purification

Teachings on practices that mitigate the force of our destructive actions, in particular on the four opponent powers. This is a four-step practice involving: 1) regretting our mistake, 2) restoring the relationship by generating a positive attitude towards the one we harmed, 3) resolving to avoid the harmful action in the future, and 4) doing some sort of remedial behavior.

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Stupas at Kopan Monastery, Nepal
Making Offerings

Explanation of the extensive offering practice

An explanation of the symbolism of the extensive offerings practice; imagining vast offerings in order…

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A hand holding a cup of water, pouring it onto seeds.
On Cultivating Wisdom

Watering seeds

We have a choice as to the kinds of seeds we plant in our mindstream.…

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A person sitting on top of a moutain, meditating.
On Meditation

Changing

Accepting one's feelings of anger and pride leads to a greater understanding of oneself, and…

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Abbey monastics chanting during a Medicine Buddha puja.
Dealing with Grief

Losing a dear one who was young

A letter from a student questioning the reason for the loss of her younger sister.

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Golden statue of Vajrasattva.
On Meditation

Purifying negative karma

Using the retreat experience to purify the root delusions of pride and attachment.

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Hands in meditation position
On Love, Compassion, and Bodhicitta

Bodhisattva vows

A person in prison describes the effects on his life after taking bodhisattva vows.

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Man sitting outside in grass, meditating.
On Love, Compassion, and Bodhicitta

Practice and our mind

A person in prison contemplates his vow to benefit all sentient beings.

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A standing monk statute.
Karma and Your Life

Realizing our potential

Realizing our full potential by recognizing others' great kindness and purifying the mind of the…

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Prison Dharma

Fill yourself with good qualities

Ever feel like a prisoner? During a meditation for people who work with incarcerated people,…

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Venerable Chodron and retreatants group photo in 2005.
Vajrasattva Winter Retreat 2005

Debrief after retreat

Explaining the three vehicles, the actual objects of refuge and how we relate to each.…

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Venerable Chodron and retreatants group photo in 2005.
Vajrasattva Winter Retreat 2005

Life after retreat

Advice on going back gently into the unreal world, bring back and continue good habits…

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The word 'habits' spray painted on a red brick wall.
On Meditation

Purification

Using the Vajrasattva mantra and practice to change unhealthy habits of daily life.

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