There are memories in our lives that seemingly stick around and do us no good at all. We try to get rid of them and they haunt or chase us till time makes them fade away. Then, there are those happy and positive memories that propel us to new adventures, journeys and change the way we think or feel. Perhaps they even change our lives. Three years ago next month, I had one of those incredible and positive moments when the Dalai Lama came to visit Portland and the local Buddhist university (yes, we have one as do a few other cities in the US).
The year before this, in 2012, I'd flown down to Los Angeles and Long Beach to attend his lecture with my good friend Jen. We had a great time there and were uplifted by the experience in seeing and hearing this delightful man and his wise words.
In fact, even though he was quite a distance away, one could feel the energy from not only the Dalai Lama but the other wise humans on the stage. Sure, it was a special treat in getting to see Richard Gere (Hubba, hubba! ) there as well, but the following day's speeches were illuminating for sure. We walked away refreshed and enlightened! Fast forward to 2013! In early January of that year it was announced that the Dalai Lama would be visiting Portland and the Maitripa College as well as a few other places, giving speeches in the area. I was excited beyond belief! So I made sure I had that time off from work and planned my schedule. Unfortunately, tickets for his University of Portland speech were sold out very quickly and I could not secure one. But, I had a chance to see hin that Friday at the college in SE Portland. Heading down there with my camera gear and high adrenaline, I was so ready. Amazingly, very few people were there to attend and see this wise man, listen to him speak. So I was there on the front line when he arrived.
He always seems to have so much energy and stamina, looking as fresh as usual. No doubt he took to the Portland weather fine. As he approached my direction, I snapped away, hoping for a closer meeting.
As I was not really one of those few selected to meet or greet HHDL, I knew the odds were very remote I would. He shook hands and greeted many dignataries and refugees and others from Tibet,Nepal and other countries from that area who had moved to the Pacific NW.
Then, he turned my way and walked towards me. That was when I "met" the Dalai Lama. Our eyes locked, smiles were exchanged and he continued on past me to enter the college and prepare for the events to soon take place. No, I didn't actually get to meet him, shake hands nor introduce myself.
None of that was to be and...that was just fine! My meeting actually DID happen and it was that locking of eyes, that smile shared, exchanged. Almost like a transference of that energy from himself to me. That radiance that he projected, the energy and positive kindness which surrounded him and the crowd...that was amazing indeed! Only a few feet away from one of the most amazing humans I have "met". That being said, I was pretty well set for the day, week, month and lifetime that I'd been allowed to experience this.
The reason I typed this post up three years later: that visit still resonates with me, still makes me smile and is a part of who I am today. This Seumas Dòmhnal who has changed so much over the last five years truly appreciates all he has, all of those he is privileged to meet and know, to love and be with. As each day continues in this life I lead now, I cannot help but be thankful for so much!
Namaste, and love to all! <3
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