When faced with having to have difficult conversations we may try avoiding them, or we may repress our true feelings, or we may lash out in anger, or all of the above! Ultimately, none of these approaches will lead to happiness. Buddha emphasized the need for skillful and beneficial actions in all circumstances, and in particular he taught four special approaches to dealing with difficulties. Known as the four “siddhis,” or attainments, these four types of enlightened action will empower us with the energy and skill we need to deal with conflict and confrontation. They will allow us to navigate even the most challenging situations calmly and wisely, and they will allow us to speak with clarity and compassion.

Kadam Morten Clausen is the Eastern US National Spiritual Director of the New Kadampa Tradition and Resident Teacher at the Kadampa Meditation Center New York City. For more than 30 years he has been a close disciple of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso, who gave him the title “Kadam,” indicating that he is a senior lay teacher of the Kadampa Tradition.

Kadam Morten met his teacher, Geshe Kelsang, while attending university in England. He taught widely throughout the UK and helped develop many Kadampa Centers in England. Kadam Morten has been teaching in the US for more than 20 years and has established centers throughout the New York area, as well as Washington DC, Virginia, and Puerto Rico. In addition to his local teaching responsibilities, he teaches and guides retreats regularly throughout the United States and Europe.

Kadam Morten is greatly admired as a meditation teacher and is especially known for his clarity, humor and inspirational presentation of Dharma. His teachings are always practical and easy to apply to everyday life. Through his gentle and joyful approach and his peaceful example, he has helped many people find true happiness in their hearts.