Questionnaire Archive
Ani Kelsang Gamo

Gamo is a Western Buddhist nun, whose name means "Joyful Lady". She lives at Duldzin Dragpa Center in San Jose.

1) When were you first attracted to Buddhism?

I was first attracted to Buddhism, in this incarnation, in 1995. I had been studying several spiritual approaches for about twenty years when I realized that all of the parts I was most interested in were Buddhist.

2) What made you come to this Buddhist center?

I spent several months looking for a Tibetan lineage in or around San Jose. I didn't drive much and so was unwilling to travel far. At the time for whatever reason, I was having trouble finding the Center.

3) Were you apprehensive about coming?

I was very apprehensive about coming. I didn't know what to expect. I had been told by someone in Santa Cruz from another lineage that the Kadampas were a bunch of very strict old men who sat around in dark, smoky rooms studying.

4) What did you expect?

I expected to meet people who were very stern and unfriendly. It took me three or four years to actually make the initial call.

5) What were your first impressions when you arrived?

My first experience was a General Program class. I was pleasantly surprised that everyone in the room looked pretty normal and, dare I say, ordinary? When the teacher came in, I saw that she was a beautiful woman, not a stern old man. Then I looked over at the books on display and saw Geshe-la's picture. I couldn't help but cry. From that moment on, I knew that I was home.

6) What do you like best about coming here?

It's very nourishing to me just to be in the presence of all the Buddhas and beautiful thangkas, etc., not to mention the presence of the Sangha. It's home.

7) How would you explain the benefits of meditation to someone new?

Meditation, practiced daily, can completely change the way we see the world and our place in it. It has the power to calm our minds, give us true serenity and peace and make us happy. It gives us the power to overcome the difficulties in our lives and to find lasting peace of mind.

8) How has what you have learned here made a difference in your everyday work and home life?

The things I have learned have given me much greater patience. I can move through my day with a clearer focus and a happier outlook. I am no longer thrown off kilter when things go wrong. It's much easier to cope.

9) What do you feel that Buddhism can offer to the world today?

Buddhism is the best way I know to become a peaceful person. The more peaceful people we have in the world, the more peaceful the world will become. Having compassion and caring for others makes us happy as well.

10) What is your favorite Kadampa Buddhist quotation?

"May I become an island for those seeking dry land,
A lamp for those needing light,
A place of rest for those who desire one
And a servant for those needing service."

11) What is your favorite book by Geshe Kelsang?

It's hard to have a favorite, but I do love Meaningful to Behold.

12) With what historical Kadampa Buddhist practitioner do you identify most, and why?

I like the stories of the practitioners who were so strong in their devotion to Je Tsongkapa that his statues acted in miraculous ways. I aspire to be that pure a practitioner.

13) What aspect of the Bodhisattva's way of life most inspires you?

I am most inspired by the idea that I am not here for my own sake, but for the benefit of all living beings. Whenever there is something that I do not want to do, I remember this, and it helps me to move forward.

14) What's the first thing you're going to do when you become a Buddha?

The first thing I'm going to do as a Buddha is to emanate as a home for aged nuns and monks!

15) What's your advice for someone new?

Take "baby steps". Just try a little every day and don't get discouraged. True change comes slowly, but there is much joy along the way.