It's Up to You - by Dzigar Kongtrul (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

On the spiritual path we speak of enlightenment. But how do we reconcile the idea of enlightenment with what we see when we look in the mirror--when insecurities, doubts, and self-centered tendencies arise in our minds? Dzigar Kongtrül suggests that we need not feel "doomed" when these experiences surface. In fact, such experiences are not a problem if we are able to simply let them arise without judging them or investing them with so much meaning. This approach to experience is what Kongtrül calls self-reflection.

Self-reflection is a practice, a path, and an attitude. It is the spirit of taking an interest in that which we usually try to push away. When we practice self-reflection we take liberation into our own hands and accept the challenge and personal empowerment in Kongtrül's title: it's up to you.

Review Quotes

"Kongtrül Rinpoche brings an unflinching and fresh perspective."--The Beacon

"After reading It's Up to You, you will be eager to be exposed to more of Kongtrül's teachings."--Spirituality & Health

"An immensely enjoyable volume."--Library Journal

"Kongtrül is an innovative teacher who is successfully transposing Buddhism in a Western key."--Shambhala Sun

"Dzigar Kongtrül Rinpoche has written an enthralling and practical book that speaks to us all with an exceptional clarity about confusion, uncertainty, and fear, about fearlessness and courage, and about awareness, joy, sanity, and freedom."--Sogyal Rinpoche, author of The Tibetan Book of Living and Dying

"Like Dzigar Kongtrül himself, this book is warm, direct, and potent. Its intimacy is transformative."--Sakyong Mipham Rinpoche, author of Turning the Mind into an Ally

About the Author

Dzigar Kongtrül grew up in a monastic environment and received extensive training in all aspects of Buddhist doctrine. In 1989, he moved to the United States with his family and in 1990, he began a five-year tenure as a professor of Buddhist philosophy at Naropa University. He also founded Mangala Shri Bhuti, his own teaching organization, during this period. He has established a mountain retreat center, Longchen Jigme Samten Ling, in southern Colorado. When not guiding students in long-term retreats and not in retreat himself, Rinpoche travels widely throughout the world teaching and furthering his own education.