
About this episode
Some people look upon crying as an indication of self-pity or weakness, a loss of self-control or indication of some sort of emotional disorder or infirmity . . . or perhaps merely a means of manipulation.
But for those on the Buddhist path, tears often emerge for reasons quite different; signaling a profound opening to a richer embrace of our range of experience.
Sometimes we cry on the outside, our eyes filling with tears . . . but the crying of which we're speaking here occurs inside, in that aspect of mind we refer to as heart. And the Buddhist heart cries not tears of weakness but of understanding and strength . . . tears of compassion.
As such, crying can be a wonderful moment, the physical effect of a quantum spiritual step, akin to breaking out of the shell of self-cherishing and preparing to fly.
(Length: 12 minutes)
Presented by Mark Winwood of the Chenrezig Project, accompanied by music composed and performed by the renowned SF Bay-area musician Bobby Vega.
Get every episode summarized
Each time Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant Mind publishes, we email you a written briefing from the transcript — the topics, who appeared, and any specific claims, with the ad reads skipped.
Email me new episodesFree for 3 shows. No card needed.
Hosts & guests
No transcript yet
This episode has not been transcribed. Request it and it moves to the front of the queue.
More episodes
More from Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant Mind

The Trees of Indra's Infinitely Jeweled Net
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant Mind

Himalayan Buddhism and the Last Yeti on Earth
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant Mind

A 'Holiday' Dharma Tale (aka 'There's Nothing the Mind Can't be Trained to Do')
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant Mind

Afflictive Kleshas . . . In the Nature of Highway Robbers
Tibetan Buddhism: The Elegant Mind