The thoughts that turn the mind towards the Dharma, also know as the four mind changings are a starting point for entering the Dharma. Contemplating the precious human body, karma, impermanence and suffering, fuels our motivation to practice Dharma wholeheartedly. In the Tukdrub Barchey Kunsel ngondro we chant this at the beginning of our session. Each year the Ka-Nying monastery organises a ngondro retreat and there I learned this melody. here I adapted it into English.
Khyema!
whatever circumstances I create
These freedoms are extremely hard to gain
with every session closer comes my death
if I dont find the time for noble deeds
with empty hands I’d leave this jewel isle
if I don’t gain the dharma’s benefits
how could I get the human form again
now i’m still burdened by my evil deeds
yes, karma’s true, I’ll fall to lower realms
samsara’s ocean’s pain’s unbearable
samsara spins and yet my heart is numb and dry
the buddhas witnessing my evil deeds
and all dakinis watch my good and bad
they see me always breaking sacred vows
So dharma practice time’s like setting sun
but sleepy, lazy I still waste it all
so careless to it all, how pitiful!
oh no! this karma is so negative!
and if my three doors left in such neglect
the guru and the yidam get displeased
the dakinis will come and punish me
so I won’t laze around, I’ll get up now
the smallest practice has great benefits
right now I’ll do what’s right so joyfully.
vajrasound 