The problem is that our inherent ignorance keeps us in samsara and unable to benefit ourselves and others on a really deep level.

We all have our own karma and so different teachers will be meaningful to different students.

We should develop a deep appreciation for all the we have, and not waste it, otherwise we'll die with deep regrets.

I've always loved the Sangha. I have the deepest, deepest respect for them. I'm very sorry that in the West people don't appreciate what the monastic order is about.

I'd say look at the teacher's students. Do you want to be like them? If you see a good and harmonious sangha, and if they're practicing well and are good people with good hearts, then you have a cause for trust.

Try to develop some genuine love and compassion, some real caring for others.

The Buddha himself said, "I still use conceptual thinking, but I'm not formed by it." And that's the Buddha.