It's hard to believe that it's been nearly 2 months since I posted! Things have been moving here, my mind, my emotions, my spirit. However, the biggest news hit me in the last few weeks, and now it's time to pass it on.
Most of you know that I've been intrigued and a followed of the guru Ram Dass, for many years. In fact, since his l960's book "Be Here Now" was published. I've read his books, still have most of them, though have given away many copies of "Be Here Now" when people wanted them. Then I just go buy another, smiling because I know the word is spreading. The word is, of course, Love. Ram Dass teaches love, heart awareness, loving kindness, as did his own guru, Maraj-ji.
About 10 years ago, not long after his stroke, Ram Dass was in Portland, and of course I went. It was a scorching hot evening, no a/c in the building, and those of us there coped with the heat but it was worth it. Ram Dass talked to us, Krishna Das was there doing chanting, it was a spectacularly wonderful evening.
A couple of years ago, I became aware of a website for Ram Dass' library, and a group that is working to keep his work alive, both in books and taped lectures. I joined the website immediately, ordered some tapes to listen to in my car, and was thrilled in several cases to even hear his beautiful voice.
About a year ago, I had a new awareness, i.e., that he was doing monthly telecasts! I signed up, and for a modest donation was included. At that time, I decided to become very, very brave. I wrote Ram Dass an email, and asked if he would consider being my guru. I also asked if this was possible, since we've never met, and what he might want in the way of compensation. He responded quickly, YES. YES! Wow. He told me his recompense would be what I give to others in my Reiki and grief counseling practice.
In this last year, I've had occasion to talk to Ram Dass, one on one, via Skype. Again, WOW. Okay, I know that's not the best or most descriptive word, but there it is. WOW. I'm not remembering exactly what we talked about, but I do know that a short meditation at the end of these sessions, is amazing.
So.... that brings us up to the present, and my joy. I've been invited to go to Ram Dass' home in Hawaii, and to spend a few days in his home, seeing him a few times one on one, and doing a self-directed meditation retreat. I can't believe it. I've talked with his secretary several times since that first phone call, and have now made airline reservations from November 3rd to November 9th, to be with my guru. In person, One on One. To be in his presence.
I'm elated, joyful, and filled with loving awareness.
I'm still studying writings and lectures of Michio Kaku and Amit Goswami, finding the scientific connect with God/Spirit, but the trip to meet and be in the presence of Ram Dass simply overshadows just about everything.
