I receive quite a few interesting emails. Most are kind and appreciative, especially those from people who have found my writings or guided meditations helpful. I also get asked many questions, and I always try to respond as best as I can.
However, some emails are critical, like the one I received a few days ago from someone named Jacob (though I’m not sure if that’s his real name). Since he used a fake email address, I couldn’t reply directly, so this blog post is my response.
Jacob’s email accused me of being unethical for not disclosing that I supposedly live in a $400,000 condo and questioned my integrity as a Buddhist. He even linked to a Zillow listing of my supposed home.
First, Jacob, if you had done more thorough research, you would have realized that the address on Zillow is for a rented apartment that I share with my partner. The listing mentions rent and uses the term “tenant.” It even features some quirky writing by my landlord’s secretary, who has a fondness for asterisks and exclamation marks.
In reality, I do not own a $400,000 condo. I rent an apartment for $1,765 a month, which includes a fee for our two dogs and an extra charge because my kids stay here part-time. It’s not a luxury apartment by any means; it’s in a less desirable part of town. Until recently, we had meth addicts living downstairs, and their pit bull left quite a mess.
But even if I did own a $400,000 condo, that amount is actually well below the median house price in our area, which is $550,000. Owning such a property would not make me wealthy.
As for your demand for full disclosure, here it is: I live in a rented apartment and split the rent with my partner. I am not a Buddhist monk; I have a partner, two adopted children, and two rescue dogs. I am not rich. I drive a five-year-old Prius C that replaced my twelve-year-old Mazda6. I have no significant savings or pension plan and often struggle to pay bills.
Despite financial challenges, I’ve dedicated my life to teaching meditation and Buddhism, which is not a high-paying career. I’ve worked in various roles, including running a retreat center and a Buddhist center in Edinburgh. These roles provided basic sustenance but little financial security.
I find fulfillment in helping others through meditation and making a positive impact on their lives. If you had directly asked your questions with a real email address, I would have gladly provided this information. Concerns about wealthy “gurus” are valid, but that’s not my reality.
If you’re still concerned, know that most of my income comes from monthly contributions from supporters who value my work. However, these contributions are not enough to cover all expenses, so I have to do additional work to make ends meet. I’m not living a luxurious life, merely getting by.
If you or anyone else finds value in my teachings, consider supporting Wildmind to help me continue this work. I love teaching meditation and hope one day to not have financial worries.
Jacob, I hope this clears up any misconceptions and eases your concerns. For anyone else who has read this far, thank you for your time and understanding.
Warm regards,
Bodhipaksa