It is said that trying to see the nature of mind without first training the mind in resting (or Shamatha) is like trying to see around an old dark room which is only lit by a candle which is flickering wildly in the wind. How hard is it to see things, and even when we […]
Flickering in the Wind Read Post »
If both the moving and the calm aspects of the mind are the same, then why should we meditate and learn to reach the calm aspect? Responses on a Dharma list In an important sense, both aspects are not the same. From the relative point of view, are they the same? Do they both appear
Mind Moving and Mind Still Read Post »
Hi there, just a quick post (and unusually personal post) to say that I’ve been in hospital for a week due to a slipped disc. It’s been a painful time, to say the least, but at least one which gave me much time for reflection. It was very sad being in the hospital – there
At night, deep in the mountains I sit in zazen. The affairs of men never reach me here. In the stillness I sit on a cushion across from the empty window. The incense has been swallowed up by the endless night; My robe has become a garment of white dew. Unable to sleep, I walk
Reflections on Ryokan – At Night, Deep in the Mountains Read Post »
Since no essence exists anywhere, Its expression is completely unobstructed and manifests everything. Pervading all of samsara and nirvana like space, It is the ground of all confusion and liberation, With its self-luminous consciousness And its alaya-vijnana. As for the cognitive aspect of this neutral state, Its essence is empty and its nature is luminous.
Reflections on Ground Mahamudra – Jamgon Kongtrul – Vajra Song Read Post »
My only thought is of my Lama. My only prayer is to realize Oneness with his Buddha mind. I have no other practice Than following the natural flow, freely enjoying The sublime freedom of nonaction. Meditation beyond fixation, Aimless and free from all constrictions and limitations, Mingling my mind with his In the wisdom of
Reflections on Phukong Tulku Rinpoche – My only thought is of my Lama Read Post »
It seems that for many people the word ‘Faith’ is problematic. Formany people, the reason why is become of the negative connotationsthat they have with that term. For some, that is based on badexperiences they had with previous religious affiliations, or contactwith those of other religions. For some, it is because they wish thisreligion of
Faith and Emptiness Read Post »
We lack all knowledge of this parting. Deathdoes not deal with us. We have no reasonto show death admiration, love or hate;his mask of feigned tragic lament gives us a false impression. The world’s stage is stillfilled with roles which we play. While we worrythat our performances may not please, death also performs, although to
Reflections on Rainer Maria Rilke – On Hearing Of A Death Read Post »
Because of the unobstructed nature of the mind, there is a continuous arising of appearances.Like the waves and the waters of the ocean, which are not two (different things),Whatever arises is liberated into the natural state of the mind.However many different names are applied to it in this unceasing process of naming things,With respect to
There is this profound play between application of effort, and letting go. Sometimes, and in some ways, one has to galvanise ones energy, enlist ones desire, focus aspiration, and strive for the goal. Whether that is in terms of life overall, or a particular moment within it, there is the need to make an effort.
Effort and Letting Go Read Post »
