In the past several years we have seen many famous people taken down, caught; their misdeeds brought to light – sometimes shockingly. It is challenging to witness people we believed in not be who we thought they were. A lot of unveiling began with the #metoo movement a few years ago – and it continues.
In light of allegations in many arenas, recent convictions in Hollywood, and influential Yogis having being ‘found out’ for their criminal activities and indiscretions – we become disappointed and disillusioned. It can be truly heartbreaking. I therefore, felt the need to share a few thoughts with you this week; thoughts that have greatly helped me in my years of study with a great many teachers.
Know this to be true:
When we place someone or something before ourselves and our inner directive, such as a ‘guru’ we will always end up being disappointed. Why? Because we expect them to be perfect.
Teachers are humans first, not saints or gurus – they are doing their best – and are just as flawed as we are (and all humans in fact.) It may appear as though they are ‘further along’ the spiritual path? One doesn’t know for sure.
Keep in mind that most spiritual teachers, authors, and speakers have had a life of many challenges, traumas – and these experiences contribute to their raw authentic selves and the truths they share with us.
We must learn to:
Trust the teachings that flow through the teacher – let the human be who they are – with where they are on their path. Flawed, fallible and somehow contributing to the light, love and consciousness on the planet. We cannot know their journey in this lifetime and what they are here to teach us. I am not saying what they did, will do, or said is always right especially when they do something illegal – don’t get me wrong.
But we can:
“Learn to separate the teacher from the teachings.”
Trust the teachings. Notice how they resonate within you and make you ‘feel’. If something feels right, then it is likely right for you. If it doesn’t feel right, notice that too. Make your decisions from that inner feeling place and with your intuition – and never ever give your power away.
One wise statement a teacher shared with me years ago was this: “Expectations are preconceived disappointments.” Take these words into your heart as you learn from someone – and approach the teachers in your life without the expectation of perfection.
If you have zero expectations you will never be disappointed.
Sat Nam
(I am truth; truth is my identity)