Devotion
Rinpoche talks about the three stages of devotion, and how to relate with the Guru.
A SUMMARY
by Maggy Jones
My subject is the nature and purpose of devotion. “Devotion” sometimes means “loyalty”; this is not the Buddhist view. We talk about 3 stages; 1st Inspiration from either people or reading. Without inspiration you would not start. 2nd Aspiration to learn more, motivated to become like that. Beware of being attracted by oratory. Story of emotion or devotion? 3rd Certainty. Now you are sure, both intellectually and from your heart; it is irreversible; nothing can shake it. To achieve this, you must question and examine until you are satisfied. You must examine your teacher carefully. Is s/he authentic? Rinpoche’s own experience of his teachers. The most important relationship with your teacher is the teachings. Devotion, the certainty, should be for the teachings not the teacher. If you practice sincerely your devotion for the teacher will develop. Q & A
