Jamyang Rinpoche
If we look at the words of the teachings, they are simple. There’s nothing much to talk about it. However, to carry out the contents of the teaching is not that simple. It is in fact quite difficult. The reason is that we have been wandering in samsara since beginningless time; our habitual tendencies are very ingrained and deep; our self-grasping and selfishness are rather strong. To be able to let go of everything at once is quite hard. But we can use the pith instructions to gradually adapt our minds to the Dharma teachings…
We wish to treat the illness in our mind. What are we trying to treat? In the end, it is the self-grasping in the mind that we are trying to cure. To cure a chronic illness, we use all types of methods, like acupuncture, moxibustion, massage, medicine etc. Similarly, our ultimate aim in using these different teachings is to destroy self-grasping, to solve this problem of self-grasping. Once this problem is removed, there is no problem in reaching liberation. Without removing self-grasping, even if you know and memorized the entire Tripitaka, it is not certain that you will attain liberation.
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As Dharma truly enters your heart and mind, your mind feels less tense and more relaxed. Why? Because the mind begins to let go of suffering (and its causes). For instance, in the past, you are afraid of passing through a place due to many poisonous snakes or tigers. A single mistake could lead to being killed or hurt by these creatures. However, someone teaches you the method to go through that place safely without any worries. Then you feel very happy and confident.
When Dharma really shines on our mind, our life is illuminated and becomes brighter. The more you practice Dharma, the less mental suffering and afflictions bind and harm you. However, if you practice Dharma and find your mental suffering and afflictions increasing, then you are practicing wrongly.
