When we feel discouraged about ourselves, or about our ability to practice the dharma or meditation, we need to find ways to stay encouraged about dharma – and about life. This talk begins with KTC Sangha friends sharing the methods they use to stay encouraged, and ends with a lesson about the Buddha’s ultimate teaching about encouragement – connecting with our Buddha Nature.

The Buddha’s core teaching that “all things come from causes” can help us feel more gratitude every day of our lives. By understanding the interconnectedness of all beings and all phenomena, we can cut through prejudice and expectation and develop more empathy and love. The talk ends with a brief guided meditation to develop love and gratitude.

When we’re on a journey we may feel tired and upset along the way, but if we open our minds to the world and develop compassion for ourselves and others, even difficult journeys can be transformative.

Every Buddha began their journey with the heartfelt desire to awaken for the benefit of all beings. We can formalize this intention by taking the bodhisattva vow. Lama Tom explores the preciousness of the intention and relates the vow to lineage and teachers. Lama Tom urges practitioners to look at their everyday encounters as a practical way to develop Bodhicitta.

Even though Buddha didn’t teach the existence of a soul, this common English slogan has some meaning for Buddhists. Meditation, reflection and self-awareness can lead to changes in our lives, but only if we are willing to be honest with ourselves about our day-to-day motivations, thoughts, words and actions. This talk speaks to the Buddhist practice of daily reflection and how it can be a force for change in our minds and lives.