Margaret welcomes returning guest Stephen Schettini, a mindfulness teacher and author of acclaimed works such as "The Novice" and "The Art of Letting Go". Stephen shares his journey of exploring the historical Buddha, challenging traditional narratives, and diving deep into the early Buddhist texts of the Pali Canon. Stephen uncovers intriguing historical contexts that shaped the Buddha’s motivations, especially in light of the geopolitical turmoil in his homeland of Sakya. As Stephen argues, recognizing the potential personal struggles and imperfections of the Buddha not only humanizes him but also makes his teachings accessible to contemporary practitioners facing their existential challenges. He emphasizes that regardless of the Buddha's historical authenticity, the value of his teachings remains profound. The conversation unveils the Buddha's more relatable and human side, contrasting the idealized depictions often found in Tibetan Buddhism with the practical and psychological insights of the Theravada tradition. Listeners are invited to reflect on the relevance of the Buddha's teachings in their own lives. Stephen's perspective encourages us to embrace our humanity and engage with mindfulness in its most straightforward form.