Why do we go for refuge?

We go for refuge in order to escape from the endless cycle of suffering within samsara. Totally powerless to shield ourselves from inescapable suffering, we need a protector. We are in great danger and ultimately unable to help ourselves. The danger is our own ignorance with its inevitable result of suffering. We take refuge in the recognition that wisdom mind is the only refuge that truly exists.

Lama Tharchin Rinpoche
A Commentary on the Dudjom Tersar Ngondro 

Watch the Vimeo Ngondro Series: Refuge
with Lama Sonam Rinpoche