The great nineteenth century master, Jamgon Kongtrul Lodro Thaye, placed the "Four Thoughts That Turn the Mind" at the pinnacle of his explanation of Buddhist philosophy. They encapsulate the major teachings of Buddhism into four simple phrases: the precious human birth; the impermanence of phenomena; karma as cause and effect; and the defects of samsara. Contemplation of these four constitute the preliminary practices and they accompany meditation practice throughout our lives. One talk on one DVD.