As householders, their teachings may be particularly relevant to us because they are living lives of the dharma amidst questions of money, relationships, sexuality and raising a family. This system of teacher support is radically different from that of most Western schools of training and personal growth where there is a fixed fee. The fact that there is no fixed fee leaves the responsibility with the individual to decide what amount of support is appropriate for them. It also guarantees that the teachings are available to persons of all economic levels. As in Asia, to support one's teacher is to support oneself and to help make the teachings available to others.
People often ask for guidelines concerning dana.
There is no obligation to give. However, if the gift of the dharma is experienced as precious there is the opportunity to participate in the support of the teacher and teachings. One may also seek guidance by looking at the fees that are charged for similar events or workshops in our culture. The decision of what to give is deeply personal. Those with lesser means are free to contribute less, and those with greater means may offer more according to the direction of their heart.