[jonesboy]

The following is from the book AN INTRODUCTION TO THE PRACTICE
OF CONTEMPLATION by Chogyal Namkhai Norbu

Among the many topics taught by the Master
Chogyal Namkhai Norbu during a retreat at Monte
Faito in spring 1980, that the present writer had the
good fortune to attend, he gave the transmission of a
complete and progressive method for those wishing to
practise contemplation according to the Dzogchen
tradition.

This is a progressive method, replete with counsels
and exercises to enable a beginner to master the
practice, and with precious advice on how to avoid
deviating from the right path. Among other things it
also gives definitive clarification regarding the crucial
moment when students may start to consider
themselves Dzogchen practitioners.

This method is complete because, starting from the
beginner's position it reaches the advanced level,
illustrating on the way the increasingly imperceptible
and delicate variances that distinguish true
contemplation from the deviations that, throughout
the path, present a risk to the practitioner. Finally, it
directly penetrates the purest realms of Total Perfection
so as to provide all the instruments that enable one to
achieve perfect and complete Realization.

This book is intended as a manual of contemplation
that can be utilized by all practitioners of the Dzogchen
Community.