Stephen Butler: Embracing Gentleness and Openness Through Mr. Rogers' Buddhism
The bond with the teacher is the most important in my life, because it permeates all other bonds. It's a way of repaying that inspiration and the great kindness that they've given- because you see it manifest in your own spiritual development- to be a comfort, to be a guide to get you on the right path when you need to.
Imagine a world where gentleness and openness are the cornerstones of everyday life. This episode of 'A Skeptic's Path to Enlightenment' brings Scott Snibbe together with Stephen Butler, the podcast's producer and a Grammy-nominated music creator, to explore these very themes. Butler, who has a rich background in Indigenous and Native American music, steps into the spotlight to share his unique perspective on Buddhist philosophy and meditation.
His journey is nothing short of fascinating—growing up in a spiritually rich environment, traveling through the Himalayan regions, and spending months in monasteries. Butler’s experiences provide a colorful backdrop to the conversation about Mr. Rogers' approach to Buddhism. He emphasizes the joy that can be found in meditation practice and the vital bond between student and teacher. The episode also tackles systemic racism within Buddhist organizations and underscores the importance of actively addressing these issues.
Butler delves into Tibetan Buddhist mind training, highlighting the benefits of a centered mind and the fearlessness it brings. He passionately speaks about curiosity as a driving force in meditation and the crucial role of teachers in guiding students. This episode is not just a conversation; it’s an invitation to embrace gentleness, openness, and the wisdom of Mr. Rogers' Buddhism.