Two important topics were recently brought to my attention: Becoming vegan and practicing Guruyoga. Oddly enough, both of these topics are related. If we wish to awaken, we must do our best to cause no harm. If we wish to awaken, we must merge ourselves with the mind of the Guru.
Now, it is not a rule in Buddhism to become vegan or vegetarian, unless you take some sort of vow; however, these are both excellent avenues for doing no harm. We should also be aware that transporting produce causes harm, as well as tilling soil. We should do our best and not judge others who are also doing their best. We must look at our own actions and be mindful of what we are doing. This is the essential aspect of beginning with a commitment towards virtue.
When we practice Guruyoga, we are naturally increasing our virtue and our resolve to help all beings to awaken. This is not an intellectual exercise, it is increasing our capacity or simply opening our heart and mind to what is, as it is. By merging our mind with the Guru, we increase our love, compassion and wisdom.
Please aspire to awaken, take that first step onto the Path. With virtue ever increasing, you will awaken. Find any way that you can to awaken, so that you can bring great blessings to all sentient beings in our most turbulent of times.
Blessings in Light,
Lama Robert
