I was a paid and fairly active subscriber to this group of author David Michie's for a year or more. I dropped out a few months ago thinking I was too busy to continue being so engaged. I was still getting his free emails which I have been deleting without reading since I dropped out.
This morning I was about to unsubscribe to those as well, when I felt drawn to read this one. After reading I resubscribed to the paid group at the Founder level realizing I how much I would have benefited from his and their support during the tumult of the intervening months.
I loved this newsletter. I was particularly moved by the Albert Schwritzer quote and feel drawn to spend some time journaling about those who have rekindled my flame. I am forever grateful for David and the group's support on my journey. 💜🙏🧘♀️
I'm thinking of reengaging with my local Buddhist sanga and maybe investing my energy in providing leadership to the compassion in action initiative I inspired the sangha to establish.
Welcome back Deborah Jane! It's completely natural to go through times of closeness and greater distance. The main thing is not to lose one's way! Thank you so much for your ongoing support.
What an utterly enchanting and heartfelt story and tribute to the beautiful Kay, David. She, her husband and my own father are all keeping good company at St Catherine's in Nyanga. How very synchronistic life is, that we are now such close friends, and our own dearly departed commune in the Eastern highlands ... oh the conversations they would perhaps have had! Thank you for lighting my flame and gently guiding my spirit with a gracious pathway of golden magnificence. All love xxx
I am so glad that you saw the post, Roxy. Your father being buried in that same, very remote place, adds the most extraordinary dimension to the web of heartfelt interconnections. I feel such privilege knowing you, your family, and your devoted work for the elephants. With much love.
Being asked to “indulge” you by this beautiful tribute is akin to asking one on a cliff if a hand would be ok.
The light you shone on Kay—how she filled little lamps along your life (& for all around her), not only illuminated your rare and precious friendship, but cast light well-beyond—to those of us reading—to our rare and precious loved ones.
I had my phone early this morning when checking on the senior and hospice horses in my care. I seldom take time to read emails at this time, but came across yours and was stopped.
I sat down and read this in its entirety. My 28 yr old horse 🐴 came over and stood near.
I was profoundly moved.
Sparks of treasured wise ones (2 and 4-legged), were reignited in your telling about Kay’s “capacity to make other realms of existence feel close..”
Such a beautiful soul in Kay you have shared. 💫
And likewise, little Tiger. ❤️🩹
Peace and love to you and yours, David, Thank you.
Linda, thank you for writing your thanks — and especially so that I/we can know of your gem of work, caring for aged & hospice horses in your care! My, what blessed associations you all have with each other! Horses, as you well know, are such special beings. Blessings on your work, your joy. I’m glad to know you’re “out there” 😉💝Suzanne-Marie
Wonderful, thanks for sharing. I too read Chariots of the Gods when I was a teenager and I discovered Buddhism when I was in my late teens, it just seemed so intuitive. My first encounter with Buddhism was reading the Lobsang Rampa books. I loved them. Regarding his authenticity I will keep an open mind but whether he was authentic or not doesn’t matter because he pointed me in the right direction.
Thank you so much, Lloyd! I know that many of us feel the same way about Lobsang Rampa - it is the direction that matters more than the finger pointing towards it!
Oh, David, thank you! I am — I’m sure we all are— so grateful and delighted that you shared this gem. Thank you for Kay, for your young self, the photos, for sharing more of your biography & the dear ones in your life with such tender care. Always, reading your words in any and all forms , brings such beauty, such introspection, such gratitude, awareness and refreshment for my own Life experiences upwelling in my heart and soul. That is no mean gift! Gassho… and again, gassho. Blessings to you and yours. Suzanne- Marie
Lovely David! My Kay was Gina Jump and tho she was 45 years older we knew age had nothing to do with our happy times together and our friendship felt so familiar, more than any others I have experience this go around…She, like me, was well traveled ( Japan and British Columbia were our favorites);and well read and we could discuss anything…my border collie at the time “introduced us…”My dog, Tulip, jumped up on Gina which disturbed her greatly and after me apologizing profusely, she forgave us and invited me to her home…she died at 95 and I think about the wisdom she imparted to me every day .We used to say “ sparkle on “ as we hugged each other when our weekly visits were over…❤️ She could light up a room and oh how we laughed…she kept me sparkling for certain! And we always knew that Tulip introduced us! 🐶
Thank you for sharing this moving personal story, David. There were some parallels there for me too (Chariots of the Gods, T. Lobsang Rampa and a leaning towards Buddhism in my early 20s among them). My “Kay” was a fellow student in London named Cathy, who kindled my lifelong interest in Buddhism and the deep connection that exists between all living beings. That spark has been with me for many years now; but the being that fanned it into a flame has four legs, two of them wonky, and is simply the Most Beautiful Creature That Ever Lived……..🪷🙏🏻
Love that “the being that fanned it into a flame has four legs, two of them wonky, and is simply the Most Beautiful Creature that Ever Lived….” What a gift! (I have been likewise gifted 💕)
Thank you David for sharing this and your many other wisdoms. Recently I lost my cat Toby aged 16. He was my buddy and very special Rinpoche. I was and am grief stricken but your teachings over the years have helped me to know that his life with me was just one of many journeys he will take and perhaps we may meet again. He gave us so much love that I hope will have provided him with plenty of good karma in the next life.
I am so sorry to hear about your loss of Toby, Anne. Always the cause of a sore heart. As you imply, we have no idea whose these beings really are. But at the least, he has created wonderful karma for what he is hopefully enjoying now.
Beautiful and Heartfelt 🙏🏽💜 It brought music to my heart 🎵... Thank you David for sharing such a wonderful story of a magical relationship 🙏🏽❣
I am a Godmother to two boys, brothers (who are called Irish Twins, as they are only twelve months apart), who are now in their twenties. It makes me so happy to hear them say they appreciate me, our conversations, my guidance, encouragement and always being there when needed. In their young school days, they had an assignment to write about where they would want to go visit and with whom. They wrote, as I found out at their 8th grad continuation ceremonies that they wanted to go to Tibet to visit the Dalai Lama and the tigers - with me. The closest we have come is so far is to meet the Dalai Lama here in Aspen, Colorado, but they are starting to explore the world, and I have no doubt they will meet me in Tibet someday ...
How wonderful for you to have given the gift of this encouragement, mentorship and inspiration, Lynn. You will remain in their hearts long after you have gone.
Thank you for sharing your personal story behind the figures in your books. You inspired me through the Dalai Lama Cats books. Through your inspiration I found the way to Buddhism. And this is the best gift I ever received. Interdepence......
What a gift you have given us in sharing your deep connection with Kay. I am moved to tears by all of it. And, I believe it will rest in my heart for a very long time. There is much to learn from Kay and your experiences with her then … and now..
You are too kind, Trisha! Trouble is, I didn't feel adorable, but had a huge emptiness within. I wish I had got serious about meditating and the Dharma a lot younger. The main thing is to get on track eventually!
I think we get on track when we are ready. And sometimes the right person has to come along to help and guide us. And you did it! Sometimes the people who have the most pain are the best helpers. You are a giver and have helped so many people and animals. You are such a nurturing and wise writer. And I thank-you so much, David.
I love learning about Kay and your relationship with her. So incredibly special and precious. And...Lobsang R. Rampa - I also read his book around that same age. And Nijinski! What a life she had and that she shared with you. Thank you for sharing it with us.
My pleasure, Cyndi! Yes, she had the most extraordinary life and it was such a privilege to be part of her world, and know of earlier times so vividly.
Your writer’s voice is strong, yet gentle and compassionate. I feel as if I now know Kay as well; thank you for posting such heartfelt peek into your background (I share your goosebumps)!
I'M BACK!
I was a paid and fairly active subscriber to this group of author David Michie's for a year or more. I dropped out a few months ago thinking I was too busy to continue being so engaged. I was still getting his free emails which I have been deleting without reading since I dropped out.
This morning I was about to unsubscribe to those as well, when I felt drawn to read this one. After reading I resubscribed to the paid group at the Founder level realizing I how much I would have benefited from his and their support during the tumult of the intervening months.
I loved this newsletter. I was particularly moved by the Albert Schwritzer quote and feel drawn to spend some time journaling about those who have rekindled my flame. I am forever grateful for David and the group's support on my journey. 💜🙏🧘♀️
I'm thinking of reengaging with my local Buddhist sanga and maybe investing my energy in providing leadership to the compassion in action initiative I inspired the sangha to establish.
Welcome back Deborah Jane! It's completely natural to go through times of closeness and greater distance. The main thing is not to lose one's way! Thank you so much for your ongoing support.
That was very touching and just told me never give up. There’s something there that we will need.
What an utterly enchanting and heartfelt story and tribute to the beautiful Kay, David. She, her husband and my own father are all keeping good company at St Catherine's in Nyanga. How very synchronistic life is, that we are now such close friends, and our own dearly departed commune in the Eastern highlands ... oh the conversations they would perhaps have had! Thank you for lighting my flame and gently guiding my spirit with a gracious pathway of golden magnificence. All love xxx
I am so glad that you saw the post, Roxy. Your father being buried in that same, very remote place, adds the most extraordinary dimension to the web of heartfelt interconnections. I feel such privilege knowing you, your family, and your devoted work for the elephants. With much love.
Very sweet comment, thanks for sharing!
Rossy Cortes
Mexico
Beautiful post - we all need a Kay or two in our lives. Love how she comes through in unexpected ways in your life.
Thank you, Karla. And I have no doubt, there will be more such unexpected manifestations! Thanks so much for your message!
Being asked to “indulge” you by this beautiful tribute is akin to asking one on a cliff if a hand would be ok.
The light you shone on Kay—how she filled little lamps along your life (& for all around her), not only illuminated your rare and precious friendship, but cast light well-beyond—to those of us reading—to our rare and precious loved ones.
I had my phone early this morning when checking on the senior and hospice horses in my care. I seldom take time to read emails at this time, but came across yours and was stopped.
I sat down and read this in its entirety. My 28 yr old horse 🐴 came over and stood near.
I was profoundly moved.
Sparks of treasured wise ones (2 and 4-legged), were reignited in your telling about Kay’s “capacity to make other realms of existence feel close..”
Such a beautiful soul in Kay you have shared. 💫
And likewise, little Tiger. ❤️🩹
Peace and love to you and yours, David, Thank you.
My heartfelt thanks for your beautiful message, Linda!
Linda, thank you for writing your thanks — and especially so that I/we can know of your gem of work, caring for aged & hospice horses in your care! My, what blessed associations you all have with each other! Horses, as you well know, are such special beings. Blessings on your work, your joy. I’m glad to know you’re “out there” 😉💝Suzanne-Marie
Thank you for your kind words. It is an honor to be in their company. 💕
Wonderful, thanks for sharing. I too read Chariots of the Gods when I was a teenager and I discovered Buddhism when I was in my late teens, it just seemed so intuitive. My first encounter with Buddhism was reading the Lobsang Rampa books. I loved them. Regarding his authenticity I will keep an open mind but whether he was authentic or not doesn’t matter because he pointed me in the right direction.
🙏❤️
Thank you so much, Lloyd! I know that many of us feel the same way about Lobsang Rampa - it is the direction that matters more than the finger pointing towards it!
Me too 😀
Lovely to hear from you, Cindy!
Oh, David, thank you! I am — I’m sure we all are— so grateful and delighted that you shared this gem. Thank you for Kay, for your young self, the photos, for sharing more of your biography & the dear ones in your life with such tender care. Always, reading your words in any and all forms , brings such beauty, such introspection, such gratitude, awareness and refreshment for my own Life experiences upwelling in my heart and soul. That is no mean gift! Gassho… and again, gassho. Blessings to you and yours. Suzanne- Marie
I am very moved by your beautiful message - thank you Suzanne-Marie!
Lovely David! My Kay was Gina Jump and tho she was 45 years older we knew age had nothing to do with our happy times together and our friendship felt so familiar, more than any others I have experience this go around…She, like me, was well traveled ( Japan and British Columbia were our favorites);and well read and we could discuss anything…my border collie at the time “introduced us…”My dog, Tulip, jumped up on Gina which disturbed her greatly and after me apologizing profusely, she forgave us and invited me to her home…she died at 95 and I think about the wisdom she imparted to me every day .We used to say “ sparkle on “ as we hugged each other when our weekly visits were over…❤️ She could light up a room and oh how we laughed…she kept me sparkling for certain! And we always knew that Tulip introduced us! 🐶
I love 'sparkle on' Adrienne! I think I may adopt it!
Thank you for sharing this moving personal story, David. There were some parallels there for me too (Chariots of the Gods, T. Lobsang Rampa and a leaning towards Buddhism in my early 20s among them). My “Kay” was a fellow student in London named Cathy, who kindled my lifelong interest in Buddhism and the deep connection that exists between all living beings. That spark has been with me for many years now; but the being that fanned it into a flame has four legs, two of them wonky, and is simply the Most Beautiful Creature That Ever Lived……..🪷🙏🏻
Oooh, HHC would be delighted to hear of it. Or perhaps she might take it as read?! Lovely to her from you, Jane!
Love that “the being that fanned it into a flame has four legs, two of them wonky, and is simply the Most Beautiful Creature that Ever Lived….” What a gift! (I have been likewise gifted 💕)
Now I am beginning to feel jealous ..!
Thank you David for sharing this and your many other wisdoms. Recently I lost my cat Toby aged 16. He was my buddy and very special Rinpoche. I was and am grief stricken but your teachings over the years have helped me to know that his life with me was just one of many journeys he will take and perhaps we may meet again. He gave us so much love that I hope will have provided him with plenty of good karma in the next life.
I am so sorry to hear about your loss of Toby, Anne. Always the cause of a sore heart. As you imply, we have no idea whose these beings really are. But at the least, he has created wonderful karma for what he is hopefully enjoying now.
Very sorry for your loss 🐈⬛💕
Beautiful and Heartfelt 🙏🏽💜 It brought music to my heart 🎵... Thank you David for sharing such a wonderful story of a magical relationship 🙏🏽❣
I am a Godmother to two boys, brothers (who are called Irish Twins, as they are only twelve months apart), who are now in their twenties. It makes me so happy to hear them say they appreciate me, our conversations, my guidance, encouragement and always being there when needed. In their young school days, they had an assignment to write about where they would want to go visit and with whom. They wrote, as I found out at their 8th grad continuation ceremonies that they wanted to go to Tibet to visit the Dalai Lama and the tigers - with me. The closest we have come is so far is to meet the Dalai Lama here in Aspen, Colorado, but they are starting to explore the world, and I have no doubt they will meet me in Tibet someday ...
How wonderful for you to have given the gift of this encouragement, mentorship and inspiration, Lynn. You will remain in their hearts long after you have gone.
Dear David,
Thank you for sharing your personal story behind the figures in your books. You inspired me through the Dalai Lama Cats books. Through your inspiration I found the way to Buddhism. And this is the best gift I ever received. Interdepence......
Thank you so much for enlightening our hearts.
My heartfelt thanks, Ayelet!
Thank you for sharing this personal story.
My sincere thanks, Catherine!
Oh, David, this is so beautiful….
What a gift you have given us in sharing your deep connection with Kay. I am moved to tears by all of it. And, I believe it will rest in my heart for a very long time. There is much to learn from Kay and your experiences with her then … and now..
Thank you 🙏🏽
My heartfelt thanks, Margaret! Thank you for all your support!
David,
Kay sounds so wonderful, kind and insightful. I bet she loved, needed and enjoyed you as much as you loved, needed and enjoyed her.
I love the picture of you when you were 17years old. You looked so adorable and ready to start living!
You are too kind, Trisha! Trouble is, I didn't feel adorable, but had a huge emptiness within. I wish I had got serious about meditating and the Dharma a lot younger. The main thing is to get on track eventually!
I think we get on track when we are ready. And sometimes the right person has to come along to help and guide us. And you did it! Sometimes the people who have the most pain are the best helpers. You are a giver and have helped so many people and animals. You are such a nurturing and wise writer. And I thank-you so much, David.
I love learning about Kay and your relationship with her. So incredibly special and precious. And...Lobsang R. Rampa - I also read his book around that same age. And Nijinski! What a life she had and that she shared with you. Thank you for sharing it with us.
My pleasure, Cyndi! Yes, she had the most extraordinary life and it was such a privilege to be part of her world, and know of earlier times so vividly.
Your writer’s voice is strong, yet gentle and compassionate. I feel as if I now know Kay as well; thank you for posting such heartfelt peek into your background (I share your goosebumps)!
Glad you are suitably goosebumped, Charna! Thank you so much for your kind support!