In this extraordinary series, Geshe Tashi gives us regular updates on the Coronavirus Pandemic amongst the Tibetan diaspora in India through the lens of Sera Monastery, home to around 6,000 monks. In response to emails requesting advice on Coronavirus and Buddhist practice, he generously shares his observations, thoughts and teachings in his usual warm-hearted and accessible style.
In this episode, Geshe Tashi comments on the fourth verse from Lama Tsongkhapa’s “The Essence of a Human Life.” While this human life is a life of constant troubles, pain and sufferings, it is also a life of unmatched opportunity.
It may be a confusing, difficult time, but Geshe Tashi urges us once again to make use of our potential, and to train our minds while we still can. We found it hard not to flinch at his astute descriptions of negative pride. As Buddhist practitioners, he urges us to live our life for our future lives and for our long-term spiritual goals, not just for our pride, not just for the pleasures and enjoyments of this life.
Even if we win the competition and live to 114 years old, our life is still very short, and death will soon come.
Geshe Tashi finishes with an explanation of the first of the Eight Fears that Tara can help us overcome. We have plenty to look forward to!
The Essence of a Human Life (verse 4)
Words of Advice for the Lay Practitioner
Death will definitely come and will quickly come.
Should you neglect to train your thoughts
again and again on such certainties
you will grow no virtuous mind,
and even if you do, it will be spent
on enjoyment of the glories of this life.
p.211 The Splendour of an Autumn Moon, Lama Tsongkhapa, trans. Gavin Kilty.
Today, unfortunately, we must add the suffering of Wifi to our long daily list. The gaps aren’t too long, however, and we think you’ll find the underlying message a powerful one just the same. We wish you well, and hope you enjoy.
https://foundationsofbuddhistthought.org/
Khen Rinpoche Geshe Tashi Tsering taught in London for over 25 years and is currently Abbot of Sera Mey Monastery in Karnataka State, India.
Such a great quote!
Thank you so much for sharing this lovely verse with us, and giving such a pithy explanation. And for sharing the rain on the roof. Be well.