Erin Anderson
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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.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.Hi All!
I am so excited and a little relieved to be here. My name is Erin and I am from the west coast of Canada, on Vancouver Island, in a small city called Duncan. I am deeply in love with my family, which keeps me pretty busy as mom and grandma. I love my dogs, gardening, making art of all kinds, and studying the way (and the why) bodies move. I work as a yoga therapist, teaching yoga, yoga nidra, & meditation. I have been trained in yoga meditation and Buddhist meditation. Buddhist meditation is the heart of my personal practice.
I have been familiar with Susan’s work for a few years, and I realized that the timing of this program was perfect.
So far, I am feeling quite energized and appreciative of being part of this program with all of you!
Right now, It’s raining like crazy.
See you soon.
