How Joyous Effort Works

Part instruction and part story, How Joyous Effort Works uses contemporary fictional characters to connect with and integrate Buddhist philosophy and practice into daily life on a practical and universal level. Troy, a young man in his early 20s who is trying to heal from his difficult past, continues his journey with the theme of the previous three books: ';When the student is ready the master appears.' In How Joyous Effort Works, Troy meets his next teacher, Jules, a master luthier (builder of string instruments). Using the luthier's skills as metaphor and meditative support, Jules guides Troy as he takes on the challenge of integrating the deeper points of the Buddhist view with every aspect of his own life. Troy applies the lessons that Jules presents as he navigates the death of his uncle and struggles to balance a dedicated Buddhist practice in his relationship with Maggie. Having made so much progress in his practice, Troy is devastated when Maggie refuses his marriage proposal explaining that she loves him and can promise her devotion, but she never wants to be married. Troy is now confronted by his own rage. Hurt, angry, and confused, Troy reflects on all that he has learned, remembering that attachment is a main cause of suffering, and that the true source of happiness comes not from seeking happiness for oneself, but for the happiness of others. His efforts to apply the Buddhist teachings demonstrate the actual practice of putting this ancient and time-proven wisdom into action, and the liberating joy that follows. He offers Maggie the ring again, not as a symbol of marriage but as a symbol of their love, and with no strings attached. With this understanding, Maggie accepts. Suitable for non-Buddhists, How Joyous Effort Works and the previous three books in the How Life Works series can also provide a solid support for those already engaged in the teachings to reinforce or help shed light on the Buddhist dharma.