Q: How should one pick a teacher? And how should it develop?
A: My first teacher was Kavi Yogiraj Mani Finger. We met through a series of strange and almost unavoidable circumstances. It would be impossible to say that there is only one way the relationship should manifest. When you feel as though you’ve met someone who is qualified (preferably someone who was a disciple to a living master), has students you respect, and has integrity and you find that something in his or her gaze tells you that you are home, then you can consider moving forward and calling this person your teacher or Guru.
Both share responsibilities. The student to respect, follow the directions, and not become emotionally dependent on the teacher, the teacher to support and build strength and independence in the student, and of course to not carry out or use the student for the teacher’s own persona agenda. In short, it’s a relationship based on both––teacher and student––thriving in love and respect for each other.
Q: I’m wondering how I can grow as your student and only see you once or twice a year?
A: As to how we can stay close and you can continue to stay in the heart of the teachings, I’ll share with you what I’ve said many times when asked the similar question. I have never lived in the same city as my teacher but I made an effort to see them at least once a year. The key is personal practice. If you’ve been initiated, then each time you practice you link -to not only your teacher, but the teachings. That is the eternal gift that is not dependent on seeing or being with any one person.
Q: Hi Rod, I was in your Sunday meditation class on Sunday. My question today is, how does one find a teacher? Does one need a teacher? What’s the process?
A: First of all, it depends on what you mean by teacher. A teacher/guide is the greatest treasure for a yogi, if that guide is part of an authentic lineage. Also, the teacher must have our best interests at heart. If it’s that kind of teacher, then we must do everything in our power to become their student. Finding such a teacher is not easy. There are very few worthy of being such a teacher.