It's Up to You: The Practice of Self-Reflection on the Buddhist Path - Softcover

Dzigar Kongtrul

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1590303814 ISBN 13: 9781590303818

Publisher: Shambhala, 2006

Synopsis

On the spiritual path we speak of enlightenment. But how do we reconcile the idea of enlightenment with what we see when we look in the mirror—when insecurities, doubts, and self-centered tendencies arise in our minds? Dzigar Kongtrül suggests that we need not feel “doomed” when these experiences surface. In fact, such experiences are not a problem if we are able to simply let them arise without judging them or investing them with so much meaning. This approach to experience is what Kongtrül calls self-reflection.

Self-reflection is a practice, a path, and an attitude. It is the spirit of taking an interest in that which we usually try to push away. When we practice self-reflection we take liberation into our own hands and accept the challenge and personal empowerment in Kongtrül’s title: it’s up to you.

About this title

About the Author

Dzigar Kongtrül grew up in a monastic environment and received extensive training in all aspects of Buddhist doctrine. In 1989, he moved to the United States with his family and in 1990, he began a five-year tenure as a professor of Buddhist philosophy at Naropa University. He also founded Mangala Shri Bhuti, his own teaching organization, during this period. He has established a mountain retreat center, Longchen Jigme Samten Ling, in southern Colorado. When not guiding students in long-term retreats and not in retreat himself, Rinpoche travels widely throughout the world teaching and furthering his own education.

From AudioFile

Dzigar KongtrŸl teaches listeners how to incorporate the simple yet fundamental Buddhist practice of self-reflection into everyday life. The positive results on the mind are astounding as one learns how to let go of insecurities, self-doubt, and negativity. Narrator Pema Chšdršn is a Buddhist nun and student of the author, and her deep understanding of the text shines through her performance. Her narration style is unembellished and somewhat bland; however, the wisdom in her voice inspires trust in the teachings. KongtrŸl is masterful at making Buddhist teachings accessible within a Western framework. His metaphors, explanations, and instructions are easily understood and adopted regardless of the listenerÕs level of experience with Buddhist practices. J.T. © AudioFile 2008, Portland, Maine-- Copyright © AudioFile, Portland, Maine

Edition details

• Publisher: Shambhala
• Publication date: 2006
• ISBN 10: 1590303814
• ISBN 13: 9781590303818
• Binding: Paperback
• Language: English
• Number of pages: 160