©2022 The Ringu Tulku Archive
Ringu Tulku Rinpoche
Teachings on Bodhicharyavatara
Session 26
Chapter 6: Patience
Stanzas 92-93
Rinpoche begins this session reminding us to look after our mental and physical wellbeing, because it is important to maintain focus and have stability in times like these.
Continuing the practice of Patience, in the following verses 92 and 93 we are examining the effects and consequences of giving in to anger and hatred. We naturally want to defend ourselves and loved ones and those we consider kin, and to punish or retaliate in some other way when we feel threatened by attacks from others or when it seems our enemy is being given credence or unjustly praised for what we see as negative behaviour.
There is more to consider than is apparent on the face of any interaction and when we feel wrongly accused there can be an urge to adjust or justify our actions to save face, and that can create further problems and misconceptions. There will always be criticism, so it is advisable to stay true to yourself and not be swayed to anger by the opinions of others.
A castle made of sand will crumble, nothing lasts forever. Similarly, thoughts and emotional responses only last as long as we give them power. Look for the truth in a slanderous remark and learn from it. Developing kindness and understanding through patience are key to a healthy mind.
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Dear Rinpoche,thank you for this very helpful commentary. I do notice that I am very reactive to comments about me by other people and probably misread them, hearing them as criticism when they are not. How can I strengthen my mind so I can be less reactive?
thank you, Lynda