We make things complicated. Actually, things are easy. We tend to over-think. We get distracted and cannot maintain focus. We get anxious and agitated. We forget to allow the mind and heart to settle and […]
In order of difficulty starting with the easiest, we practice generosity, then no harm, patience, not giving up, and concentration. These are the practices of a Bodhisattva, one who trains in Bodhicitta, or universal compassion […]
Excessive self-centeredness of me, my, and mine, is fraught with unhappiness. We become anxious and fearful. Distrust and suspicion ooze into our life. We don’t sleep well. We don’t digest our food well. We often […]
Based on a correct understanding of reality through knowing the two truths, we begin our journey along the path to enlightenment. Understanding conventional reality built around concepts and language, we practice compassion. This allows us […]
Pacing is so important. Going too fast zaps our energy and throws us off balance. Too much laziness breaks our stride. Balancing alertness and relaxation once again brings us back to the sweet spot. This […]
This life is noble and we are noble women and men. At least the potential for nobility is present. It is our Buddha nature that allows us to become fully enlightened. Nobility is equated not […]
Whenever a negative thought or emotion arises, remember the one who experiences these does not exist. Use the logic in the last post for conviction. HH Dalai lama explained this clearly in a short 8-min. […]
We must be careful when we tap into the massive suffering in the world, not to be crushed and overwhelmed. Recognizing others’ suffering opens our hearts to compassion. It does not close our hearts. This […]
We just celebrated Chötrul Düchen, the magical displays of Dharma performed by the Buddha to preserve the Buddhadharma by defeating through debate the non-believers, preventing conversion. What a wonderful way to start the new year […]
Now that we’ve begun loosening the tight grip on our ego, seeing through it like water in a mirage, or a hologram, our focus naturally turns to compassion. When there is less, “me, me, me,” […]
Human Values Institute