Advantages Of Dharma Discussions In Class

Note: In case any reader is in the category of (1) and/or (2) below, please note that this article does not apply to any one person, even if it seems applicable to your good self in part or whole. It is but a general observation based on limited perception, and not an accurate analysis of any real person. 

I enjoy Dharma discussions, both online and offline. Online reply to Dharma queries is a big part of my work, that often keeps me up till the wee hours. However, for online communication by email, Facebook… some (about 1%) have a mix of these qualities –

(1) Emotional volatility (in terms of expressing and perceiving emotions)
(2) Propensity of misunderstanding words (even when they are used properly)
(3) Habitual straying off to non-Dharma issues (that expends much time and effort to reply)
(4) Communication in circles (from thinking off-track and in excess, thus continually missing the gise of replies)

When messages in the category of (1) and (3) are not answered ‘in time’ from lack of time, due to (1) and impatient expectations of speedy replies to every single message, there is often needless disappointment and even anger. Each time the issue is resolved, there would be an apology, before the cycle later repeats due to (1), (2), (3) and (4). Every apology has to be acknowledged clearly due to (1), even when it is apparent that there is no grudge on my part. Ironically, not clearly repetitively wording acceptance of each repetitive apology conditions the repetitive arising of a grudge on the person’s part instead. Even if acceptance of each apology is worded, a reply in the category of (1), (2), (3) and/or (4) tends to be received. And the cycle repeats.

For all such cases, I prefer dialogue with them to only be in person, and in the context of the classes I run, which are always open to all. Every class has a Q&A segment too. However, due to problems (1) and (2) above, when this preference is communicated online, it is unfortunately often misunderstood, and a series of emotional replies in the categories of (1), (2) and (4) are received.

So much said, I hope it can be understood that there are many valuable advantages of having discussions only in class. Corresponding to the above point by point with an additional point, here they are –

(1) With others present, words will be more mindfully chosen and less emotionally charged, as is often the case online.
(2) As the tone will be heard clearly and not wrongly imagined, the energy and intention of replies will be received much more clearly, lessening potential for misunderstanding.
(3) There will be focus on strictly Dharma issues.
(4) Issues are less likely to be repeatedly raised after being addressed in a shorter but sharper manner once.
(5) Questions asked can benefit others with similar questions, who can share their views too.

In the case that privacy is needed for further discussion in person, due to the 4 problems above, it should always be in the presence of a third party who best knows the person. This is to have someone objectively witness the actual discussion to prevent any misunderstanding.

I hope this article is helpful for other teachers too. Writing it has helped me to analyse and further discover the great importance of Dharma discussions in class. The more resistant one is to classes and class discussions, the more should one contemplate joining them – so as to resolve the possible problems listed, which might be hidden within one’s character; but wilfully ignored or denied. Of course, there is never any obligation. Good teachers will never force, yet always encourage continual learning in a three-dimensional way, in life, and in person. If not, the teacher would not bother at all. May we all be better students and teachers of one another. May all be well and happy. Amituofo!