CARD 41
[Front]
Two activities: one at the beginning, one at the end.
[Back]
Commentary: In the morning when you wake up, you reflect on the day ahead and aspire to use it to keep a wide-open heart and mind. At the end of the day, before going to sleep, you think over what you have done. If you fulfilled your aspiration, even once, rejoice in that. If you went against your aspiration, rejoice that you are able to see what you did and are no longer living in ignorance. This way you will be inspired to go forward with increasing clarity, confidence, and compassion in the days that follow.

CARD 42
[Front]
Whichever of the two occurs, be patient.
[Back]
Commentary: Whatever happens in your life, joyful or painful, do not be swept away by reactivity. Be patient with yourself and don't lose your sense of perspective.

CARD 43
[Front]
Observe these two, even at the risk of your life.
[Back]
Commentary: The "two" referred to here are (1) your refuge vows (the vow to take refuge in that which is not based on ego-gratification but on the open, unbiased nature of the Buddha, the dharma, and the sangha) and (2) your bodhisattva vows (the vow to use your life to awaken in order to help all beings to do the same).

CARD 44
[Front]
Train in the three difficulties.
[Back]
Commentary: The three difficulties (or the three difficult practices) are: (1) to recognize your neurosis as neurosis, (2) then not to do the habitual thing, but to do something different to interrupt the neurotic habit, and (3) to make this practice a way of life.

CARD 45
[Front]
Take on the three principal causes.
[Back]
Commentary: The three principal causes that allow us to put these teachings into practice are: a qualified teacher, a mind that turns toward awakening, and supportive circumstances.