Dear Denise

Hello. Perhaps you can hear me, or sense these
thoughts from whatever state of being your
consciousness or mind or heart is currently residing
in. This is difficult to write in part to the jumbled
thoughts in my head that I can't "de-jumble," and in
part due to the water that wells up in my eyes from
time to time. I'll try to press forward. First, the
way you approached your own mortality is incredibly
inspiring. Your calmness and acceptance of that are
perhaps your most powerful teachings for me. I aspire
to approach my own mortality with half of the awakened
attitude that you demonstrated.

Second, I would like to thank you for the brief time
that I was able to be your friend and learn the Dharma
from you. I value so much your teachings from Dharmic
Warriors, Shambhala Training, and as my meditation
instructor. Your death is also painful teaching to me
on impermanence. In Level 5, I remember that you spoke
of "letting go" as a serious part of our practice. I
suppose that "letting go" is something I will have to
work with now. I miss you, but I know that we are not
so separate as the human mind is often prone to think.
I will do my best to remember that. Thank you for
everything you have offered me. In the words of the
Sadhana of Mahamudra, "the only offering I can make is
to follow your example." Denise, in whatever your next
manifestation may be, may you enjoy profound,
brilliant glory.

Love, your friend and student,

-Gabe Dayley, Phuntsok Sangye