A great teacher will always skillfully and thoughtfully ask you questions in order to awaken your curiosity and encourage you to ask more questions. To truly benefit from a teacher, they need feedback. If you don’t understand something, it’s important to ask for clarification. Learning is a two-way street; students must listen and actively participate in their learning. The most crucial thing to consider when choosing a teacher is whether you can relate to and trust them.
The initial inquiry for a teacher could revolve around the distinction between skillful and unskilled practices. However, the questioning should not cease at merely understanding the concept of skillfulness or some guidelines surrounding it. It is imperative to evaluate one’s own behaviors. Teaching fundamentally involves assessing and modifying behavior, motivation, and the outcomes derived from one’s actions. If undesirable results manifest, it is crucial to reassess and acquire knowledge on alternative ways to behave, think, and communicate, which can be facilitated by seeking guidance from others.
(DAP 64) Though all his life a fool associates with a wise man, he no more comprehends the Truth than a spoon tastes the flavor of the soup.
(DAP 65) Though only for a moment a discerning person associates with a wise man, quickly he comprehends the Truth, just as the tongue tastes the flavor of the soup.
Take into account these elements when seeking out a qualified instructor:
1. Determine whether the instructor imparts knowledge that goes beyond the constraints of greed, aversion, and delusion.
2. Evaluate whether the instructor embodies honesty by refraining from claiming expertise they do not possess.
3. Consider whether the instructor demonstrates compassion by avoiding actions that may cause harm or suffering to others.
4. If the responses are negative, positive, and positive in that order, it is recommended to search for a different instructor.
5. If the responses are positive, negative, and negative in that order, proceed to the next phase in the journey towards realizing the truth.
6. Continue to question and seek guidance that encourages mindfulness and proficiency in your pursuit of knowledge.
7. Bear in mind that societal influences can impact our perception of reality, but genuine trust can only be built through selfless deeds.
How do you live your life? How do you express love and compassion? How do you tackle challenges and manage stress? Where does knowledge reside, and where are the gaps in your understanding? Continue expanding your imagination to explore your ideas of genuine tranquility and what that may entail. The trouble arises when we presume we have all the answers. Are you truly aware of where you belong? Without ongoing practice, you cannot attain relaxation. This mindset may suggest we have reached our limits. It is vital to persevere and forge ahead to discover new paths and remain on them. Failing to do so may lead to reverting to old patterns. Both Insight Meditation and Dharma demand commitment and drive – only you can transform yourself. Where is wisdom found?
Before speaking, consider three things: Are your words true? Are they helpful? Is it the right time to speak positively, or is it necessary to address something negative?
Prioritizing truthfulness is essential in our daily lives, as self-deception must be recognized before we can detect falsehoods in others.