HH. Phakchok Rinpoche in April 2011

Dear Friends,

I hope you’ve all been happy and healthy. On this Guru Rinpoche Day, I would like to share with you a pith instruction which my master, Nyoshul Khen Rinpoche repeatedly uttered. It is my hope that this heartfelt advice helps you and guides you on the path. I suggest that you keep this reminder near you so that you are constantly watching your mind.

Mindfulness is the Mirror of the Mind

Obeisance to the king of self arising spontaneous mindfulness! I am the vajra of mindfulness –
Look, vajra brothers and sisters!
Whenever I am seen, mindfulness is maintained. I am the mirror of mindfulness,
Express clearly your careful mindfulness. Do not become distracted, watch the essence of the mind!
Mindfulness is the root of Dharma. Mindfulness is the main path.
Mindfulness is the cane, which sustains the mind. Mindfulness is the friend of self-aware wisdom.
Mindfulness sustains Mahamudra, Dzogchen, and Madhyamaka. Lack of mindfulness is defeat by mara (distraction/disturbing emotions).
Lack of mindfulness will lead you to be distracted by laziness. Lack of mindfulness creates more disturbing emotions and hence failure.
Lack of mindfulness is like a heap of shit. Lack of mindfulness is like sleeping in an ocean of piss.
Lack of mindfulness is like a heartless corpse – Friends I beseech you, maintain mindfulness!
Through the noble master’s sacred aspiration, may you all know the true face of mindfulness.
Me, this elderly monk called Jamyang Dorje, offer this awakening of mindfulness, to all friends with Dharma eyes.
May it be meritorious! May it be auspicious!

Sarva Mangalam,

Phakchok Rinpoche