About Rama

Back to Ramalila.org

Chapter 1 - The Dinner

I entered the large banquet hall of the Waldorf Astoria in Manhattan.  What an incredible experience!  I looked around.  Everyone was dressed in their finest attire.  I shifted somewhat uncomfortably in my old Tuxedo.  The suit was old and outdated and I just didn’t feel that I was dressed properly.  Everyone else was so perfect.  But it wasn't the suit, it was something else.  I couldn’t place my finger on why, but I felt that I was standing out, and not in a good way.

The room was filled with a charged energy that I had come to know so well.  It was present whenever I sat with Rama.  My spine tingled and my awareness shifted into a heightened state.

I scanned the room trying to see the "right" chair.  There it was.  It was three tables back and toward the center.  I smiled as I recalled how I had always tried to let the room itself show me where to sit.  The chair glowed.  I sat down and smiled at those at the table.  I closed my eyes and listened to the sounds of "Zazen".  This amazing musical group was comprised by my fellow monks and my Teacher.  It was incredible music!

I meditated and observed my awareness increase as my thoughts stopped.  I felt "at home" yet I still felt as though I were just visiting.  It was strange.  Still the energy flowed through my whole being.  It felt wonderful!

This was my first meditation with Rama in over six months.  He liked to have us meditate in beautiful settings.  The dinner was just something he threw in as a nice touch.  I always found it amazing how he was able to do all that he did. 

I sat and let my mind drift back over the years I had spent with my Teacher.  A series of memories flooded my mind.  Where did it all start?  Long before this life.  But in this life, I believe it started with Mickey.

Next >>