Pain and illness - and their accompanying suffering - narrow our scope and capacity for engaged and active compassionate actions. But, like a lens we can focus it to reveal clarity - the clarity of the authentic self.

Meditation isn't always sitting in silence and contemplation. For most of us, meditation in action is a great way to rewire our lives for happiness and become a force of kindness in the world.

Consciously unleashing sincerity and humility in our actions changes the world and people around us for the better.

What happens when our initial response to everything in our life is a resounding "yes!" Certainly possibilities abound and instead of being stuck we flourish.

We all make mistakes, and our mistakes can be a cause of hurt for others. There are ways to clean up the spilled milk of our lives that lead us to living more compassionately and authentically rather than tears.

How do we define Happiness? We know when we have it, we know when we don't. But what is it? Let's explore from a Buddhist perspective how we can become and share abiding happiness.

We did not emerge fully formed from the cosmos -- we are the product of the influence  of innumerable people, experiences and circumstances. Cultivating gratitude for this as a conscious practice opens us to infinite joy.

Like piles of autumn leaves, the small hurts and irritations of daily life can accumulate. Sweeping up this emotional clutter gives us opportunities to change and help others change.

How do we use irritation and annoyance to create harmony around us?

How do we generate more happiness around and within?