ENCOUNTERING GODthis planet). So I decided to branch out and start
teaching classes on my own.
Feeling strongly compelled, I moved to the
thriving city of Tampa, Florida. I had no idea
that a major transformation was poised, hovering
futuristically in that place, waiting for the perfect
moment to manifest.
Four universities in that area (University of
South Florida, University of Tampa, Florida
Presbyterian, and New College) opened their
doors, allowing me to use their facilities for
extracurricular classes. Several hundred students
began attending. It was amazing. Changing other
lives with my changed life: that was a meaningful
contribution to others, the continuation of a
cycle, the evolution of true spirituality. A number
of my students, desiring to devote themselves
more completely, requested that I rent a suitable
facility and start an ashram. Gladly, I complied.
One night during that time, I experienced a
major spiritual breakthrough: what some seekers
describe as ‘absorption into white light.’ I had
the distinct impression that my soul exited my
body and was drawn into a very intense and