Lazy Lama

In this book Ringu Tulku brings us directly and lightheartedly to the point of Buddhist meditation: it helps to develop the two positive life enhancing qualities that lie naturally within us, clarity of mind and kindness for self and others. He reminds us that through meditation we can come to understand how the interconnectedness of all things is crucial for human wellbeing and for the future of the planet. No fuss or frills, it is as simple as that. The methods for practice he describes are relaxed and straightforward, the logic is clear, and the result is peace of mind.

In this seventh booklet in the Lazy Lama series, Ringu Tulku looks at how we all need love and asks us to consider the benefits of generating loving kindness for each other. But how can we, as imperfect human beings, offer even an 'imperfect' love, and is that enough? Yes, says Rinpoche, we can and should start from where we are. We can offer loving kindness, help and support for each other now, while aspiring towards an ideal unconditional love. Rinpoche encourages us, in these seemingly simple and concise teachings, to develop the courage of a hero dedicated to love, and to find our true brave heart.

Creators I think everything that we need to improve our world, our society and our humanity is in the Six Paramitas. These practices can make our lives good temporarily, as well as bringing lasting peace and happiness. This is an approach based on compassion, on wishing to help not only myself, but all of us together. The attitude is not "I and you," but "me and we." Someone who has the courage or heart for this approach is called a Bodhisattva, and this awakening is not only of yourself, but of everybody." The Six Paramitas, or "transcendent perfections," contain all the skills needed for taming the mind and opening the heart. Paramita is a Sanskrit word. Para means "beyond" and "the further shore" and mita, means "that which has arrived." So, broadly speaking, Pāramitā, means "that which has gone to the further shore." For beginners, "the further shore" seems very far away. We can feel overwhelmed before we even set out. But in this, the eighth book of the Lazy Lama series, Ringu Tulku Rinpoche helps us to understand how the path of the bodhisattva is possible for all of us. In providing this wonderful bridge on the journey from here to the further shore, Rinpoche reveals the Six Paramitas as bodhicitta in action, rather than an unattainable state of perfection. Through his wisdom and great compassion, warm humour and unfailing patience, Rinpoche shows us how these profound teachings are essential to our lives, especially in these times of stress and great uncertainty.