2. Formal Practice (2-10)
6) Between sessions maintain awareness of the dependent nature of reality.
How does one develop awareness of the dependent nature of reality? In one way this is a purely intellectual activity. One can become aware of this truth and many others, through rational analysis using Buddhist philosophy. For example, the use of these Lojong sayings is based on rational analysis. Another of my favorite sayings is number 2 - Think all phenomena are like dreams (or My reality depends on momentary perception).
However, this saying reminds us that meditation is an integral part of the path. Entering meditation and returning to the mundane, helps us recognize the dependent nature of reality in each moment. If we meditate each day, there are many opportunities to see the dependent nature of reality at times when we are not distracted by the hussle and bussle of everyday life.
The next step in this specific practice is to remember this truth in moments when we are caught up in what we think is an intense reality (like when we are self-righteous, angry, despondent, etc.) It is very useful to remember that my reality depends on my momentary perception (in these particular moments.) This is because this recognition can save us from a great deal of suffering at our own hands when we lose sight of this fundamental truth. Remembering the insight of this saying at those moments is particularly difficult, so in the beginning we may remember shortly afterwards. Perhaps as we meditate on the recollection of the thoughts and feelings that arose. Hopefully with time we reach this state of recognition sooner and sooner, so that we can continuously keep the dependent nature of reality as a constant point of view.
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