truly free from the tyranny of reaction.

Ironically, it is hard to imagine a more fulfilling way to live.

free. Ditto for aversion. Ditto for indifference.

When you know that there is nothing but this experience called life, there is nothing to do but embrace it in all its complexity and simplicity, with all its joy and pain. When you understand why and how everyone struggles in life, your only wish is that they find freedom,

Look at a teacher’s students. You will learn much about a teacher from them.

You need a direction. Traditionally, that is the Buddha, an example of how to live free from struggle. You need a way, a path. You find your path through the Dharma, the understanding and experience of those who have made similar journeys. You need guides, the Sangha, those who share your intention, serve as examples and can point out what works an

Even if a person you have cared for as your own child Treats you as her worst enemy, Lavish her with loving attention Like a mother caring for her ill child — this is the practice of a bodhisattva.

When you feel the urge to criticize, keep your mouth shut. Feel what drives that urge. You are comparing yourself with others because that part of you feels “less than.” Know that deficiency and know that it is a feeling, not a fact. Rest in that knowing and move into taking and sending — taking in the feeling of being deficient from others and giv

Even if you have done nothing wrong at all And someone still tries to take your head off, Spurred by compassion Take all his or her venom into you — this is the practice of a bodhisattva.