At the point of human connection we share experience. Sometimes we learn from, are entertained or inspired by another's experience and their sharing of it. Other times we connect over having had the same one......and we are less lonely.
Other times life is confusing or disappointing or painful.....
At these times we often look to our fellow beings to help clear things up; to learn some strategies or practices to help us out. There are people and teachers I have looked to throughout my life and the ones that stick the most in my mind are the ones who personally moved through and walked the path they teach about. They are the ones who speak from personal experience rather than theory.
Knowing that my teacher or friend has actually lived through the process of waking up into a mindful existence or has practiced on her mat daily for many years is the most powerful inspiration for me to continue my own practice.
Jarvis Masters is living an awakened life and wrote an amazingly inspirational book from death row in San Quentin. He cultivates and inspires peace and community in a place with all the cards stacked against him.
......maybe
You cannot really guide someone down a path that you have not walked. And maybe everyone can be a guide to someone.
Some of us are comfortable teaching groups of people so we get up in front and do it. I think that all of us can serve as a guide to someone who needs support. We all have our real expereinces and triumphs in life and can share them with someone else.
Just to know that your friend has made it through or is living with an experience that you are currently having creates support and hope that can weave back and forth between you resulting in a fabric that holds us up.
The one requirement is our authentic representation of ourselves.
Lets be open about who we are and how we are...
know we have something to offer and something to gain....
and life will be less lonely.