Although Buddhism is a gentle and kindly doctrine, some feel that its teachings are unnecessarily severe, demanding a higher degree of integrity than is now possible; that it does not take into ac- count the tensions and pressures of modern living and the countless temptations to which the individual is subjec- ted. Actually, Buddhism demands nothing of anyone. It merely points out that if modern man does not cultivate a better way of life, war and crime will continue and misery increase throughout the world. Buddhism does not ad- dress itself particularly to the heads of nations or to leaders in the fields of religion, philosophy, science, educa- tion, or industry; but it includes them all. The Buddhist message is directed to all human beings of every race and social level. Discipline yourself; purify your thoughts and emotions; and labor for the salvation of all that lives. This is the only path that leads to the end of suffering. It has been suggested that the meditative life of self-dis- cipline is too negative for Western man, who thrives best on more aggressive attitudes. The truth is that the con- trol of the mind and emotions is the most difficult and challenging of human labors. It takes a deep understand- ing and a wonderful courage to subdue the appetites, conquer the desires, and dedicate the life to constructive purposes. Even one step in the right direction reveals the lasting value of such endeavor.