A Guide to the Bodhisattva’s Way of Life
by Shantideva
Chapter One: Benefits of the Awakening Mind
#5
Just as a flash of lightning on a dark cloudy night
For an instant brightly illuminates all,
Likewise in this world, through the might of Buddha,
A wholesome thought rarely and briefly appears.
#25
This intention to benefit all beings,
Which does not arise in others even for their own sake,
Is an extraordinary jewel of the mind,
And its birth is an unprecedented wonder.
How amazing!!!! Just what I have been praying for and desperately seeking. Thank you Jetsunma for making this site available to all of us. It is so refreshing and such a blessing to see these written truths, these beautiful teachings, these opportunities to practice pure view, especially in these times of degeneration. With so much venom being put out into cybe space these days, your Dakini essance is like a breath of fresh air! Thank you, my Precious Lama.
At that moment, during my practice, when I remember why I am renounciating samsara, when I remember the depth of suffering of others, and their absolute dependence on our efforts to help free them from that suffering, it is in that moment that I can feel the rise of Boddichitta from within. In that instant, I become one with them all and my sense of self melts away. My prayer becomes deeper and more profound, even if only just for an instant. Perhaps some day, I will be able to remain in that state.
Thank you for this #25 posting. It is an invaluable reminder for me. What a beautiful teaching.