Monthly Archives: July 2020

Ethical conduct is the staircase to all virtue. Just as trees and the like are rooted in the earth, it’s like a root. Just as the head merchant goes before all traders, it precedes all virtues. Just as Indra hoists … Continue reading →

After twenty-five years on the Path, I’d experienced almost everything, except peace. When I was young, my mother told me that I would find true happiness only in marriage. Remembering her words all those years later, something in me began to tremble. I gave myself to … Continue reading →

Sustain awareness no matter what appears. Do not analyze whatever thought arises. In this away, every thought is liberated upon arising. Clouds are the play of the sky; they aren’t the sky. —Garchen Rinpoche

Like a dog forever getting ready to sit, all day and night I circled my cushion. These days, body and mind sit together like old friends. Since we aren’t getting anywhere, they eventually decided, why not have a seat and try to relax? There … Continue reading →

If happy, dedicate your joy to all, and may benefit and bliss pervade the sky! If sad, take the misery of all upon yourself, and may the ocean of suffering dry up! —Panchen Sakya Shri

This body you carry around is like a small child, always wanting something. Over the years, body and mind have gotten a little tangled up, haven’t they? When one is hungry, the other eats. When one is sad, the other cries. Look closely. Is there … Continue reading →

To quench your thirst, there is no need to drink the entire stream; a few mouthfuls will suffice. Similarly, liberation can be achieved by practicing a few Dharma instructions; there is no need to practice them all. —Shabkar Tsodruk Rangdol

I once spent a week in bed with a bad fever. My little body stank from head to foot. Of course, I never noticed the smell until after my fever had broken. Not that this little story necessarily has anything to do … Continue reading →

Just as the earth is the support of everything, moving or unmoving, ethical conduct is the foundation of all qualities. —Nagarjuna

My mother always told me, be good, and you’ll get everything you ever wanted. Now I eat once a day and wear only a shaved head and double robe. It took some strength. It took some courage to try and see for myself. The younger … Continue reading →