Is it conceivable that the vast majority of wise and awakened spiritual “masters” currently inhabiting our planet are entirely unnoticed and unrecognized? These “masters” do not have a YouTube channel or write books, lead seminars or deliver dharma talks, and they do not assemble students around them. They could be auto mechanics, farmers, postal workers, young mothers, grandmothers, grandfathers, aunts, uncles, sons, daughters, sales clerks, artists, unpublished poets, street musicians, scientists, truck drivers, nurse’s aides, elementary school teachers, wandering gypsies, young children, whales, dolphins, cats and dogs – yes, indeed, they/we are everywhere!
What distinguishes them as “masters” is their ability to recognize and respect the Buddha Nature, the deep spiritual potential that is present in everyone else. These patient, loving, generous, tolerant, wise, compassionate, and joyful beings are the ones we encounter in our daily lives. They could be anyone, and they could be anywhere. They don’t need to announce themselves or their teachings, and they don’t need to wear a robe or have a fancy title. They are living examples of what it means to be truly spiritual, and they embody the teachings of the Buddha and other great spiritual figures.
These spiritual “masters” understand that enlightenment is not something that can be bought, sold, or acquired through external means. It is an inner state of being that is available to everyone, regardless of their external circumstances. They know that spirituality is not about accumulating knowledge, status, or power, but about realizing one’s true nature and living from that place of authenticity and love. They do not preach or proselytize, nor do they impose their beliefs or practices on others. Instead, they lead by example, living their lives in such a way that others are naturally inspired to follow their lead.
In fact, it is often the case that these spiritual “masters” are not even aware of their own mastery. They are humble and unassuming, and they do not seek recognition or praise for their spiritual achievements. They may not even consider themselves to be spiritual at all, and they may be surprised to learn that others look up to them as role models. Their spirituality is not a badge that they wear, but a natural expression of who they are.
It is essential to recognize and acknowledge these spiritual “masters,” for they are the ones who hold the fabric of our society together. They are the ones who provide us with hope, inspiration, and guidance when we need it most. They are the ones who remind us of our essential nature and help us to connect with our higher selves. They are the ones who show us that the path to enlightenment is not something that can be found in books or through external means but is instead a journey that must be taken within.
Spirituality is not about accumulating knowledge, status, or power, but about realizing one's true nature and living from that place of authenticity and love. Share on XIn conclusion, spiritual “masters” are not a rare breed of people who live in isolated ashrams or monasteries. They are not the ones who have the most followers on social media or the most famous books. Instead, they are the ones who are all around us, quietly living their lives with love, wisdom, and compassion. They are the ones who recognize and respect the Buddha Nature in others and who remind us of our essential nature as spiritual beings. Let us acknowledge and honor them, for they are the true spiritual leaders of our time.
