According to Buddhism, the mind is both the cause of and the solution to most of our problems. Fortunately, through meditation, an ethical life, and the development of wisdom, we can train ourselves to be peaceful, compassionate, and full of joy. We can develop the kind of happiness that isn't contingent on outside circumstances. And in Buddhism, the sangha (the group of practitioners) is considered to be a very important part of that process. Beginners, those with some experience, and people …