Some time ago, I had several opportunities to experience some amazing things from the animal world. One day, I went with another initiate to a zoo in Costa Rica. Inside a huge corral there was a “danta” (a typical Central American mammal which native people consider sacred). While I was looking at this strange animal, it got closer and started licking the Master's picture that hung from my friend's neck; its eyes were full of tears. We thought that even though its soul was trapped inside an animal body, it could perceive Master's light and presence much better than many of our fellow human beings. We repeated the Holy Names silently to comfort its spirit. However, I think the animal gave solace to us.

 We continued walking through the zoo. We stopped to look at a bunch of the toucans eating fruits inside their cage. I lost track of time and didn't realize that I had been there for so long with my eyes closed, silently repeating the Holy Names. After that, my friend told me that all the toucans had gathered toward where we were.

 Some months later, when I went to the grocery store, I had forgotten that I left the window open and Master's Buddhist chanting tape playing. As I was coming back home, I saw a tiny bird holding onto the handrail, its eyes tightly closed, deeply immersed in Samadhi. The little creature remained there listening to Master's voice, just like a faithful disciple. When the music finished, full of God's love, it flew away.

After those experiences, I became very fond of animals. I think animals are lovely and amazing creatures that share with us their tenderness and love. I hope human beings can live harmoniously with our brothers and sisters from the animal kingdom, thus making a paradise on earth.

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