Ben
Chicago, IL
What happens when a lifelong search for truth through science reaches its limits? For Ben, the answer came through Buddhism. Raised in a Christian family and trained as an engineer, he spent years searching for a unified explanation of reality through physics and material science before discovering that the deepest questions couldn't be answered by equations alone. Everything changed when he encountered Buddhist philosophy and later met his Vajrayana teacher, transforming an intellectual search into a lived path of practice.
Background
In his reflections, Ben traces his journey of self-discovery and spiritual exploration. Raised in a Christian family, he found himself questioning traditional beliefs during his teenage years, particularly during confirmation. Drawn to the promise of a universal truth, Ben pursued science, studying material science and delving into quantum theory in graduate school. However, the complexity and lack of simplicity in scientific explanations left him unsatisfied.
Amidst his intellectual quest, Ben encountered Buddhist philosophy, initially exploring connections between Buddhism and environmental science. A friend suggested he read Buddhist books, leading him to a profound connection with the teachings of the Buddha, especially through texts like “The Night on the Old Pathway.” At around 23 or 24 years old, Ben officially identified as a Buddhist.
Embracing the idea that truth must be personally sought, Ben immersed himself in reading, attending lectures, and exploring various perspectives. In 2002, he attended a lecture by Lama Ole Nydahl, a Tibetan Buddhist master, not expecting to commit to Tibetan Buddhism. However, a subsequent course on conscious dying offered by Lama Ole Nydahl changed his perspective. The experience of five intense days of meditation revealed to Ben that there was more to the teachings than intellectual understanding.
Witnessing Lama Ole Nydahl’s compassion in action, his tireless commitment to answering questions, and his joy in sharing knowledge left a lasting impression on Ben. This encounter solidified his commitment to Tibetan Buddhism, recognizing Lama Ole Nydahl as an authentic guide on his spiritual path. From that point forward, Ben embraced the teachings with the understanding that he had found a living example of what he aspired to become—an individual embodying fearlessness, joy, and compassion on the path to enlightenment.
Voice & Presence
Refuge
In reflecting on his initial experiences with the practice of refuge and the bodhisattva vow, Ben recalls a moment during a course where he made these commitments without fully understanding their significance. Motivated by the inspiring environment and a desire to align with noble ideals, he embraced refuge and took the bodhisattva vow with minimal meditation experience and an academic understanding of Buddhism.
Over nearly two decades, Ben has come to recognize the profound importance of these commitments. Refuge, he asserts, is the cornerstone of Buddhism, emphasizing the understanding that lasting happiness comes from one’s own mind. Delving into the ancillary elements of Dharma and Sangha, Ben highlights the Vajrayana perspective of Buddha as the quality of one’s own mind, emphasizing the enduring stability of the mind amidst life’s fluctuations.
Professional Impact
In contemplating active bodhichitta, Ben expresses that being actively beneficial takes various forms, extending beyond conventional acts like running a Buddhist center. He highlights the importance of embodying this altruistic mindset in every interaction, both within and outside the spiritual community.
Ngondro
In the world and not just keeping it to yourself, but actively working and offering it to others. Ben reflects on his journey through various Buddhist practices, highlighting the importance of active engagement in the world.
Mahamudra
Ben reflects on the key aspects of his teacher Paul’s teachings, spanning nearly 50 years of instruction. Paul, once a main proponent of a specific practice called “the phowa,” has shifted his emphasis towards Mahāmudrā, a profound teaching that stems from a Nygma transmission. The transition occurred after Ole’s teachers encouraged him to prioritize Mahāmudrā over the phowa. While the phowa remains significant, Mahāmudrā is considered the pinnacle of the Kamakaya school.
Ben describes the Ngondro practice, a foundational aspect of Mahāmudrā teachings, designed to lead practitioners to the ultimate goal of experiencing Iraq. Despite some semblance of a curriculum, Ben emphasizes the individualized nature of instruction, with Paul tailoring teachings based on what he deems beneficial for each student. Ngondro, as an essential practice, prepares individuals for Mamuju, aligning with Paul’s belief in its paramount importance.
Upon completing Ngondro, students traditionally seek guidance from their teacher for a life practice. Paul follows this tradition, offering methods derived from the teachings he received from the 16th Karmapa. While a general curriculum involves Ngondro and the Mahāmudrā-related practices, Ben underscores the variability in individual experiences. Although many embark on similar paths, exceptions exist, with Paul occasionally prescribing different practices based on unique needs.
The discourse extends to the freedom within the disciplined Ngondro practices, revealing a gradual shift from a structured approach to a more open, personalized journey. With Mahāmudrā as the core, practitioners navigate the challenge of sustaining a single practice throughout their lives. Ben suggests that this phase involves self-guidance, utilizing the teachings, meditation, and seeking advice from Paul.
The discussion touches on the role of the Sangha, acting as a supportive community that mirrors individual progress. The Sangha inadvertently serves as a reflection of one’s journey, providing feedback and guidance. Ben emphasizes the importance of the Sangha’s presence in maintaining a practitioner’s awareness and preventing isolation.
Ultimately, Ben reflects on the dual nature of freedom – it can be overwhelming or an opportunity for personal growth. The narrative emphasizes the balance between self-guidance and the supportive role of the Sangha in navigating the intricacies of Mahāmudrā practice.
Authentic Lineage
Ben discusses challenges in modern society, emphasizing the abundance of choices and the lack of patience. He reflects on the impact of technology, short attention spans, and constant distractions. In contrast, Ben highlights the unique value of Buddhism, particularly the Nyingma tradition, as a proven solution with a 2600-year history. He underscores the importance of patience, not just for others but for oneself, in cultivating a transformative mental space. Ben observes that while many express interest in working on their minds, only a few commit to the profound and focused practice offered by the Nine Ways Buddha Center, noting the prevalent culture of seeking quick solutions and spreading attention across various activities. Despite the small regular group, Ben finds inspiration in observing people’s diverse motivations and challenges, reinforcing his dedication to the practice and the teachings.
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