While I was updating the organization of the slogans described in the previous post, I began to wonder why I was calling the Third Point of Mind Training “The Heart of the Matter, which is the Three Difficulties.” I realized this doesn’t really make sense, because the “main practice” of Lojong is training in bodhicitta, as stated in the Second Point of Mind Training. How could the “main practice” and the “heart of the matter” be different?
Periodically since then I have pondered an improved name for this point of mind training. I recently settled on including the term “skillful means” in the new name, to illustrate the practical and usable nature of the slogans in this point of mind training. “Skillful means” (upaya in Sanskrit) is a term often used in Buddhism to refer to the practices and methods used to bring teachings to life.
So today, inspired by my morning practice, I finally decided to make the change! The new name of the Third Point of Mind Training is “The Skillful Means for Practicing Bodhicitta, Which Is the Three Difficulties.” While it’s not a big change, I think it brings this project more into alignment with the original teachings.
In case you wondered, the image above is the view of olive trees and the Aegean Sea from my summer home, Camp Plaka or Lojong Haus. Enjoy!