The Fast Path - Shiva's experiences studying with Rama, Dr Frederick Lenz

Chapter 3 - Elizabeth

"Tony, if you don't have any plans for lunch today, could I join you?"

I recognized the voice. It was Elizabeth, the executive secretary from upstairs.

It was 1980, I was the Supervisor of Administrative Services at the United Church of Religious Science Headquarters in Los Angeles. I was working my way through the U.C.R.S. School of Ministry and was only a couple of months from graduating.

I was taken aback by Elizabeth's request. I really didn't know her that well, but something in her voice told me that this was a serious matter, not a social thing.

"You've picked a good time; I have no lunch plans," I said. "How about 11:45, if that's okay?"

She agreed.

The Headquarters lunchroom had a couple of picnic tables set up in the patio for an outdoor eating area. I cleared the leaves off one of the small tables and chairs and I sat down and waited. It was a sunny and cool winter day in Los Angeles.

Soon I saw her blond hair. She was an attractive woman, slightly older than myself. She always dressed impeccably and had a light air about her. She was, by far, the best secretary in the building.

Today, however, she seemed a bit nervous as she worked her way across the lunchroom towards the patio.

"I really didn't know if I should confide in you, but you are going to be a minister soon and I have come to trust your judgment," she said as she sat down.

I was flattered, and yet I knew that I had not finished the second year of counseling at school. I hoped that I was up to the situation.

"I have met this spiritual teacher called Atmananda," she said.

Something rang familiar, but I didn't make the connection to my conversation with Mickey from two years before.

"I feel very excited about studying with him, but he is so powerful and I am concerned as to whether or not it is a good idea. In the past I have lost myself in men and organizations. I just need a second opinion concerning this matter," she explained.

I was highly skeptical of any "Gurus." I was, however, somewhat curious and I asked her to tell me about him.

As she talked, her face became very animated and her whole being seemed to light up as she described her experiences with her Teacher. I could see that she was experiencing a true spiritual awakening. Something within me stirred and I knew that this was "right" for her.

Finally the lunch hour was almost over and she looked at me, waiting for my advice.

"I don't agree with the whole concept of having a "Guru." There are so many out there that take advantage of spiritual seekers. I am a firm believer in self-reliance," I began. "However, I can see that in this case, it appears to be a wonderful experience for you. I think you should continue studying with him. Just question and test all of his recommendations and see if they apply to you."

She smiled and said, "That's exactly what he said!"

She seemed at ease now and as we stood to leave, she looked at me and tilted her head.

"Would you like to attend one of our meetings? There is an open meditation this weekend."

The possibility shook me up. I had the feeling that if I did, I would not continue the course I had charted for my life. After all, I was married, had children and was going to graduate soon and become a minister. I was unwilling to change my direction. I must admit that I was also a little afraid and, quite honestly, not yet ready to drop everything. So I declined.

It seems that church politics and a failed marriage would have to conspire in order to set me up for finally meeting Atmananda.

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