This is our schedule for November (events subject to change):

3 NOV, SUN

11am – 12:30pm

Introduction to Buddhism

6 NOV, WED

6:30 – 8pm

Meditation and Tara Prayer

10 NOV, SUN

11am – 12:30pm

Regular Dharma teaching

13 NOV, WED

6:30 – 8pm

Meditation and Tara Prayer

17 NOV, SUN

11am – 12:30pm

Regular Dharma teaching

22 NOV, FRI

6:30 – 8pm

Lhabab Duchen Guru puja prayer

24 NOV, SUN

11am – 12:30pm

Dharma teaching Q&A

27 NOV, WED

6:30 – 8pm

Meditation and Tara Prayer

Teaching

Our teaching continues on Eight Versus of Training the Mind.

Summary

This a summary of what we’ve covered on the topic thus far:

• Mind training involves being aware of one’s mental state
• When recognizing negative states, one should transform them into more wholesome ones
• The teaching is considered particularly accessible and can show results quickly if applied diligently

We have covered several verses from “The Eight Verses of Training the Mind” a fundamental Buddhist text by Geshe Langri Tangpa. The discussion focused primarily on three verses and their meanings:

First Verse:

• Discusses seeing all sentient beings as more precious than wish-fulfilling jewels
• Addresses remedies for jealousy, hatred, and anger
• Emphasizes that negative emotions are mainly directed at humans and animals, not other realms

Second Verse:

• Focuses on overcoming pride and arrogance
• Teaches viewing oneself as inferior to others – not in terms of wealth or knowledge, but as a practice of avoiding looking down on others and recognizing their value in one’s path to enlightenment
  • Emphasizes that this shouldn’t diminish self-confidence, but rather combat ego
• Contrasts Eastern and Western approaches to displaying knowledge
  • Notes that Eastern masters traditionally express humility while Western culture tends to amplify achievements

Third Verse:

• Emphasizes examining one’s mind during all activities
• Discusses being one’s own master and enemy
• Stresses mindfulness of body, speech, and mind
• Encourages redirecting harmful thoughts and actions toward beneficial ones

Additional key points included:

• The importance of balancing humility with necessary self-confidence
• How pride can obstruct learning and relationships
• The concept that external progress (like technological advancement) doesn’t necessarily lead to happiness
• The significance of developing a good heart and compassion, illustrated through a story about the master Atisha and his attendant’s healing abilities

Emphasize the importance of cultivating kindness and compassion as the most valuable spiritual practice, rather than focusing on external achievements or progress.

Compassion, love, and bodhichitta are valued universally in Buddhism and other spiritual paths. True practice involves deeply understanding these values beyond words, as abstract ideals lack transformative power without genuine contemplation and application. 

• The concept of “I” or “self” is explored, distinguishing between: 
  • A true “I” that progresses through lifetimes and is essential for spiritual growth. 
  • A false “I,” which, seen as independent and unchanging, gives rise to the “three poisons” (desire, hatred, ignorance) that lead to suffering. 

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