Dali

I am setting a space —
where, sometime in the near future,
I get chosen to ask the Dalai Lama a question.

I have it all planned.

In between the midst of other, more "serious" questions
that others may ask about The Many Fears of Life,
I will pull a piece of paper out of my hat.

And on it —
a random question will be there,
ready for me to ask.

Important questions such as:

• “Dalai, what do you keep in your pocket?”

• “Dalai, what do you think about the Popemobile?”

• “Dalai, do you keep the Underworld tucked behind your left ear, like I do?”

• “Dalai, do you play games with the elegance of time? And if so, what games are your favorites?”

• “Dalai, tell me a time you dreamed a dream of fun.”

• “Dalai, would you like to go skipping and singing a little song with me around the park after the talk?”

• “Dalai, please describe your perception of the taste of broccoli.”

• “Dalai, please share with us — what are your favorite sounds?”

• “Dalai, do you indulge in long, warm baths? Or hot chocolate? Or Sunday mornings with the newspaper? Or day-long movie marathons?”

• “Dalai, please describe your most favorite spot on Earth.”

• “Dalai, do you ever feel the color violet? And if so, how does it feel to you?”

I picture him pausing —
a thoughtful look crossing his face,
a beautiful smile spreading.

He recognizes me.
For who I am.

A playful, kindred spirit,
dancing with the music of the Universe.

“What an interesting question,” he says.
“Why do you ask?”

And I will reply:

“Well… all of the Answers to My Universe are known within.
And sometimes I get bored.
And a little lonely,
as I listen to me answering myself.
So I thought it would be fun
to explore Your Universe for a while —
as if You are You, and I am Me,
and Universality is Three.”