5. Eight Verses on Mind Training (original)

Langri Thangpa

1

With the wish to achieve the highest aim,

which surpasses even a wish-fulfilling gem,

I will train myself to at all times

cherish every sentient being as supreme.

2

Whenever I interact with others,

I will view myself as inferior to all,

and I will train myself

to hold others as superior from the depths of my heart.

3

In all my activities I will probe my mind,

and as soon as an affliction arises—

since it endangers myself and others—

I will train myself to confront it directly and avert it.

4

When I encounter beings of unpleasant character

and those oppressed by intense negative karma and suffering,

as though finding a treasure of precious jewels,

I will train myself to cherish them, for they are so rarely found.

5

When others out of jealousy

treat me wrongly with abuse and slander,

I will train to take upon myself the defeat

and offer to others the victory.

6

Even if someone I have helped

or in whom I have placed great hope

gravely mistreats me in hurtful ways,

I will train myself to view him as my sublime teacher.

7

In brief, I will train myself to offer benefit and joy

to all my mothers, both directly and indirectly,

and respectfully take upon myself

all the hurts and pains of my mothers.

8

By ensuring that all this remains unsullied

by the stains of the eight mundane concerns,

and by understanding all things as illusions,

I will train myself to be free of the bondage of clinging.