3. Reflecting on the Predicament of the Lower Realms
Longchen Nyingtik Meditation 3
The Beginning
Take refuge and arouse bodhichitta.
The Main Part
Think: For now, I have obtained a human existence free from the eight impediments and complete with the ten advantages; if I do not make use of it to practice Mahayana Buddhism, after I die my karmic force is sure to drag me down to the three lower realms. By then, I won’t be able to hear any mention of the Dharma, let alone practice it. Moreover, without meeting a Mahayana teacher, I won’t know what is evil to be renounced and good to be taken up as in the teachings on cause and effect. I’ll only act negatively and never positively, which guarantees my endless transmigration in samsara with its dreadful sufferings. What a bleak prospect that is!
Nonetheless, in this life I have met the precious Dharma and the supreme masters, moreover, I have generated faith in practicing virtue. Having been blessed with all the favorable conditions and the freedom from all obstacles, I must therefore earnestly and thoroughly practice the Dharma.
The Ending
Dedicate all the merit of your practice to all sentient beings.
