The Beginning
Take refuge and arouse bodhichitta.
The Main Part
Meditate: If I continue to commit negative actions out of ignorance, I will inevitably have to endure the sufferings of the lower realms in my future lives. Just as I find the minor sufferings of this life hard to bear, how will I ever survive the intense heat of the hot hells, the freezing cold of the cold hells, the extreme hunger of the pretas, or the stupidity and brutality of the animal realm?
I must realize that my current situation is a result of my past actions, and my future will be determined by what I do now. There is no one else to blame for my suffering, and no one else can save me from the consequences of my karma but myself.
Therefore, resolve: I must stop all non-virtuous actions immediately and devote myself to the practice of the Dharma while I still have the choice and the opportunity.
The Ending
Dedicate all the merit of your practice to all sentient beings.
