Judge knowledge
by how effective it is,
not by how difficult
it is to acquire.— H.H. the 17th Karmapa
Force of Truth: To walk the path of truth is difficult. It can even be a bit risky in the beginning. But stick to it and others will gradually realize what is true and you will win their trust. Honesty gives power to your deeds. With dishonesty you may deceive others for a while, but in the end they will lose faith in you and your actions will be ineffective.
Steady Character: Everything is impermanent, and is therefore natural for each of us to change. Nonetheless, be more or less consistent in your viewpoint and behavior. Otherwise, no one will trust you and your endeavors will be all the more difficult to accomplish. Try not to be like a feather in the wind!
Teacher-Student Relationship: The teacher-student relationship depends on two factors. First, how genuinely a teacher guides the student toward a life purpose that matches the student’s temperament and intelligence. Second, how genuinely the student follows advice that is advantageous for the future. Lavish gifts and displays of deference are not the point.
The Future is Now: Timely Advice for Creating a Better World
by H. H the 17th Gyalwang Karmapa
