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[rockyysdt]

fabianfred, on 2011-12-21 20:28:15, said:

Yes....but who is able to know the attainments of another, apart from the Buddha, and perhaps some others of great attainment themselves?
Such attainments are not discussed....a lack of ego having already been established.
I have the greatest respect for several 8 precept nuns I have met who also teach Vipassana in their temple (Wat Rampoeng). I assume they have reached attainments, and therefore tread very carefully around them, not wishing to unknowingly create for myself any heavy karma.

I speak in the context of a Monk being greatful, and more broadly, lovingly kind (boundlessly friendly).

If one doesn't show gratitude of any kind, whether it be a nod, or display of friendliness how can one live with Metta?

Rather than have an order of seniority (in which by your description, an Bikkhuni, no matter how advanced, is at the bottom of the pile), shouldn't all be humble and ego less as the Buddha taught.

Do you really only tread very carefully for fear of creating heavy kharma?
It gives an image of treating people differently depending on their power.
Shouldn't every human, no matter who or what level, command the utmost respect?
Doesn't  everyone have the potential to achieve awakening?

I remember a story of the Dalai Lama who visited Oxford University in recent times to speak about peace and Dharma.
Ahead of his visit, ornate chair befitting of a dignitary had been set up and centrally positioned for the Dalai Lama to speak from.
Upon entering the hall and surveying the area, the Dalai Lama headed for the back where he rummaged around and pulled out a long bench seat.
He then sat down between two of the University faculty holding hands as he interacted on a one to one level with them.
Totally effacing and boundlessly friendly.
No hierarchy, no ego.

You find yourself in a Monastic situation where there is much rite, ritual & custom.
You yourself have questioned the value of your colleagues behavior in terms of following Dharma.
Can't you also question customs and ritual which aren't necessarily what the Buddha taught?

Edited by rockyysdt, 2011-12-22 13:16:08.

[fabianfred]

I try my best to be friendly to all. I have caught the Thai bug of smiling all the time and know how it can affect people.
I tread carefully, out of respect too, but also try to make others aware of the possibilities and opportunities, and possible dangers, when around those who may be ariyachon.
I treat women and men equally, but perhaps prefer women, because they have more suffering than men, and therefore are often more in attendance at temples and retreats because of it.