It's up to You

On the spiritual path we speak of enlightenment. But how do we reconcile the idea of enlightenment with what we see when we look in the mirror--when insecurities, doubts, and self-centered tendencies arise in our minds? Dzigar Kongtr#65533;l suggests that we need not feel "doomed" when these experiences surface. In fact, such experiences are not a problem if we are able to simply let them arise without judging them or investing them with so much meaning. This approach to experience is...
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On the spiritual path we speak of enlightenment. But how do we reconcile the idea of enlightenment with what we see when we look in the mirror--when insecurities, doubts, and self-centered tendencies arise in our minds? Dzigar Kongtr#65533;l suggests that we need not feel "doomed" when these experiences surface. In fact, such experiences are not a problem if we are able to simply let them arise without judging them or investing them with so much meaning. This approach to experience is what Kongtr#65533;l calls self-reflection.

Self-reflection is a practice, a path, and an attitude. It is the spirit of taking an interest in that which we usually try to push away. Self-reflection is the common thread that runs through all traditions of Buddhist practice. It breathes life into our practice, protecting it from becoming just another enterprise. When we practice self-reflection we take liberation into our own hands and accept the challenge and personal empowerment in Kongtr#65533;l's title: it's up to you.

Trained by the celebrated Tibetan meditation master Dilgo Khyentse (author of The Heart Treasure of the Enlightened Ones and The Wish-Fulfilling Jewel ), Dzigar Kongtr#65533;l is steeped in the Tibetan Buddhist tradition. Having lived in Colorado and taught Western students for fifteen years, he is deeply valued for his skill at presenting ancient teachings in a way that is accessible and relevant for the contemporary mind.