I took my first steps on the Buddhist path a few summers ago. I packed my bags and decided to leave on journey that would take me on a wild adventure through the widerness. I left civilization behind that morning and for the next 32 days, I would carry only what I needed on my back. Leaving that day, I suppose I was searching for a joy ride to the brink of existence, for an adventure leading me to the outskirts of nirvana. My first steps of the journey came with a definite fear and shortness of breath, I realized that I had not come entirely prepared for this wild adventure, but there was no doubt in my mind that I would return home unchanged. It was a journey of body, mind, heart and spirit, a search into the past, a realization of the present, and a glimpse into opportunities held by the future. I carried all my ambitions with me and uncertainty is what I hoped to leave behimd. I traveled across never-ending panoramic views and stood atop the greatest heights only to look down.

So I guess it could be said that I am a "rucksack wanderer," "a dharma bum," or "zen lunatic." I have set foot on the path, 'the middle way,' caught somewhere between 'all grown up' and far from adult. Dipping my toes in everything new and leading myself on a route of least resitence, while trusting my instincts and knowing that I will stop often along the way to look back on my own madcap experiences. Eager to live, seek, and find I refuse to be held back by fear, common sense, comfort, and familiarity.

So as I sit each morning seeking meditative bliss, I remind myself that today is the only day of any importance. The present momemnet is all that matters and each day I will take that same leap as though I can make no mistakes - becasue the path of happiness is a state of mind that only the seeker can cultivate. It's not some accident stumbled upon by chance in a lucky hour at the brink of time.