If we did not have any fears and had the power to attain enlightenment, there would be no need to seek refuge. However, it is not like that for us now. Since beginningless time we have been oppressed by the slothful mind of ignorance, bound by the noose of karma and mental afflictions, and punished by birth, old age, sickness, and death. . . . Through confident faith in the three jewels, which have the power to protect from such fear, one has the mental state of complete trust and confidence.

-- Ngawang Tenzin Norbu