"I believe that the very purpose of our life is to seek happiness. That is clear. Whether one believes in religion or not, whether one believes in this religion or that religion, we are all seeking something better in life. So I think, the very motion of our life is toward happiness" His Holiness the Dalai Lama wrote in The Art of Happiness (1998) with Howard Cutler. In this keepsake book, readers will be able to revisit passages from that huge bestseller and ponder the different levels of meaning in the Dalai Lama's exploration of this universal quest. This handy little book contains five thematic sections: 1. The Purpose of Life 2. Human Warmth and Compassion 3. Transforming Suffering 4. Overcoming Obstacles 5. On Living a Spiritual Life.

Tibetan Buddhists have a long, rich tradition of exploring happiness and the attitudes and behavior that goes along with it. They have much wisdom, as well, on the meaning of suffering. The Dalai Lama believes that a peaceful or calm mind is conducive to the achievement of happiness. To maintain a positive frame of mind, the religious leader suggests the following spiritual practice:

"Every day, as soon as you get up, you can develop a sincere positive motivation, thinking, 'I will utilize this day in a more positive way. I should not waste this very day.' And then, at night before bed, check what you've done, asking yourself, 'Did I utilize this day as I planned?' "

The Dalai Lama believes that compassion is another important element in the search for happiness, He writes:

"The Tibetan word for compassion, tse-wa, refers to an attitude or state of mind that includes not only a wish for the welfare of others, a wish for others to be free of their suffering, but also a wish for good things for oneself."

True inner peace can be cultivated by deepening our connection with others and practicing compassion. Other crucial elements that enhance joy in our lives are contentment, a sense of inner worth, leaving behind comparisons and expectations, accepting impermanence, and seeing that you can use all 24 hours of your day for spiritual practice.