How to Choose an Enlightened Teacher
1. First, when this teacher is instructing you, can they see through your external facade and point directly to the depths of your heart?
2. This enlightened teacher should have at least some understanding of the dharma doors or practice methods you have previously chosen. Most of the time, can your hearts and minds communicate directly with each other?
3. Most of the time, this enlightened teacher’s mind is very peaceful. This peace does not come from *samadhi*, but from his understanding of himself. He is aware of every single arising thought and intention. He knows exactly what he is doing. He might feel annoyed, but he is never confused. Only an enlightened teacher who understands himself has the possibility of guiding you toward the path of light!
4. When facing him, do you have the desire to open your heart? Do you long for him to know and understand you? If so, you may have a dharma affinity with him. When you completely open yourself up to an enlightened teacher, becoming humble, respectful, and entirely free of complaints and regrets, you then learn how to stop putting up a facade, opening yourself up to anyone and anything in life. Then, from any event, any object, or any person, you will be able to see the qualities of an enlightened teacher and the qualities of the Way. This is the ultimate purpose of choosing a teacher.
5. Actually, the true teacher-student relationship is a kind of resonance, just like when Sakyamuni Buddha held up a flower and Mahakasyapa smiled.