Wisdom From an Old Lady
Wisdom from an Old Lady
For ninety-nine years,
I have worked for the benefit of beings.
now this work is almost complete.
I will not take birth again
in this human realm in a physical form,
nor will I leave behind any remains or relics.
But my emanations in the world will be innumerable;
and many will recognize them.
They will be perceived in different ways,
depending on karma, pure or impure.
In the same way, mind itself has no support, has no object:
let it rest in its natural expanse without any fabrication.
When the bonds (of negative thoughts) are released,
you will be free, there is no doubt.
As when gazing into space, all other visual objects disappear,
so it is for mind itself.
When mind is looking at mind,
all discursive thoughts cease and
enlightenment is attained.
As in the sky all clouds disappear into sky itself:
wherever they go, they go nowhere,
wherever they are, they are nowhere.
This is the same for thoughts in the mind:
when the mind looks at mind,
the waves of conceptual thought disappear.
This body of ours is impermanent,
like a feather on a high mountain pass.
This mind of ours is empty and
clear like the depth of space.
Relax in that natural state, free of fabrication.
When mind is without any support, that is mahamudra.
Becoming familiar with this, blending your mind with it
– that is buddhahood.
Supreme view is beyond all duality of subject and object.
Supreme meditation is without distraction.
Supreme activity is action without effort.
Supreme fruition is without hope and fear.
This old lady has no instructions more profound
than this to give you.”
- Machig Labdron
11th century






























































Dear Rinpoche
This text is really striking and reminds me of my purpose to do Dharma work….
Hello Dear Rinpoche,
Mother’s Day is coming up here in the USA. I was wondering if you might be able to offer a short sharing (similar to your postings or video responses from the Facebook questions) on the dharmic view of Mothers, Mother Sentient Beings (as I’ve heard you reference at times) in order to deepen the appreciation for Mothers from a dharma-centered ground of understanding.
Are there certain mantras or practices that would be advisable to do to offer to our Mothers?
Thank you for considering this question when you get a moment. Happy Upcoming Wesak Celebrations to you and the Kechara community!
Sincerely,
Jnaseh
Thank you Rinpoche, this text is very inspiring and beneficial.