Who was the Buddhist nun who wrote books on Buddhist approaches to everyday problems?

Malachy12

Hello, I'm trying to remember for life of me the name of the Buddhist nun who writes books on Buddhism that gives advice for everyday problems and everyday living. Like a self help sort of read. She writes in a style that even non-buddhists can relate to and enjoy. There is a patient of mine who has been curious about Buddhism and I want to find a good beginners book for him. Not one that focuses too much on heavy existential things, or delves into Buddhist terminology. Just an easy read that he can relate to. He's been through a lot of suffering, and struggles with loneliness and frustration. He's also pretty sensitive and either attaches to someone intensely, or becomes reclusive. Recently he told off our hospitals pastor (then felt bad about it). He confided in me that praying hasn't helped him change his life, and that he never felt very satisfied with Chistianity. He's lost some independence and feels like he can't control his life much. He's a heavy thinker and seems to understand that his thoughts are causing him to feel unhappy, but he doesn't know where to begin. Sometimes he asks me what Buddhism is about, but then he feels embarrassed and worries that he's prying too much. I don't always have time to have the heart to heart conversations with him that I know he needs. I want to give him something to read that he can reflect on for himself. That way he can decide if he likes it or not. Thanks.

seeker242

Sounds like Pema Chodron?

http://www.shambhala.org/teachers/pema/

Malachy12

@seeker242 Yes! Thank you. You nailed it. It was driving me crazy because I know her face but not her name. If you know of any other books along the same lines, I'd be willing to check them out too.

seeker242

Thich Nhat Hanh has a lot of good similar style books. I don't recall any particular books off hand, but I know he has a similar down to earth, easy to relate to, writing style.

possibilities

http://self-compassion.org/ Kristin Neff, Buddhist Counselor

I'm reading her book right now and it is very good:
http://self-compassion.org/self-compassion-the-book/about-the-book.html

I especially like the fact that she has dropped the jargon and speaks in plain English and from the heart. Also, she illustrates her approach with episodes from her own life. I highly recommend the book and her website.

Another one:
http://www.amazon.com/Full-Catastrophe-Living-Wisdom-Illness/dp/0385303122
Full Catastrophe Living: Using the Wisdom of Your Body and Mind to Face Stress, Pain, and Illness by Jon Kabat-Zinn

Jeffrey

I think the Pema Chodron book most like what would be called for is 'When Things Fall Apart. Heart advise for difficult times.'