Home Page: Inspirations of Love and Hope

Tag: Dzogchen

  • A Glimpse of Rigpa: The True Nature of Our Mind

    A Glimpse of Rigpa: The True Nature of Our Mind

    Yesterday Rinpoche gave me the simple instruction: to keep my thoughts in the room.
    As I practiced, the winds of memory and worry fell quiet, and what remained was a stillness like a pond untouched by breeze. In that moment I glimpsed the unity of ordinary and pristine mind—waves arising, yet nothing but ocean.

    Beloved Rinpoche,

    I write with gratitude for the instruction you gave yesterday, which opened a new door for me into the experience of Rigpa. Your words were simple, yet carried such profound kindness: to keep my thoughts in the room.

    As I sat in meditation, I followed your guidance. Thoughts about the ceiling, the plants, the breath, even the quiet pulse of tinnitus—all of these belonged to the room. They could be held gently within awareness without struggle. But when thoughts drifted toward memories of the past, or worries of the future, or stories beyond this room, I could see them clearly as outside. And so, with care, I let them go and returned to what was here.

    This way of practicing felt so different—so much more tender. Instead of wrestling with ordinary mind, I could simply remain rooted in this space, in this moment. And in that resting, the movements of the mind, the vrittis and pratyayas, began to settle of their own accord. Like a pond no longer stirred by wind, a natural stillness revealed itself. Within that stillness, I began to glimpse what you have pointed to again and again: the open clarity of pure awareness.

    In that glimpse, awareness shone with very little disturbance. An “I” was still present, but the usual fluctuations of thought were momentarily quiet, allowing the stillness of pure awareness to appear directly. To rest, even briefly, in that clarity was both humbling and wondrous.

    I could sense then that ordinary mind and pristine mind are not two separate realities, but two sides of the same coin. The waves of thought arise, yet they are nothing other than ocean. The ordinary shines as the pristine. To realize this in a living way, even if for only a moment, fills me with wonder and gratitude.

    Rinpoche, I bow in thanks for this precious instruction. It has shown me that Rigpa is not distant or hidden, but present in the immediacy of the room, in the simple presence of what is. May I return to this again and again, and may this glimpse ripen into lasting recognition.

    And may whatever merit arises from this glimpse and this practice be dedicated to the benefit of all beings everywhere. May it ease suffering, open hearts, and become a cause for the enlightenment of all sentient beings throughout time and space.

    With devotion and gratitude,
    Richard

    🙏✨️💛✨️🙏

    If you would like to learn more about the teachings of Orgyen Chowang Rinpoche and explore Dzogchen practice in greater depth, you can visit his website at pristinemind.org.

    In this talk at Google, Rinpoche offers instruction and a guided meditation based on his book Our Pristine Mind: A Practical Guide to Unconditional Happiness. He introduces a unique form of meditation called Pristine Mind meditation and explains how cultivating a Pristine Mind can transform every aspect of our lives.

    By resting gently in the fullness of the present moment, allowing the mind to settle naturally, and recognizing its luminous, pristine nature, one opens to profound serenity and enduring contentment.

  • Letters to Rinpoche: Reflections on Ngöndro

    Letters to Rinpoche: Reflections on Ngöndro

    The following is a personal reflection written during my practice of Dzogchen Ngöndro, shared here as part of my ongoing journey with these teachings.

    I am very new to studuing and learning Orgyen Chowang Rinpoche and his teachings. My first introduction was through reading Our Pristine Mind a few years ago, which proved extremely helpful. The way ordinary mind and mental events are described brought clarity, resolving many years of confusion I had about sems and sems nyid.

    I have been studying and practicing Tibetan Buddhism as a lay practitioner since 1985–1986, after receiving the Kalachakra initiation with His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Bodhgaya, India. At this stage, I am not sure I can yet call myself Rinpoche’s student, as I understand that in the Tibetan tradition there is often a period of mutual discernment, where teacher and student come to know one another. For now, I am simply following his request to practice Ngöndro, and through this I am seeking to cultivate the beginnings of a student–teacher relationship, should that become appropriate.

    Insight from Contemplating the Eight Freedoms

    “The hungry ghost is not merely a being with desire, but a being entirely without contentment.”

    While reflecting on the Ngöndro contemplations, I focused on the second freedom—not born as a hungry ghost.

    As a human, I also experience desire, but I have the capacity for contentment. Even small moments—a quiet breath, the peace of stillness—remind me that not everything is consumed by craving.

    This insight brought me to a thought: perhaps it is not desire itself that causes suffering, but rather the inability to rest in contentment. Contentment softens desire, transforms it, and allows the heart to rest.

    Contemplative pause:
    Take a moment to notice where contentment may already exist in your life, even amid desire or difficulty.

    I am deeply grateful that such insights arise through the Ngöndro practice, and I wanted to record and share this reflection as part of my ongoing journey.

    Updates on Practice and Retreat Plans

    Although I had registered for the five-day Dzogchen retreat in August, I was not aware of the Ngöndro prerequisite and will therefore be withdrawing. I am now following Rinpoche’s guidance by studying and practicing the online Dzogchen Ngöndro program.

    I look forward to seeing him on October 11th at the one-day online Dzogchen retreat.

    Living with My Practice in Daily Life

    I have been living with a chronic illness called myalgic encephalomyelitis for many years. At first it brought great suffering, but over time I have come to see it as a powerful teacher on the path—almost like a spiritual friend.

    Because of this condition I am mostly homebound, and so I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to study and practice with Rinpoche through the modern blessing of online communication.

    Even when our circumstances feel limiting, spiritual connection and insight can arise through patience, presence, and accessible practices.

    🙏✨️💛✨️🙏

    If you would like to learn more about the teachings of Orgyen Chowang Rinpoche and explore Dzogchen practice in greater depth, you can visit his website at pristinemind.org.

    In this talk at Google, Rinpoche offers instruction and a guided meditation based on his book Our Pristine Mind: A Practical Guide to Unconditional Happiness. He introduces a unique form of meditation called Pristine Mind meditation and explains how cultivating a Pristine Mind can transform every aspect of our lives.

    By resting gently in the fullness of the present moment, allowing the mind to settle naturally, and recognizing its luminous, pristine nature, one opens to profound serenity and enduring contentment.

  • Into the Mystic: The Universal Presence Behind All Paths

    Into the Mystic: The Universal Presence Behind All Paths

    There is a timeless pull within the human heart, a pull that mystics across the ages have followed into realms beyond words. At the heart of their journeys, in every tradition, is a shared glimpse of something infinite and intimate, an essence that defies borders or labels. It’s been called by many names—Naked Awareness, Pure Presence, the Kingdom of Heaven within, and simply, I am. Despite the variations, the core is always the same: an invitation to touch the stillness at the center of our being, where all sense of separation quietly dissolves.

    Mystics across traditions—whether Buddhists, Christians, Sufis, or followers of Advaita—have left clues for us, each one pointing back to this same universal awareness. Tibetan Dzogchen, for instance, speaks of Naked Awareness, a mind so utterly clear and open that nothing need be added or removed. In this view, awareness is naturally luminous, like an open sky, vast and untouched by thoughts or concepts. The practice, if it can be called that, is simply to rest—free from striving, free from the need to grasp anything. It is awareness itself, just as it is.

    In the traditions of Advaita Vedanta, Ramana Maharshi posed the question, “Who am I?” Not to point to an answer but to turn us back to a sense of self beyond thoughts and identity. With each inquiry, the seeker’s attention is drawn back, away from thoughts and identities, into a place beyond all definition. This, he taught, is the Self, pure and indivisible—a silent, undivided presence.

    Christian mystics, too, found this universal ground within. “Be still and know that I am God,” whispers a line from the Psalms, urging a quieting of the mind so profound that the divine presence within each of us reveals itself. It is an invitation to encounter God not as an outside force, but as the very heart of our being—the unspoken “I am” beyond thought.

    Sufis describe this experience as a union with the Beloved, a love so profound that all sense of self dissolves. In Sufi poetry, God is the Beloved who lives within, waiting for the self to step aside so that the Divine can be known, not as separate, but as one with all that we are. Each of these traditions, in its way, guides us to an experience beyond the confines of self, into the space where awareness rests in itself, undivided.

    It is not so much a technique or practice as it is a gentle turning inward, a quieting, a surrendering into what has always been here. Let us pause for a moment. The words, after all, can only lead us to the door.

    Begin by finding a comfortable place to sit and close your eyes if that feels natural. Notice the rhythm of your breath and let yourself settle into the present moment. There is nothing to attain here, nothing to change. Let your breath rise and fall as it will, and simply allow yourself to be.

    Gradually, feel into your own presence, that simple sense of “I am.” Not your thoughts, not your sensations, but the awareness that notices them all. Rest in that sense of being here, alive, awake. There’s no need to go further than this. Let go of any sense of searching or effort; simply let your attention melt into the quiet space of awareness itself.

    If thoughts arise, there’s no need to push them away. You might notice them, perhaps softly wonder, “Who is aware of this thought?” Not to seek an answer, but to draw your attention back into the simple awareness that witnesses everything. Rest as that awareness, noticing how it is steady, quiet, and open, beyond anything the mind might hold onto.

    Here, in this openness, lies the mystery that mystics across all traditions have discovered. There is a silent presence here that does not come and go, even as everything else changes. It is the same presence that Dzogchen calls Naked Awareness, Advaita describes as the Self, and Christian mystics know as the divine within. This presence is universal, boundless, and utterly simple. It is the same awareness in everyone, untouched by belief or background.

    As you sit, allowing yourself to rest in this awareness, notice how it has no boundary, no form. It is the same in all beings, a shared presence connecting us all. In this stillness, you are already whole, already free, and deeply one with all. This is where all paths meet—an awareness, vast and simple, that is always here, waiting to be recognized as the essence of everything.

    And so, as we return to our day from this quiet place, we carry a reminder: that beyond every tradition and label, there is a shared, undivided presence—a timeless awareness that each of us holds within.

    🙏🕊️🙏



  • Into the Mystic: Curiosity as the Pathway to Pure Awareness

    This morning’s contemplative practice felt like stepping into a new realm, where meditation falls away and contemplation unfolds in its place. It was not something I forced or sought after, but rather a quiet surrender into what was already there, waiting to be noticed.

    As I lay in stillness, curious pratyayas of sensation and thought began to arise—small flickers of tension in the body, fleeting memories, echoes of past emotions. Yet, there was no need to hold on to them, nor push them away. Instead, curiosity became the guiding force, allowing me to rest gently in the awareness of what is. This curiosity was not the kind that seeks answers, but rather the kind that simply observes without interference—a curiosity that watches, without wanting or resisting.

    Namkhai Norbu, in his teachings on Dzogchen, speaks of resting in the natural state, which is not something we attain but something we return to. This state of pure awareness is our birthright, and through practices like sky-gazing, we are reminded of its boundless nature. It is spacious, free of judgment, and untouched by the fluctuations of the mind.

    In the stillness of this morning’s practice, I realized how much the mind wants to grasp, to make meaning, or to categorize each sensation or thought that arises. But when we remain in curiosity, those tendencies dissolve. The pratyayas come and go like clouds passing through the sky, and we remain as the observer of it all.

    St. John of the Cross describes this process as the soul’s purification—moving through the dark night, not by pushing through it, but by allowing it to unfold naturally. In this unfolding, even the act of surrender becomes effortless. We simply rest in the awareness of being, trusting that the Divine is doing its quiet work in us, without our interference.

    This morning’s practice reminded me that contemplation is not something we achieve; it is something we allow. When curiosity is present, we move away from striving for an experience and simply witness what is. And in that witnessing, the doorway to pure awareness opens, effortlessly.

    As we continue this contemplative journey, may we lean into the practice of curiosity, allowing it to gently lead us into the spaciousness of pure awareness. In this space, we discover that everything we seek has always been within us, waiting to be uncovered.

    🙏🕊️🙏



  • Into the Mystic: Embracing Impermanence, Resting in Awareness

    As I sit here in my yard, under the shade of tall trees and a sky so vast, I am reminded of the gentle teachings of impermanence. The pratyayas, those rising and falling sensations, memories, and thoughts, have once again surfaced, but they do not hold the weight they once did. Instead, there is a soft awareness that everything is already changing, and that in the grand scheme of time, everything is already gone.

    I look over at my RV, which has been a sanctuary for me for so many years. Soon, this land will become something else, transformed into a clubhouse. And yet, in this moment, I am filled with deep appreciation for what has been, for the unconscious and conscious years spent on this blessed earth. The impermanence of it all doesn’t bring sadness, but rather a profound gratitude for having lived through it, both mindfully and unmindfully.

    Namkhai Norbu’s sky-gazing practice teaches us to rest in the awareness of what is, without grasping or rejecting. In these moments of contemplation, I’m reminded that sky-gazing isn’t about observing the physical sky but allowing the mind to open into its own natural spaciousness. The practice reflects what is already within—clear, vast, and untouched by the clouds of thought.

    As pratyayas of impermanence arise, they are met not with resistance but with curiosity. Curiosity has become my companion on this contemplative path, gently guiding me to rest in awareness without the need for answers or conclusions. There is no longer a push for meaning, only the quiet observation of the present moment unfolding, just as it is.

    In this state of being, I can feel both the impermanence of the physical world and the abiding stillness of awareness. It is a paradox, and yet it is also the simplest truth: everything changes, and yet awareness remains the same.

    The teachings of St. John of the Cross, Ramana Maharshi, and Namkhai Norbu all point to this truth in their own ways. We move through life, through our spiritual practices, sometimes seeking, sometimes grasping for deeper experiences. But there comes a moment when we simply stop, when we rest in the spaciousness that has always been there. It is not a state we attain; it is a state we remember.

    As I continue this practice, I feel a deep gratitude, not just for the present moment, but for all that has been and all that will come. And in this gratitude, the pratyayas seem to soften, leaving behind the quiet awareness that is always there, patiently waiting for us to return.

    🙏🕊️🙏



  • Into the Mystic: The Wave and the Water – Finding Peace in Aimlessness

    In his gentle and profound way, Thich Nhat Hanh reminds us that we are already what we seek to become. Like a wave searching for water, we often find ourselves running in circles, seeking stability and peace, when in fact we are already made of the very essence we are searching for.

    In the previous post, we reflected on the words, “Be still and know that I am God,” and on the teachings that the Kingdom of God is within us, not something to be sought outside. Thich Nhat Hanh offers a similar invitation to stillness, a reminder that we need not search beyond this moment to touch the Divine. His teachings on apranihita—aimlessness—invite us to stop running after something outside of ourselves. The Buddha is not somewhere far away, hidden behind our efforts; the Buddha is within us, right here, right now. We don’t need to become something else or achieve some great transformation to touch the truth of our being. We only need to stop, to recognize that what we are seeking is already present in us.

    This echoes the Christian mystic path as well, where we are called to enter the stillness, to trust in the unfolding of the Divine presence within. St. John of the Cross speaks of surrendering into the Divine presence that is always here, guiding us without the need for striving. The great mystics remind us that the more we seek, the further we may feel from the truth. Yet when we stop seeking, when we allow ourselves to simply be, we find that the Kingdom of God is already here, waiting for us in the stillness of our own hearts.

    Thich Nhat Hanh’s teachings give form to this same truth. He uses the image of a wave to help us understand that we are not separate from what we seek. Just as the wave is made of water, we too are made of the very essence we long to touch. The wave doesn’t need to run after the water; it is already water. The black cloud doesn’t need to become a white cloud; it only needs light to shine on it, revealing what was always there. In the same way, we don’t need to become something else to experience peace. We need only to stop, to rest in the awareness of who we already are.

    As both Sri Nisargadatta Maharaj and Papaji have taught, the very act of searching can take us further from what we seek. Papaji even wrote a book titled Call Off the Search, emphasizing that the more we search, the more we reinforce the illusion that the truth is somewhere else. This persistent search keeps us from realizing the truth that is already right here, right now. By continuing to look outside of ourselves, we create a sense of distance, when in reality there is no distance at all—only the stillness of the present moment, where what we seek has always been.

    “You are already what you want to become,” Thich Nhat Hanh says. Yet we spend much of our lives not believing this truth, searching for happiness, fulfillment, and wisdom outside of ourselves. Whether it’s the Kingdom of God, Buddha-nature, or enlightenment, we chase after these ideas as though they are separate from us. But all of the great teachers—whether it be Jesus, the Buddha, or St. John of the Cross—urge us to look within. They tell us that when we stop running after what we already are, we can finally rest in the truth that has always been there.

    This is what Thich Nhat Hanh calls aimlessness. The practice of aimlessness is to no longer place something in front of you to chase after. It is to recognize that everything you are searching for is already here. By stopping the search, by becoming still, we can touch the wonders of life that are already present in this moment.

    In one of his talks, Thich Nhat Hanh describes this stillness beautifully: “The Kingdom of God, the Pure Land of the Buddha, is available in the here and now.” He reminds us that happiness is found in the simple things—a rose, the fresh air, a loving smile. Like the wave that need not search for water, we need only to stop and recognize the treasures already around us, treasures that we so often miss because we are running in circles.

    Thich Nhat Hanh teaches that walking meditation can be a wonderful way to practice this stopping, this resting in the here and now. Each step is not taken with a sense of rushing to arrive somewhere, but with the awareness that we are already where we need to be. With each step, we arrive fully in the present moment, touching the peace, the beauty, and the wonder that is always available. It is a practice that brings us back to the present, back to ourselves, and back to the truth that there is nothing to attain.

    “You don’t need to become a Buddha,” Thich Nhat Hanh says, “You are already a Buddha.” You don’t need to search for the Divine; the Divine is already within you. It is only when we stop running that we can finally touch this truth. Like the black cloud that becomes a white cloud when the light shines upon it, we are transformed by the simple act of recognition. In the stillness of aimlessness, we realize that there is no distance between us and what we seek.

    As we continue our contemplative journey, may we learn to embrace the wisdom of aimlessness. May we stop chasing after what is already here, within us. And in that stopping, may we find the peace, the joy, and the freedom that comes from recognizing that we have always been enough.

    🙏🕊️🙏



  • Into the Mystic: Embracing Impermanence, Resting in Awareness

    As I sit here in my yard, under the shade of tall trees and a sky so vast, I am reminded of the gentle teachings of impermanence. The pratyayas, those rising and falling sensations, memories, and thoughts, have once again surfaced, but they do not hold the weight they once did. Instead, there is a soft awareness that everything is already changing, and that in the grand scheme of time, everything is already gone.

    I look over at my RV, which has been a sanctuary for me for so many years. Soon, this land will become something else, transformed into a clubhouse. And yet, in this moment, I am filled with deep appreciation for what has been, for the unconscious and conscious years spent on this blessed earth. The impermanence of it all doesn’t bring sadness, but rather a profound gratitude for having lived through it, both mindfully and unmindfully.

    Namkhai Norbu’s sky-gazing practice teaches us to rest in the awareness of what is, without grasping or rejecting. In these moments of contemplation, I’m reminded that sky-gazing isn’t about observing the physical sky but allowing the mind to open into its own natural spaciousness. The practice reflects what is already within—clear, vast, and untouched by the clouds of thought.

    As pratyayas of impermanence arise, they are met not with resistance but with curiosity. Curiosity has become my companion on this contemplative path, gently guiding me to rest in awareness without the need for answers or conclusions. There is no longer a push for meaning, only the quiet observation of the present moment unfolding, just as it is.

    In this state of being, I can feel both the impermanence of the physical world and the abiding stillness of awareness. It is a paradox, and yet it is also the simplest truth: everything changes, and yet awareness remains the same.

    The teachings of St. John of the Cross, Ramana Maharshi, and Namkhai Norbu all point to this truth in their own ways. We move through life, through our spiritual practices, sometimes seeking, sometimes grasping for deeper experiences. But there comes a moment when we simply stop, when we rest in the spaciousness that has always been there. It is not a state we attain; it is a state we remember.

    As I continue this practice, I feel a deep gratitude, not just for the present moment, but for all that has been and all that will come. And in this gratitude, the pratyayas seem to soften, leaving behind the quiet awareness that is always there, patiently waiting for us to return.

    🙏🕊️🙏



  • The Sacred Shift: From Seeking to Being

    Following the path of meditation can feel like a gradual unraveling of the known—a shedding of what we once held onto, leading us into the mystery of contemplation. As I continue reflecting on the works of St. John of the Cross, this sacred shift from meditation into contemplation becomes clearer. It is not a step we take with effort but a grace that gently unfolds when the time is right.

    St. John speaks of this transition as a call to surrender, but it is not the kind of surrender we can will into existence. Instead, it is a letting go that happens when we stop striving, when we allow ourselves to simply rest in the presence of the Divine. This is where the familiar practices of meditation—focused attention, mental inquiry, or breath awareness—fall away, giving space for something more profound to emerge.

    Today, I felt this shift more deeply, not as an intellectual understanding, but as a living experience. The pratyayas—the thoughts, sensations, and memories that rise and fall—became like whispers, their pull softening in the presence of curiosity. This curiosity is not the kind that seeks answers, but one that witnesses, without needing anything to happen. In that gentle witnessing, something new emerged: a spaciousness, a quiet stillness that felt like home.

    This experience is not unique to Christian mysticism. In Advaita Vedanta, the practice of self-inquiry often begins with a repetitive questioning—”Who am I?”—an active search for truth. But, as with St. John’s teachings, there comes a time when even the inquiry must dissolve into silence. The seeker steps back, not into a place of knowing, but into a place of being. In that being, all effort falls away, and we are left with the pristine awareness that has always been there.

    In silence, love calls,

    No longer through words or thought,

    But in quiet grace.

    This is the threshold between seeking and being, a place where the Divine does its quiet work in us. It is no longer about striving or yearning for a deeper experience; it is about trusting in the unfolding of love, which asks only that we rest in its presence.

    For those of us on this journey, may we continue to trust this sacred shift—moving from meditation into contemplation, from seeking into being. In this silent surrender, we come closer to the essence of who we truly are.

    🙏🕊️🙏



  • Into the Mystic: The Journey from Meditation to Contemplation

    As I re-read the works of St. John of the Cross, I have become more attuned to the threshold of transition—the dryness and emptiness that so often precede the invitation to move from meditation into contemplation. This is not unique to St. John; it is something pointed to by many of the great teachers. Whether it’s Namkhai Norbu, Ramana Maharshi, Thich Nhat Hanh, the Dalai Lama, or Orgyen Chowang in Pristine Mind, they all plant the seeds of meditative absorption, which only take root when the time is right. Now, it seems, those seeds are beginning to bloom, not as intellectual concepts, but as a living, unfolding experience.

    Today, I found myself drawn into this quiet transformation. As I lay in stillness, the pratyayas—those passing thoughts, sensations, and memories—began to rise and fall, like waves on a distant shore. Curiosity, that soft and patient witness, guided me deeper, not into understanding but into presence.

    The breath came of its own accord, a deep release from somewhere beyond my conscious will, as if the body itself knew what needed to unfold. And then, an awareness—a spaciousness—arose. It was not something I had summoned, nor could I hold it in place. It was simply there, naked and pure, like a clear blue sky.

    St. John of the Cross speaks of this as a kind of surrender, but not the kind we can choose. It is a grace bestowed, not earned. In the stillness, I realized that my role was not to force this shift but to allow it to happen. To remain as the observer, the witness, as the Divine unfolded in its own time.

    What struck me most deeply was the paradox of this surrender. The very act of trying to let go becomes an obstacle. Instead, it is curiosity that opens the door to pure awareness—curiosity that has no desire, no need for something to happen, but simply observes what is.

    Today, in this unfolding, I realized that even the longing for deeper experience can become a barrier. The path is not one of striving but of witnessing. And in that witness, the Divine does its quiet work, purifying what needs to be released, and bringing us ever closer to the essence of who we truly are.

    As I reflect on my own journey today, it is my hope, and the shared intention (Sankalpa) behind all of this work, that by sharing these reflections, insights, and experiences, they may serve as a guide, a comfort, or a spark of inspiration to those who come across them.

    🙏🕊️🙏

    Book Recommendation: St. John of the Cross, Dark Night of the Soul

    Dark Night of the Soul by St. John of the Cross is a spiritual masterpiece that explores the transformative power of suffering and the journey toward union with the Divine. This work describes the profound spiritual experience of being stripped of all attachments, both inner and outer, as a necessary process for purification and deeper connection with God. For those experiencing a time of spiritual dryness or emptiness, St. John’s words offer hope and guidance through the darkness, illuminating the path to deeper faith and surrender. The Dark Night is not a time of despair, but of ultimate transformation, where we are invited to let go of our limited understanding and trust in the unfolding of the Divine. This book serves as a timeless companion for anyone navigating the challenges of the contemplative path, especially those who feel drawn to the shift from meditation to deeper contemplation.

    Book Recommendation: Orgyen Chowang, Our Pristine Mind

    In The Pristine Mind, Orgyen Chowang offers profound teachings on accessing our natural state of mind—a state of clarity, openness, and peace. He draws from the Dzogchen tradition, emphasizing that our true nature is already pure and perfect, and that through practice, we can return to this unconditioned state. For those on a contemplative journey, Chowang’s words provide a practical path for moving beyond mental noise and distractions, guiding us back to the inherent stillness of the mind. This book is especially helpful for those who wish to deepen their meditation practice or shift from intellectual understanding to living experience. The Pristine Mind invites readers to discover the profound joy and serenity that arises when we rest in the awareness of our true nature.



  • Exploring Dzogchen’s Transformative Path: A Journey into Our Pristine Mind

    Exploring Dzogchen’s Transformative Path: A Journey into Our Pristine Mind

    Reflections on Pristine Awareness, Dzogchen, and Finding Clarity in Challenging Times

    As I sit with Our Pristine Mind in my hands, I am aware that I am not merely reading a book. I am entering a silent conversation with an ancient wisdom, one that gently unfolds its layers with each page, as if lifting the veils of my own mind. In the quiet of early morning or beneath the faint glow of a reading lamp at night, the words begin to sink into the places where thought usually moves too quickly, too restlessly.

    Dzogchen—a word I’ve heard in passing, sometimes as an exotic echo from distant mountains, sometimes as an answer whispered through stories of sages and scholars—is not simply an idea here. It emerges like a breath I have almost forgotten to take, a reminder that within my mind lies a pure, boundless awareness untouched by the cycles of confusion, emotion, or distraction. Dzogchen does not demand; it simply reveals.

    The teacher, Orgyen Chowang Rinpoche, through his voice in Our Pristine Mind, speaks to the essential nature of awareness with a softness that does not impose but invites. I am reminded of Rilke, who once spoke of patience and of growing quietly in one’s own way, like a tree. Here, too, the practice of Dzogchen is like that tree, patient and grounded, yet ever-revealing. It asks nothing from me but presence, a willingness to recognize that what I have been searching for has always been here, beneath the surface of my rushing thoughts.

    Rinpoche speaks to our current world—the difficulties, the fractures, the relentless march of modern life. Dzogchen, he says, has come forward in these times not because it is new, but because we are perhaps ready to see its simplicity. To see that the vastness of pristine awareness is not somewhere far away or reserved for saints and sages. It is here, in the quiet pause between breaths, in the stillness that accompanies an unfiltered experience of now.

    The metaphor of the “brilliant moon in dark times” comes alive as I read, a reminder that even in moments when life feels overcast and filled with turmoil, there exists within us a clear, illuminating presence. Dzogchen does not banish the darkness; rather, it reveals a light that has been hidden within it all along.

    This practice, this profound teaching, calls us to approach life differently—to walk, speak, even think with the awareness that we are not separate from each other, from the world, or from the mind that perceives it all. It is an invitation to cultivate what Rinpoche calls “pristine awareness” in daily life, and this awareness transforms not only how we experience joy but also how we engage with suffering. Even anger, fear, and sorrow are welcomed as parts of the unfolding dance, teachers in their own right.

    The path of Dzogchen, I am learning, is not about leaving this world behind or aspiring to some distant perfection. Instead, it is an opening into a fuller, clearer life here and now—a kind of blossoming from the cold winter of searching into the warm spring of presence.

    If you feel the weight of the world’s challenges or the heaviness of inner obstacles, there is a softness, a kindness in Dzogchen that may resonate. As I explore these teachings, I feel them steadying me, offering a compass to navigate the storms of distraction and disconnection that modern life so often brings.

    And so, I share these reflections with the hope that you, too, may find something here that speaks to your own journey—a word, a phrase, a quiet reminder of the freedom that rests quietly within, waiting to be seen.

    🙏🕊️🙏

    If you’re interested in exploring this transformative approach further, I highly recommend Orgyen Chowang’s book The Pristine Mind. His teachings provide a clear, compassionate path toward uncovering the inherent purity of our mind, offering a source of deep fulfillment and lasting peace.

  • Preparing for the Storm: A Reflection on Navigating a Hurricane with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

    There is something about preparing for a storm that feels like a dance with the Divine—both a surrender and a determined act of mindfulness. As I sit here in the quiet hours before evacuation, I realize that this has been more than just a physical process of gathering what I need. It has been an intimate spiritual journey, one that stretches my capacity to trust, to let go, and to deepen into the lived experience of the present moment.

    Living with chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) means that every action I take must be intentional. Every task requires careful pacing, every moment of activity balanced with long periods of rest. There is a delicate art to navigating this kind of preparation, especially during a post-exertional malaise (PEM) crash. Yet, somehow, this storm has become a mirror—reflecting back the inner landscape of my spiritual practice, calling me into a deeper relationship with contemplation, with surrender, and with faith.

    The Importance of Pacing
    I began the preparations by gathering what I would take with me: clothes, medications, bedding, and electronics—just enough to fill a small suitcase and backpack. For most, this might seem like a simple task. For me, it was an act of delicate pacing. I worked in small bursts, then returned to rest, mindful of the balance I needed to maintain in order to avoid worsening my symptoms. Each step of preparation became a meditation on pacing, on honoring the limitations of my body while trusting in my ability to persevere.

    In these moments of rest, I found myself returning again and again to the practice of contemplation. I lit a candle, not only for myself but for all those who are suffering—for all sentient beings in the path of this storm and beyond. There is a peace that arises in this kind of surrender. A quiet knowing that, no matter how much preparation is done, the outcome rests in God’s hands. And that, somehow, is enough.

    A Shift from Meditation to Contemplation
    This journey has been more than just practical preparation. It has been a spiritual unfolding. For years, I have studied the teachings of Advaita Vedanta and Dzogchen, exploring the ways in which these paths guide us beyond intellectual understanding and into a direct experience of the Divine. In the midst of preparing for this hurricane, I felt a deepening—a shift from meditation to contemplation.

    Contemplation is not about thinking or striving. It is about resting in the space of the witness, in the awareness of what is, without grasping or resisting. As the storm approaches, I find myself leaning more into this practice. Each moment becomes an invitation to let go of control, to allow the Divine to move through me, and to trust that whatever happens, it is part of a greater unfolding.

    Mindful Eating and Body Awareness
    Even the simple act of eating became a mindful practice. I prepared a spontaneous meal—scrambled eggs with garlic and cayenne, rich in healthy fats and protein to fuel me through the day. As I ate, I focused on each bite, slowing down, tasting, being fully present with the nourishment my body needed.

    In the midst of so much uncertainty, these small acts of mindfulness brought me back to center. They reminded me that, even as the world outside seemed to spin with chaos, I could find peace within the present moment. I could honor my body’s needs, even as I prepared to enter an unfamiliar shelter and face whatever lay ahead.

    Pacing the Preparation of the RV
    As I packed my belongings, I also prepared my RV, the place I call home. I moved slowly, bringing frozen food to the clubhouse, unplugging the RV, securing what needed to be secured. I paced myself, taking each step with intention, aware that my energy was limited and precious.

    There is something sacred about these practical tasks, when approached with mindfulness. They become a part of the spiritual practice, a way of aligning the outer world with the inner. In unplugging the RV, I was also unplugging from the need to control. In securing my belongings, I was also securing my faith—trusting that whatever happens, I am held by something greater than myself.

    Karma Yoga: Offering and Receiving Prayers
    During this time, I also turned to the practice of Karma Yoga—offering prayers for the world, while asking for prayers in return. I posted a prayer request on Facebook, asking my community to hold me, and all those in the storm’s path, in their hearts. The response was overwhelming. The outpouring of love, of people offering their prayers and well wishes, became a source of strength for me. It reminded me that, even in times of uncertainty, we are never alone. We are held by the compassion of others, by the grace of the Divine, by the interconnectedness of all life.

    Surrender and Trust
    And so, I surrender. I surrender to whatever will be, knowing that I have done all I can to prepare—both physically and spiritually. I surrender to the wisdom of the Divine, trusting that, in the midst of this storm, there is a deeper unfolding happening. There is a lesson in the letting go, in the release of control, in the peace that comes from trusting that God’s will is always unfolding in ways that we may not understand, but can still embrace.

    To those who read this, who are also navigating life with chronic fatigue syndrome or facing similar challenges, I hope this reflection offers you some sense of peace. We cannot always control the storms that come our way, but we can choose how we prepare, how we respond, and how we anchor ourselves in the presence of the Divine.

    May you be safe. May you be held. May you find peace in the midst of the storm.

    🙏🕊️🙏

  • An Introduction to Advaita Vedanta and Self-Inquiry: A Journey to the True Self

    The purpose of this post is to offer a gentle introduction to the philosophy of Advaita Vedanta and the practice of self-inquiry. These teachings invite us to explore the true nature of the Self, to go beyond the surface identities we cling to, and to rest in the awareness that unites all of existence. For those who wish to dive deeper into these topics, I’ve included links to several related posts below, which offer further insights and practical guidance.

    The Journey into Advaita Vedanta and Self-Inquiry:

    In the quiet mystery of life, there are moments when the questions we ask begin to turn inward, drawing us closer to the core of our being. For those of us who sense the call of something deeper, something beyond the surface of everyday experience, Advaita Vedanta offers a path of profound inquiry and realization. It is a philosophy, an invitation to explore the oneness of all existence, and a reminder that our true nature lies beyond the identities we so often carry—beyond our thoughts, emotions, and physical forms.

    Advaita Vedanta, rooted in the ancient wisdom of India, whispers to us that the Self, or Atman, is not separate from the ultimate reality, often called Brahman. In Jewish mysticism, this ultimate reality is known as Ein Sof, the boundless, infinite source of all that is. In Buddhism, it is pointed to as Buddha Nature, the inherent purity and potential for awakening in every being. The Dzogchen tradition speaks of Pristine Mind, the natural state of awareness, while many Indigenous traditions refer to the Great Spirit or Grandfather as the essence that permeates all life. Though the names may differ, they all point to the same underlying truth: that we are not separate from the divine or the infinite source. This insight offers a profound shift in how we understand ourselves and the world.

    Advaita Vedanta and Self-Inquiry:

    The world, as we perceive it, is seen as a veil—a temporary illusion that hides the underlying unity of all that is. This illusion, known as Maya, clouds our awareness and leads us to believe that we are separate individuals, bound by the limitations of time, space, and our bodies. But the teachings of Advaita Vedanta remind us that the true Self, or Atman, is not bound by these limitations. Atman is one with Brahman, the unchanging, eternal reality that underlies all existence.

    The practice of self-inquiry is central to uncovering this truth. It involves turning inward and asking the fundamental question: “Who am I?” At first glance, this question may seem simple, but its implications are profound. When we ask this question sincerely, we begin to notice that the identities we typically associate with ourselves—our name, our body, our thoughts—are all temporary and subject to change. If we are not our body, not our thoughts, not our emotions, then who are we?

    This process of questioning leads us deeper and deeper into the nature of the Self. Rather than seeking an intellectual answer, self-inquiry encourages us to observe the experience of “I”—the feeling of being, of awareness itself. By turning our attention inward, we can trace the sense of “I” back to its source, discovering that our true essence is pure awareness, untouched by the fluctuations of the mind or the conditions of the world.

    Ramana Maharshi, one of the great sages of modern times, taught that the practice of self-inquiry is the most direct path to realizing this truth. He encouraged seekers to continually ask, “Who am I?” and to follow this inquiry until the ego, or the false sense of self, dissolves into the pure awareness of the Self. This awareness is not a distant goal to be achieved but is ever-present, simply waiting to be recognized beneath the layers of thought and identification.

    The Benefits of Engaging in Self-Inquiry:

    For those new to this practice, the benefits of self-inquiry may not be immediately obvious. It’s easy to get caught up in the mind’s need for answers and certainty. However, the more we engage with this inquiry, the more we begin to experience a profound shift in how we relate to ourselves and the world around us. The practice of self-inquiry gradually dissolves the boundaries between the self and the other, leading to a direct experience of oneness, or non-duality.

    This realization brings about a sense of inner peace and freedom that is not dependent on external circumstances. By understanding that we are not the fluctuating thoughts, emotions, or experiences of the body, we become less attached to the ups and downs of life. Self-inquiry allows us to rest in the awareness that remains unchanged and undisturbed, no matter what arises in the mind or in the world.

    Furthermore, as we deepen our practice, we begin to see that the same awareness that we discover within ourselves is present in all beings. This insight fosters compassion, kindness, and a sense of connection with others, as we realize that, at the deepest level, we are all expressions of the same underlying reality.

    🙏🕊️🙏

    Here are some related posts for diving deeper into this topic:

    Seeing Beyond Our Senses: Expanding Perception in the Practice of Self-Inquiry and Advaita Vedanta

    For those beginning their journey, you might find it helpful to explore how our sensory perceptions are limited, as described in the post “Seeing Beyond Our Senses: Expanding Perception in the Practice of Self-Inquiry and Advaita Vedanta”. Explore the limits of human perception and discover how self-inquiry and Advaita Vedanta can help you see beyond the physical senses to realize the true nature of the self. This blog post delves into the teachings of Pravrajika Divyanandaprana, emphasizing the importance of expanding consciousness beyond the sensory world in the pursuit of self-realization and non-dual awareness.

    An Introduction to Ramana Maharshi’s Forty Verses on Reality

    In the teachings of Ramana Maharshi, self-inquiry is seen as the most direct path to uncovering our true Self. His work, “An Introduction to Ramana Maharshi’s Forty Verses on Reality” outlines how we can dissolve the ego through the persistent practice of asking “Who am I?” and tracing the source of the ‘I’ thought. Discover the essence of self-inquiry (Atma Vichara) and non-duality as elucidated by one of the greatest spiritual masters of the 20th century. This introduction provides an overview of the key themes, including the illusion of the ego, the nature of the true Self, and the path to self-realization. Whether you’re a seeker of Advaita Vedanta or interested in spiritual awakening, this guide offers valuable insights into the timeless wisdom of Ramana Maharshi.

    Penetrating the Five Sheaths: A Path to Self-Inquiry and Realization

    For a more practical understanding of self-inquiry, you may want to read “Penetrating the Five Sheaths: A Path to Self-Inquiry and Realization” which explains the layers of identity that must be transcended to reach the core of the Self. This post guides you through the koshas—the sheaths that veil our true essence. Explore the transformative practice of self-inquiry in Advaita Vedanta through the penetrating process of the five sheaths (koshas). Discover how questioning “Who am I?” or “What am I?” can help transcend physical, mental, and emotional identities to uncover the true Self, or Atman. Learn practical applications, integration with meditation, and the profound journey towards self-realization and pure awareness. Join our community in understanding the deeper layers of existence and achieving spiritual growth.

    Introduction to Raja Yoga: The Path of Meditation and Mental Discipline

    Similarly, in “Introduction to Raja Yoga: The Path of Meditation and Mental Discipline” we explore how mental discipline can complement self-inquiry by calming the mind and preparing it for deeper introspection. Meditation helps us quiet the mind so we can observe the fluctuations and see the truth beyond. Explore Raja Yoga, the “Royal Path” of meditation and mental discipline, in this introductory post. Learn how the eightfold path (Ashtanga) of Raja Yoga, as outlined in the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, guides practitioners toward self-realization and spiritual enlightenment. Discover the key principles of mental clarity, emotional stability, and inner peace, and how Raja Yoga integrates aspects of other yoga paths to lead to ultimate spiritual awakening. This post offers insights rooted in the teachings of Advaita Vedanta and spiritual leaders like Ramakrishna, Swami Sivananda, and Swami Vivekananda, making it ideal for those seeking a comprehensive understanding of meditation and the deeper aspects of yoga.

    Self-Inquiry and Meditation: A Pathway to Inner Awareness

    In “Self-Inquiry and Meditation: A Pathway to Inner Awareness” you’ll find insights on how combining meditation with self-inquiry sharpens our awareness and leads to the realization of our true Self. Discover the transformative power of self-inquiry and meditation in this comprehensive guide based on Pravrajika Divyanandaprana’s teachings. Learn how the ancient practice of asking “Who am I?” or “What am I?” can dissolve the ego, increase awareness, and lead to profound inner peace. This blog post delves into the integration of self-inquiry with meditation, offering practical steps for spiritual awakening and personal growth. Ideal for those exploring Advaita Vedanta, mindfulness, and non-dual awareness, this guide provides a pathway to uncover your true self.

    Deepening the Practice of Self-Inquiry

    If you are ready to deepen your practice even further, you may enjoy “Deepening the Practice of Self-Inquiry” which explores how the question “Who am I?” can be applied to everything we experience. It encourages us to witness all thoughts and sensations from a place of stillness and curiosity. Explore the profound practice of Self-Inquiry (Atma Vichara) to deepen your understanding of non-duality and the nature of the ‘I-thought.’ This comprehensive guide provides key insights, practical steps, and reflection points to help you recognize all experiences as expressions of Brahman or pristine mind. Learn how to cultivate a unified awareness, dissolve the separation between the observer and the observed, and rest in the underlying awareness that remains constant amidst mental fluctuations. Whether you’re new to self-inquiry or seeking to deepen your practice, this post offers valuable guidance for your journey towards self-realization and inner peace.

    Witnessing the Journey: Strengthening the Seer in Life’s Transitions

    In life’s many transitions, it can be helpful to recognize the steady witness within us. In “Witnessing the Journey: Strengthening the Seer in Life’s Transitions” we reflect on how this witnessing presence remains unchanged even as external circumstances shift. In this reflective blog post, explore the deepening of witness consciousness, non-duality, and spiritual growth through life’s transitions. Drawing on insights from Buddhist teachings, Advaita Vedanta, and Jewish mysticism, we discuss how to strengthen the seer within by balancing trust, detachment, and awareness. Whether you’re navigating challenges like moving, illness, or emotional fluctuations, this post offers practical guidance for cultivating inner peace, mindfulness, and the presence of awareness. Learn how the journey from the mind to the heart opens the door to the divine and leaves behind wisdom for others on the path. A profound exploration of karma yoga, meditative mind, and the union of Atman and Brahman.

    Caravan of Love: The Universal Path of Righteousness Across All Traditions

    For an exploration of the universal values that connect spiritual traditions across cultures, “Caravan of Love: The Universal Path of Righteousness Across All Traditions” delves into the shared principles of righteousness and compassion, uniting people from all walks of life. This post explores the universal values shared across major world religions, highlighting how concepts like Sadhu Dharma, Tzaddikim, and being a Mensch align with the teachings of Jesus and the principles of Islam and Buddhism. It invites readers to reflect on the shared human quest for a life of righteousness, compassion, and inner peace, offering a path to greater interfaith harmony.

    Embracing the Eternal Now: Cultivating Spiritual Presence in Daily Life

    The post “Embracing the Eternal Now: Cultivating Spiritual Presence in Daily Life” offers insights into how we can cultivate mindfulness and equanimity, bringing the practice of presence into every moment of life. Discover the transformative power of living in the present moment with Embracing the Eternal Now: Cultivating Spiritual Presence in Daily Life. This blog post explores how mindfulness, equanimity, and spiritual connection can bring profound peace and clarity to your everyday life. Through practices rooted in Christian and Jewish traditions, learn how to listen to the ‘still small voice’ within, connect with the Holy Spirit, and respond to life’s challenges with balance and calm. Dive deep into the wisdom of ‘Hineni’ and uncover the sacred space where true spiritual awakening begins.

    🙏🕊️🙏