If compassion without focus has not arisen,
And you don't know what practices lead to what results,
Then you won't have the power to ripen sentient beings,
So keep on perfecting your practice!

When guiding the mind-streams of other sentient beings,
Without experienced Dharma-eyes to see,
Then the ones who have faith, you will lead astray,
So keep on perfecting your practice!

If you are not brimming with the two siddhis,
Your sons and your daughters may supplicate you,
But you'll have no nourishing blessing to give them,
So keep on perfecting your practice!

When you act as a teacher for other beings,
If appearance and mind have not become one,
You won't stand out shining above all the others,
So keep on perfecting your practice!

When you're in the middle of all your students,
If you are not an illusory being,
When you fall, you might pull everyone else down with you,
So keep on perfecting your practice!

When performing a lama’s enlightened actions,
Without the armies of the two great gatherings,
Obstacles faced might carry the day,
So keep on perfecting your practice!

When upholding the teachings of the Lord Buddha,
If the field of your virtuous deeds is not ripe,
Then harvesting early may yield you no fruit,
So keep on perfecting your practice!

By Gyalwa Götsangpa, Tibetan, p.364.
Under the guidance of Khenpo Tsultrim Gyamtso Rinpoche, translated by Ari Goldfield, August 29, 2000. Translation copyright 2012, Ari Goldfield.