Summary: Developing SOE depends on certain causes

How can SOE be developed? Through...

• 4 conditions

• 4 virtues

• 4 causes

• 4 strengths

The causes to develop SOE are:

• a perfect lineage

• sustained by Virtuous friends

• Compassion toward all living beings

• disheartened by difficulties of cyclic existence

The firmer strengths are:

• strength of self

• strength of others

• strength of the cause

• strength of application

Some of the difficulties in these terrible times include:

• stress

• shamelessness

• jealousy

• stinginess

Some conditions to develop SOE is...

• seeing the inconceivable power of Buddha

• listening to the scriptures

• meeting a good Teacher

• understanding the Teachings are here to stay

To completely perfect SOE, we need the intention

• to attain Enlightenment

• to accomplish others' welfare

The strength of application refers to

• relying on an excellent Teacher

• being familiar with the Mahayana Teachings

• reflecting on the Teachings

• hearing praises of Buddha

What must we cultivate so that we can overcome our contentment?

• faith in Buddha's good qualitites

• training in love and compassion

• faith in virtuous friends