Kim’s Retreat Blog, 7/26

Meditation with Jules Levinson.

The Tibetan tradition of meditation and Buddhism is heralded by Milarepa. He was a Tibetan poet/saint who lived from 1,052 – 1135. His writings embody the essence of the practice and his 100,00 songs are considered the Bhagavad Gita of the Tibetan lineage.

I find his poetry requires a slow reading. I find it asks me to swirl each word around in my mouth and my mind.
The teachings sometimes seem harsh but I liken them to the Tibetan terrain; rocky, cold with a fierce wind blowing one to the edge of the cliff. I imagine the Tibetan seekers to be determined in their quest for awakening and this feels reassuring.

I share the six resolutions below, it feels appropriate as I look at my own attachments while being away from those I love.

The Six Resolutions

When one has lost interest in this world,
His faith and longing for the Dharma is confirmed.
To relinquish one’s home ties is very hard;
Only by leaving one’s native land
Can one be immune from anger.
It is hard to conquer burning passions
Towards relatives and close friends;
The best way to quench them
Is to break all associations.
One never feels that one is rich enough;
Contented, he should wear humble cotton clothes. He may thus conquer much desire and craving.
It is hard to avoid worldly attractions;
By adhering to humbleness,
Longing for vain glory is subdued.
It is hard to conquer pride and egotism;
So, like the animals,
Live in the mountains.
My dear and faithful patrons!
Such is the real understanding
That stems from perseverance.
I wish you all to practice deeds that are meaningful,
And amass all merits!

Kathy before meditation, Taylor after….see it really does work, doesn’t it?