What to read after His Holiness, The Dalai Lama?

I spent a very special week with the Tibetan community in Los Angeles, in June 2001. It was an extraordinary week because I met committed Buddhists, both American and Tibetan, who were present to hear His Holiness, the Dalai Lama present a week of teachings.

I spent months preparing for that week, studying Buddhist texts to gain insight into this special community and its teaching. Tibetan Buddhism is Mahayana, meaning Greater Vehicle, where the path to enlightenment is extended to many reincarnated lives. But even after achieving enlightenment, Mahayana Buddhists take a Vow of the Boddhisatva, that even after meriting enlightenment, they will return to assist others in their path of life. They no longer need to do so, but do it nonetheless because of their love and regard for others. This is the core and essence of their compassion.

My week with the Tibetan community offered me the opportunity to meet with the Sangha, the men, and women who wear Buddhist robes indicating their commitment to live by the teachings of the Buddha and bring compassion to the world.

During that week, I heard His Holiness present in-depth reviews of the path to enlightenment. The highlight of the week took place on Friday, the last teaching day when His Holiness asked all to join him in the Vow of the Bodhisatva, as part of a partnership to bring compassion and good deeds to this world.

I share that experience in this volume, which reflects my time and great opportunity to spend time with these special people.