Eight Verses for Training the Mind

Verse 1

By thinking of all sentient beings
as even better than the wish-granting gem
for accomplishing the highest aim
may I always consider them precious.

Verse 2

Wherever I go, with whomever I go
may I see myself as less than all others, and
from the depth of my heart
may I consider them supremely precious.

Verse 3

May I examine my mind in all actions
and as soon as a negative state occurs,
since it endangers myself and others,
may I firmly face and avert it.

Verse 4

When I see beings of a negative disposition
or those oppressed by negativity or pain,
may I, as if finding a treasure, consider them precious
for they are rarely met.

Verse 5

Whenever others, due to their jealously,
revile and treat me in other unjust ways,
may I accept this defeat myself,
and offer the victory to others.

Verse 6

When someone whom I have helped
or in whom I have placed great hope
harms me with great injustice,
may I see that one as a sacred friend.

Verse 7

In short, may I offer both directly and indirectly
all joy and benefit to all beings, my mothers,
and may I myself
secretly take on all of their hurt and suffering.

Verse 8

May they not be defiled by the concepts
of the eight mundane concerns,
and aware that all things are illusory,
may they, ungrasping, be free from bondage.