Relying on a Dharma Protector to clear the obstacles to our Dharma practice is what we are taught, but it is so rarely practiced. We choose to rely on our Dharma Protector to clear obstacles to the things we think we want, not what our Dharma Protector knows we need.

Back in 2004, I had a chance audience with the Protector, through an oracle, where he gave me the following personal advice: “Stay longer, learn more Dharma, start work and business here.” This meant that I should stay in the same country as my wife and do Dharma work and practice there.

Being new to Dharma, I did what any new person would do. I thought that I knew my life best and planned to go back to my home country, take care of personal matters and then return to join my wife as soon as possible.

Well, the obstacles kept coming – from wanting to start a career, to getting work experience, to paying off debts, to getting some savings to support me coming back to do Dharma…

It took me three years and an ultimatum from my wife to take the Protector’s advice. All my friends and colleagues thought I was nuts. I had no savings and no job prospects. I only had two thoughts: to do live and breathe Dharma, and have a long relationship with my wife in a Dharma community.

It’s coming up to almost four years since I made that shift and finally moved to be with my wife and commit to the Dharma. Along the way, the Protector has been there when I needed him the most.

For example, there was a time when I overstayed my travel visa, when I first came back to be with my wife. The Protector arranged circumstances so I would meet the right people at the right time and the obstacle was overcome. There were no penalties nor further delays.

If we are sincere in our motivation to be in the Dharma, I do believe the Protector will answer our prayers.

"Never think he is not there, never struggle with your attachment to your expected outcome." ~ Drew

Rely on the Protector and know that he will protect you. It is his sworn oath to all the Buddhas.

Author: Drew