When Admiration Becomes a Danger

A spiritual leader initially began his path with ideals of practice, but as his following grew, the mind of pride drew him into worldly gain and politics.

On the first day he opened his teachings, he spoke of morality, of cultivation, and of the path leading to peace. His voice was deep and warm, his eyes shone with conviction. Many came to listen, then stayed, then followed him. They called him their "spiritual leader" – their guide.

In the early years, he lived simply, focusing only on teaching and practice. But as his followers swelled from hundreds to thousands, he began to feel something new: admiration. They knelt before him, offered words of praise, and asked for his blessings. He felt honored, respected.

One evening, after a dharma talk, a disciple approached him and whispered respectfully, "Teacher, a group of followers wishes to donate money to build a larger temple, and they would like you to serve as chairman of the board." He was silent, then nodded his head.

From that point on, he started caring about building facilities, about attracting more followers, and about creating influence in the community. He no longer spoke of liberation, but of protection, of a bright future for those who followed him.

An old disciple who had been with him from the beginning came to see him one day, his eyes filled with sadness. "Teacher, I remember when you spoke of impermanence and letting go. Now your words are different." He smiled, but the smile lacked its former naturalness. "You do not understand. I am doing good for many people."

That disciple left and never returned. He did not realize that it was precisely the admiration that had shaken his mind, pulling him into the whirlpool of fame and politics. He became a leader who had lost his direction, and those who followed him also gradually lost the light of truth.

**Meaning of the Story:** The admiration and praise of others can be more dangerous than criticism, for it can shake a practitioner's mind and draw them into worldly gain and politics. Those with great influence must carefully guard their mind, and when signs of straying appear, they must withdraw in time.

Compiled from a dharma talk by Venerable Thích Chân Quang