The Four Noble Truths of Buddhism give us a different way to think about happiness and suffering compared to Western ideas.

1. Understanding Suffering:

   • According to Buddhism, everyone experiences suffering, or "dukkha."
   • In Western psychology, happiness is often seen as having fun or being successful.

2. Causes of Suffering:

   • The second truth points out that our desires, or "tanha," are the main reasons we suffer.
   • A survey shows that 70% of Americans believe that having more things makes them happy. This shows that many people rely on stuff to feel good.

3. Cessation of Suffering:

   • The third truth tells us that reaching a state called nirvana can put an end to suffering.
   • In Western societies, only about 10% of people say they feel happy inside, without needing outside things.

4. The Path:

   • The Eightfold Path is a helpful guide to lessen suffering. It focuses on being mindful and aware instead of chasing after material things, which is something many in the West tend to overlook.