It may sound as if you must have devotion first in order to have an understanding of the view, that devotion ignites the practice of the Dharma. But as you become more seasoned in practicing the Dharma, especially the Vajrayana, the gap between devotion and the goal of the devotion becomes very small.

As you become more skilled in practicing, you will see that devotion is the awareness of impermanence, devotion is the renunciation mind, devotion is compassion for all sentient beings, devotion is none other than the experience of dependent arising. Most important, the moment there is devotion, you have the view, and there is the awareness of shunyata.

Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche

from the book The Guru Drinks Bourbon?

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Further quotes from the book The Guru Drinks Bourbon?:

• Examining the Guru
• Dismantling the puzzle of dualism
• The Worst Forms of Abuse Award
• Celebrity Gurus
• Vajra hell
• The path is practical
• The quest for a guru
• Seeing a student’s potential
• The whole purpose of the outer guru
• Merging with the guru’s mind
• Practicing Dharma requires sacrifice
• Devotion is supreme
• Advice on selecting a guru
• No one can please everyone
• Samsara
• Experience is like a mist in the morning
• Gurus Don’t Fish for Devotion
• Why can’t the Guru be perfect?
• Your decision is now taking the lead