Depend on theTeachings, not the Teacher

The recent NY Times article featuring the sexual indiscretions of John Friend, Anusara Yoga’s originator and leader, have caused many to leave the tradition.  This is not the first spiritual leader to fall from grace. 

This situation brings to mind this quote:

Buddha left a road map, Jesus left a road map, Krishna left a road map, Rand McNally left a road map.  But you still have to travel the road yourself…  Stephin Levine

We tend to put our spiritual leaders up on  pedestals, assuming and expecting them to live up to what they teach.  This is not unreasonable, but we forget they are humans and even if they are spiritually evolved, they still can fail us with sometimes shocking behavior. 

Disappointment and hurt results when we become dependent, wanting someone else to give us our answers.

When a teacher gives us the tools and teachings to look within, then they are truly teaching and empowering.

I tell my students to get dependent on the practices, not the teacher.  The practices will not fail you, but as a human being, the teacher can.  Remember, if the teachings have worked for you keep them, even if you don’t keep the teacher.

Let me know in the comments below if you have had teachers who inspired and empowered you.  Have you had teachers that have disappointed you?  Were you able to keep the teachings?

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