Expert: Justin Choo - 4/28/2005

Question
Hello again,  I have sort of an odd question for you this time around.  I have been practicing regularily at a buddhist centre near my home, but I need to find a buddhist temple that has meditation hours more suited to my work schedule.  I have found several places in my   city (Vancouver, Canada) some even have buddhist teacher available for personal counselling.  My problem is this: I am extremely nervous and intimidated by the prospect of practicing with a new sangha.  And I am very nervous about talking with a buddhist master. Simply because he is so wise and I am just a beginner (and a westener).  I know this is silly but any advice you could give on how to approach a new teacher would be great.  Thanks again for your great answers. May you be happy.

Answer
Hi Greg,

It's wonderful hearing from you again for the 8th time.  In fact I was thinking of you only yesterday when a questioner "visited" me for the 4th time.

I have the same problem as you, believe it or not.  Monks are also humans, and they may be as sensitive as us at times.  I do not associate with monks.  In fact quite often I can't get answers from them.  This is only my personal opinion and from my own experience.  

The best way to know the monk is to visit his temple and gauge his character from his talks and behaviour.  If you find him to be friendly and appoachable, then you have found a friend.  If otherwise, keep on searching.

By the way, you can always practice meditation by yourself at your home or any place at all, at the time convenient to you.  There is no hard and fast rule to it.

Please keep in touch.

Smile from justinchoo :-)