My teacher, Kongtrul Rinpoche, once said: “In the dharma, there are as many paths as there are people.” What he means here, I think, is that each individual’s entry into the dharma is quite personal… and the way we approach our path is unique and we have to find our way with it. This includes the lineage we choose to join.

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Question: Hi Elizabeth, I'm a late comer to Buddhism, and found you on the Shambala website. I love the basic tenets, but get completely lost in the vastness and breadth of lineages and styles. I am in Fort Collins and the obvious choices are Shambala, a Kadampa location, and some Zen I believe. All I want to do is dive into it and get started, but I guess some window shopping first. Is there a way to narrow down by my natural tendencies and what draws me in? Sorry if this isn't the place to ask. It's what came up on my google search. Thanks, Jeff B. PS, I'm very interested in the traditional steeping that includes extended retreats. It's one of the things that drew me to you.

Response:Thank you for your question, Jeff. It is wonderful you have so much enthusiasm and it is kind of amazing, when you think about it, how many amazing options we have here in the West! Just in Fort Collins alone you have three amazing traditions to explore. The dharma expresses itself in so many ways.

My teacher, Kongtrul Rinpoche, once said: “In the dharma, there are as many paths as there are people.” What he means here, I think, is that each individual’s entry into the dharma is quite personal…and the way we approach our path is unique and we have to find our way with it. This includes the lineage we choose to join.

Our connection to the lineage we choose differs. Some people enter the dharma through looking for a teacher. This is how it was for me. I came to a point in my life where I knew I really needed spiritual guidance. So I wasn’t looking at different dharma centers, but actually spend time going to meet various teachers. This happened for me in Asia…I had lived there for a couple of years. I met many of the great teachers – some who have passed away since then. Interestingly, I ended up with a very young teacher. The reason for this is because when he spoke to me I felt he understood me…there was no doubt. So that was it…and I have been committed to this teacher, path, community and lineage for 27 years.

Many people connect to their path through the dharma…through reading books…or because they heard something that inspired them. Although “…all dharmas agree at one point,” as they say in the Kadampa tradition, we may relate more to one tradition over another. It is true that some traditions emphasize retreat and a more yogic lifestyle, while others may emphasize study a bit more. The Shambhala tradition has a different flavor, from say, the Zen tradition, for example. Again, this may be the determining factor for your choice.

Some people choose a lineage through the community. One woman said to me recently that she chose our tradition solely because she was impressed with our community. In a way, the sangha is really an expression of the qualities of the teacher and the training the students have received. So you can learn a lot about the dharma and the teacher by observing the students.

Whatever the basis for your choice, please take your time…sit at different centers for a while…maybe even check out options outside Fort Collins. You can engage a basic sitting practice while you are doing this. In fact, that will be an important support your search. Practice makes everything clear.

It is wonderful you are looking. I’m sure you will have many adventures along the way! The best to you Jeff! Elizabeth