If we train our minds to recognize the great kindness of all sentient beings, then despite any physical discomforts we shall always be joyful and happy, both mentally and spiritually. Take, for example, the case of two people, one whose thoughts are transformed in this way and another whose outlook is very worldly. If both are in hospital suffering from similar severe illnesses, the one with the well-trained mind can be mentally joyful and may even find the strength of mind to overcome his physical suffering, while the other, who has not changed his self-oriented outlook, suffers both physically and mentally. This, in turn, makes the physical pain greater so that there is no peace of mind at all.

Therefore, if we transform our thoughts by understanding the underlying cause of suffering as well as the kindness of all others, it will benefit us greatly because the continual difficulties and problems we face in daily life will never be a cause of suffering. Just as a traveler sets out on a long journey with sufficient food and supplies to avoid unforeseen hindrances, so should we be prepared for whatever life brings by changing our attitude; thus we shall be able to cope with any problem that may arise, and any suffering we may experience will neither hurt us nor greatly upset us.

Thus, there are two important aspects involved in transforming our thoughts into the awakening mind: we should recognize first that self-cherishing is the enemy to be annihilated, and second that all sentient beings are true friends whom we should love and benefit as much as possible. Although at present we do not have the ability to reach and benefit all beings, it is our responsibility to develop our minds so that we completely change the self-cherishing attitude into one of helping and cherishing others. In order to do this, we must be aware that all mother sentient beings have been most kind to us and are in true need of help. We must therefore look closely at all others and understand what they wish to have and what they wish to avoid. This is simple: all beings desire happiness and wish to avoid suffering. To be able to take from them what they do not want and give them what they need, we should prepare in the following manner.

Copyright Brian Beresford, 1977, 1996. Excerpted from Advice from a Spiritual Friend, with permission of Wisdom Publications, 199 Elm St., Somerville MA 02144 U.S.A, www.wisdompubs.org