Investigate for yourself.