The session begins with reflections on the guru yoga prayer and a question to Geshe-la about the relationship between choice and surrender. Geshe-la shares personal stories from his early life, describing how his mother and teachers influenced his path to monastic life. He explains how initial surrender without clarity gradually became a deeper understanding of the value of a simple life. Discussion emphasises that true surrender arises from lived experience and wisdom, while forced choices or unhealthy surrender lack stability.

Geshe-la describes how surrender and choice evolve, outlining stages from individual to collective concern, and notes that real surrender comes when there is no doubt. Participants reflect that surrender is giving up to wisdom, while choice involves keeping options open. He stresses the importance of dedication in spiritual seeking, contrasting wisdom-seeking with material aims that often create suffering.

The dialogue then shifts to questions about the eight auspicious symbols. Geshe-la explains their outer, inner, and symbolic meanings, including the victory banner, lotus, conch, and umbrella. He describes how these symbols appear in meditation postures and monastery objects, reminding practitioners of elemental balance, wisdom, and liberation. Their presence in temples and art is connected to practice as reminders of conduct and mind training.

Further questions focus on phowa (consciousness transference). A participant asks about imagery involving horns and a sword. Geshe-la explains these as symbolic elements from the stupa, used in visualisation to support the piercing of subtle channels. He describes how the stupa’s layers represent the four immeasurables, emptiness, and tantric stages. Visualisation of the sword and horns correlates with the mind’s natural associations with sharpness, aiding in phowa practice.

The conversation deepens into the role of life force in phowa. Geshe-la explains that practice is not only preparation for death but also a way to strengthen energy during life. Sending consciousness upward and returning it with a long-life mantra collects positive energy and integrates the five elemental forces. He emphasises the quality of visualisation and concentration over numerical repetition.

The session closes with practical questions on the vigour of practice and heat generation. Geshe-la notes that balance is essential — neither too gentle nor too forceful. Focus and clarity are more important than intensity. The group thanks Geshe-la and prepares to transition into a guided concentration meditation led by Andy, concluding with dedication.