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.