Pulling together threads from her published teachings, this tapestry is designed along the lines of ground, path and fruition, the traditional developmental journey of the Mahayana student. Transformed by the magic of her special gift with words, these stages become befriending ourselves, benefiting others, and opening to the world as it is. A collection of pith instructions, rather than a comprehensive index, this Guide draws our attention to the many inspired expressions of skillful dharma teaching so characteristic of Ani Pema’s work.
Over the years it has become apparent to me that, while there are many thousands of people who consider Ani Pema to be their mentor, or “spiritual friend,” Ani Pema has taught on so many topics that it might be hard for someone to know just how to use her teachings as a basis for one’s practice and study. It is with this in mind that I first approached Ani Pema with the idea of creating a guide for her work. She liked that idea and suggested that her long time student and friend, Lelia Calder, might be willing to help out.
Lelia stepped up to the challenge and created this wonderful guide that provides direction for us, her readers and students, as we navigate Ani Pema’s vast body of work. With the help of this guide, even those who are brand new to her work will understand the stages and logic of the path as Ani-la herself learned and practiced it. Our ability to hear and to know Ani Pema has been made possible only through the interest, dedication and support of fellow students like you. Thanks to Lelia’s years of hard work and generosity in compiling this guide, we can now offer it to each of you in the hopes that you will find it as enriching and illuminating as we do.
Tim Olmsted, President
The Pema Chödrön Foundation
