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

Most religions have always appreciated the extreme power of concentrated thought directed toward the benefit of others, especially when that person is practicing in solitude. That's why they have contemplative orders.

In one way I would like to teach, but I have no qualifications to teach Westerners.

When I was 18 I read a book about Buddhism and, before I was halfway through it I said to my mother, "I'm a Buddhist!" She said, "That's great. Finish reading the book and then you can tell me all about it." From that moment on I knew I was a Buddhist.

When I was in retreat I just did my meditation sessions and, in-between, reading and things I had to do.

If we want to be musicians, dancers or sportspeople, we can download a certain amount and watch DVDs and read books, but in the end we need someone to assess us and give us personal instruction. The two go together.

Just because someone is very charismatic, it doesn't mean that they're genuinely qualified.