Bryn

Bend, OR

Beginning a Buddhist practice can feel overwhelming, but Bryn offers a refreshingly practical perspective. After years of spiritual exploration, she discovered that lasting transformation doesn't come from mastering countless teachings—it comes from showing up consistently. In this intimate interview, Bryn shares why five minutes of daily practice is enough to begin, why Sangha is essential for long-term growth, and how remaining open to different teachings allows the path to unfold naturally. Her story reminds us that Buddhism isn't about perfection or collecting knowledge; it's about cultivating awareness one day at a time. Through honesty, patience, and community, Bryn demonstrates that the Buddhist path is accessible to anyone willing to take the first step.

Experience

15-30 Years XP

Tradition

Vajrayana

Background

Bryn, while dwelling in the rural outskirts, felt a calling to join a spiritual community, spurred by an inexplicable need for a deeper connection. After discovering the Spiritual Awareness Community in a local paper, she started attending their weekly gatherings in the Old Stone Church. The community embraced diverse speakers, spanning various spiritual traditions, with Michael Stephens from the Natural Mind Dharma Center being a regular contributor.

She actively engaged with the community for five years, serving on the board and eventually becoming its president. However, the broad range of teachings presented a challenge as she found herself only skimming the surface of each spiritual approach. Seeking a more profound experience, she and her partner embarked on a quest to find a spiritual practice with depth.

They decided to explore the Dharma Center, where Michael’s practical and relatable talks resonated with her. Michael’s consistent message of transcending the self and embracing compassion deeply influenced her. The Buddhism practiced at the Dharma Center, emphasizing Bodhicitta or the heart line of compassion, struck a chord with her, offering a perspective beyond self-focus.

Despite initial reservations about the vibrant Thankga paintings adorning the walls, she found solace in the chanting and the minimalist Zen style. Michael’s teachings, coupled with the transformative power of daily practice, ultimately convinced her to commit to Buddhism. For her, the direct and practical approach to changing one’s life set Buddhism apart from other spiritual traditions she had explored. She has been actively involved with the Dharma Center since 2005, appreciating the journey and growth it has provided her over the past 15 years.

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Voice & Presence

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Sangha

Bryn, a dedicated member of the Sangha, finds solace and consistency in the teachings of Michael, attending sessions three times a week. Recognizing the universal struggle of humanity, she values the shared perspective within the Sangha community. Bryn acknowledges the importance of having like-minded individuals who understand her approach to life, providing a sense of security and shared experience.

In this supportive community, where everyone is committed to a common practice, Bryn experiences profound moments of joy and camaraderie. Together, they laugh and cry, creating a strong bond through their shared commitment and shared experiences. For Bryn, the Sangha becomes a source of comfort, understanding, and shared purpose in her spiritual journey.

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Relationships

Guided by Michael’s teachings, Bryn reflects on the transformative impact of her spiritual practice, particularly in the realm of relationships. Michael’s wisdom about assessing the fruits of one’s practice through life circumstances, especially in the context of relationships, resonates strongly with her.

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Experiences

Bryn reflects on some unique experiences within her Buddhist practice, humorously referred to as “jolts” by Michael. Despite initially thinking these moments were special, she recognizes that they are simply a result of calming the mind, altering her perception of reality. Bryn acknowledges that her limited time spent in meditative reflection may hinder the frequency of such experiences but believes they reveal a broader, unseen dimension of existence.

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Teachers

Bryn reflects on the dynamics of the student-teacher relationship, finding amusement in the layers of projection that often accompany it. She acknowledges the inherent challenges in this connection, viewing them as a positive aspect that prompts personal growth.

Initially drawn to Michael’s teachings on an intellectual level, Bryn later experienced moments of annoyance, a phenomenon acknowledged by Michael himself. Despite instances of frustration, Bryn recognizes the value in such feelings, realizing they highlight areas where she is stuck or polarized in her thinking.

Expressing the belief that commitment to a teacher is a valuable journey, Bryn emphasizes the importance of navigating both support and annoyance within the relationship. She highlights the transformative nature of this commitment, acknowledging that embracing the challenges contributes to personal development and understanding.

Bryn encourages a commitment to self-improvement, asserting that a dedicated approach attracts a teacher who manifests not only in formal settings but also in various aspects of life. Openness to the teacher’s guidance, whether in formal or informal roles, becomes key to embracing personal growth and cultivating qualities like love and kindness.

Personal Adversity

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Bryn recounts the challenges and transformations she experienced when her mother moved in with her. Initially, Bryn and her mother faced difficulties as Bryn struggled with unmet expectations and her mother’s resistance to help. Through her Buddhist practice, Bryn gained self-awareness and recognized the suffering created by their conflicting desires for how their relationship should unfold.

Over time, Bryn’s perspective shifted as she self-reflected on her relationship with her mother. When asked if she wanted her mother to live elsewhere, Bryn realized she wanted her mother with her and committed to working through their challenges. This shift, facilitated by her practice, eased the difficulties in their relationship, allowing Bryn to be present for her mother.

As her mother approached the end of her life, Bryn found solace in Buddhist teachings on impermanence. The practice enabled her to be present without resisting the natural process of death. Bryn experienced profound moments of love and openness as she embraced the impermanence of life.

One significant struggle Bryn and her mother shared was a reluctance to ask for or accept help. However, nearing the end, Bryn learned to say yes to offers of assistance, realizing that being a receiver is as important as being a giver. Her Buddhist practice instilled in her the understanding that we are all interconnected, and allowing others to help is part of this shared journey. This shift in perspective facilitated a supportive community, including hospice care, friends, and even Michael, providing comfort during her mother’s final moments.