Turning Adversity Into the Path of Awakening and The Three Fierce Mantras. (2020)

3-15-20

In this Dharma talk, Fred Eppsteiner expands upon the Lojong teachings within the point "Transforming Adversity Into the Path of Awakening" in light of the COVID-19 situation.

Fred also shares the Three Fierce Mantas, powerful words that can cut through our confusion and anxiety in this life. Our resistance to the unfolding of life, especially those situations unwanted or unexpected, is a primary cause of our emotional ups and downs. Our difficulty in accepting the experiences of life and the people in it for what they are and imposing our own needs and wants fuels an unending circus of negative emotions and conflictual mind states. Our desire to live peacefully in the present moment and practice mindful living becomes continually up-ended by our habitual dysfunctional responses.

The Three Fierce Mantras ~ Tsangpo Gyare, 12th century Tibetan Buddhist Ascetic

“Whatever has to happen, let it happen!"

“Whatever the situation is, it’s fine!"

“I don’t need anything whatsoever!”