Apr 11 2020 65 mins 7
12 Apr 2020
Lama Alan introduces the third of the four revolutions in outlook/inlook/perspective/orientation, which serve to set the direction in our pursuit for happiness. This third one is actually one of the four marks of existence: “All experiences that are contaminated by mental afflictions are unsatisfying.”
Lama Alan reflects on how life seems to ‘smile’ to some, while the reality of suffering seems ‘more true’ to some others; those who go through war, poverty, hunger, i.e., blatant suffering. Then, how does the reality of Dukkha pertain to the first group? In which way is life unsatisfying? Well, even the bliss of śamatha is unsatisfying, it will erode unless the practice is deepened with insight, and that makes the experience unsatisfying. So, in the long run, adding up all the good and wonderful experiences you have gone through – asks the Buddha – are you satisfied?
To transcend this mark of existence, we need to realize that all phenomena are empty and identityless: this is the only way we can cut through the root of suffering. Moreover, in the Dzogchen path, we go a step further, we cut through the very nature of the mind which ascertains that emptyness. So, lets have a practice!
Meditation starts at 18:41
Lama Alan concludes: “The whole point of understanding the full breadth of suffering and identifying the true causes of suffering is to be free of both, as soon as possible.” After meditation Lama Alan addresses three questions:
1. What would be the best daily balance and schedule for practice? It is my fervent prayer to practice the Great Perfection to completion! (44:00)
2. After some years of diligent practice, I have found a general sense of well being; I am feeling an enormous tug to be of service outside of formal practice, but I can’t be certain I am benefiting anyone, so I feel the tug to come back to formal practice. Can you comment on this tension, for those of us who have a full-time commitment? (51:20)
3. How should we choose the precise Guru for Guru yoga between our root Guru, primary Dzogchen Lama, and other Lamas who deeply inspire us? (56:30)
Tune in for the answers
Lama Alan introduces the third of the four revolutions in outlook/inlook/perspective/orientation, which serve to set the direction in our pursuit for happiness. This third one is actually one of the four marks of existence: “All experiences that are contaminated by mental afflictions are unsatisfying.”
Lama Alan reflects on how life seems to ‘smile’ to some, while the reality of suffering seems ‘more true’ to some others; those who go through war, poverty, hunger, i.e., blatant suffering. Then, how does the reality of Dukkha pertain to the first group? In which way is life unsatisfying? Well, even the bliss of śamatha is unsatisfying, it will erode unless the practice is deepened with insight, and that makes the experience unsatisfying. So, in the long run, adding up all the good and wonderful experiences you have gone through – asks the Buddha – are you satisfied?
To transcend this mark of existence, we need to realize that all phenomena are empty and identityless: this is the only way we can cut through the root of suffering. Moreover, in the Dzogchen path, we go a step further, we cut through the very nature of the mind which ascertains that emptyness. So, lets have a practice!
Meditation starts at 18:41
Lama Alan concludes: “The whole point of understanding the full breadth of suffering and identifying the true causes of suffering is to be free of both, as soon as possible.” After meditation Lama Alan addresses three questions:
1. What would be the best daily balance and schedule for practice? It is my fervent prayer to practice the Great Perfection to completion! (44:00)
2. After some years of diligent practice, I have found a general sense of well being; I am feeling an enormous tug to be of service outside of formal practice, but I can’t be certain I am benefiting anyone, so I feel the tug to come back to formal practice. Can you comment on this tension, for those of us who have a full-time commitment? (51:20)
3. How should we choose the precise Guru for Guru yoga between our root Guru, primary Dzogchen Lama, and other Lamas who deeply inspire us? (56:30)
Tune in for the answers
