Each Dharma student enters the spiritual path in their own unique way. The first step may have been taken weeks or decades ago. The seed may have been planted while reading a book on Buddhism, sharing a conversation with a friend or family member, or feeling an inexplicable connection with a holy place or spiritual teacher. Our spiritual paths are as unique as our own minds are.

But it would be mistaken to consider the path a solitary one. The Buddha taught to his friend and attendant Ananda that friendship forms the basis for the whole of spiritual life. As we have come to rely on the Buddha and his teachings to develop our minds and expand our hearts, we see others sharing the same enthusiasm for these methods and come to rely on their steady presence too.

In the Buddhist tradition, teachers are special kinds of spiritual friends, or kalyanamitras, who play a significant role in inspiring, encouraging, and challenging us in our practices. All present understanding of the Dharma has been passed from teacher to student throughout the ages, forming an unbroken lineage that leads directly to the living Buddha himself.

In praise of this amazing network of spectacular minds, Shantideva Center presents a rare opportunity to meet with our skilled teachers directly in a 25-minute one-on-one personal meeting. The purpose of this meeting is to foster a space for Dharma practitioners to bring questions specific to developing Dharma practice. For the session on May 12, 2 students will have an opportunity to meet with Dr. Pilar Jennings.

Stay tuned for information on registration and times for Dharma Office Hours with teachers such as Guy Newland, Khen Rinpoche Geshe Tashi Tsering, Venerable Amy Miller, Venerable Lozang Yönten, Venerable Robina Courtin, Gen Don Handrick, and more!

Guidelines:

1. Bring your most pressing questions to ask. Keep them simple, direct, and about your own spiritual experiences or Dharma challenges.
2. Be respectful. This program is only possible through the generosity of our teachers, who are committed to sharing the benefit borne of their own dedicated practice.
3. Be brave. It can be intimidating to share your challenges with your practice, but don’t pass on this rare opportunity to make focused spiritual progress with the consultation of a Dharma specialist!

To read more advice on finding the right questions to ask spiritual teachers, click here.

As a thanks to our members for their invaluable and precious support, the first week of registration is reserved exclusively for supporting members of Shantideva Center, after which registration will be open to all. Registration for all time slots will be confirmed on a first-come, first-served basis.

Shantideva Center will make an offering to the teacher (dana) for their generosity in sharing the Dharma in this one-on-one program. Students are welcome to make a donation to support Shantideva Center for all its activities.