His Holiness The Dalai Lama

Six months ago, I made a change in my life. I began to educate myself in Eastern Philosophies. Along with reading and researching, I began to practice meditation with Yoga Nidra. It has been an amazing experience. Even though I slipped off my positive pattern for a while, the moment I started it again, I came right back to the place inside myself where I find all my answers. I must admit that it has been a challenge to remain completely focused these past couple of months and truly believe that things will get better. However, I practice meditation relentlessly, I figured that if it does not do me any good, it won't do me any harm either. At the end of all my sessions, though, I come out refreshed. Except lately, that I caught a horrible cold, my breathing is off and I can't seem to quiet my mind... I guess it's true what they say... "Mental health begins with physical health."

Anyway, as I drowned myself into Eastern wisdom, I began to watch many documentaries on Buddhism, Hinduism, The Tao, etc., and their respective teachers. In the process, I decided I was going to go to India for two weeks to a silent spiritual retreat. I befriended two people from the place I chose, who are two of the most loving human beings I have ever met, and although we have only met through email, whenever we communicate I can feel their love emitting from the computer screen. They are the owners of Z Meditation, located in Dharamsala, India.

While watching a documentary about H.H. The Dalai Lama, I discovered that he resides in Dharamsala and decided to write his office an email requesting a private audience with him. Much to my surprise, they replied, denying my request very politely due to H.H. health and age issues. Ironically, I was supposed to be coming back from India tomorrow. I couldn't go due to the unfortunate events of the past couple of months. About a month ago, my friend Nancy posted on her facebook status that she was going to see The Dalai Lama, because he was going to be in Florida for a visit. Well.... to make a long story longer... I'm going to see him too!!! My wonderful friend Nancy got me a ticket to go with her to the morning session, and I didn't have to travel 5,000 miles to Dharamsala to see him after all. Although, I still plan to attend the retreat at a later date.

Meeting H.H. will be an honor and a complete humbling experience. Aside from that, I got the clear to start weight-bearing on my leg again, so walking on braces is no longer a distant dream, but a very near reality... finally! It's been a long, arduous road... Sometimes I fell victim to my mind's games and tricks, but it seems like things are slowly falling back into place.

I'll be back very soon to talk about my Dalai Lama experience.