B VIEW HUMAN BRTH

 A

We need to be born a human being, as this is the only state of existence in which there is enough suffering to give us an acute desire to be free from samsara, yet not so much suffering that we no longer have the opportunity to free ourselves through the practice of Dharma. If we do not make use of the precious opportunity of a human existence, we cannot but go downward, like a stone rolling down a hill. DILGO KHYENTSE RINPOCHE (1910-1991)

Certainly. Here's an elaboration of the key points in Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche's quote in clear bullet-point form:

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Elaborated Bullet Points:

• Human Life Offers a Unique Balance:
  Among all possible forms of existence in samsara (cyclic existence), being born as a human offers a rare and balanced condition. It includes enough suffering to awaken a yearning for liberation, but not so much that one is overwhelmed or incapable of spiritual practice.

• Suffering as a Catalyst for Liberation:
  In the human realm, suffering — through illness, aging, death, loss, and emotional pain — serves as a powerful motivator. It pushes individuals to seek deeper meaning, ultimately leading them toward the Dharma and the possibility of enlightenment.

• Not Too Much Suffering to Paralyze Us:
  Unlike beings in the hell realms or those in states of extreme torment, humans are not constantly consumed by unbearable suffering. This allows for clear thinking, introspection, and disciplined practice, which are necessary for progressing on the spiritual path.

• Rare and Precious Opportunity:
  A human rebirth, especially one with access to the Dharma and the freedom to practice it, is considered exceedingly rare in Buddhist thought. It is viewed as a precious chance that must not be wasted.

• Consequences of Neglect:
  If we squander this opportunity and fail to cultivate wisdom, compassion, and awareness, we risk falling into lower realms of existence in future lives — states with more suffering and less capacity for liberation.

• Natural Decline Without Effort:
  The analogy of a stone rolling downhill illustrates that without intentional effort and spiritual discipline, the tendency of samsaric existence is to degenerate, not improve on its own. Spiritual progress requires conscious striving.

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