"This is some of the clearest, most grounded Buddhist-oriented teaching I have come across in a very long time."—Stephen Levine, author of A Gradual Awakening

"Toni shakes us out of the branches of our tree so we can see the root."—Charlotte Joko Beck, author of Everyday Zen

"This book is an essential corrective for the troubles of the world—many of which are discussed—and should be read by everyone."—Anne Bancroft, author of Weavers of Wisdomand Zen: Direct Pointing to Reality

In this compelling collection of talks, essays, interviews, and letters, Toni Packer presents a radically simple and original approach to spiritual growth free from religious authority, doctrine, symbolism, and ceremony. A former Zen teacher and student of Krishnamurti's work, Toni Packer goes beyond traditional religion and explores with the reader the root of human attachments and the source of suffering, opening the way to compassion.