Many of us are on an inward or outward path--to Enlightenment, to our Higher Selves, to our eternal connection with Source. We are called to this for reasons only the individual can describe, or more often, just know, and in the course of this Path, we often connect with other like minded (Light minded?) beings. And because we all have chosen specific areas of Service, we alternate roles of healer, teacher, guide and leader. We each can offer Service to others, often by our presence and energetic state. Sometimes, we may be drawn or called to provide Illumination through insights we have received on our personal journey, or in CoCreation with nonphysical Beings of Light, or aspects of Spirit. All are valid and vital aspects of our experiencing and expressing ourselves as Source. The "teacher" and the "student" offer each other great gifts of Spirit, and Lessons beyond what is recognizable in physical manifestation. For the purpose of this offering, I refer to those beings recognized as, or offering structured format or experience, as spiritual teachers. While many are called to be spiritual teachers, a Teacher of Spirit is a powerful Illuminating Force. We "know them when we se(ns)e them", and more importantly, by the virtue of their Service, our lives change, and we GROW into our fullest spiritual potential.
On occasion, the lessons meant to be learned together manifest quickly, and each must move on to continue learning. This moving on can be difficult, for we have attached to the teacher. For some, this teacher-student experience may have been our clearest and closest encounter with our Divinity, with our Source. To leave this experience behind is unthinkable, and yet...something has changed, we have changed, the lesson has been learned, and the relationship no longer serves us. What then do we do?
Following are questions to ask yourself when considering entering, and during the course of, this very special relationship. Remember that you are also teaching and providing lessons, and that your contribution is significant. Know also that growth can be challenging, and painful for those who choose this pattern of education. Keep in mind that we have chosen to learn together as Spirit Incarnate, with compassion for all who engage in this Experience. While we strive for perfection, our learning continues. There are so many spiritual teachers because there are so many learners; the Path must always challenge and illuminate, and we may have agreed to connect with many in the energetic flow of Light. As you review these questions, consider what is best for you, at this Perfect Timing. Know that you are choosing well in each moment for your highest Purpose.
1. Do you resonate with the teacher and/or teachings?
That is, do you find something within you that harmonizes with the teacher's energy or message? This often occurs at first connection, whether someone tells you or you happen upon an upcoming class, or website, or book, or the person, and you think, "Hmmm that sounds like it's for me, or I need to do this". Often this feeling statement is preceded with "I don't know why, but..."
A Teacher of Spirit's energy may often be discerned without any form of physical or visual contact. At times just the thought or introduction of the thought of the Teacher initiates this resonation, which may be intense or extremely subtle.
2. Are all students--including you--treated with great respect and compassion?
You are entering into a sacred trust, individually and collectively.
A Teacher of Spirit enters every encounter of this type--no matter how brief--with respect for the individual and the commitment each has made. This respect is demonstrated whether or not another individual is present; any discussion of students (former included) with anyone is respectful and uplifting. This holds true regardless of personal issues or disagreements.
3. Do you find the teacher humble?
This is not excessive self-deprecation or an obvious lack of self-worth. This is the ability to be clear in message, and not be affected by, or attached to, the Brilliance of the Light or any form of the message being delivered.
The Teacher of Spirit speaks in Truth, valuing each encounter, and one feels more valued, not less, to be in such a presence.
4. Are other spiritual teachers and Paths regarded with respect?
Many divergent Paths and belief systems exist, and all are part of the Expression of Source. It is not necessary to believe, and not humanly possible, to participate in all Expressions of teaching, faith, or other belief systems. As each is part of the All That Is; however, all are worthy of respect--even if comprehension is missing. Needing to "always be right" is a pattern not found in the Teacher of Spirit.
The Teacher of Spirit may be unfamiliar with some Paths, does not resonate with others, and may state this freely. The Teacher of Spirit often offers the observation that the Many lead to the One, and chooses to respectfully refrain from judgment.
5. Is the energy exchange balanced, or does money seem to outweigh the mission?
This is a Universe of energy exchange, and quite obviously we use the currency of money for most of our exchanges. Many are guided in the amounts that are fair exchanges, which may be regarded as too little or exorbitant depending upon another's attachment to money, or lack of funds. This is individual, and all responses usually occur in a cross section of potential students, so this is not an indicator of an imbalanced energy exchange. At times, "zero sum thinking" is demonstrated by spiritual workers, with the feeling that there is "only so much of the pie to go around", so there may be great demonstrated need to get what is thought to be enough. Consider if there is a preponderance of talk on money and the teacher's need, the lack of it, any feelings of energetic "stickiness". Is the energy exchange complete with one encounter, or is the student required or strongly advised to agree to ongoing individual sessions or classes for any particular rationale? It is understood that many teachings are built on foundational lessons, and there are constant upgrades to knowledge; you in this experience as student may consider your current state and path and how the next steps of the teacher fit your next steps. Many student/teacher paths last a lifetime, and often many lifetimes, with the roles experienced by each participant. Be open to this!
Other energetic considerations:
Does the teaching or other products or services feel "doled out", not freely offered and exchanged? There must be a positive flow of energy in both directions, and you can sense the impact this attachment and fear can have on your experience just by an uneasiness or other manifested feeling. Check in with your inner knowing for guidance.
