ADVICE FOR BEGINNERS
Kyeho! All actions in sansara are empty and devoid of substance,
Unreliable and fleeting, like a flash of lightning in the sky.
It is impossible to know when death will come,
But since it is inevitable —
Put aside useless plans and idle thoughts.
Let the Teacher’s instructions penetrate your heart and awaken a response,
And in solitude, with complete concentration, strive for a clear understanding of the mind.
The mind, like lightning, wind, or drifting clouds,
Is colored by a multitude of thoughts about everything imaginable,
But if you look closely at it —
You will find neither support nor beginning.
It is like a mirage in the distance — devoid of its own essence.
Empty — it nevertheless manifests, and, manifesting — remains empty.
If you allow the mind to settle on its own, without effort,
It naturally attains a genuine state of peace.
And when this realization becomes stable,
The nature of the mind is revealed as it is.
If devotion to the Teacher becomes boundless,
Blessings will permeate the mind and inspire it.
When merits are accumulated and obscurations are purified,
Awakening will illuminate the mind.
So practice this with diligence, care, and unwavering perseverance!
When some beginners asked me to give guidance on the practice, I, known as Mipam, wrote this for their benefit. May virtue increase!
Mipam Rinpoche
