How to find stability, so that we don’t lose our sanity when the world around seems full of agitation and can be happy and joyful even in the difficulties, yet without turning away from the suffering of others?

Rinpoche gave this talk for Bodhicharya Study group at Create Töölö in Helsinki, Finland, and answered our questions.

Part 1 is the talk and part 2 is the Q&A that took place the next day.

Audio translation to Finnish of Rinpoche’s talk was recorded afterwards. Translation of Q&A will follow later.

A SUMMARY
by Maggy Jones

Part 1

There is always war. As a refugee I have known difficult times. Rinpoche describes briefly his flight out of Tibet to India. The attitude of the Tibetans made a strong impression. We accepted we were in samsara, and hatred, anger, etc. would only make matters worse. When fighting, do not kill with anger. There are good times and bad in our life, and there is no certainty. We do what we can, helping each other. Live today as joyfully as possible; ignore the “doomsayers”. Everything is subject to change therefore nothing is hopeless.

If the will were there we could stop wars – the causes are anger, greed, fear and these can be changed. It is not possible to transform others, but we can change ourselves. Watch our reactions, be aware of expectations and habits; create a peaceful mind. Q & A Dealing with emotions.

Part 2

Q & A only. A student comments on comparative religions. Rinpoche said that he was not talking philosophically but offering a practical view. 2. Positive or negative? Judgement depends on the viewer. 3. On attachment – enjoy, but do not try to possess. 4. On positive karma and merit. Dedication assists in accumulation of merit and therefore positive karma. 5. All strife, including war, comes from our kleshas. Cultivate compassion to counter these. 6. What should Buddhists do in time of war? There is no one thing that is right. If something comes from your heart with positive motivation – that will be correct. 7. We are taught that the mind has two parts, rational and emotional, is this correct? Emotion is also based on a form of the rational. It can be changed. 8. Ego can persuade you into negative motivation e.g. justification of war but there are many causes and conditions. 9. How can we transform negative emotions? Be aware; try to delay your reaction. 10. Coping with someone with dementia.

Photos by Minna Stenroos

If you would like to make a personal offering to Rinpoche, along with a message, please use the button below:

Make an offering

For more information, visit: https://bodhistudy.blogspot.com/2022/08/rinpochen-opetukset-helsingissa-ja.html