His Holiness The Dalai Lama introduces Bhante Wimala, author of Lessons of the Lotus, as "a Theravada Buddhist monk from Sri Lanka who spends his time traveling and teaching in the spirit of monks at the time of the Buddha [Bhante] presents the teachings the Buddha gave over 2,500 years ago as if they had been given to address the needs of people today. His counsel to those who meet him is drawn from his own experience and the inspiration he has gained from studying and contemplating the Buddha's teachings On a simple and practical level, [Bhante] explains how meditation functions as a healing force for the mind he also discusses global problems such as the pollution and degeneration of our environment. Bhante Wimala's heartfelt concern for the suffering and the simple remedies he draws from the Buddha's teachings will be a source of strength for everyone confused by the pressures of modern life."

One need only hear Bhante Wimala's voice to fathom the grounds for the Dalai Lama's statements about him. Bhante speaks in a way that is both timeless and timely. His tone is at once soothing and guiding. You can hear a depth of experience in his words, and in their clean-clear sound, a genuine teacher and exemplar.

To meet Bhante Wimala is to have his realness confirmed by your eyes. One delights in his youthful smile and bright eyes, his gentle nature, his calm yet purposeful strength, and his love of life and all living beings.

Sent by choice to a Buddhist temple at the age of 13, Bhante Wimala received his ordination as a novice the next year. Bhante completed six years of formal training as a Buddhist monk and received his higher ordination at age 20. At this stage, a Buddhist monk is typically encouraged by custom or inclination to continue in strictly formal studies, which are primarily academic in their emphasis. Bhante Wimala, however, chose to set out into the world, bearing only his robe and bowl.

Traveling for two decades around the globe and studying under many teachers and masters has produced in the person of Bhante Wimala a compassionate and receptive monk. His practical spiritual teachings and down to earth approach make him available, encouraging and understandable. Bhante's philosophy emphasizes the authenticity of experiencing (above mere speculating), a focus on "be-living" rather than "believing."

Bhante is well connected and travels the globe. He has created a series of meditation, lecture and poetry tapes available directly from him, and is currently writing a new spiritual book. His favorite pastime is to meet new people and who knows, he might be coming to your town. If you want to drop him a line or pick up some of his tapes you can reach him at the address below.