Buddha-dharma is not a philosophy to be appreciated from afar.  Its wisdom is directly accessible and relevant to our problems in life. 

Unfortunately, most followers do not progress beyond an intellectual understanding of the Dharma, even those who have studied the five major treatises — Middle Way, logic, prajnaparamita, and other profound and significant texts.  When confronted with life’s unexpected difficulties, they are lost and unable to put the teachings into practice.  This is like a soldier who is armed with very sophisticated weapons; when confronted by the enemy, he is caught by surprise and does not know which weapon to use.  How regrettable! Thus, it is important to learn how to utilize the teachings and develop the right way to face both suffering and happiness in life.

~ Depicted from ARE U READY FOR HAPPINESS : Taming the Mind as in Taming the Elephant - How to Face Suffering