by
Erkan Ozkaya
Participating in the Level 3 course The Essence of Mahayana Practice has been a deeply enriching experience. One of the aspects I appreciated most was the quality and depth of the class discussions. They were thought-provoking and helped me to engage with the teachings in a more personal and practical way. Accordingly, I found myself reflecting more deeply on the core Mahayana principles and recognizing their relevance in my daily life.
The opportunity to explore these ideas in dialogue with others made the learning experience much more engaging. The supportive environment helped me connect with the students in class and feel part of a group. As we shared insights and asked questions, I could understand how others are integrating Buddhist practice into their own lives, which inspired and encouraged me to do the same.
The Abbess’s presence and guidance were particularly impactful. The clarity and depth of her responses—both during and after class—helped clarify subtle points and brought the teachings to life. Her use of story-based examples was especially powerful. These stories made complex ideas more accessible and memorable, and they often stayed with me long after class had ended. They also offered practical ways to think about compassion, emptiness, and skillful means in real-world contexts.
Overall, this course helped me to understand the Mahayana teachings and offered me concrete strategies for applying them with more mindfulness and compassion in daily life. I’m grateful for the experience and the connections formed throughout the course. I look forward to continuing this journey with sincerity and openness.