"Preface" Summary

Sogyal Rinpoche begins by discussing his childhood. Born in Tibet, and only six months old when he entered the monetary, Sogyal was the student of Master Jamyang Khyentse Ch?kyi Lodr?. His name, Rinpoche explains, stems from the Buddhist tradition of finding reincarnations of deceased masters. Sogyal, Master Khyentse believed, was the reincarnation of Master Tert?n Sogyal. Sogyal Rinpoche dedicates the book to his master, who he believes was a kind, wise, holy man, and the embodiment of Tibetan Buddhism. He explains Master Khyentse treated him as a son, and Sogyal often found refuge with his Master. Others, however, feared Master Khyentse's power, recognizing him as the reincarnation of a Master responsible for the renaissance of spirituality in Tibet. Many called him 'Rinpoche,' the title for a Master meaning 'precious one.' Sogyal closes by hoping he can impart...