"I would like to talk a little bit about refuge. As Buddhists, it is very important that we have refuge, because refuge is the basic object of faith, or confidence. In order to have that confidence, we need to understand what exactly is Buddha, what is Dharma, what is Sangha. We also need to understand their qualities and the benefits of taking refuge in them. When we understand this, we will have a very strong motivation to take refuge.
When we are physically sick, we need to see a doctor, take medicine, and we need a nurse to recover from the sickness. In the same way, when we are in samsara, we are always mentally sick with the sickness of suffering, which includes the suffering of change, the suffering of suffering, and pervasive conditioned suffering. However, we don’t really feel or recognize these sufferings. So, first we need to understand Buddha’s teachings, then follow the Dharma. In order to practice Dharma, we also need support from the Sangha.
In the morning when you wake up, rejoice that you are able to get up. Think that it is by the blessing and the kindness of Buddha, Dharma, Sangha – “I’m able to get up.” Take refuge: “Today, as much as I can, I will try to benefit all mother sentient beings, to help. If I'm not able to help, then at least I will not harm intentionally.” Thinking in that way, try to always keep your mind in these thoughts, and trust in the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha. The Buddha never fails us, so it’s very important to protect our mind by taking refuge. In order to study, practice and understand the Buddha, Dharma, Sangha, you need to read the lamrim texts where these are explained."
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