Friends, there is no happiness in this swamp of samsara, so move to the firm ground of liberation.
Atisha

Being under the influence of wrong views you do not realize the ultimate nature of things, therefore investigate correct meanings.
Atisha

Since this human life is wasted by indulging in distractions, now is the time to practice concentration.
Atisha

You remain in samsara through the power of laziness, therefore ignite the fire of the effort of application.
Atisha

Since hatred is rife in these impure times, don the armour of patience, free from anger.
Atisha

Always keep pure moral discipline for it leads to beauty in this life and happiness hereafter.
Atisha

Distracting enjoyments have no essence, therefore sincerely practice giving.
Atisha

Since you will definitely have to depart without the wealth you have accumulated, do not accumulate negativity for the sake of wealth.
Atisha

Since you cannot tame the minds of others until you have tamed your own, begin by taming your own mind.
Atisha

Since all the happiness and suffering of this life arise from previous actions, do not blame others.
Atisha

If the things you desire do not come it is due to karma created long ago, therefore keep a happy and relaxed mind.
Atisha

It is completely meaningless to put effort into activities that have no essence.
Atisha

If you engage in many meaningless activities your virtuous activities will degenerate, therefore stop activities that are not spiritual.
Atisha

If you talk too much with little meaning you will make mistakes, therefore speak in moderation, only when necessary.
Atisha

Always keep a smiling face and a loving mind, and speak truthfully without malice.
Atisha

See all living beings as your father or mother, and love them as if you were their child.
Atisha

Do not contemplate your own good qualities, but contemplate the good qualities of others, and respect everyone as a servant would.
Atisha

Do not look for faults in others, but look for faults in yourself, and purge them like bad blood.
Atisha

Do not be jealous of others' good qualities, but out of admiration adopt them yourself.
Atisha

Have no hatred for enemies, and no attachment for friends.
Atisha

Generate compassion for lowly beings, and especially avoid despising or humiliating them.
Atisha

You will have to depart leaving everything behind, so do not be attached to anything.
Atisha

Since future lives last for a very long time, gather up riches to provide for the future.
Atisha

Since the happiness, pleasure, and friends you gather in this life last only for a moment, put them all behind you.
Atisha

Words of praise and fame serve only to beguile us, therefore blow them away as you would blow your nose.
Atisha

Profit and respect are nooses of the maras, so brush them aside like stones on the path.
Atisha

Avoid activities that are said to be meritorious, but which in fact are obstacles to Dharma.
Atisha

Avoid all haughty, conceited, proud, and arrogant minds, and remain peaceful and subdued.
Atisha

Friends, the things you desire give no more satisfaction than drinking sea water, therefore practice contentment.
Atisha

If from your heart you practice in accordance with Dharma, both food and resources will come naturally to hand.
Atisha

If you practice with great devotion, results will arise immediately, without your having to wait for a long time.
Atisha

Because you have received advice, whenever you are not meditating always practice in accordance with what your Spiritual Guide says.
Atisha

Dedicate your virtues throughout the day and the night, and always watch your mind. -- Atisha

Since there is never a time when worldly activities come to an end, limit your activities.
Atisha

Avoid friends who cause you to increase delusions, and rely upon those who increase your virtue. This you should take to heart.
Atisha

Until you attain stable realizations, worldly amusements are harmful, therefore abide in a place where there are no such distractions.
Atisha

Avoid places that disturb your mind, and always remain

where your virtues increase.
Atisha