Make all-encompassing resolutions

I always teach that this is our last life; make wise resolutions that will encompass everything that is good. Resolve to have a healthy body free of illness, complete with the thirty-two faculties; to be born a human being of a male gender who is pure; not to be attracted to the opposite sex, and not to find pleasure in the sight, sound, taste, touch, scent, and sentiment of the opposite sex. Before we die, may we achieve self-awareness; build up great merit and Perfections in every lifetime; meet only virtuous people, and be receptive and amenable to good advice. When planting a tree, make a resolution for this tree to flourish and produce a pleasant shade; anyone who sits beneath it to see enlightened wisdoms; to be protected by the divine; and to be a resting place for birds. At bed time, make a resolution to take sanctuary within our inner Buddha; may the Buddha give us protection and free us from danger.

July 17, 1977