Alan James Bücher

This work provides a guide to the Buddha's path from start to finish. Drawing from his 25 years of experience in teaching in Buddhist mediation, the author describes how to choose a spiritual path and how best to apply oneself to that path. The text explores topics in Buddhism such as how to perfect ethical conduct, how to develop mindfulness in daily life, how to meditate, how to deal with the hindrances that obstruct successful practice and how to make the mind softer and more pliable through the practice of loving-kindness and compassion. The author also examines the final goal of the Buddha's path, that state known as "nibbana" or enlightenment, which lies beyond the relative, conditioned world. He stresses that it is always available to those who are really concerned in finding the true way.

The book explores the establishment of a new British colony in Australia in 1788 and the subsequent migration of millions from the British Isles, predominantly England, over the next two centuries. It delves into the experiences of these settlers, highlighting their motivations, challenges, and the impact of their journeys on the development of Australia as a nation.

The book delves into Britain's complex reaction to the Congo crisis post-independence, utilizing interviews and documentary evidence from Britain, Sweden, and the US. It provides new insights into British policy during this turbulent period and assesses its implications for Britain's status as a global power. Additionally, the work uncovers significant details regarding the UN's peacekeeping efforts in the Congo and offers valuable lessons for modern peacekeeping operations.

Set in Iceland around 1270 AD, the narrative explores the rich cultural and social dynamics of the time. It delves into the lives of its characters against a backdrop of Viking heritage, showcasing their struggles, relationships, and the harsh landscape. Themes of honor, betrayal, and the quest for identity emerge as characters navigate the complexities of their world. The historical context adds depth, painting a vivid picture of life during this period, marked by both beauty and brutality.

This is a true love story of the Great War inspired by a recently unearthed family collection of letters, written between 1915 and 1919 by Fred Allwood to his sweetheart Phyllis James. Written as historical fiction, the main characters and events are portrayed with great accuracy and Fred's letters, with their minutiae of detail, are woven into the story in their original form. These letters offer us incredible detail about the life led by a soldier for over 3 years on the Western Front. His words tell the story, not of the fighting and the dreadfulness of the conflict, but of the love, the doubts and the fears that must have confronted so many at this time. This is the second part of our family history and continues the family story started with "The Knowing of Thomas James" (published 2011- Xlibris) I hope that all branches of our family and any who choose to read these works might be inspired to seek the stories of their own forebears and to know themselves and their families that little bit better. Alan James 2013

The book reexamines the concept of royal absolutism by highlighting the achievements of the French monarchy between 1598 and 1661. It challenges traditional narratives by acknowledging the successes of this period, offering a fresh perspective on the political and social dynamics of the time. Through this analysis, it aims to redefine the understanding of monarchy's role in shaping France's history during a pivotal era.

Focusing on practical strategies, this book offers realistic and measurable methods for achieving financial goals. The author emphasizes that it is not a get-rich-quick scheme but a guide for dedicated wealth builders ready to invest time and effort into their financial journey.

Indispensable for students of diplomacy and junior members of diplomatic services, this dictionary not only covers diplomacy's jargon but also includes entries on legal terms, political events, international organizations, e-Diplomacy, and major figures who have occupied the diplomatic scene or have written about it over the last half millennium.