Before teaching others, 

we should first cultivate ourselves.

Having some success with cultivation,

our behavior will precede our words. 

Having discovered something new and intriguing, we usually can’t wait to tell others about it. Take, for example, newly hearing about Buddhism. Wanting to share what we just learned is understandable. But if we cannot yet do something, how can we explain it? 

Take anger. If we have not yet found a lessening of our anger and a sense of calm through our practice, how can we teach an irritated person to be more patient? 

Or take worries. If we speak of letting go of worry and fear but are often anxious ourselves, how can we convince others that Buddhist practice will help them? When we try to teach something before we can do it, others will resist us. Understandably so. 

When we progress in our cultivation, our behavior will reflect our growth. When others view us as experienced and trustworthy, we will then be qualified to teach.