This week I respond to a suggested topic from a listener: What is dharma, especially the buddha drama, vs ones own dharma, and how do we know if we are fulfilling our dharma. Dharma is a term from Buddhism and Hinduism, which describes a body of teachings and a set of rules/laws about the nature […]

This week, in episode 15, we explore finding a teacher. Do you need a teacher?  Do you want a teacher?  What qualities to look for in a teacher.   How should you approach the student/teacher relationship?  Episode 15, released June 15, 2017.  June 15 is also Aoba Matsuri, the celebration of the birthday of Kukai, […]

This week we discuss what elements should be part of a well rounded holistic practice.  Especially important for those who may not have a teacher or formal group near them; what elements should you look for to add to your practice.  Because there are relatively few Shingon temples outside of Japan, and westerners interested in […]

Episode 13 of True Words Podcast, The Good, Bad, and Ugly of practice… In this episode we explore some of the pitfalls, errors, high points, bright spots, and cautions observed in Buddhist practice….when there isn’t a large established Buddhist community we may more easily go astray when pursing the Buddhist path, but don’t lose hope, […]

People often ask what a mantra is, how mantra’s are used, and whether they can be understood, or whether there is value only in repetitive recitation, or specifically in the vibrational quality of sound.  Episode 12 of our Podcast begins the conversation around mantras, with the primary purpose being to debunk some of the common […]