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Right now, in this very moment, we have the opportunity to create a meaningful life. In the Buddhist tradition, this opportunity is referred to as a “rare and precious human birth,” favorable to Dharma practice. It is beyond measure and more precious than a wish-fulfilling gem.
Whether we are Buddhist or not, when we become aware of what an incredible opportunity we have in this life, we naturally become more enthusiastic. We might begin a contemplative practice, seek out teachings, and engage in other practices that help us “extract the essence” of this life. However, all too often that initial enthusiasm fades into perseverance and lethargy. At times, we can let our Dharma practice fall to the wayside and take refuge in worldly concerns and all that our surrounding environment has to offer. Our practices and engagement in the Dharma can often ebb and flow between joyful effort and doubt. This is quite common, and John himself admits such ebbs and flows throughout his years of practice. Within the “six perfections,” the word vīrya is translated in a variety of ways—diligence, perseverance, enthusiastic perseverance, and joyful effort. In this Ghatika Monthly session, John Bruna (Jangchub Chopel) shares some of the methods he has cultivated in his own life to help overcome the three forms of laziness and transform perseverance into joyful effort, enthusiastically engaging in this rare and precious opportunity with all of the ups and downs that arise in samsara.
What is Ghatika Monthly?
Ghatika Monthly is an in-person and virtual gathering held on the 2nd Saturday of every month, in which CCR expert teachers offer accessible guidance in foundational yet transformative contemplative practices. Ghatika is the Sanskrit term for one 24-minute meditation session, which is the recommended length for beginning meditators. We offer these sessions freely to ensure that anyone can access contemplative techniques for cultivating a healthier, more balanced mind.
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