Of all the people alive in the World, I, like many others would very much like to sit down and talk with the great, Dalai Lama. I do not use the term ‘His Holiness’ as many publications seem to do, not through any disrespect , but because I believe that the term’ Holy’, misrepresents the Buddhist way that he does his best to promote. It is amongst my future plans , should I get the chance, to travel to India to try and see this great man. But I know that even if I do that , the chances of getting more than a few minutes with him are slim.

There is so much I would like to ask him, and so much more I would simply like to discuss, debate, thoughts to share.

This matter was passing though my head this morning and a crazy idea came to my head. I have heard much of how The Dalai Lama is quite keen to make best use of modern technology and the wonders of the internet. Here I have a website, and who knows , if fate decrees it , he may find this site one day, and so from today I begin , my open letter to The Dalai Lama.

Please, my friend;

( I have been unsure how to address you, and in the end , this term is what seemed most appropriate, even though we have never met, in this life at least);

let me begin by stating my full and utmost respect to yourself, your beliefs, your words; which I read often and gain such comfort and wisdom from; and also to all those who think likewise.

In this world of so much religious, political and commercial dogma; this world of apparent endless conflicts and lack of respect for the very planet that gives us life, in the endless search for ‘comfort’ and ‘convenience’, your thoughts and wisdom give me hope both for my sanity and for the world.

I have long believed in the power of thought and that, as long as there is at least one great person in the world, holding the wisdom of the Buddhist way, then there is hope that this way will spread and hope remains that the earth will heal.

Many years ago I used to be very vocal on environmental issues, frustrated at the apparent disregard for our future. Now the truth of what I and many others were saying, all those years ago, is all too clear. But I have come to realise that the biggest hope we have, is for each of us to work on ourselves, rather than screaming at others. Perfection and rising to Nibban is a rare gift that few of us can attain easily, but that should not prevent us from trying, and, by doing so, naturally influencing others to do the same.

Personally, I know I still have far to go; maybe many lifetimes; but am now much happier in my life having recognised the path that I have been following all my life , but until recently, have gone round in circles on.

If the way of Karma is as true as I believe , I have much work to do to reach the end of that path , but each day my steps are truer, more steady, more focused.

I wonder, do you ever estimate how many in this world ever find their true purpose, and do all have one? There is such a part of my soul that says there is something I am here to do, and I am determined to fulfill it, but despite much searching, have not discovered it yet. No matter, my search carries on, but less desperately. As my own wisdom grows, my belief is more that that purpose will reveal itself at a time when I am ready for it, in this life or the next