Buddhism Beyond Belief with Susan Piver Four Thoughts that Turn the Mind to the Dharma
In this episode, I explore a classical teaching throughout the Buddhist world, The Four Reminders, also known as the Four Thoughts that Turn the Mind to the Dharma. When I first heard them, I thought how can I forget what I just heard?! Turns out, I can’t. Warning: once you hear them, you can’t unhear them either. They are at once brutal and deeply compassionate. Much like life itself.
Highlights:
- The Four Thoughts are uncomfortable but essential contemplations that help you see with what truly matters. They are:
- Precious Human Birth – It's rare and valuable simply to be here. If one person in your line had done something different, you would not be you!
- Impermanence and Death – Death is real (but only 100% of the time) and comes without warning.
- Karma is real – Actions have results, whether or not in this lifetime.
- Samsara is an ocean of unavoidable suffering. Sure, there are also great things, but even they come with suffering because they all eventually dissolve.
- Remembering these truths can turn your mind toward wisdom, compassion, and a life of generosity.
- Even if you don't identify as Buddhist, these reflections can offer clarity in how to live more deliberately and kindly.
With personal stories and my best insights, I hope to share how remembering these truths can shift your priorities and bring you back to what matters most.
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Produced by Citizens of Sound
Music by: Derek O'Brien
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