The Seven-Part Cause & Effect Development of Bodhichitta

To develop bodhichitta, we first need to develop equanimity, free of attachment, aversion and indifference to others. On the basis of equanimity, we think how everybody’s been our mother, developing “heartwarming love” with gratitude and appreciation for all the kindness we have received. This leads to developing love – the wish for others to be happy and to have the causes for happiness – and compassion – the wish for others to be free of suffering and the causes of suffering. With exceptional resolve we are taking responsibility that we are going to help others reach liberation and enlightenment. To do so, we develop a bodhichitta aim to attain enlightenment ourselves.