Dharma Interviews

Geoff came to his first class at New Year 1997 and now teaches the Heswall class.

Interviewer: How did you first come across the classes?

Geoff: I was stressed out with work and life in general and when I saw the advert I thought I'll have a go at that.

Interviewer: Have the classes helped?

Geoff: Well I'm a lot less stressed and feel more in control of my life. I'm more aware of my own shortcomings, (as well as my good qualities), which has helped me to be more accepting, understanding and appreciative of others. Before the classes I was like most people just stumbling along through life without any particular direction. Dharma has given me a focus. I can even look forward to getting old because I've got Dharma in my heart and it'll just get more powerful as the years go by!

Interviewer: How else has Dharma helped you?

Geoff: My refuge in Geshe-la helped me most when my Mum passed away in 1999. I was very close to my mother and the Dharma helped me so much to deal with her loss. It also gave me the inner strength to be there for my family at that sad time. Following Geshe-la's advice we performed a 'Transference of Conciousness' Puja (chanted prayers) for her, to protect her and guide her to a fortunate rebirth. Since then I've has some wonderful dreams about my mother, and I believe with all my heart that she took rebirth in a Pure Land. Buddha'a teachings have also given me the ability to help others at difficult times in their lives.

Interviewer: What's your favourite Buddhist quote?

Geoff: "If you realize your own mind, you will become a Buddha. You should not seek Buddhahood elsewhere." It makes me feel like I can do it, 'little old me'. I can become a Buddha because the seed of enlightenment is already inside me, it just needs nurturing.

Interviewer: What advice would you give to other people?

Geoff: Become a spiritual plodder. Everyday try your best to practise Buddha's advice and do some meditation, and every time you mess up, 'It doesn't matter' - just try again. We need to encourage ourselves, be our own friend not our own enemy! We need the kind of faith in ourselves that Geshe-la has in us. He knows we can do it, otherwise he wouldn't bother teaching us would he? If we practise patiently and steadily, then as the years go by we'll definitely reach our destination. Then we'll be as happy as Larry!

Interviewer: Who's Larry?

Geoff: I haven't a clue.........But he always seems to be happy!!.