Teacher

Learning is finding out what you already know.
Doing is demonstrating that you know it.
Teaching is reminding others that they know just as well as you.
You are all learners, doers, teachers.
--Richard Bach

Lama Foundation does not have a resident teacher or spiritual leader, and the absence of such a position makes Lama Foundation a unique spiritual community. There have been several teachers who have returned year after year to lead retreats, and have watched their teachings take root, coloring and shaping Lama Foundation, but none have been resident teachers.

Day-to-day leadership of the community, and this includes leading the various group practices, is held by a position called the “Watch”. The Watch position is rotated by the residents for about 2 weeks at a time. Often, the Watch will choose a Watch theme and offer group practices that are part of their personal practice. And so, the group practices are varied and can draw from a wide range of activities.

Another aspect of spiritual practice at Lama Foundation is accessing one’s “inner guidance”, or the teacher within. Some look at this process as remembering something that we already know, if we are willing to do the work of listening within. Many spiritual traditions hold a core belief that we humans are already “enlightened masters” and are using the experience of one’s “Earth Walk” to remember our True Divine Nature.

This is not to say that Lama Foundation does not embrace its teachers. On the contrary. Many people at Lama have personal teachers who assign them practice and monitor their growth. There are lots of former residents in the extended Lama family who offer teachings and guidance to the community, and their input is vital. Finally, each winter circle of residents becomes a source of support for each person. So in summary, the position of “teacher” at Lama Foundation is not held by a single person, but by each and every person.