A Deeply Healthy Kind of Perfectionism | Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo

Path to Buddhism

Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo's journey to Buddhism began at the age of 18 when she discovered a book that sparked her interest in the religion. She felt an immediate and profound connection to Buddhism, realizing it was the most important pursuit in her life. This led her to India at the age of 20, where she sought a teacher to deepen her understanding and practice of the dharma 1. Her commitment was unwavering, and she soon found her teacher, Cometulumboce, whom she recognized as her lama upon meeting him 1.

Just seeing him, I knew he was my lama, that I was just seeing someone I hadn't seen for a long time.

--- Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo

Three weeks later, she became a nun and dedicated her life to the teachings of Tibetan Buddhism 1.

   

Time in the Cave

Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo's time living in a cave is often misunderstood as a period of hardship, but she describes it as the happiest time of her life. Despite the lack of modern conveniences, she found joy in the isolation and the opportunity to fully immerse herself in her practice 2. The cave provided a sacred space where she could deepen her meditation and connect with the transcendent qualities she had long sought 3.

People assume that it was very hard, very difficult, very austere, and that therefore it was a time of great hardship, whereas, in fact, it was probably the happiest time of my life.

--- Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo

Her practice flourished in this environment, allowing her to abide in the perfection she believed existed beneath the noise of the mind 3.

   

Role in Change

Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo played a significant role in transforming the role of nuns within Tibetan Buddhism. In the early days, nuns were often overlooked and denied access to philosophical studies and rituals 2. However, over the past two decades, the situation has improved dramatically, with nuns now receiving the same education and opportunities as monks 2. Her efforts, along with many others, contributed to this shift, reflecting broader changes in society.

The problem in those days was that nuns, women in general, were pretty much overlooked and neglected.

--- Jetsunma Tenzin Palmo

Her unique position as one of the few Western nuns at the time also highlighted the need for change and inclusivity within the Buddhist community 4.