Week One Essay
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Please read Dudjom Rinpoche’s essay, “The Play of Thoughts.” (Link below)
This article specifies the importance of devotion to a lama. For those of us who do not have a lama (or guru), how and where can we develop devotion? What are you already devoted to?
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1Xmrg9pqTdt70LlriYP4g1tKjw7tPocUb/view
Please share your thoughts in reply to this topic post and share responses to two or more essays from fellow students.
And apologies for going over time this week!!
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I love this question because, as a long-time yoga student and teacher, the idea of “gurus” is so inherent in so many branches (at times, to the overall detriment of the practice). While in theory I like the idea of “one” teacher, I’m inherently skeptical of it in practice. For me, personally, I tend to cultivate devotion in a few other directions – (1) visualizing ancient or ancestral bodies and/or spirit guides, whom I haven’t known in this life; (2) shifting focus to my own “inner” guru, founded in the idea that we are all divine; and, less concretely, (3) connecting to a collective higher power of consciousness. The destinations may be different but, interestingly, the path/sensation feels quite similar.
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Love this, Kelly! I also connected with this notion of an inner guide or guru or that collective higher power of consciousness you mention. That notion of our inner divinity and connection to that collective is so powerful. Thank you 🙂
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I relate to your share, Kelly. The concept of “guru” is strong in the yoga lineage that I study (ashtanga) but I have a hard time with that concept. I believe in learning from many teachers, feeling it in my body/mind, and then adapting– like what you said– having an “inner guru”/ I appreciate your share!
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Loved this essay from Dudjom Rinpoche and the questions gave me a lot of pause to think. I think there are many reasons why someone may not have a guru or lama, maybe they live somewhere where they have no ability to connect with a teacher in this way or they are a solo practitioner or some other reasons. But I think the idea of “devotion to a lama” can also be looked at as a metaphor, as well. The lama can be seen as a representative of the dharma or the practice, so we can all be devoted to the dharma or practice and the lineage from whence it all came. We can also see the lama as our own inner spiritual teacher or even that calm abiding that resides within us all that we can connect to. Pema Chrodon’s teaching on the lojong slogons is called “This Moment is the Perfect Teacher” and I think this is also a powerful statement. We have many ways to connect to the path or teachings, and this can be through a guru or lama, or in every moment. Every moment gives us an opportunity to connect with the guru or lama in this metaphorical sense.
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Just for fun, I looked up the definition of devotion. Profound dedication… Ernest attachment.
Dudjom Rinpoche lived and worked in the cradle of Tibetan Buddhism. In exile, they worked hard to rebuild and maintain that system and those traditions. In them, students dedicated themselves to a lama. I can imagine that being attached to such a teacher would affect one’s practice. It might feel like “pouring water into water.” Spending time with someone so skilled might “rub off” on me without effort.
In the West in current times, we simultaneously have more and less access to great teachers and lamas. Because of the Internet, I can watch videos, read articles, and order books from many different Dharma holders. How fortunate! They don’t know me, however. I am reading general advice instead of someone knowing me and my gifts and challenges.
This means I get to steer my own Dharma ship. It’s up to me how and how much to practice, what to study, and to whom I listen.
I am dedicated to the dharma – continuing to practice (on and off “the cushion.”) Practice is the “how.” I am attached to learning more and bringing that understanding to my daily life. My life is the “where.” Right here. Right now. Aware and awake in this moment.-
Oooh, Kate, this was so nice! I never thought to look up the definition of devotion, that makes so much sense. I also loved that phrase, “pouring water into water.” So profound, it made me think of “absorption” – devotion being like “absorption into the teachings” rather than like, just taking something on to memorize it or whatever. Not sure if I’m being clear! Your last three lines make me want to write them down so I can read them over and over again. So beautiful 🙂
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Hello Kate,
The image of you “steering your own Dharma ship” resonated strongly with me and inspires me greatly. I recognized myself through it, a committed captain navigating the waters of her own unique and precious spiritual path. And I feel it reflects the responsibility and choice I have, for each moment, of what is meaningful. Thank you for sharing this beautiful illustration. -
Kate,
How cool! I was able to see how this would take place with your writing. I saw the student and the lama, as if I was watching a documentary. In my imagination, they were working side by side, carrying bowls… and making certain all traditions were not lost in exile. What a profound snapshot. This image will help me contemplate the meaning and write my own response. I now have a greater understanding of what Kyabje Dudjom Rinpoche wrote and a deeper understanding of the teacher and lama relationship. Thanks for the inspiration.
Rachel
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I’m working off the excellent definitions Kate just provided (thanks, Kate!): Profound dedication…Earnest attachment, as I consider this reading in light of how new I am to Buddhism, the dharma, sangha, and meditation. I have profound dedication to my children and grandchildren and being an active participant in their lives as best I can. Yet I also have earnest attachment to other things that nourish my being: nature, writing, art-making, creativity, this course, my sangha circle. I’m not sure I know what it’s like to be devoted to a teacher. My spiritual background is Christianity, and I’ve learned to be hesitant in throwing all my energy behind a single teacher, because I have been wounded by them. That said, I do like the line from this essay that says, “His [assuming this is the guru] is not better, ours is not impure.” I interpret this to mean that as long as I’m following whatever opens my heart, I may be on the path to eliminating obstacles. But I’m not sure, or if that will work. For now, this course is my teacher, as I learn more about practicing meditation and with eyes wide open moving into my world with more authenticity, clarity, and focus.
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Ginny, I hear you saying that among other beautiful people and experiences in your life, you are devoted to our current MTT path and to staying open to your learning with curiosity. I appreciate your comments and experience about “throwing all (your) energy behind a single teacher. Wise discernment, and I appreciate that you explicitly stated this.
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Masterful Marriage at a Young Age
I need a vessel as wide as infinity to embrace the true nature of you.
My thoughts are big on desire.
I can’t translate.
I am like a luna moth-bold and silly.
Everybody you love seems invisible in your presence.
What was I saying?
I’m roaming around picking up the pieces, still.
“Narrative, poetics destroyed my body, a dissolving, a return.”
I feel somewhat diminished watching the sunrise on the beach.
I am also trying to tell your story.
Why don’t you tell it? I will stand beside myself.
It is fiction anyway.
Tell me what you think is true.
You are the ocean.
I am noting the receding echoes.
Me, I am occupying the monotonous shore.
I peer through the kaleidoscope with my mind, proximal to the pounding surf.
What am I saying?
-Rant.
I think (but do not say) I should blame you.
Tell your story in your own language.
Ok?
Show up in your wavy hair cut short.
I remember now.
You were a country boy who stared at the sky and tripped over your own feet.
You liked Herman Hesse.
The contrast between worldliness and monasticism
Struck you
Like the absolute certainty of a heart attack.
Your hands are like piano players-long tapering fingers.You spit in the shower.
(Inspired by The Fragile Vial by Rumi)-
I love poems so much, I’m delighted you shared yours here.
Instead of trying to translate nor understand, I let my heart be immersed and read it aloud slowly. Suddenly I felt the rhythm, the flow, the images.The way you illustrate the vastness of the ocean took my breath away :
“You are the ocean.
I am noting the receding echoes.
Me, I am occupying the monotonous shore.”And I didn’t know this poem of Rumi. What a gift.
Thank you Donna. -
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How do we develop devotion? The Play of Thought essay states in the last paragraph: “…our mind becomes ‘one’ with the mind of the Lama…there is no difference between our mind and that of the Lama. His is not better, ours is not impure. Such differences do not exist.” To erase the distinction of “better” and “impure” eradicates the hierarchical ranking according to merit – All are equal, or at least equally essential for existence – the yin and yang, light and dark. If the Lama is the guru or authority, and our mind is no different than theirs, then we are the Lama, we are our own guru. That is sovereignty, and it’s a lot to understand. What is in our authority? What is our locus of control? To answer this, it helps to notice where our resources of attention and money and time are devoted.
I want to say I’m devoted to Love, Service, and Justice. However, when I stop to ask myself: Where do I spend my money? How do I spend my time? … then maybe it’s not Love, Service, and Justice – maybe I’m really devoted to politics (!), or the internet (!!), or perhaps I’m devoted to food!!!
Is it still devotion if it is mundane rather than spiritual? Sometimes the mundane is equivalent to the spiritual. Ten years ago (or so) I was devoted to my dying mother’s care, and the days and nights revolved around her physical needs. Last year I devoted time and money on a nutrition program that helped me to lose weight, a mundane aim that has enormous health repercussions. For years I worked in an office, in addition to teaching art on the weekends, and I was devoted to my mundane work to the point where I felt burnt out. I therefore quit the office job and intended to devote more attention to teaching and making art, but it wasn’t that simple.
My personal artmaking was somewhat blocked (which I’m still working around) and the teaching part began to get onerous, in terms of mundane preparation. I was anxious and perfectionistic about preparing for classes and the anxiety was producing physical aberrations – I routinely felt nauseous before teaching class and a whole host of other aches and pains developed, including a frozen shoulder. The minute that I decided to go on sabbatical from the school (March of 2024), that shoulder was FINE. It took less than a split second for the pain to vanish, and I was amazed, because it had been quite painful and immobile for about 4 months. I’ve been blocked and stymied in teaching art and artmaking so thoroughly, that although I wish I were devoted to art, I cannot truthfully say that I am.
What am I really devoted to? After close consideration, I conclude that I am devoted to Love. Love is of God, and to me the terms are interchangeable. Love and kindness determine my actions and words, and these are good things to live by. Love, with healthy boundaries!
I have to say that I am also devoted to learning. I read a lot and take a lot of courses, and have earned a variety of certifications and degrees in various subjects and modalities. I have a lot of curiosity, which is really kind of fun, because I’m never bored. In fact, sometimes I overwhelm myself incoming information, and that is something I’m trying to temper. I’m at an age where the objects of my attention and resources need to be more selective, because there simply isn’t enough Earthly time to learn everything about everything. In addition to learning, this seeker is open to Knowing.
– Karen Daughtry-
Hello, Karen
As I read your response, I feel so much dedication and determination from you in getting to know yourself and the world. I was struck by your analysis of how you actually spend your time to determine your devotion. I also was struck by your devotion to self-learning (your observation of your stress) and to learning about the world (“I read a lot and take a lot of classes…). It seems that you have many aspirations and central is love, health and knowing. I wish you joy, happiness and a sense of fulfillment as you continue along your journey.-
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Hey Karen, I love your response to this question of what you are devoted to! It is so raw and deeply personal, I appreciate your openness and self-awareness of your emotions. I am glad you were able to free yourself of that anxiety and took care of yourself. We have a similar devotion to learning, studying, and curiosity. I too have a number of modalities. I am glad to be on this journey with you!
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What a great question, can devotion be to something mundane and not spiritual? I was thinking along this line while I sorted through what I am devoted to as well. And as you say, isn’t the mundane often the present moment, and when we really pay attention it’s not so mundane at all? Each little mundane thing is worth so much really. This is lovely, thank you for pointing to this.
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Hi Karen! Thank you for sharing such a beautiful, raw, honest reflection. Your comments about the mundane vs. spiritual definitely stirred something in me. In my own experience, there is no difference. I absolutely love these words from Mark Nepo (perhaps you’ve heard them before?):
“The further I wake into this life, the more I realize that God is everywhere and the extraordinary is waiting quietly beneath the skin of all that is ordinary. Light is in both the broken bottle and the diamond, and music is in both the flowing violin and the water dripping from the drainage pipe. Yes, God is under the porch as well as on top of the mountain, and joy is in both the front row and the bleachers, if we are willing to be where we are.”
Per your comment “Sometimes the mundane is equivalent to the spiritual” – I love the simplicity and beauty in realizing that if we are present with what is directly in front of us (our dying parent, our delicious garden veggies, our wondrous child, our email to a colleague) the quality of devotion is already here. At least that’s how I experience it. How profound!
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This question on devotion, a rich word, full of meaning, got me thinking. When I was very young, in my larger family upbringing and at school, it carried weight because it was used to inculcate a form of submission to authority. As I grew older, I “learned to learn” to take responsibility for myself ! But because of that background, I am aware that the term devotion can still occasionally convey in me misunderstanding and questions. I need yet to learn more about the Buddhist traditional teachings on “guru devotion”practice, and try to place them in their historical context to better understand their significance beyond my own cultural sensitivity. Here I simply want to share about the inspiring experiences I’ve known from some teachers I’ve had the good fortune to meet.
These are connections to dharma (and before, dance) teachers, who lit a flame of clarity in myself, of discipline, of commitment, of sincere enthusiasm, always with a respectful appreciation. Why? Because of the precision, the authenticity, the joy in their transmission of the teachings, and because of the source of strength and support I felt with them. Thanks to them I have learned to continue to be devoted to growing faith, confidence, trust in my practice. And to be devoted to what is greater than oneself. Like to the surge of love towards my two daughters, like to the infinity of silence when I’m meditating, like to the connection with nature and its preservation and beauty, I continue to feel and develop dedication in my life, not the one I acquired as a child out of duty, but the one my heart sings with ! -
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Helene, I too had a wonderfully inspirational dance teacher for many years. She taught adult ballet, and she was from France. Those of us in her class were the dancers that didn’t have lessons in childhood and never aspired to the stage, just dancing for the physical movement (exercise) and the camaraderie of the class. Our teacher was such an amazing example in our lives, and a nurturing mother figure to me. She died at the age of 94 several years ago. I agree that the discipline and commitment of dance augments and extends our spiritual path.
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Helene, thanks for pointing out the difference between a more childish “submission to authority” and a more mature devotion. Reading your response, I got a glimpse of a different teacher-student relations than I have known. Having someone transmit discipline, authenticity, and joy would be magnetic! Your phrases of “the infinity of silence,” “nature and its preservation and beauty,” and “my heart sings” struck a deep chord within me. Thank you for your words!
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Kate, I have found your determination to stay committed and devoted to love, kindness and learning, very inspiring. Regarding the latter, I identify with the fact that there comes a time when you become very selective with the information you want to get involved with, since you want to use the available time in the most valuable way possible, and I am glad that you found this course as the next step in your learning journey.
Helen, I really value your growth process in which you could let go of old family beliefs that perhaps did not benefit you or did not represent your most honest way of being in the world and on your path. I hope your heart is singing joyfully with this shared path of formation.
Looking at those aspects of my life to which I give devotion, my main sources would be: my practice, which I try to take care of in the best possible way within the recipient of making offerings, asking for blessings and dedicating merit; the dharma we contemplate within the Open Heart Project Sangha through Susan and the other teachers we have access to; Baruc and Neliah Kandisha, two yoga teachers who have helped me delve into this discipline and live its philosophy; my work as an educator, which I live from a deep sense of service, dedication and care; and my closest family and social relationships, which give me meaning, roots, belonging and stability.
I really appreciate having the opportunity to ponder and reflect on these aspects of our lives.
Kindest wishes to all of you.-
Hello, David
When I read your response to the question of devotion, I feel such warmth, big hearted-ness and gentleness radiating from your words. I feel your kind presence. It appears as if you have a lovely circle of teachers surrounding you and that you then become a pivotal point to extend your teachings as an educator. Wishing you and those you impact much happiness. -
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Thank you so much for the article and the thought-provoking questions.
My first thought (and not my best thought in this case) is that Pema Chodron and you Susan Piver are my gurus. However, as I re-read the article, I don’t think that is the case. Though I learn so much from listening and reading both your works, it’s not that “our mind becomes one with the mind of the Lama”.
How and where to develop devotion? I believe it is to continue to study the dharma mostly as taught through Pema and Susan and to continue to have a regular siting meditation. As the article mentions, “Such differences do not exist. This is really the secret of meditation.” I think it is to continue to actively participate with OHP, and that overtime maybe a lama will reveal itself to me. I don’t think I can make it happen. I think that’s where the letting go and relaxing will be of benefit.
I am devoted to my daughters, to my grandsons, to my family and to my close friends. I am devoted to my spiritual path by continuing to study the dharma, to practice sitting and to be with fellow travelers (OHP Sangha and my local Shambhala Sangha). I am devoted to the 3 jewels: the Buddha, the dharma and the Sangha. I am devoted to PEACE, kindness and curiosity; to not giving up. I think our world needs love and compassion, and I’d like to be one small part in helping that spread.
Thank you.-
Thanks, Betsy. Your section about being devoted to your daughters, grandsons and family resonates deeply with me. It’s the first thing I thought of when Susan asked the question – and I so innate that I forgot to write about it in my own response to the essay. But it is so true. I cannot think of another being to whom I’m more devoted than the humans I “made.” I appreciate also your devotion to non-human beings – and will think more on this in my own life.
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I sighed loudly and had to take a moment of pause after reading the first sentence, “all experiences of suffering and happiness come from our actions, and the positive or negative nature of such actions depends on our motivation.”
I have struggled with the concept of “guru” especially seeing that these “gurus” that students seem to hold to a god like standard sometimes use that power to use and abuse.
I have a few “mentors” but not gurus. I believe in my inner knowing and my inner guru–which I am trying to listen to and discover more each day and in each moment.
Patterns are proving hard to break, and it is so difficult to take a step back and pause in a difficult moment. For a long time, I did not meditate because from what I understood, it was a practice of trying to “stop” thoughts. I thought this to be an impossible task.
I hope we can all be each other’s “guru” during these few months.-
Allison,
Such a thoughtful response. I appreciate what you said about the ‘inner guru’, and if we are “mixing one thing with another” then surely this is a route with merit. Devotion to this space within and allowing ourselves to “mix” with it is a discpline.It makes me wonder if finding a guru outside of the Self makes it easier for people to see this spacious, wordless quality, and provides hope. And it can be found within. I’d love to know when you have felt into this space, how did you know you were with it?
Thanks for sharing,
Rachel -
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Some years ago, I developed a mission statement: to serve the God of Love, Peace, and Compassion through creative acts and devotion. I see God as ultimate teacher, to whom I am unequivocally devoted. The dictionary meaning of devotion includes the words love and loyalty. God is at the center of my devotional life; the God of my understanding also appears in humans and places, events, and activities.
I have a meditation teacher. She brought me to the path of Shamatha and I am devoted to her–that is I love her and am loyal to our relationship. I am also devoted to my OHP circle. I both love and am devoted to the group. The same can be said for my life partner, my family, dearest friends, my unique spiritual path, which includes my work, my personal healing, my art and other creative expression. Devotion seems to be reserved for the most intimate aspects of my life. And an essential part of my devotional practice is to expand the locus of my devotion.
I am devoted to dance, to my walks in the woods near my home. When I consider these, along with activities like my morning meditation and lighting candles on Friday nights, I begin to approach what it means to cultivate devotion. It is about identifying what is meaningful and staying with it, a commitment over time. Devotion is something we can grow. The more I do it, the more meaningful the object of my devotion becomes. Devotion is a practice that is a behavior, an attitude, and a thought,
For me, devotion is possible even when it feels difficult to love or to want to be loyal. After an argument with a friend, it can be hard to feel love, or a desire to be loyal, but it is devotion, perhaps a kind of faith and trust that can keep me connected. I will hang in there and work through the challenge. Sometimes I want to run from difficulty, but my devotion keeps me from running.
And it is my desire to live in devotion to something bigger, greater than me. I return to how I began: I devote myself to God as service. Perhaps finding myself here again, remembering my mission will remind me to not give up or give in when I feel discouraged. I will embrace life’s challenges, and expand my capacity to accept, and then transcend them.
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Hello Suzie Amelia,
Reading your text made me feel so at home and on familiar ground!
I recognized myself with joy in your devotion to dance, which has been my profession for over 30 years, to walks in the forest, to your morning meditation, to your candlelight ritual, and also to that which is greater than oneself. As I read your text, I felt that it helped me refine and clarify certain aspects of devotion. Thank you for pointing out, with personal words, that devotion is a practice that cultivates what is truly important to oneself, what is meaningful, and through which one chooses to grow. -
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I find this question provocative – largely because it makes me deeply uncomfortable. Even the concept of lineage makes me uncomfortable. Images of my childhood religious experiences and corrupt clergy spring to mind – particularly how bad deeds were hidden in religious wordings or swept under the ‘religious rug’.
So my first thought was – what did I get myself involved in? Then spending a few mins googling Buddhist figures you quickly see concerning messages about a prominent US male-character who seemed to hide behind his faith to perpetrate harm.
So here I sit – concerns confirmed, ready to reject the concept of devotion to a teacher and connection to a lineage. Yet I recall my Buddhist friends who speak that their teachers warned them not to trust a word they said and for them to question everything. That’s a powerful challenge and one not typical offered by organized religions.
So I make a little more room. Ready to not see this all as solid.
What if I sat open to these concepts? What would they provide me if I didn’t so quickly reject them? So I wonder who I’m devoted too and could that help me on my journey. And what does lineage mean to me, why do Buddhist hold that of importance?
I see two beautiful images – one Pema Chodron. Her voice was a powerful hand to pull me up out of a dark place. I can see how she loves the ceremony and history of this wisdom and how she feels stronger and impowered by it’s lineage. That does help me soften and create more space. Maybe I need to have more curiosity about why these are powerful for her. I’m ready to listen.
Two – what am I devoted to? That’s easy, my support group of women survivors of childhood sexual assault, the group of women who have held my hand when I need it and cried on my shoulder when they do. They give me courage when I don’t have any. The older ones holding their hands out to support those of us in the depth of our struggle. The younger ones still close to the abuse and trying to put their lives back together. How much I feel devotion to this group – to the scientist and therapist and practicians who build understanding of our brains and trauma and CPTSD, the leaders of this movement who created safe spaces for us to come heal. Yes, if I need something to focus around my practice there is a lot of powerful energy in doing this for them.
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Gwen, thank you for your openness, your willingness to be vulnerable. It hurts to hear about your early insults by your childhood religious experiences, corrupt clergy, and more. You are courageous to open your heart to the possibility of greater paths of devotion in your life. How beautiful that you have a community of support to relieve trauma. Your devotion to your group, and their devotion to you is truly palpable.
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What a challenging and thought-provoking question. How and where can we develop devotion? Even if we do not have a lama or guru. While it is important, and as Dudjom Rinpoche says it is the “best method for eliminating obstacles during meditation”, there are other ways and places to develop devotion. One way is to take on a teacher from the past who is no longer physically with us and connect with their energy through their teachings and writings. This could be a teacher from ancient times such as Padmasambhava or a Rinpoche of more recent times that is no longer in this physical realm. One develops devotion by reading and studying their teachings ( books and articles they wrote or video and audio teachings they gave ). One may also develop devotion by reading and studying the teachings of present-day teachers and connecting with their energy. In all of this one must do their best to take the teachings and bring them inside of oneself to see how they resonate with within their own life and lived experience. A final way to develop devotion is to “find your own inner guru” and cultivate an inner trust in yourself and your basic goodness. Knowing and devotion to your true self beyond all the layers that are piled upon us from childhood until now as an adult. This is a devotion to your true nature.
I have had a few teachers on my path. I have one teacher in particular that I am devoted to and at times I would consider him my guru in a sense, but as brilliant as he is he is not a Rinpoche and would not consider himself a guru by any means. So we are in a spiritual friend/guide sort of relationship. We basically help and advise each other and learn from each other.
I am also devoted to my practice and being of service and benefit to all other sentient beings. This mostly manifests in my being a coach but in other ways as well. I am devoted to showing up in the world as love and compassion.
I am grateful to be on the path and on this journey with all of you!
-Dominic Young-
Dominic, I loved your response the the question this week. I feel the same way. It is all about love and compassion. I also learn from teachers of the past as well as many other teachers of Buddhist Dharma. Thanks for your lovely comments.
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Thanks Dominic! Two of your comments especially resonated with me:
“In all of this one must do their best to take the teachings and bring them inside of oneself to see how they resonate with within their own life and lived experience.”
– This makes me think of Susan’s emphasis on not teaching anyone anything, but helping them discover something. It’s easy, at least for me, to think about relating to a guru as some source of wisdom/practice/inspiration “out there”, when really they are a mirror that points us back to all of those things “in here”.
Your other comment “a devotion to your true nature” gave me goosebumps! I didn’t write about this in my response to this question, but in reading your words just now, this is profoundly true for me. One of the things that motivates me on this path the most is the process of becoming more intimate and familiar with the beauty and strength of my true nature. I think part of my devotion is a fierce longing and curiosity to continue to get to know that “me” (or “not me,” ha!) more and more. >3 Thank you!!!
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My first reaction when thinking of devotion to a guru or Lama is “danger! danger!” I realise that this comes from my religious upbringing, and seeing my family still live with this very intense devotion and how much discomfort this brings up for me. This also comes from my experience watching many “gurus” in my field of Traditional Chinese Medicine eventually become outed as having some very disappointing and often quite repulsive habits and traits.
So I definitely feel uncomfortable when devotion is pointed to a human, as this path of devotion involves some form of surrender and giving over power or control. This human may, in fact, deeply embody the traits that one wishes to also embody and is therefore seemingly worthy of one’s devotion, but he is also inevitably and undeniably a flawed human being. But the line from the reading, “there is no difference between our mind and that of the Lama” makes me think that the devotion Kyabje Dudjom Rinpoche speaks of is more about devotion to sort of what the Lama represents rather than to the person himself. The concept of our mind becoming “‘one’ with the mind of the Lama” feels like a way of speaking to the oneness of all once we sink deeply into meditation and let go of our separateness. In this way I can understand the importance of devotion.
I also feel very uncomfortable with devotion to a set of predetermined rules or dogma. From a very young age I remember asking a lot of questions about the rules of religion and being told, you just have to believe and stop asking so many questions. It never felt okay to me to be devoted without any chance for my own experience to give me insight, again this idea of surrendering to something that I did not fully trust.
Through my experience with mindfulness and meditation practice I feel I’ve developed devotion to understanding what really matters to me and how to live my life in a way that honors this. I feel devoted to working toward being more aware and conscious, and to spread kindness and care and love to other beings. I feel devoted to fairness and integrity in how I treat people and how I give of my resources. I also feel a lot of devotion to honoring what feels right in my heart and surrendering to and allowing my heart to be open.-
I love how you are devoted to understanding what really matters to you. I, too, feel a danger warning with devotion to a guru or living individual. Your last line about surrendering to and allowing your heart to open deeply spoke to me.
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To answer this question, I looked up the definition of devotion. Love, loyalty, or enthusiasm for a person, activity, or cause. It also means religious worship, or observance. I am devoted to my husband, my children, my grandchildren, and my dog. My way of looking at devotion is surrendering to love.
The kind of devotion that Dudjom Rinpoche is writing about is reverence for a teacher. I’m very familiar with this from my yoga teacher training which was all encompassing. I was devoted to my teachers, and many teachers of the past like BKS Isengar, Desikachar, and others. I feel devoted to many teachers including Susan Piver who I study Buddhism with, and my teacher within to guide me on my path forward. Ultimately it’s all about love.
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At first thought, the word devotion makes me squirmy: bringing up saccharine praise for self-sacrifice, generally of women, ie: the devotion of mothers for their children. Which isn’t bad! I am happily devoted to my two daughters; but bristle at the cultural belief that women should always put someone else’s needs before their own.
Devotion to a lama is a different kind of devotion, though, and something I have no experience with. Or do I? As I contemplated this question, I kept coming back to the thought that I am devoted to the dharma. Which means what? Devotion to pursuing a path of meditation and study and finding glimmers of beauty in the world, real open heartedness. I mean, I guess?
Then I listened to Sharon Salzberg interview Cortland Dahl on her podcast. Dahl is a Buddhist scholar and translator of Tibetan. He was talking about words he would like to redeem, words that have so much fraught Western cultural baggage that we’ve lost their essence. The word he talked about was devotion. He said that the word in Tibetan, “mogu” combines the words for inspiration and respect, and described the feeling you have when you meet someone you deeply respect and who opens you up to learning something new and inspires you to be a better person in some way.
So what I’ve come up with: I’m devoted to the dharma and to finding it out in the world in open hearted people.-
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Oh, I love the idea of “words to redeem”. What a beautiful way to be reminded that there’s more depth to certain concepts than we sometimes see at first.
Completely agree with initially bristling at the idea of “devotion”. I also hadn’t realized that I was applying Western patriarchal ideas to it. Thanks for this insight, Anne 🙂
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Wow, Anne. I really appreciate your squirmy-ness around the trite use of the word devotion and your reframe to “real open heartedness”. This reframe feels fresh. I also love the chance to look back at the language and culture where these concepts began, so mogu as inspiration and respect sure feels much more grounded to me. Thanks for that!
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Hello everyone!
A few thoughts about the article by Dudjom Rinpoche…
Perhaps a very loose definition of the word could be considered for those who do not have a guru. Thinking of “pouring water into water” and “just as the space enclosed by the hands becomes identical to the external space once the hands are parted”, makes me think of oneness. Only our beliefs and perceptions of things create a false separation between how we think of ourselves and others. Or how we think of our own mind versus a guru’s mind.
Instead of thinking that our guru, whoever/whatever that might be, has something we don’t possess that we have to learn, I think “pouring water into water” asks us to consider that the potential of our mind is the same as our guru’s perhaps only with differing levels of awareness and realization. I think a guru could be a spiritual teacher, Buddha, God, or even Mother Nature.
Another thought is that perhaps our guru could be our own Buddha Nature, that which is within us since birth and which is already capable of attaining enlightenment. “Pouring water into water”, in this context, could mean our mind in its current state and the mind of a Buddha are one and the same. And that we already have all we need to become completely aware, we just have to uncover it within ourselves.
In writing this essay, I discovered that I have some negative associations with the word devotion! I think this comes from my growing-up years but bears further noodling. In my own life, I think the word devotion is synonymous with the word commitment. And we can develop devotion/commitment by training our mind.
I’m devoted to/committed to my family and friends, loving myself more fully, and translating the Buddha’s teachings into my thoughts, words, and actions for the benefit of myself and others.
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I struggled with the phrase – devotion to a lama. Probably from my being raised Catholic and the rigid structure of Catholic School. That said I have always felt a connection to Mary/Kwan Yin – The embodiment of compassion, Kwan Yin is known as “she who hears the cries of the world.” For me,I use their presence as an anchor in my practice and in my everyday life.
I am more comfortable with devotion as a commitment to deepening my meditation practice and to being present. -
The idea of a lama or guru is problematic for me. My first guru was my father. His influence haunts me still, though he died over twenty years ago. He was a brilliant charismatic renaissance man who charmed many. Perhaps because of unmet needs in my relationship with him I crave a deep lama relationship.
My first regular meditation practice was in Bikram yoga. It’s a practice I love, but has developed a problematic image because of the awful misbehavior of its founder. Another flawed guru. But I have a long-standing devotion to the practice, which feels deeply healing to me, physically and spiritually. I’ve found a wonderful community in yoga, committed to health and growth.-
Hi Jamie,
That sounds like a pretty challenging dynamic for a kid to deal with at home. I am glad you have yoga and meditation to support your growth.
Guru has been pretty problematic for me, as well. In what you wrote, it sounds to me like you also experience wisdom and leadership from your practice and the folks in your spiritual community. Maybe this is lama? In my life, there is nothing so powerful as a community of good friends.
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I spent some time contemplating what brings me to the space Kyabje Dudjom Rinpoche points toward. I am devoted to what brings me easily into it. The space, it seems is a spaciousness, a stillness and ease of my body in the midst (and sometimes absence) of movement or agitation. It is a knowing, and a brilliance (clarity).
He doesn’t give concrete examples of how this may arise. I assume we are left to discover this on our own, which is in line with first encouragment from Susan, that the teacher’s path doesn’t teach, but helps their students discover.
So, what have I discovered, in my life, that brings me to this space?
Art. Art making for process, not for making anything beautiful to hang on a wall. The pure stroke that seems to come from an unknown source. But, there is a knowing, if you listen. Plus an awareness of only the moment, via one stroke at a time, all of which can lead to a joy, an insight, a place of beginning- but then it subsides, and begins anew again. It is as if time as you know it is suspended. It, like this essay, is hard to put into words. However, I’ve felt it and seen it through the art.
Meditation. Maybe it goes without saying because the essay was just about that. In a concrete way, I know when I meditate I am much more clear. I am sharper with my words. I need only a few to get the point across. There is a seamlessness in my actions. I am much more in flow with what arises. Sometimes, quite literally! I can catch a falling glass of water from the table. It’s true! That may sound very Mr. Miagi, Hollywood style, but I think perception strengthens. Plus, this isn’t all the time. But I have caught glimpses of this. So when there is an obstacle to meditation, I’ve felt enough to trust it over time. Meditation in my lama. I just can’t deny these concrete-after-meditation-moments of “bliss, clarity, and the state of mind without thoughts”. I trust it with my whole heart.
Nature. Specifically, water and the Sun. I am forever in awe of the tides and the massive unknowing that lurks under the ocean. I love the edge of earth and water. I know the sun doesn’t rise per se, but I love witnessing it. How does this sync happen? How do we keep turning around and seeing it over and over again? What sort of force is this? How does that weed grow through the sidewalk? I want to mingle with that.
The aesthetics of a stupa, a temple, hearing chanting, the clinging of bells. This probably appeals to my artistic sense. It is just so beautiful! There is an awe when in the midst of these structures and sounds. It catapults me into a different space. It elevates.
In the future, I’d love a guru, or a lama. I do wonder if I would secretly question their ‘perfection’. Would that get in the way of accepting all their wisdom? I don’t know. So many have dark sided stories.
I am open to more reading and am so happy to be learning in this way, through this group. I also have a dear ‘coven’ of 4 women who make sure we all shine bright. We hold each other up and push each other to live in a clear, genuine, bold, or calm way. Whatever way is wanted at the time- they show up for it. They are alchemists in their own right.
They are a beacon for the mystery. I am lucky to have them. They are my teachers as well, but they do not know and feel the dharma in the formal sense.-
Rachel! I have so much respect and admiration for your devotion to the process of making art. I feel like society places so much importance on the end result of the process, which overlooks the transformative power of, you know, actually DOING the thing. (I once did an art therapy class as part of an outpatient depression treatment program, and privately thought “This will be dumb/What could I possibly learn from this??” So naturally it ended up being one of my favorite parts of the program.)
And +1 for dear friends being gurus in their own way, without trying or knowing it. I learn so much from my friends.
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Oh dear, I’ve just realized my essay didn’t post. In short, I found the framing to this essay (focusing on the final paragraph) interesting, and found myself searching for more of the obvious discussion of Lama in the piece. I think that I have often, especially as a student, treated “correctness” or “perfection” as a sort of guiding force for me, and feel that pull as a student here. But it feels counter to the aim of this class, and in reflecting on the author’s definition of Lama, “water pouring into water,” I am reminded that perfection cannot reciprocate my devotion. I chose then to try again to set my devotion to perfection aside, let the ripples fade on the surface of the pond, and start again.
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The Play of Thoughts by Dudjom Rinpoche
There was so much that I loved in this essay, and it started right at the title. I felt that Dudjom Rinpoche wanted to warmly set the tone of his message by referring lightheartedly to the natural way of our minds. The nature of thoughts that seem to have their own existence which is quite independent of our task. Thoughts “play”. Of course, they also “play” with us in a timeless game of deception, unless we break the pattern.
My whole self relaxed when I read the words “In the state of ease, the mind keeps watch over the mind”. This is so uncomplicated and straightforward. I felt like I didn’t have to go rummaging around for anymore instructions. The shamatha practice was right there, I have a body, I have a breath, and my mind can keep watch. So simple.
I felt empowered.
I don’t quite think that this is lama, but maybe it is. Could it be that the instructions are, in most direct form, what leads our practice and gives it shape? Just like the example of the hands holding the space
Quite frankly, I am hesitant with the term guru as a person. I have struggled with this concept, even though I’ve had the good fortune of having brilliant, reliable, supportive teachers. Because of this, I was relieved by Susan’s definition of lama as: wisdom mind, the teachings, the lineage.
In this way, is lama the well trodden path, worn smooth by teachers and practitioners over the ages? Each following the simple instructions for practice, doing their best.
I feel like this is the meaning of lama for me right now. My meditation teacher died a few years ago. I thought this might leave me orphaned as a practitioner, but I constantly recognize his presence in my practice. I still read his books on my shelves. His lectures are digitized in this modern world, so I can still hear his earnest voice. I hear his words whisper through my thoughts and relationships. His effort give shape to my effort. His imperfections keep my heart tender. His instructions are the hands holding the space, making the container of my practice and the practice of many others.
Thankfully, there are no orphaned meditation students. Instead, there is this ancient intent carried by countless teachers, clear and gentle instructions. There is a wave of vibrance that supports our effort as we continue our journey. It’s a gift. -
How and where can we develop devotion? What are you already devoted to?
In the fall of 2017, I attended my first extended silent meditation retreat at Great Vow Monastery in Clatskanie, Oregon. During our closing circle, I was surprised by what emerged as I shared: “During this retreat, I discovered the importance of devotion. I realized that devotion is a necessary ingredient for this practice to truly take root in my heart and life.”
This spontaneous realization marked a profound shift in my understanding of mindfulness practice. Each time I meditate, I connect with something infinitely larger than myself, feeling a deep reverence for the miracle that is this life. As Mary Oliver beautifully puts it, “Attention is the beginning of devotion.” By slowing down and tuning in, I feel the presence of love and interbeing, part of a boundless unfolding mystery. In these moments, everything becomes sacred, and surrendering to the present is the only thing that makes any sense.
I would say currently, my devotion manifests most directly as a commitment to Love and to the path of awakening, continually opening my heart wider and wider. This love finds its most immediate expression in my relationship with my family and the meditation sangha my partner Ryan and I founded. My practice involves learning to show up for them as steadily and fully as possible. Importantly, my practice has taught me to include myself in this circle of care and devotion.
While I don’t have a formal “lama” or guru, I find guidance from a small group of teachers whose wisdom acts as a constant, gentle IV drip in my life. Pema Chodron, Tara Brach, Thich Nhat Hanh, Mark Nepo, Jon Kabat-Zinn, Mary Oliver, and you, Susan, all evoke in me a fondness, trust, comfort, and fervent motivation to deepen my commitment to presence. It is clear to me, as well, that the more I connect with others who are also devoted to this path (teachers, fellow sangha members, my partner Ryan) the more my own commitment is fueled.
I’ve come to understand devotion as the force that creates a “deeper tether” to what matters most. For me, this means growing in love – for myself, my family, my community, and all beings. It’s about cultivating a heartfelt commitment to presence and engaging deeply with life’s complexity. Devotion acts as a guiding light, illuminating the interconnectedness of all things and inspiring a more compassionate way of being in the world.
This journey has taught me that devotion can be found in the simplest acts – a mindful breath, a genuine connection, or quiet appreciation of nature’s beauty. It’s a practice of continually turning towards life with curiosity and kindness. Through this lens, every experience becomes an opportunity for growth and deepening understanding.
After my dad died in 2020, a new expression of devotion emerged in my daily mantra: “May the beauty and suffering in me meet the beauty and suffering in the world.” I recite this at the end of my daily practice, embodying both a commitment and an aspiration that I feel profoundly devoted to.
In embracing devotion, I continue to unearth this truth: it’s not about perfection, but presence. It’s the willingness to show up, day after day, breath after breath, with an open heart and curious mind. Whether through my daily mantra, meditation practice, or being fully present with loved ones, devotion weaves through every aspect of my life, creating a tapestry of meaning and connection. As I continue on this path, I’m reminded that devotion isn’t just about what I do, but how I approach each moment – with reverence, love, and a deep commitment to awakening, for myself and for all beings.
Like all aspects of this path, I am certain many more dimensions of devotion will continue to reveal themselves! I’m so grateful for the opportunity to reflect on this question. It has “stirred the pot” for further insights and questions (perhaps I will find and choose a single “lama” soon?!) However this next chapter unfolds, I look forward to seeing how the potent and magical energy of devotion continues to inspire, shape, and anchor me along the way.
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I don’t thinkk mine posted so here is is–maybe for the second time…
During meditation,BODHICHARYA
Awaken the Heart by Opening the MindDEVOTION–is that like discipline? I like the OHP notion of discipline as coming back to whatever thing, not giving up, not forgetting forever. DEVOTION has that aspect too–right? With fealty, a loyal and sober choice is made, and then the vow, the promise. So not the same, but is has discipline in it, and the promise.
Love is like that I think–not the first rushes of love but the longer forms of love–the kinds where devotion is key and every day or oftener the choice is made again to love, to stay and love no matter how fun it is or isn’t right then.
I have noticed that when I am tired and overworked I find fault. During those times, I have learned to feel the charged-upness of my energy and the sharp meanness of my thoughts–and to pause and smile to them with a little bow. “You must be tired, your love is all used up right now,” I say to myself and I give “Charged-Up” and the “Mean” a glass of water and a rest. I know they are telling me something–but it isn’t that anyone is bad, including me. They both get harsh when they are tired and thirsty.
That their harshness is not “true” has been a very good thing to learn and I have DEVOTION to thank for the lesson. DEVOTION to the dharma showed me out of my head and back to my body and my breath again and again. DEVOTION taught me to wait, to not know yet, to give the benefit of the doubt, to smile, to laugh at myself for falling one more time for the “authority” in the voice of Mean and the urgency Charged-up pushes on me.
DEVOTION, I thank you for your generous humble patience with my lapses, for your encouragement, and for your unwillingness to budge when I wanted to believe them and act on their behalf. And thank you always for your Mona Lisa smile🌸
“we must neither reject nor follow movement. Having recognised stillness, we can
let the mind return there each time. By remaining at ease whenever the change
takes place, the movement will dissolve by itself, like the wave which forms on the
surface of the ocean and which subsides into it again.” -
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(Reposting because apparently this didn’t post the first time!)
I regret to inform you all that I approached this question as I usually approach existential questions: from a place of skepticism and negativity. (I think that sounds worse than it feels? But also, it’s why I’m here.)
The answer to “What are you already devoted to?” for me feels like: Recognizing the good in the world, and in other people, in a way that helps me grapple with the not-good.
Feels kind of like a tidal battle between the forces of good and evil, except it’s mostly happening in my brain. (I submit that we’re evolutionarily wired to overemphasize the negative, to the tune of giving bad experiences 5x more mental weight than positive ones. So my ~personal~ efforts to counteract that imbalance usually involve consciously trying to see more of the good that very much exists.)
From this precarious little ledge I’ve built for myself, devotion to a guru could be a bit distracting, because how can one person stand in for the vastness of the human experience? Shouldn’t we be focusing on EVERYONE, not just one?
But on the other hand, a guru or guide can be a prism — helping students focus their devotion and reflect it out to the world. Maybe it’s the practice of devotion that matters more than the original recipient of the devotion.
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I felt the same way about the idea of “devotion” to a guru/lama. Something about that felt like idealizing another human being, which I find problematic. I have tremendous respect and appreciation for my teachers, but something about devotion seems like it requires a surrender of some judgement… eg. the beginnings of cultish attitudes.
I like what you said in your last lines, where a guru or teacher can help you focus your devotion (to the teachings) and reflect it out into the world.
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The idea of a lama or guru feels problematic to me. My first guru was my father. His influence haunts me to this day, though he died over twenty years ago. He was a brilliant charismatic renaissance man, musician, party animal. He was popular and charmed many. He was not, unfortunately, devoted to his children. Perhaps because of the gaping hole in my relationship with him I crave a deep lama relationship.
My first regular meditation practice was in Bikram yoga. It’s a practice I still love, but which has developed a negative image because of the awful public misbehavior of its founder. Another flawed guru. So many flawed gurus! (For a superb read on this issue in a wider artistic and cultural sense, a cold hard look at real life – please read Claire Dederer’s brilliant book, Monsters – A Fan’s Dilemma.)
Despite my misgivings, I have a long-standing devotion to the practice, which feels deeply healing to me, physically and spiritually. I’ve found a wonderful community in yoga, committed to health, growth and compassion.
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When I read this article, I was in alignment with everything I read until the last paragraph about “devotion to a Lama” as “the best method to eliminating obstacles during meditation.” I suspect something is lost in translation. On the surface it seems like the devotion he’s talking about is his devotion to his teacher – aka human teacher, and the “devotion” he’s talking about feels like it can easily slip into a attitude that this person/lama is an embodiment of some ideal. Many people above have already noted how problematic this can be to elevate or idealize another human.
However, I expect that’s not what he meant by that one sentence because he goes on to make clear that the Lama is not better or different than ourselves. So, is it like we need to be devoted to the path/teachings? It makes more sense if I think about devotion to the path/ teachings because that transcends any individual. I can get behind devotion to the purpose of stepping on the path – my aspiration to be of benefit and to not create harm. Devotion has a sense of love imbued in it. When I think about discipline to the meditation technique as an act of devotion to the path, it somehow makes it a more uplifted acivity than a finger-wagging kind of feeling I usually feel about the word discipline.
The teachings or lineage for me don’t come from one place. They come from the values my parents/anscestors instilled in me, Muslim, humanist, and budhhist philosophy.
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