Finding a Guru and a Spiritual Path

The term Guru has gained popularity over the years, as more people seek deeper knowledge and as spiritual curiosity continues to rise around the world.

Traditionally, a Guru is regarded as a spiritual teacher or enlightened guide in Hindu and Buddhist traditions. However, here in Aotearoa New Zealand, our spiritual and cultural foundations are more commonly shaped by Christian and Māori principles. In Christianity, the closest equivalent might be a priest or pastor. In te ao Māori (the Māori world), roles such as Wānanga (a place or person of learning), Kaiako (teacher or instructor), or Kaipūkenga (an expert in a particular field) may reflect similar responsibilities of passing on sacred knowledge.

As Aotearoa grows into an increasingly multicultural nation, we’re exposed to more spiritual influences than ever before. This creates a beautiful, rich tapestry of paths to explore—but it can also be overwhelming. With so many traditions and teachers available, how do you know which path to walk or who to trust?

I grew up in a Christian family was baptised and later explored many other traditions: Buddhism, Taoism, mediumship, Reiki, and more. Over time, I found a place of peace and clarity—developing a personal connection with the God which some may close to call the Divine, Source or the Universe. It doesn’t fit neatly into a single box but rather has been shaped by many traditions and teachers (my Gurus)—some in person, some through books, others through online learning and through my connection with spirit.

“God cannot be contained within a box or a book—it is far greater than that. The moment we try to describe or define God, we begin to place limits on our understanding. Our human minds were never designed to fully grasp the infinite nature of God. The connection with God is developed in love in our hearts and through connection with nature and other living beings. Once you see and feel it you sense it everywhere”.

Why Seek a Guru or Spiritual Mentor?

In my experience, seeking guidance from a trusted teacher can accelerate your growth. You can receive wisdom that took someone decades to gain—and integrate it into your life in a fraction of the time.

But there’s a word of caution here too: not all who wear the title of “Guru” or “spiritual teacher” have good intentions. Some may misuse their influence, intentionally or not. It’s vital to stay discerning and conscious about who you allow to shape your inner world.

Questions to Ask When Choosing a Spiritual Teacher

Here are some reflective questions I’ve used to evaluate whether a teacher is worth trusting:

– Do they guide you to find answers within yourself, rather than making you dependent on them?
– Do they practice what they preach?
– Do they seem to be in a place of genuine peace and integrity?
– Do they embody love, joy, and humility?
– Are they grounded and real, not caught up in spiritual ego?
– Can they admit they’re still learning?
– Do they welcome your questions?
– Do they acknowledge that while they may know a lot, true wisdom includes knowing how little we truly know?

If someone aligns with many—or ideally all—of these, you may have found a worthy guide or mentor.

Closing Reflection

I’ll leave you with this poem—a personal reflection that weaves together insights from Christianity, Buddhism, and Māori spirituality. May it remind you that no matter the path or tradition, the divine is already alive within you.

The Sacred Within

A cross-cultural invocation of the divine presence in us all

In the stillness of the heart,
God whispers,

“You are my temple; I dwell in you.”
Not in the thunder, nor in the storm,
but in the breath between thoughts.
Christ lives.
Spirit moves.
The holy makes its home within.

In the silence of the mind,
Buddha smiles,

“The luminous mind is your birthright.”
No need to chase stars—
awakening is already here.
The flame of wisdom glows
beneath layers of dust.
You are the path,
the refuge,
the light.

In the heartbeat of the land,
Wairua sings,

“You are woven from the atua, shaped by Io.”
Mauri flows like river to sea—
life force, sacred, alive in all things.
Through whakapapa,
you are mountain, ocean, ancestor—
divine by design, never separate.

One spirit, many names—
God, Christ, Buddha-nature, Wairua.
Not distant gods,
but the sacred presence
rooted in your chest,
resting in your breath,
rising with your tears,
walking in your steps.

You are
the living prayer,
the sacred flame,
the still water.
✨ The holy is not far—it is you. ✨

Have you found a spiritual mentor who has guided you on your path? Or are you still searching?

We’d love to read your experiences and reflections in the comments below! Share your thoughts and join the conversation.

With Love, Adam