The twelve nidanas describe the way we move from lifetime to lifetime in the painful cycle of existence called samsara. By understanding how they work, says Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche, we can change our future karma.

Intention is what sets our direction in life, and meditation is the way to hone it. But as Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche says, we need to be realistic about how high to set the bar for ourselves.

Photo by Tuchodi.

To bring peace to the world, each of us must take on the responsibility of discovering inner peace, says Sakyong Mipham, and the first step in the process is to develop a meditative discipline.

Photo by Oliv Ireland.

Uncovering our inherent peaceful nature and cultivating its qualities in our daily lives, says Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche, is essential for the survival of humanity.

Photo by Eric Lin.

One of the crucial qualities of the bodhisattva warrior, says Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche, is the steadiness of mind that fosters strength and confidence. We harness the energy of mind through the practice of meditation.

Even beyond diamonds and rubies, the most valuable gem is the compassionate, loving nature of your own being, says Sakyong Mipham.

We are always meditating, constantly placing our minds on an object and becoming familiar with it. But are we getting too comfortable?

By using contemplative meditation, says Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche, we can turn the thought of compassion into a reality.

If “What about me?” is the thought that rules our day, says Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche, then we are setting ourselves up for a life of fearfulness and struggle. Real happiness comes freom putting others first.

Bodhichitta, the seed of enlightenment, grows where it’s cultivated. Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche explains six traditional contemplations for developing awakened heart.