To Light a Thousand Lamps - The Theosophical Society
To Light a Thousand Lamps - The Theosophical Society
To Light a Thousand Lamps - The Theosophical Society
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<strong>The</strong> Pāramitās / 143<br />
opportunity. Just as we are sensitive to the lower strata of<br />
thought forces when we are despondent, just so may we<br />
resonate with the upper regions of earth’s auric atmosphere<br />
and perchance hear, if we are quiet, the subtle whisperings<br />
that inspire to wonder and noble deeds.<br />
Many today, in their dedicated labors to relieve the suffering<br />
of millions, are manifesting a quality of mercy which<br />
may have been fanned by a gesture of friendship and understanding<br />
made by some bodhisattva-to-be in lives past.<br />
Perhaps we too have been similarly moved. <strong>The</strong> thought is<br />
deeply humbling and makes one all the more resolved to<br />
follow the lead of the Enlightened Ones who are infinitely<br />
patient and perceptive. Small wonder a Buddha of Compassion<br />
returns to teach. He is impelled to do so by the<br />
karma of all whose destinies have intersected his in former<br />
cycles; even more is he impelled by a love so all-embracing<br />
it enfolds the entirety of nature’s kingdoms, a love that fortifies<br />
new aspirants and those who possibly in a future life<br />
may experience the first intimations of concern for others’<br />
well-being.<br />
<strong>The</strong> Buddhist Confession of Faith succinctly expresses<br />
the essence of Buddhist philosophy and practice:<br />
Buddhaṃ śaraṇaṃ gacchāmi<br />
Dharmaṃ śaraṇaṃ gacchāmi<br />
Saṅghaṃ śaraṇaṃ gacchāmi<br />
I go to buddha for refuge<br />
I go to dharma for refuge<br />
I go to the assembly (devotees, followers) for refuge<br />
We place our trust in Buddha as the imbodiment of the
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