by The Dalai Lama
Edited by Nicholas Vreeland
Afterword by Richard Gere
This is a fascinating look into the philosophy and practice of Buddhism. The first part of the book is a rather challenging read, however, as it explores some concepts -emptiness!- I found hard to grasp; it was a little more in-depth than this lay-person was prepared for. But I always find comfort in The Dalai Lama's gentle wisdom and will keep A Profound Mind on my shelf for regular rereads.
In our quest to learn more about other faiths and the ideas they hold, it is important that we remain true to our own faith. In my opinion it is much safer and wiser to remain within one's own faith tradition, as we often become overly excited about a new possession, only to become dissatisfied with it later. pg12
I also believe companions are secondary. Though a spouse may provide temporary solace from the pains of life, I don't think that family and friends can ultimately provide the true inner happiness we seek. Loved ones often bring more anxiety to our lives, while a calm and peaceful mind imparts a profound happiness that can even affect our physical state. pg14
I consider compassion to be a mental quality that can bring us true lasting inner peace and inner strength. We cultivate it by using our intelligence to transform our emotions. We reduce selfishly induced destructive emotions. and increase our selfless constructive ones, bringing about happiness within ourselves and others. pg14
Just as we naturally experience feelings of pain and pleasure, we also have an innate sense of 'I' toward which we instinctively feel affection. It is because of the affection we hold for ourselves that we feel fondness and love for those around us; our self-affection is the source of the compassion we feel for others. pg50
We must contemplate the benefits of selfless love and compassion to our own physical health and to our mental happiness. We must also recognize how this altruistic attitude helps us nurture helps us nurture a happier home environment while also contributing to a healthier society. pg51
Our fundamentally distorted way of perceiving ourselves and the world around us can only be altered by our cultivating a valid perception that opposes the the faulty way we naturally perceive things. This valid perception is a true insight into emptiness. pg97
It is best, I believe, for a lay practitioner to remain involved in society while leading a spiritual life. Though some exceptional individuals may be capable of dedicating themselves totally to profound meditative practices, I myself try to follow a middle path, balancing spiritual concerns with worldly responsibility. pg 109
It is helpful to recite inspiring words such as these from The Precious Garland of Nagarjuna: "May all the suffering and problems of others ripen upon me, and may all my virtue and prosperity, and happiness blossom upon them." Repeating such words helps us to internalize them. pg122
3 comments:
“I don't think that family and friends can ultimately provide the true inner happiness we seek. Loved ones often bring more anxiety to our lives, while a calm and peaceful mind imparts a profound happiness that can even affect our physical state.”
How very true. Loved ones can help but unless we love ourselves, we will never achieve inner peace and happiness.
Certainly sounds interesting - of all religions, Buddhism is the only one that remotely appeals to me.
Beth - I was really taken with that quote, too. Loved ones are important, yes. But it's not up to them to make us happy.
Tracy - I so admire the humanness of this religion. Compassion and kindness for each other is more important, I think, than any kind of set creed.
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