1st Contemplation: The Preciousness of Human Existence
It is very tricky to think that after death we will continue in another human form. Truthfully and realistically speaking, you are never going to get another chance like this one. So, it is best is see whether what are you doing in this life with all its challenges, will sum up in such a way as to produce another lifetime gifted with the same kinds of opportunities.
All the good causes and conditions from the past, resulting in this life, are so very rare, and therefore, there is no time to waste. There is no time to waste because another opportunity like this will not easily come again. Don’t just say, “I know this is a very precious human existence.” but truly contemplate it. …
Instead of succumbing to laziness when it arises, face the laziness by contemplating the preciousness of human existence. When you are overcome by depression, disappointment, or sadness, turn your mind to the contemplation of the preciousness of human existence. …
2nd Contemplation: Impermanence
Be clear about what is important and act in accordance with that. Take your contemplation on impermanence to heart and you will find the strength, wisdom, and courage to make the right choices. The power of impermanence will make it easier to drop anger, hatred and jealousy and will provide the strength to lessen attachment.
3rd Contemplation: Karma
Reflect on the force of karma that has created your existence. Everything you think and do has a consequence, a result. … Own up to that karma. Take responsibility for it. All experiences are created by karma itself, so ask yourself, “What kind of karma have I created?”
The adorning quality of this human existence is that one’s karma can be transformed. No matter how fragile and impermanent one’s life, one can transcend and purify one’s karma. If there is such a thing as cause and effect, then it also contains within it the wisdom of knowing that it can be a cause of happiness and liberation. So, take responsibility for this. Consider that when faced with karma today, you may be able to transform that karma to the path of enlightenment ….
4th Contemplation: Suffering of the Six Realms
It is only by taking responsibility for one’s own karma that the sufferings of sentient beings can be lessened. By using this precious human existence to its fullest potential, bringing about an absolute exhaustion of the suffering of all sentient beings is within reach.
If one’s contemplation on the suffering of the six realms is weak, [then] selflessness, compassion and genuine sympathy for other sentient beings cannot arise in the mind of the practitioner.
Source: Based on Jetsun Khandro Rinpoche. “Contemplating the Four Reminders”. https://www.khandrorinpoche.org/teachings/print/jkr-four-reminders-2008-08-09/
(Jetsun Khandro Rinpoche)