Being a Good Role Model by Rev. Kris Ladusau
Becoming a good role model can take an entire lifetime to achieve. In short, the qualities needed are compassion and wisdom; a true compassion and connectedness with all beings, so that whatever teaching or action in daily life is expressed comes through as a living example of the Buddha’s Dharma.
These are a few qualities required to be a good role model:
Emptiness: Liberation from identity with the small sense of self
Fullness: An ability to be present and awake
Maturity: Having many years of life experience
Sensitivity: Awareness and appropriate interaction with others
Dharma Practiced: A profound integration of the teaching in heart/mind
Virtue and Ethics: Respectful, and in some ways unshakable
It is also important as a role model and teacher, to be well grounded in your own culture. This is important from the aspect of seeing clearly in the world as it currently is, not just in the cultures that have carried the Buddha’s teachings to the West. This helps us to integrate our spiritual path into our daily experiences, whatever country we live in.
Being trustworthy and straightforward is also an essential part of helping others to feel comfortable. They know, and see that you care, and will be honest with them.
To be able to listen well to others is crucially important, as are true empathy and good communication skills. These are the fruit of a deep spiritual practice.
Always being able to function appropriately as both a teacher and a student shows others that there is always more to learn. Being respectful to your teachers gives those that you guide an important example of respect and gratitude that is passed down though the tradition.
Remaining humble no matter what opportunities present themselves is another vital key to being a good role model for others. We are important and not important, always working to maintain the balance of these two factors. Having position and credentials are of no use, if you have no sangha with which to practice. How we treat others will be reflected to us. If we want to see our own shortcomings as leaders, we can see them easily if we look at our students - they have learned by our example.
When a leader develops sincerity and dedication and deep study and practice are benchmarks of the dojo (place of practice), then a good role model will encourage those whom they guide, to blossom like the lotus flower, feeling total joy even if the student surpasses the teacher’s own ability and understanding on the Path.
Focusing on empowerment is important, but most of all, a good role model remembers to focus on supporting and fostering respect for, and dedication to, living the Dharma.
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Memorable Dharma Messages from a Long Spiritual Journey