It's Up to You: The Practice of Selfreflection on the Buddhist Path - Softcover

Dzigar Kongtrul

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1590303814 ISBN 13: 9781590303818

Publisher: Shambhala Publications Inc, 2006

Synopsis

On the spiritual path we speak of enlightenment. But how do we reconcile the idea of enlightenment with what we see when we look in the mirror when insecurities, doubts, and self-centered tendencies arise in our minds? Dzigar Kongtrül suggests that we need not feel doomed when these experiences surface. In fact, such experiences are not a problem if we are able to simply let them arise without judging them or investing them with so much meaning. This approach to experience is what Kongtrül calls self-reflection.

Self-reflection is a practice, a path, and an attitude. It is the spirit of taking an interest in that which we usually try to push away. When we practice self-reflection we take liberation into our own hands and accept the challenge and personal empowerment in Kongtrül s title: it s up to you.

About this title

Review:

"Kongtrül Rinpoche brings an unflinching and fresh perspective."--The Beacon

"After reading It's Up to You, you will be eager to be exposed to more of Kongtrül's teachings."--Spirituality & Health

"An immensely enjoyable volume."--Library Journal

"Kongtrül is an innovative teacher who is successfully transposing Buddhism in a Western key."--Shambhala Sun

"Dzigar Kongtrül Rinpoche has written an enthralling and practical book that speaks to us all with an exceptional clarity about confusion, uncertainty, and fear, about fearlessness and courage, and about awareness, joy, sanity, and freedom."--Sogyal Rinpoche, author of The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying

"Like Dzigar Kongtrül himself, this book is warm, direct, and potent. Its intimacy is transformative."--Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche, author of Turning the Mind into an Ally

Synopsis:

Both for readers interested in learning more about Buddhism and for those with a committed practice, this book by a 40-year-old Tibetan teacher living in Colorado brings a fresh voice to traditional Tibetan teachings. Fixation on oneself, lack of self-awareness, unreasonable attachment to objects of pleasure, fear of change - these are all obstacles encountered by many meditators. According to the author, the first step in working with these difficulties is to recognize them. He presents the contemplative practice of self-reflection as the best way to bring the Buddhist teachings into one's own experience. Self-reflection practice is the common thread among all traditions of Buddhist practice. Its emphasis is on bringing awareness to one's own blind spots with honesty and kindness.

About this edition

• Publisher: Shambhala Publications Inc
• Publication date: 2006
• ISBN 10: 1590303814
• ISBN 13: 9781590303818
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 160