Padampa Sangyre was a twelfth century wandering Indian yogi and spiritual master who assembled 100 verses of advice for the Tibetan villagers of Tingri. They have been interpreted by Dilgo Khyentse (1910-1991), a meditation teacher and Tibetan scholar. The result is a soul-stretching collection of essential teachings on what matters most in this tradition.
There are many passages on death and the need to honor the fragility and impermanence of life. Most of us assume that we have plenty of time. Even worse, we grow far too attached to our possessions or relationships that will pass. Dilgo Khyentse writes: "Which of us has not dreamed of making a fortune and being free from all worries for the rest of our lives? This 'demon of eternity' beguiles us into believing things can last forever."
Some of these commentaries speak forcefully to the peculiar warps of our time. Consider the following: "If someone steals something valuable from you, do not be upset or depressed, and do not feel anger or regret. Forget about vengeance. In your mind, offer the thief whatever it is he has taken from you and pray that your forbearance serves to purify all your past faults. Love is the only just response to hate." Try to imagine what life would be like in a culture where love rather than retribution was the operating principle.
Here's an alternative way to view wealth: "With enormous effort and determination, you might manage to amass an immense fortune and innumerable possessions. But do you think you can keep hold of those riches forever? However, there are other kinds of wealth — resources such as wisdom, compassion, faith, generosity, and diligence — that multiply as fast as we can use them."
It is important to remember that for centuries the Tibetans have explored a path of wisdom that illuminates every corner of life. The material in this volume opens doors to that spiritual perspective on everyday life.
