Without Lamrim, life is seen as problematic, creating suffering and lacking real happiness. Lamrim practice is more crucial than material wealth, as inner peace and happiness stem from the mind's development. All forms of happiness, whether mundane or supramundane, ultimately originate from Dharma. Having a strong mind, imbued with compassion, wisdom, and an understanding of Dharma, helps diminish the impact of life's difficulties and we can effectively cope with challenges, experiencing more happiness and peace.

Universal responsibility is the key to cultivating compassion, preventing harm to others, and bringing peace and happiness. There’s incredible, great urgency, without delaying even a second, there’s the need to change our own mind, to develop the mind, the good heart. From waking up to going to sleep, we should approach every action with the intention of serving sentient beings, promoting their happiness, and living a meaningful life rather than the unhealthy mindset of self-cherishing. Happiness arises when one thinks of others rather than focusing solely on oneself. Whenever we cherish the I, the minute we cherish the I, the nature of that thought is not a happy mind, it’s not a relaxed mind. Changing this attitude leads to a sense of freedom and relaxation in the mind.

Scientific evidence has shown a connection between a disturbed mind and physical health issues, individuals with impatience and a bad temper are more prone to heart attacks. There is a correlation between a self-centred mindset and the ease of experiencing anger and negative emotions.

This teaching was given at Institut Vajra Yogini, France as part of a Four Kadampa Deities Retreat from April 18 to May 11, 2003. You can see all the teachings from this retreat here:

https://fpmt.org/media/streaming/teachings-of-lama-zopa-rinpoche/4-kadam-deities-2003/