For all my life, and in a formal, professional way over the last 10 years, I’ve seen a therapist.

Well, not a therapist, per se—a meditation instructor. In the Buddhist tradition, meditation instructors are basically mentors—a life coach, therapist, and spiritual friend all wrapped into one.

I knew I’d found the right mentor when he didn’t fall for my charm, or sweetness, and just stared straight at my raw heart. And, on the other hand, he never belittled that heart, as he saw, and felt, it’s fundamental goodness.

Those two qualities have kept me biking out to meet with him once every two weeks, or month, for many years now. It’s worth the money, even when I don’t have time, or an issue I know that I want to talk about. It’s always helpful, and always surprising, and his listening and advice always pushes me in the oft-surprising direction that is sanity, depth, and growth.