I am reading The Art of Happiness by The Dalai Lama and Howard Cutler. It is about life and, not surprisingly, how to be happy. Cutler interlaces science, psychology, and his perspective through the words of The Dalai Lama.
Interestingly, The Dalai Lama has been trained, since the age of four, how to seek enlightenment within himself and how to be happy and maintain grace in an increasingly complex and arguably hostile world. Though I am only about two-thirds through, I would recommend the book.
In my opinion, the principles of the twelve steps are not too dissimilar from the buddahist principles The Dalai Lama employs in his life. Compassion, empathy and perspective, are all crucial elements to a happy life.
"Researchers have conducted a number of experiments demonstrating that one's level of life satisfaction can be enhanced simply by shifting one's perspective and contemplating how things could be worse. In one study, women at the University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee were shown images of the extremely harsh living conditions in Milwaukee at the turn of the century or were asked to visualize and write and write about going through personal tragedies such as being burned or disfigured. After completing this exercise, the women were asked to rate the quality of their own lives. The exercise resulted in an increased sense of satisfaction with their lives." -p. 23
There were other specific examples of the healing power of a compassionate and empathetic perspective being a key to happiness. In my limited experience, I don't think it matters why we help out the newcomer. It doesn't matter if you believe your positive experiences post bottom have unlocked the better nature of your soul or if you actively think about what you are getting out of it. Either way, the act helps them and you to get and stay happy, joyous, and free.
"No matter how far down the scale we have gone, we will see how our experiences can benefit others." -p.84 bbaa"
Self pity will kill us; compassion and empathy will heal us.
