Affection towards all living beings

Verse 1 of Langri Thangpa’s, ‘8 Verses of Mind Training,’ (written 1000 years ago): “Wishing to attain enlightenment
For the sake of all sentient beings,
Who excel even a wish-fulfilling jewel,
May I constantly cherish them all.”
The first verse extols the virtues of tremendous affection towards all living beings, likening them to a wish-fulfilling jewel (like the genie in Aladdin’s lamp who can grant any wish). All living beings have been our mothers countless times. Since there is no beginning, as each moment of mind has a cause – the previous mind moment; and each birth – those from a mother — requires a mother. Thus we develop immense affection towards all our mothers. Stay tuned for more of the ‘8 Verses.