A skilled horseman does not fall from his horse, even when he is distracted. In the same way, if you are able to take adverse conditions that suddenly develop as aids to mind training even without expressly directing your attention to do so, then you are proficient in mind training. The two bodhicittas arise clearly and effortlessly along with everything that appears-enemies, friends, troublemakers, happiness, or suffering.

These four lines describe signs that your training in bodhicitta has been effective and that proficiency has developed. They are not signs that you need not train further. Until buddhahood is attained, you should train to strengthen bodhicitta.

From THE GREAT PATH OF AWAKENING, by Jamgn Kongtrul, translated by Ken McLeod. 1993 by Ken McLeod.
Published by arrangement with Shambhala Publications, Inc., Boston.