An Experience with Deepak Chopra

Last week the universe presented me several opportunities to encounter Dr. Deepak Chopra. Mid-week I happened to catch an interview with him on the Today Show. He was just getting started when time was up. Ann Curry commented that simply being in his presence felt relaxing to her. He talked about his newly released book, Life After Death: The Burden of Proof.

On Thursday, I flew to Atlanta to visit a good friend. Friday I found an ad in the newspaper for a lecture by Dr. Chopra the next afternoon at the Unity Church of North Atlanta. We called and made reservations. Later that day, after lunch at Whole Foods, we wandered into Borders Books. I asked if they had copies of Dr. Chopra's newest book. We had just missed him. He had been there autographing it. I bought a copy. By the time of the seminar on Saturday, I had read almost half of it. Obviously it is fascinating and absorbing.

This was not my first experience hearing Dr. Chopra speak. I attended workshops with him in Dallas on two occasions and have also heard him speak here in Oklahoma City. I've read many of his books and listened to his tapes. But this time was different. I found him more available, warmer, a great story teller, and as always, an accomplished teacher.

From stories about his father's death to a memorable encounter with his granddaughter, he was engaging and exciting to hear. He talked about conscious living and conscious dying. He made clear that being conscious and awake is vital to both living and dying well. There are no co-incidences. We are all connected. Life is about birth and death, continuously occuring. Our cells die and replace themselves almost completely every year that we live. Cancer cells are ones that have forgotten how to die.

I took copious notes - something I rarely do these days. On Sunday, I actually typed them - a first for me. There was lots worth saving and remembering along with what Dr. Chopra covers in his new book. I recommend that you read it. What could be more fascinating than this superb guide to understanding the really big questions all of us must face.