My dear friends,

The sixth point in Geshe Chekawa's Mind Training in Seven Points is titled "The Commitments of Thought Transformation", and its first precept is:

The three general points, and the benefits of keeping them in mind, are as follows:

1. Do not ignore even small broken commitments of thought transformation (lojong).

• Mindfulness: Paying attention to, and purifying, even small broken commitments enhances mindfulness in daily life. This practice helps cultivate a keen awareness of one's thoughts, speech, and actions, leading to a more conscious and intentional life.
• Integrity: Maintaining integrity in even the smallest commitments strengthens one's ethical foundation. It reinforces the importance of consistency and reliability, fostering trust in oneself and from others.

2. Do not allow thought transformation to become a cause for arrogance.

• Humility: Recognizing that thought transformation is a continual process helps prevent the development of spiritual pride. This humility opens the heart to genuine growth and learning.
• Compassion: Without arrogance, one can more genuinely connect with others, understanding that everyone is on their unique spiritual journey. This understanding enhances compassion and empathy, essential qualities of a Bodhisattva.

3. Do not become one-sided in your attitude toward others.

• Equanimity: Adopting a balanced attitude towards all beings fosters equanimity, allowing one to view all sentient beings with an unbiased and open heart. This helps in maintaining a stable and peaceful mind, regardless of external circumstances.
• Loving-Kindness: A non-partial attitude enables the development of loving-kindness towards all beings. It encourages the practice of seeing the intrinsic worth and potential for enlightenment in every individual, thus enhancing the Bodhisattva's vow to help all beings.

By adhering to these three general points, a Bodhisattva strengthens Bodhicitta, the mind of love, compassion, and wisdom:

• Enhanced Motivation: Keeping these commitments reinforces the altruistic intention to benefit all beings, which is the essence of bodhicitta.
• Purified Mind: Regularly checking and rectifying one's practice purifies the mind, making it more receptive to wisdom and insight.
• Resilient Practice: Consistently applying these principles ensures that one's practice remains robust and resilient, capable of withstanding the challenges and obstacles on the path.

The benefits of keeping these points in mind are vast and deeply transformative. They support the Bodhisattva in maintaining a pure, humble, and balanced approach to practice, ultimately aiding in the realization of enlightenment for the benefit of all beings.