Just One Look Forum Archives

Dear John,

I stumbled on a recording of you on the internet about 3 years ago or so. I liked it, and I could tell you were speaking from direct experience but it didn't really put the hook in me. At that time I was doing very little in the way of spiritual practice, but was, and still am, interested in Advaita. I had sat with Ramesh Balsekar in Mumbai, and was more inclined to read Maharaj than Maharshi, possibly due more to the writings available than to their actual teachings.

Anyway, I stumbled on you once again just a few days ago. I've watched some videos and downloaded your book. I'm very happy to have run into you again. This time you've put the hook in me big time. I've been trying to look at myself as much as possible and the effect has been very noticeable.

I'm an alcoholic and am also addicted to Xanax and am on anti-depressants for panic attacks. Not the best combination. Your direct way of speaking has really had an impact on me, and I would like to thank you for that. I would love to attend one of your retreats, but geography and finance will likely prevent that for the near future. I'm currently based in southern China where I teach English. I haven't lived in my native Canada for about 15 years, and have been here in China for about 10.

I'm sure you get a lot of email. Maybe it will be possible for us to speak at some point in the future. I don't have any particular questions or issues to bring up with you, but if circumstance should allow it I'd jump at the chance. I'll see if I can find a recent photo of myself and attach it. Thanks again for being there and speaking.

Sincerely,

J. (China)