The following people are those whom have greatly inspired, and continue to inspire me as super-people and role-models. I pay deep and due gratitude towards them as either my gurus, teachers, mentors, guides, and/or dear friends. This page is dedicated to them with as much appreciation and reverence as I have. Without them, I would not be where I am at today. I will list them in chronologically, as I met them throughout my life. Thank you for browsing through here!
MY MOTHER, SUZANNE JEFFREY
If it wasn't for Momma, I -obviously- wouldn't be here. She has always been there to support, teach, share, listen to, and encourage me, especially to follow my dreams. She has always stood by my side. She either counseled, consoled, or clarified, depending on what the situation needed in her eyes. She is the 'coolest' Momma I know. I have always admired her so all of her virtues, her motherly love, her immense disciple, her empathy and compassion, and her guts to stand up for what she knows is right, even if it meant difficulty. She has always been an example of consistent and continuous effort to achieve the goals she has for herself. Having grown up in hard times and having met many obstacles at a young age, she has been an example of surmounting them through compassion, openness, utilizing what is around her, putting effort to acquiring and honing the skills needed, and faith. At times I believe people misunderstand her because of her tenacity to work for what she knows will benefit others. Yet, when she loves someone, she gives her all to them, and will quickly put herself in harms way in order to protect them should she feel it necessary.
Momma, if I could write the sky full of your virtue and all that you have done, then that infinite space would not be enough. Thank you, from all that is me, for what you have done and for your life and your rawness, and path. I love you.
Momma, if I could write the sky full of your virtue and all that you have done, then that infinite space would not be enough. Thank you, from all that is me, for what you have done and for your life and your rawness, and path. I love you.
MY FATHER, JONATHAN M. HORNE
My father was/is my first hero. I think for all young boys, there is a deep imprint that we receive and either align with, or reject, from our fathers. He was the Indiana Jones of my youth, mixed with the sternness and rebellion from society that made for never a dull moment.
He has taught me the need for following my mission, my dreams, and of living with the enjoyment of it. Much of who I am, is due to my father and his wisdom, influence, scholarly-ness, go-get-em' attitude, sacrifice, willingness to go there and fearlessly step into the unknown, and his hidden romanticism of life and his loved ones. Not to mention his esoteric knowledge, and history.
Thank you Daddio. Thank you for all the sacrifices you have made for your family, for the life lessons, the grounded spirituality, and our times and heartfelt discussions that I hold so dear to heart. Thank you for being my first male hero.
He has taught me the need for following my mission, my dreams, and of living with the enjoyment of it. Much of who I am, is due to my father and his wisdom, influence, scholarly-ness, go-get-em' attitude, sacrifice, willingness to go there and fearlessly step into the unknown, and his hidden romanticism of life and his loved ones. Not to mention his esoteric knowledge, and history.
Thank you Daddio. Thank you for all the sacrifices you have made for your family, for the life lessons, the grounded spirituality, and our times and heartfelt discussions that I hold so dear to heart. Thank you for being my first male hero.
MY SISTER, SARAH 'VELMS' HORNE
Sarah, whether she knows it or not, has been an indirect teacher of mine my whole life. From showing my how to get away with 'princess atrocities' - what I call the things little girls do to get their brothers in trouble - or how to embarrass me in public, it has all been a lesson. A lesson on life and where love comes from. You have always taught me about the value of family, of togetherness, and of concern for others welfare.
I admire the woman you are now and the drive you have. Thank you for being badass, and for the love and care you have always had for me. Thank you for being a sister, a friend, a companion, a partner in both crime and caliber. I love you, not just as 'my' super sister. I love you for being a banner of raw heart, trust, professionalism, unbiased community, and beautiful fun.
Qualities That Come to Mind:
inspiration, diligence, bravery, vision, inner and outer beauty, knowledge, faith, forgiveness, sacrifice & embracing change, inner quest, lightness, fun, playfulness, friendship, dependability, cherishing, family, believing in myself
Feel free to check out her dance company, SOHA Dance, on Twitter: Que_Saraaah, or follow her Instagram account: @que_saraaah
I admire the woman you are now and the drive you have. Thank you for being badass, and for the love and care you have always had for me. Thank you for being a sister, a friend, a companion, a partner in both crime and caliber. I love you, not just as 'my' super sister. I love you for being a banner of raw heart, trust, professionalism, unbiased community, and beautiful fun.
Qualities That Come to Mind:
inspiration, diligence, bravery, vision, inner and outer beauty, knowledge, faith, forgiveness, sacrifice & embracing change, inner quest, lightness, fun, playfulness, friendship, dependability, cherishing, family, believing in myself
Feel free to check out her dance company, SOHA Dance, on Twitter: Que_Saraaah, or follow her Instagram account: @que_saraaah
CHEF THOMAS GRIFFITHS, C.M.C.
Chef Griffiths was my mentor while I attended the Culinary Institute of America and was competing for the ACF Student Culinarian of the Year in 2004. Throughout that time he always offered his wisdom, knowledge, jokes, sincerity, unrelenting dedication to culinary perfection, and unassuming laid-backness to the whole affair. A culinary student could not have been more fortunate than I to have been under his wing and guide. Endless lessons in the kitchen of food and life were passed on. As well as great fun and laughs.
After I returned from Thailand in 2010, he was there to help guide me to reincorporating and reintegrating myself into the western world. Thank you for all of your time, wisdom, comedic-relief, skill, and love. I am ever so grateful for who you are and what you have shared with me and all of us cuisiniers. It has been an honor to know and learn from you. And I hope that there is more to come.
Qualities That Come to Mind:
patience, taking someone in, mastery, precision, organization, professionalism, discipline, cleanliness, humor, laughter, gardening, respect, passion, raw talent, openness & acceptance, faith, priorities, kindness, diligence, enjoyment, devotion, cheffy-pants
After I returned from Thailand in 2010, he was there to help guide me to reincorporating and reintegrating myself into the western world. Thank you for all of your time, wisdom, comedic-relief, skill, and love. I am ever so grateful for who you are and what you have shared with me and all of us cuisiniers. It has been an honor to know and learn from you. And I hope that there is more to come.
Qualities That Come to Mind:
patience, taking someone in, mastery, precision, organization, professionalism, discipline, cleanliness, humor, laughter, gardening, respect, passion, raw talent, openness & acceptance, faith, priorities, kindness, diligence, enjoyment, devotion, cheffy-pants
PROFESSORe VINCENZO LAURIA
Professor Vincenzo Lauria was my front-of-the-house instructor during my classes at the Caterina De' Medici in the Culinary Institute of America. We were always met with a bright smile, a determined and supportive atmosphere, and general encouragement every day we served food under his watchful and compassionate eye. Perhaps because of my years in Italia or because of a friendly respect & kinship forged early on, we stayed in touch throughout the years after I graduated from the CIA. He has stayed a bright burst of sunshine, wisdom, and skill to all who have studied under him. Moreso I believe mostly everyone left his class feeling that we would happily work for him - or someone like him - in the future. With a demeanor full of life, earnest, genuine, and direct, he was the center of the team without needing the attention and merit. He is a wonderful team gatherer and knows how to bring out a person's talent without them feeling put out of place or on the spotlight. I am grateful for his openness and forthrightness with kindness. There are teachers that teach from a podium and there are teachers who are there with the student, immersed in the pleasure, passion, and pure enjoyment of what they do and are teaching. Professor Lauria is most definitely the later, and shows why it is the best way to teach as well as show what is most important. Grazie mille professore, e stammi bene!
Qualities That Come to Mind:
culture, compassion, spirit, being genuine to oneself and others, la vita bella, presentability, precision, thoughtfullness, relationships, connection, heart & conviction, truth, ingenuity, authenticity, history & lineage, "i'm by your side the whole way through", approachability, teach through involvement not through fear, openness, truth-seeking, strength & courage, dedication, perfectionism, professional courtesy, great smiles
Qualities That Come to Mind:
culture, compassion, spirit, being genuine to oneself and others, la vita bella, presentability, precision, thoughtfullness, relationships, connection, heart & conviction, truth, ingenuity, authenticity, history & lineage, "i'm by your side the whole way through", approachability, teach through involvement not through fear, openness, truth-seeking, strength & courage, dedication, perfectionism, professional courtesy, great smiles
RAHOB TULKU, THUPTEN KALSANG RIKZIN GYAMTSO RINPOCHE
I met Rinpoche in his Dharma center in 2003 after returning from Thailand for the first time. This immense Dharma scholar and practitioner seemed to be hiding out in the most random place in upstate NY. The more time I spent studying meditation and being exposed to the living practice of BuddhaDharma and Bodhicitta, the more I became inspired and I hold Rinpoche as my first 'official' teacher of BuddhaDharma.
Some information can be found on a website one of his students made for him a while back: Rahob Development Project. However I feel that this is just a small blip in the his life and who he is. Rinpoche is from the Old-School. Through and through. He went through the old world training and tradition from great masters of Tibet and saw it through. During the massacre of his people, Rinpoche fled Tibet in the 50's to India where he completed studies at Varanasi Sanskrit University. He studied the six forms of Tibetan calligraphy, natural medicine, Sanskrit, poetry, astrology for healing, and many volumes of Buddhist logic and debate, as well as rituals for purifications, initiation and healings. While at Drepung University in Lhasa he studied advanced logic and debate and the immense volumes of the Pramana-vatika, the Prajna Paramita, the Madhyamika, the Abhidharma, and the Vinaya. At the request of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, he went to study and practice Theravadan Buddhism in Thailand with the renowned scholar Buddhadasa Bhikkhu. After travels throughout Southeast Asia, and again at the request of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Rinpoche went to Japan to study Zen Buddhism and completed the 5 year program in the Japanese Traditional Tea Ceremony.
I find Rinpoche to have the most jovial and piercingly bright exterior with an infectiously compassionate and humbly wise demeanor. His history, story, teachings, and lifestyle are truly inspirational and genuine. There is so much I have learned and continue to learn from Rinpoche, yet it is but a grain of sand in the vast expanse of his wisdom and compassion.
Some information can be found on a website one of his students made for him a while back: Rahob Development Project. However I feel that this is just a small blip in the his life and who he is. Rinpoche is from the Old-School. Through and through. He went through the old world training and tradition from great masters of Tibet and saw it through. During the massacre of his people, Rinpoche fled Tibet in the 50's to India where he completed studies at Varanasi Sanskrit University. He studied the six forms of Tibetan calligraphy, natural medicine, Sanskrit, poetry, astrology for healing, and many volumes of Buddhist logic and debate, as well as rituals for purifications, initiation and healings. While at Drepung University in Lhasa he studied advanced logic and debate and the immense volumes of the Pramana-vatika, the Prajna Paramita, the Madhyamika, the Abhidharma, and the Vinaya. At the request of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama, he went to study and practice Theravadan Buddhism in Thailand with the renowned scholar Buddhadasa Bhikkhu. After travels throughout Southeast Asia, and again at the request of His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Rinpoche went to Japan to study Zen Buddhism and completed the 5 year program in the Japanese Traditional Tea Ceremony.
I find Rinpoche to have the most jovial and piercingly bright exterior with an infectiously compassionate and humbly wise demeanor. His history, story, teachings, and lifestyle are truly inspirational and genuine. There is so much I have learned and continue to learn from Rinpoche, yet it is but a grain of sand in the vast expanse of his wisdom and compassion.
ROBERT 'THE MEDICAL MIRACLE MAN' MAWSON, ĀCĀRYA DHAMMAPUTRA
Khun Bob was given the nickname 'Medical Miracle Man' by Dr. Oz after many medical miracles that happened around him. He has been a continual source of inspiration and love-filled determination to thousands people, especially everyone around him. I cannot tell you how much of a positive influence he has been to me. I hold great respect and love for him as a very influential person in my life, and I feel very blessed and honored to have known him.
People may not consider this, but in the Buddhist world there is a lot of debate about the Dhammakāya - as Luang Pu Sodt, Khun Yai Acharn, and Luang Por Dhammajayo teach it - and its existence. The fact that he has proven its existence through personal direct experience, along with the 18 bodies and the much more beyond that, is more than just significant. I think that among the many things he has offered the world, this is one of his greatest gifts.
I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for that, and for all the work you've put into yourself, your heart, and your practice. I hope that I could find that ease-fullness and ability in my own practice some day. I hold you as an inspiration to find myself and true nature more clearly, each and every day. Love you Acharn!
Qualities That Come to Mind:
discipline, compassion, humility, diamond-piercing insight, dedication, sophistication, story-telling, sacrifice, skill-talent-ability, generosity, wisdom, practice practice practice, humanity, universal love, rawness, health, gratitude, blessings, determination, and much much more
People may not consider this, but in the Buddhist world there is a lot of debate about the Dhammakāya - as Luang Pu Sodt, Khun Yai Acharn, and Luang Por Dhammajayo teach it - and its existence. The fact that he has proven its existence through personal direct experience, along with the 18 bodies and the much more beyond that, is more than just significant. I think that among the many things he has offered the world, this is one of his greatest gifts.
I want to thank you from the bottom of my heart for that, and for all the work you've put into yourself, your heart, and your practice. I hope that I could find that ease-fullness and ability in my own practice some day. I hold you as an inspiration to find myself and true nature more clearly, each and every day. Love you Acharn!
Qualities That Come to Mind:
discipline, compassion, humility, diamond-piercing insight, dedication, sophistication, story-telling, sacrifice, skill-talent-ability, generosity, wisdom, practice practice practice, humanity, universal love, rawness, health, gratitude, blessings, determination, and much much more
LUANG POR DHAMMAJAYO
I have never met anyone like him, and most of what I know about him comes from others as he rarely talks about himself. The time I have shared with him, is a most precious gem that I hold dear for the rest of my life. There is no end to what he has taught me, and much of it I don't even know yet - as the deeper one goes, the most awareness one realizes, the more such teachings become clearer and resonate more.
Thank you for your continuous example of devotion. Thank you for your example of dedication to your practice, path as a bodhisattva, and to all of us, your children. I wish that others in the world would clearly know of and understand your gifts, your altruistic motivations, aspirations, and pristine quality of mind. This is so that they can receive at least some of the benefit that I have had by practicing under you.
Thank you for your continuous example of devotion. Thank you for your example of dedication to your practice, path as a bodhisattva, and to all of us, your children. I wish that others in the world would clearly know of and understand your gifts, your altruistic motivations, aspirations, and pristine quality of mind. This is so that they can receive at least some of the benefit that I have had by practicing under you.
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Thank you for being the teacher that I have sought after my whole life, and was blessed enough to find. Thank you for hearing my call for help in the ocean of saṃsāra and for throwing a rope out for me, and allow me to choose to be helped.
Thank you for your blessings, your viewing from afar, your patience and forbearance, and for the fatherly love you share for your children. Here is a video in tribute to our Most Venerable Father: |
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LUANG POR DATTAJEEVO
Luang Por Dattajeevo, aka "The Dad", is the person I consider my guru, or - technically - gurūpācāriya. There is not enough space on this page to fill with his virtue, wisdom, grit, determination, compassion, humor, and piercingly clear & deep vision; vision of both himself and others.
One of the greatest blessings of my life has been to be around him and learn from him. Besides my parents, he is the person I have learned the most from and is one of my primary examples to live by and up to. Humble enough to tell me he knows he is not near perfect, yet wise and experienced enough to be one of the most prolific and profound teachers of BuddhaDharma alive today.
If I do good in my life, and make good change of myself, I have you to thank with undying gratitude for your patience, compassion, time, and wisdom.
Love you Dad.
One of the greatest blessings of my life has been to be around him and learn from him. Besides my parents, he is the person I have learned the most from and is one of my primary examples to live by and up to. Humble enough to tell me he knows he is not near perfect, yet wise and experienced enough to be one of the most prolific and profound teachers of BuddhaDharma alive today.
If I do good in my life, and make good change of myself, I have you to thank with undying gratitude for your patience, compassion, time, and wisdom.
Love you Dad.
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A little video talking about the history of Luang Por Dattajeevo:
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PHRAMAHĀBODHIWONGSĀCĀRYA, LUANG POR SURADEJO
พระมหาโพธิวงศาจารย์, aka Luang Por สุรเตโช Suradecho, was my preceptor; the Elder Monk who precided over both my pabbajja and Upasampadā; ordaining me into the Theravadan Buddhist lineage as both a sāmaṇera and a fully ordained bhikkhu - monk.
Among his other very hefty monastic titles, he is one of the primary translators of Pali into the Thai language for the Tipiṭaka - Buddhist Canon. Also, he happens to be an official Royal Sage of the King of Thailand.
I am ever grateful for his guidance, immense wisdom, depth, sense of humor, teaching style, and down-to-earthiness that surprisingly not many of those of his stature have.
Among his other very hefty monastic titles, he is one of the primary translators of Pali into the Thai language for the Tipiṭaka - Buddhist Canon. Also, he happens to be an official Royal Sage of the King of Thailand.
I am ever grateful for his guidance, immense wisdom, depth, sense of humor, teaching style, and down-to-earthiness that surprisingly not many of those of his stature have.
The Mystery Man
I really believe the J.R.R. Tolkien was talking about this man when he wrote about Tom Bombadil. Although he says he is more of a big brother to me than a mentor, he is one of the most influential people I have met.
More of an ascetic than a layperson, though not a monastic, he is revered for not just his abhiññā - supernatural / hero-like capabilities and skill - but for his compassion and real-life wisdom. I have seen him talk to someone having a problem for up to 6 hours so that they really felt complete and understood what they wanted to know.
As a worker-bee, and a man of many talents and aptitudes, he has this immense knack of 'getting' you and making you feel home. One of the main Buddha-imagemakers of Wat Phra Dhammakaya, he is also one of the most senior non-ordained people there, and is one of the most awesome practitioners and teachers of meditation I have met.
More of an ascetic than a layperson, though not a monastic, he is revered for not just his abhiññā - supernatural / hero-like capabilities and skill - but for his compassion and real-life wisdom. I have seen him talk to someone having a problem for up to 6 hours so that they really felt complete and understood what they wanted to know.
As a worker-bee, and a man of many talents and aptitudes, he has this immense knack of 'getting' you and making you feel home. One of the main Buddha-imagemakers of Wat Phra Dhammakaya, he is also one of the most senior non-ordained people there, and is one of the most awesome practitioners and teachers of meditation I have met.
MY BROTHER, THE VERY VENERABLE PASURA DANTAMANO
"Luang Pi" - Venerable Brother - Pasura, aka "Lp Rock", was my mentor and best friend while I was a monk at Wat Phra Dhammakaya. He became and remains a brother to me, a guide, participated - as much as a Theravāda monk can - in my wedding, is the Spiritual-Father to my child, and a viciously devout and loyal friend.
Now VenerablePasura has a lot going on. He is the head teaching monk to the Peace Revolution project, Chief of International Relations Division of the International Department at the Dhammakaya Foundation, Vice President of the World Buddhist Sangha Youth, Head English translator to both Luang Por Dhammajayo & Luang Por Dattajeevo, as well as world traveling meditation and BuddhaDharma instructor.
Titles and projects aside, Lp - short for 'Luang Pi' - Pasura has always been there for me, and I hope he feels the same. I can't imagine a more loyal friend. He is kind, genuine, compassionate, varying degrees of goofy and suave, and gets shit done. Whatever needs to be done, he makes the effort for those who have his trust and love. At the same time, he is also powerful, professional, disciplined, principled, wise, proactive, and calculating. He can be an ideal advisor to those who can take his advise :) and many people do. As he ages it is beautiful to see him open his heart more, and be more confident in expressing his genuine big-hearted, big-bodied self. I am very grateful to all the late night discussions and lessons on life, Dharma, and Thai language / culture. I am grateful for your protection of the IDOP program while I was there, and for all the times we have shared. Thank you for being an inspiration and example in my life. I both love and respect you Brother.
Now VenerablePasura has a lot going on. He is the head teaching monk to the Peace Revolution project, Chief of International Relations Division of the International Department at the Dhammakaya Foundation, Vice President of the World Buddhist Sangha Youth, Head English translator to both Luang Por Dhammajayo & Luang Por Dattajeevo, as well as world traveling meditation and BuddhaDharma instructor.
Titles and projects aside, Lp - short for 'Luang Pi' - Pasura has always been there for me, and I hope he feels the same. I can't imagine a more loyal friend. He is kind, genuine, compassionate, varying degrees of goofy and suave, and gets shit done. Whatever needs to be done, he makes the effort for those who have his trust and love. At the same time, he is also powerful, professional, disciplined, principled, wise, proactive, and calculating. He can be an ideal advisor to those who can take his advise :) and many people do. As he ages it is beautiful to see him open his heart more, and be more confident in expressing his genuine big-hearted, big-bodied self. I am very grateful to all the late night discussions and lessons on life, Dharma, and Thai language / culture. I am grateful for your protection of the IDOP program while I was there, and for all the times we have shared. Thank you for being an inspiration and example in my life. I both love and respect you Brother.
PHRA GŪRŪSANGHARAKŚA, the very venerable anurak sodthiko
Venerable 'Air' Anurak has been a Brother through and through since I ordained as well as after I disrobed. He is one of the head advisors as well as main secretary to our mutual Dad, Luang Por Dattajeevo. I once asked Dad why he chose Luang Pi Anurak as his head assistant. Dad replied, "because before he ordained he was a DJ, he knows how to make quick sound decisions, is adaptable, and knows who he is".
Having his hand in helping to either edit, design, consult, and/or author over 50 books on Dharma he is deeply steep in the Tripitaka Pali Canon, as well as all general and detailed matters of a Thai Buddhist temple. What is amazing is his human-ness, the connection and compassion he exerts to others around him including those asking for his expertise. His wisdom is piercing, bright, and holistic. He presence is full of joy, sincerely, "let's get to the point", and focus. He makes great jokes, knows when to laugh and when to be serious, he reads people incredibly well and fast, and he is quite an amazing photographer.
I am ever indebted to Luang Pi Anurak for his Brotherliness and profound advice through the years. Moreover, out of his compassion, he has helped me stay in close touch with two of my great teachers: Luang Por Dattajeevo and Pi Tawon. Thank you thank you thank you!
Having his hand in helping to either edit, design, consult, and/or author over 50 books on Dharma he is deeply steep in the Tripitaka Pali Canon, as well as all general and detailed matters of a Thai Buddhist temple. What is amazing is his human-ness, the connection and compassion he exerts to others around him including those asking for his expertise. His wisdom is piercing, bright, and holistic. He presence is full of joy, sincerely, "let's get to the point", and focus. He makes great jokes, knows when to laugh and when to be serious, he reads people incredibly well and fast, and he is quite an amazing photographer.
I am ever indebted to Luang Pi Anurak for his Brotherliness and profound advice through the years. Moreover, out of his compassion, he has helped me stay in close touch with two of my great teachers: Luang Por Dattajeevo and Pi Tawon. Thank you thank you thank you!
ĀCĀRYA SUMALEE 'DTEE'
Ajahn 'Dtee' was my primary Thai language teacher as Wat Phra Dhammakaya. She is what I consider to be the epitome of a Nun. Her manners and etiquette are extremely pristine, refined, angelic (deva really), and considerate.
Moreover, she is an acclaimed meditator. Not just was she known at the temple as being an advanced meditator, there were too many instances proving this in our day-to-day interactions. While I studied Thai language 6 hours a day, 6 days a week, for 2+ years I would often consider the future day's lesson and what I had hoped to learn that day. As we sat down for the day's lesson, I was wryly surprised that she already prepared the very thing I was hoping to learn that day.
Among the Thai language, culture, customs, and traditions lesson I had the honor and privilege of learning while under her guidance and responsibility, what really stands out is the devotion and dedication she holds for meditation, Dhamma, and the Great Teachers. She is one of the most humble and modest people I know, yet also confident and stern. Incredibly compassionate, sincere, zealous - in her own way -, and unassumingly wise and bright, many people turn to her as an example to look up to. Every moment of her life is devoted to her practice, and to developing mind, body, speech to be in alignment with BuddhaDharma. She has studied meditation under some of the greatest teachers at Wat Phra Dhammakaya, and has been a nun for over 20 years. Should you ever visit Wat Phra Dhammakaya, see if you can manage to find her, and you will know you are in the presence of a living breathing example of the power of proper meditation - Sammā Samādhi.
Moreover, she is an acclaimed meditator. Not just was she known at the temple as being an advanced meditator, there were too many instances proving this in our day-to-day interactions. While I studied Thai language 6 hours a day, 6 days a week, for 2+ years I would often consider the future day's lesson and what I had hoped to learn that day. As we sat down for the day's lesson, I was wryly surprised that she already prepared the very thing I was hoping to learn that day.
Among the Thai language, culture, customs, and traditions lesson I had the honor and privilege of learning while under her guidance and responsibility, what really stands out is the devotion and dedication she holds for meditation, Dhamma, and the Great Teachers. She is one of the most humble and modest people I know, yet also confident and stern. Incredibly compassionate, sincere, zealous - in her own way -, and unassumingly wise and bright, many people turn to her as an example to look up to. Every moment of her life is devoted to her practice, and to developing mind, body, speech to be in alignment with BuddhaDharma. She has studied meditation under some of the greatest teachers at Wat Phra Dhammakaya, and has been a nun for over 20 years. Should you ever visit Wat Phra Dhammakaya, see if you can manage to find her, and you will know you are in the presence of a living breathing example of the power of proper meditation - Sammā Samādhi.
MAECHI YUPIN, WAT PAK NAM
Maechi Yupin is one of those magical characters you read about in fairy tales. She came into my life during my first year as a monk at Wat Phra Dhammakaya, at a time where the reality and daily life of being a monastic was -shall we say - giving challenges.
Maechi Yupin would often visit Wat Phra Dhammakaya from her home temple of Wat Pak Nam to participate in the first Sunday of the month ceremonies at Wat Phra Dhammakaya. On these visits, we would often meet, I would listen to her stories and advice, and we would catch up.
So what makes her so special? There is a building within the temple called Wat Pak Nam that is legendary. Luang Pu Sodt Jantasaro is the only meditation teacher and Abbot I know of who created an ongoing 24hr meditation workshop where teams of monks AND nuns would alternate shifts of 4-6 hours sitting sessions each. What they are fabled to have done and accomplished during those sessions in the "Vijja Dhammakaya Factory" building is nothing short of the extraordinary and supernatural. After Luang Pu Sodt died in the 1959, the 24hr workshop dwindled, many of the powerhouse meditating monks left, but the tradition was kept on by the nuns.
On a trip to Wat Pak Nam one day, you could imagine that I had been hoping to visit the legendary building, though it is semi blocked off and hidden. While there with a few other monks, it just so happened that one of the nun teams was getting off their shift and were moving around outside the building. One of the buildings leaders, คุณยายแม่ชี้รัมภา 'Khun Yay Maechi Rampha' - who actually meditated under Luang Pu Sodt in the Vijja Dhammakaya Factory before his passing, came out and met us. I had no idea who it was at the time, but with her was Maechi Yupin. And this is how we got started.
A specialist in healing people using the power of the Dhammakāya, she has been a nun for over 25 years now (as of 2015), 20 of which have been in the Vijja Dhammakaya Building. She lives, breaths, eats, and sleeps meditation and the practice of BuddhaDharma. Some of the stories she tells really seems like fairy tales and you'd just think I'm more crazy if I wrote them down. She is stoic, stern, hard, and no-holds-bar when it comes to her practice and what it takes to succeed. Meanwhile, she is vastly kind and caring, sacrificing her time and effort to make a difference in people's lives, whether they know it or not. As an example of tough love when its needed, and the frequent check-in to see how I'm doing, I was honored when she adopted me as a Dharma son, as I have so much respect, admiration,and gratitude for her and what she stands for.
There are people out there who really meditate for the betterment of humankind; who fully dedicate every breath of their lives to helping all sentient beings. These nuns are not the "woo-woo" wanna-bes, romanticizing about "let's pray for world peace and all the problems will magically go away" like many of us are. Because of their success in refining and development their mind, body, and speech they are at a level of authenticity most aspire to. Yet, that said, you ought nought to believe me until you see them for yourself.
Maechi Yupin would often visit Wat Phra Dhammakaya from her home temple of Wat Pak Nam to participate in the first Sunday of the month ceremonies at Wat Phra Dhammakaya. On these visits, we would often meet, I would listen to her stories and advice, and we would catch up.
So what makes her so special? There is a building within the temple called Wat Pak Nam that is legendary. Luang Pu Sodt Jantasaro is the only meditation teacher and Abbot I know of who created an ongoing 24hr meditation workshop where teams of monks AND nuns would alternate shifts of 4-6 hours sitting sessions each. What they are fabled to have done and accomplished during those sessions in the "Vijja Dhammakaya Factory" building is nothing short of the extraordinary and supernatural. After Luang Pu Sodt died in the 1959, the 24hr workshop dwindled, many of the powerhouse meditating monks left, but the tradition was kept on by the nuns.
On a trip to Wat Pak Nam one day, you could imagine that I had been hoping to visit the legendary building, though it is semi blocked off and hidden. While there with a few other monks, it just so happened that one of the nun teams was getting off their shift and were moving around outside the building. One of the buildings leaders, คุณยายแม่ชี้รัมภา 'Khun Yay Maechi Rampha' - who actually meditated under Luang Pu Sodt in the Vijja Dhammakaya Factory before his passing, came out and met us. I had no idea who it was at the time, but with her was Maechi Yupin. And this is how we got started.
A specialist in healing people using the power of the Dhammakāya, she has been a nun for over 25 years now (as of 2015), 20 of which have been in the Vijja Dhammakaya Building. She lives, breaths, eats, and sleeps meditation and the practice of BuddhaDharma. Some of the stories she tells really seems like fairy tales and you'd just think I'm more crazy if I wrote them down. She is stoic, stern, hard, and no-holds-bar when it comes to her practice and what it takes to succeed. Meanwhile, she is vastly kind and caring, sacrificing her time and effort to make a difference in people's lives, whether they know it or not. As an example of tough love when its needed, and the frequent check-in to see how I'm doing, I was honored when she adopted me as a Dharma son, as I have so much respect, admiration,and gratitude for her and what she stands for.
There are people out there who really meditate for the betterment of humankind; who fully dedicate every breath of their lives to helping all sentient beings. These nuns are not the "woo-woo" wanna-bes, romanticizing about "let's pray for world peace and all the problems will magically go away" like many of us are. Because of their success in refining and development their mind, body, and speech they are at a level of authenticity most aspire to. Yet, that said, you ought nought to believe me until you see them for yourself.
A GODDESS, A LIONESS, JENNIFER YARRO
'My'* goddess, wife, and consort, Jennifer Yarro
I could likely write for many months about this woman. She has, and continues to teach me so much. First and foremost, to me she is the symbol of divine femininity; of the mothering nature of the Earth and Universe. She is a symbol of love, freedom, cherishing, honoring, witnessing, nurturing, continual raw and unrelenting expansion, beauty, compassion and kindness, confidence, embrace, courage, manifestation, intuition, guidance, laughter, being real and raw, accepting, healing, life, consort-ship, union, wholeness (in me & also of two becoming one), saturation & contentment. She can hold the universe in her motherly womb and nurture everything in it. A symbol of the power of fire, in its ability to transform and ripen, as well as the passion of love, sensuality, and the ability to both receive and give one's all.
Of all the many things great and small, I thank you for them all. I thank you for our lives, for what we have done, for what we are doing, and for what we will do together. I thank you for being the mother of our children, and for the example you set. I thank you for your love, passion, embrace, wisdom, generosity, understanding, and for your forgiveness for me when I'm a "silly monkie". I thank you for yoga & thai massage. I thank you for the impetus for daily practice & doing the work, manhood, strength, health & longevity, determination & persistence, surrender & battle, joy & tears, love & fire & water & air & earth, consciousness, dissolving & rebirth, medicine & life, photography, videography, and writing,. I thank you for the gift of you and the gift of love in life. May we have many more long, healthy, happy, abundant, and prosperous ones <3
*goddesses don't have owners, they choose to be with those they are with
I could likely write for many months about this woman. She has, and continues to teach me so much. First and foremost, to me she is the symbol of divine femininity; of the mothering nature of the Earth and Universe. She is a symbol of love, freedom, cherishing, honoring, witnessing, nurturing, continual raw and unrelenting expansion, beauty, compassion and kindness, confidence, embrace, courage, manifestation, intuition, guidance, laughter, being real and raw, accepting, healing, life, consort-ship, union, wholeness (in me & also of two becoming one), saturation & contentment. She can hold the universe in her motherly womb and nurture everything in it. A symbol of the power of fire, in its ability to transform and ripen, as well as the passion of love, sensuality, and the ability to both receive and give one's all.
Of all the many things great and small, I thank you for them all. I thank you for our lives, for what we have done, for what we are doing, and for what we will do together. I thank you for being the mother of our children, and for the example you set. I thank you for your love, passion, embrace, wisdom, generosity, understanding, and for your forgiveness for me when I'm a "silly monkie". I thank you for yoga & thai massage. I thank you for the impetus for daily practice & doing the work, manhood, strength, health & longevity, determination & persistence, surrender & battle, joy & tears, love & fire & water & air & earth, consciousness, dissolving & rebirth, medicine & life, photography, videography, and writing,. I thank you for the gift of you and the gift of love in life. May we have many more long, healthy, happy, abundant, and prosperous ones <3
*goddesses don't have owners, they choose to be with those they are with
AmmA, Mata Amritanandamayi
Amma is one of those beings that when you meet you know that they are a saint. That they were sent her for a purpose, and they are living that purpose to its maximum potential. In fact, she is known as "The Hugging Saint", for one of the ways she hopes to make a difference in the world is both literally and metaphorically touching them. She has been known to, in one sitting, hug over 20,000 people over the course of 20 hours without breaks; e.g. no food or bathroom breaks. Each hug is different, each hug is unique to that person for what they need right there at that second.
An incredible humanitarian, a sun of laughter and happiness, she inspires millions through her selfless service, Dharma teachings, and projects. For more info on those visit this site: Amma.org
She is the wholesome prime example of free unconditional love and joy. I encourage you to go get a hug, tap into her and what she's about, don't pay too much heed to the sometimes awkward 'cult'ure and organization around her, and find out for yourself what she has to teach us all.
An incredible humanitarian, a sun of laughter and happiness, she inspires millions through her selfless service, Dharma teachings, and projects. For more info on those visit this site: Amma.org
She is the wholesome prime example of free unconditional love and joy. I encourage you to go get a hug, tap into her and what she's about, don't pay too much heed to the sometimes awkward 'cult'ure and organization around her, and find out for yourself what she has to teach us all.
DR. JĪVAKA KUMARĀBHACCA
There is much more information about the good doctor on another portion of this site entitled DR. JĪVAKA & WAI KHRU.
That said, as the personal physician to many kings and, most importantly, to Lord Gautama Buddha I have a profound and vastly deep respect and admiration for Dr. Jīvaka. Though the account of his life, studies, and the medical miracles he performed so long ago vary depending on the tradition and texts used, nevertheless it is remarkable. And let alone the Great Sages he had as teachers is more than noteworthy.
The knowledge and tradition that he helped to carry on, protect, and participate in is something I look up to and wish to honor and uphold in my own practice. In supplication to Dr. Jīvaka, I pay great homage, respect, and appreciation for all he has done for the Buddhist Medical world, as well as the vast number of BuddhaDharma practitioners he has aided and assisted in healing.
That said, as the personal physician to many kings and, most importantly, to Lord Gautama Buddha I have a profound and vastly deep respect and admiration for Dr. Jīvaka. Though the account of his life, studies, and the medical miracles he performed so long ago vary depending on the tradition and texts used, nevertheless it is remarkable. And let alone the Great Sages he had as teachers is more than noteworthy.
The knowledge and tradition that he helped to carry on, protect, and participate in is something I look up to and wish to honor and uphold in my own practice. In supplication to Dr. Jīvaka, I pay great homage, respect, and appreciation for all he has done for the Buddhist Medical world, as well as the vast number of BuddhaDharma practitioners he has aided and assisted in healing.
NOAM TYROLER
Ajahn Noam is my instructor and mentor in Thai Acupressure for Orthopedic Disorders, as well as Thai Massage in general. His background is lofty in medical massage and therapy, yet what I enjoy deeply about Ajahn Noam is his personality and humility. I don't believe there is a westerner more advanced in the practice of Thai Acupressure, yet he is so approachable and down-to-earth. Moreover, he teaches the material very very well and thoroughly. The student gets it because of how he teaches it, and if not then he makes a point to make sure they get it.
He is the embodiment of 'sabai' for those unfamiliar with the Thai way. Yet through his ease, there is a very deep and vast well of experiential knowledge that comes across astoundingly non-chalant and effortless. Besides his personality, one of his great gifts to the world is the book he compiled on Thai Acupressure. Daunting to those who haven't yet studied with him, it is a close and well utilized companion throughout any acupressure practitioner's life. I most strongly suggest every bodyworker to take up studies with Ajarn Noam. He is a great teacher, amazing amazing practitioner, and an awesome human being.
The skills and knowledge he has shared with me I continually utilize in my Thai Bodywork sessions and life. We have shared good times around the North of Thailand, and I am ever so grateful for his presence and place in my life. Thank you so very much for you wisdom, skill, character, and friendship Ajarn.
Qualities That Come to Mind:
professionalism, maturity, wisdom through experience, guidance, learn through doing, compassion, reflection, sabai sabai, "don't be hasty", dedication, pioneer, energetic effort, happiness, community, devotion to one's profession. humility, non-chalant passion, professional skill and talent, meditation, priorities, enjoyment of the little things, sacrifice, self-study
He is the embodiment of 'sabai' for those unfamiliar with the Thai way. Yet through his ease, there is a very deep and vast well of experiential knowledge that comes across astoundingly non-chalant and effortless. Besides his personality, one of his great gifts to the world is the book he compiled on Thai Acupressure. Daunting to those who haven't yet studied with him, it is a close and well utilized companion throughout any acupressure practitioner's life. I most strongly suggest every bodyworker to take up studies with Ajarn Noam. He is a great teacher, amazing amazing practitioner, and an awesome human being.
The skills and knowledge he has shared with me I continually utilize in my Thai Bodywork sessions and life. We have shared good times around the North of Thailand, and I am ever so grateful for his presence and place in my life. Thank you so very much for you wisdom, skill, character, and friendship Ajarn.
Qualities That Come to Mind:
professionalism, maturity, wisdom through experience, guidance, learn through doing, compassion, reflection, sabai sabai, "don't be hasty", dedication, pioneer, energetic effort, happiness, community, devotion to one's profession. humility, non-chalant passion, professional skill and talent, meditation, priorities, enjoyment of the little things, sacrifice, self-study
Those whom gave me these
I won't talk much about it these days. Tattoos are not for everybody and these come with a karmic price tag. They are believed to be magical and heavily involved in sorcery, which some call Buddhist magic. Here is a link to something on the subject, and a REPLY I wrote to this article:
http://shambhalasun.com/sunspace/a-look-at-thai-magic-tattoos-photos-and-review/
They were given to me by monks at Wat Bang Phra in Nakhon-Chaisi outside of Bangkok. There were three monks who gave me these sak yant สักยันต์: Luang Pi Pant, Luang Pi Yaa, Luang Pi Phaew.
Indeed it has had an influence on me and my history....And at times there has been shame and guilt in having them, which is a long story in itself. And I post this image because of the choice to not be ashamed, and at the same time not to boast. To honor my past and the lessons I have received from it, so that I can live a more conscious grateful 'now'.
Although I may have a different view now than I did when I got them, and now defer people to not receive them, it still is a part of this body for as long as I use it this life. It has taught me a lot along the way. I am grateful for my lessons. Besides, they always raise an eyebrow.
http://shambhalasun.com/sunspace/a-look-at-thai-magic-tattoos-photos-and-review/
They were given to me by monks at Wat Bang Phra in Nakhon-Chaisi outside of Bangkok. There were three monks who gave me these sak yant สักยันต์: Luang Pi Pant, Luang Pi Yaa, Luang Pi Phaew.
Indeed it has had an influence on me and my history....And at times there has been shame and guilt in having them, which is a long story in itself. And I post this image because of the choice to not be ashamed, and at the same time not to boast. To honor my past and the lessons I have received from it, so that I can live a more conscious grateful 'now'.
Although I may have a different view now than I did when I got them, and now defer people to not receive them, it still is a part of this body for as long as I use it this life. It has taught me a lot along the way. I am grateful for my lessons. Besides, they always raise an eyebrow.
PAY RESPECTS TO YOUR TEACHERS. ALWAYS. WITHOUT YOUR TEACHERS, YOU WOULD NOT BE WHO YOU ARE TODAY.
