With all due respect, I have never before heard a Buddhist teacher describe herself as "an authority" on any aspect of Buddhism, but rather as a continuing student herself.

Neither have I heard a teacher claim that the insights she shares come out of her own practice or mind. Buddhist teachers clarify and share the insights of the Buddha, the principles of Buddhism.

Yes, but this is the Voice you are reading. So expect anything.

Shaila Catherine is one of the best and most skillful Buddhist teachers I have ever met. Her specialty is deep concentration, but she is also highly skilled in other aspects of meditative practice. I'm so fortunate to have her right in my neighborhood. I'm feeling lucky. :)

It would certainly be unusual for a meditation teacher to claim they are an "authority." As you say (first poster) we're all still learning. But Shaila's not directly quoted as saying this, so I think we should give her the benefit of the doubt.

But as for your second point, I don't know any meditation teacher who does not say that what they share comes out of their own practice. We first put into practice the teachings, and then share what we've learned. To some extent there's some passing on of received wisdom ("Buddha said...") but authentic teaching is a sharing of what we're discovered through practice, not the mere transmission of received information about practice.

I don't know Shaila, but everything I'd heard or read about her suggest she's the real deal. I hope this softens your doubts a little.

I have meditated every day for 40 years, and have gone to several sessions hosted by Catherine at St. Timothy's. She is definitely a capable meditation teacher, and able to instill an appreciation of various methods of meditation. In the words of Buddha, "When the student is ready, the teacher will appear." She could be the one for you.

I apologize to anyone offended by my remarks, particularly Shaila Catherine. This has been a lesson in right speech.