I really dislike Douglas Abrams' enormously kitschy perspective and writing style, and especially the conceit of bringing in neuroscience to back up all the stuff said by the Dalai Lama and the Archbishop (reading Sartre years ago inoculated me against appeals to any genetic or spiritual "human nature"; existence precedes essence, bro!). I also hate these two old guys' enormously cloying sense of humour, and I don't really think systematic social change will come from individuals en masse practicing more compassion.

That said, I was given this book as a gift by someone I love and respect, and while I could obviously make myself feel quite smug Googling "Dalai Lama + CIA," the fact is that sometimes the more difficult and more worthwhile thing is just to humble yourself and take the Boomer wisdom. Point of fact: I am often nervous, and I am often self-centred. So why not try to focus more on the bright side and think more about others in 2026? I'm sure all my precious unhappiness will still be waiting for me when I get home, so it can't hurt to cultivate some happiness too.