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Dharma talk on Compassion\n
Suffering relates to the \u201cconceit of \u2018I am\u2019\u201d \u2013 the delusion that there is an \u201cI\u201d that exists outside of conceptual constructs. \n
There is a current trend among some people that one must develop a strong sense of \u201cI am\u201d before one can meditate. However, it is important to develop confidence rather than ego. Confidence and humility along with a sense of gratitude for one\u2019s teachers can be developed simultaneously. Rather than a strong ego, one must have a realistic sense of who you are.\n
A dream sign to develop (regarding lucid dreaming) is the psychological impulse of \u201cI am.\u201d Develop this in your so-called \u201cwaking state.\u201d Observe your reaction when you are either blamed or praised, not given enough respect. There is a surge of emotion. When you experience anger, resentment, fear, anxiety, self-loathing, pride, do a \u201creality check\u201d (or as is done in developing lucid dreaming, a \u201cstate check\u201d). Ask \u201cIs there really somebody here or is it just a thought?\u201d\n
Meditation (16:00) on all three types of suffering: blatant suffering, the suffering of change, and the suffering that arises due to our vulnerability because of our vision of who we are.\n
Carrying practice: Throughout the day, when you have a sense of \u201cI am,\u201d do a reality/state check. Just jumping up and down won\u2019t be enough. Go deep into your awareness that is obscured by mental afflictions but is never contaminated by them.