One of the first points that a Buddhist practitioner is guided to contemplate is how fortunate they are. I know that life is not always easy, and it is certainly never perfect. Indeed, the focus of subsequent contemplations will include the hardships of life. But at this point, we are bringing to mind all the excellent conditions that we are fortunate to have in our lives. When you spend the time to meditate on the things you can be thankful for in your life, then you begin to appreciate that your life is truly a precious opportunity. This insight provides the motivation to use your opportunity wisely and to ensure that you are spending your time on the most meaningful endeavors. The goal of this contemplation is to spark within you the inspiration to practice dharma.
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From Mahamudra: A Practical Guide by His Eminence the Twelfth Zurmang Gharwang Rinpoche © 2021. Reprinted with permission of Wisdom Publications.
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