Take on the three principal causes.

Beaver photo by Joanne Kennedy

          Beavers rely on three resources to build their dams: a slow-moving stream with a mud bottom, hardwood trees, and stones. Trees with small trunks are cut and placed in the water with the butt downstream. The butts of these logs are weighed down with heavy rocks; the weight of the stones and the stream’s current force the ends down into the mud bed. Branches form the superstructure around the logs, layered to construct walls from 2 to 3 feet thick. Openings between the branches are stuffed with mud and vegetation to further seal the structure. Access to the lodge is through an underwater tunnel, which helps protect the beaver from predators. The ‘three causes’ in this slogan are the primary resources needed for a sturdy foundation; these three things are what will support us as we travel our spiritual path. The first is a compassionate mentor who can teach effectively, and whose knowledge and experience make him or her qualified. The second is our devotion to the teachings themselves – we enthusiastically apply ourselves to the principles and practices. The third is the support we find to continue our training – the encouragement of friends and an economic resource. Just as the beaver is constantly repairing its dam, so we must not become complacent in maintaining the strong base that will help us move forward.

To practice this slogan is simply to recall all of this when your get grumpy or dissatisfied: remember your community and teachers, remember the importance of mind training, remember that you have what you need to do it. ~ Norman Fischer

For more information on the forty-fifth slogan, go here.