Spiritual masters
I’ve recently read ‘The Miracle of Mindfulness’ by Thich Nhat Hanh, one of the most well-known Buddhist teachers in the world. Before reading it, I was mostly curious about why this book had become almost like the Bible for those seeking to understand what mindfulness is.
I could see why the book’s messages would appeal to many people, including myself, who want to live a simple life devoted to the present moment rather than waste their lives worrying about the future. Stories like how one should only be “doing the dishes when doing the dishes” have almost become memes in discussions about mindful living. The message is simple yet powerful enough to inspire millions of people.
While reading the book, I also watched several videos and read articles about Thich Nhat Hanh and his international Buddhist community, Plum Village. I didn’t know his community had spread to so many parts of the world. There are hundreds of monks and nuns practicing in Plum Village communities and thousands of visitors each year seeking to live more mindfully.
I have no doubt that the effort to lead a more mindful life could help people seeking tranquility and peace. However, I also wonder why figures such as the Dalai Lama and Thich Nhat Hanh are often portrayed as flawless practitioners of Buddhist teachings. Thich Nhat Hanh’s teachings emphasize that anyone can practice mindfulness and find peace within themselves. On the other hand, it’s difficult to imagine some of his devoted followers admitting that their teacher was an imperfect human being, just like the rest of us.
Thich Nhat Hanh lived a modest life in his monastery, owning only a few sets of clothes. However, when I watch videos of him giving talks or practicing calligraphy in front of his followers, I can’t help but feel that he was, of course, aware of his fame and how much these people admired him. I mean, how could he not?
The practice of mindfulness seems to offer a way to live independently and fully without relying on others. So it’s difficult for me to understand why people become such devoted followers of spiritual teachers. I understand why people admire them, but I find it difficult to understand when admiration turns into something closer to worship. The teachings are already out there. Yes, joining a community of fellow practitioners or monks must be helpful for someone determined to live a modest, mindful life. But I’m not sure why it’s necessary to idealize another human being and follow in his footsteps.
I’m just allergic to idolizing other people and becoming a die-hard fan of another human being.