How to Be a Decent Guy or Gal

Pema Dragpa February 1, 2020

“Nagarjuna’s Letter to a Friend contains the foundational instructions for all Buddhist practice, presenting the central columns and cross beams that support the main structure of the Buddha’s entire teaching. Whether we practice Hinayana, Sutra Mahayana, Vajrayana, or Dzogchen, we should have a clear understanding of the teachings outlined in this text, and through practice, become wealthy with these excellent qualities. These are wonderful, outstanding instructions that can transform every aspect of our lives. Even if we’re not doing any formal disciplines but would just like to be a good guy or gal in the world—a kind and decent person in samsara—we should follow what is laid out here. This is heart advice: words of wisdom and compassion from a highly realized being.

For anyone who is sincerely interested, this is the way to acquire the discrimination and intelligence to live wisely and never have to suffer guilt or remorse. If we follow these teachings, we can truly stand proud on this earth and when it is time to leave, we will have no regrets.”

Ven. Khenpo Tsewang Dongyal Rinpoche
Advice from a Spiritual Friend: Commentary on Nargarjuna’s Letter to a Friend (pg 207)
www.padmasambhava.org/chiso/books-by-khenpo-rinpoches/advice-from-a-spiritual-friend-a-commentary-on-nagarjunas-letter-to-a-friend

Photo of Ven. Khenpo Tsewang Rinpoche at Padma Samye Ling on July 4, 2016.