Letters from prison:

Please let me introduce myself and explain my situation. I am in the California State Prison system, and may have to spend the remainder of this life here due to the three-strike laws. I am doing my best to live a monastic life from here on and use this time to strive for Buddhahood so I will be of true assistance to all beings.

I am (this body) forty-seven years in this life and through the compassion of the Buddha have set my feet upon the true path. My conditions are not the most auspicious, but I must begin where I am.

Several months ago Lama Thubten Yeshe visited me in a dream in the appearance he held during his last incarnation. Shortly thereafter I wrote to the FPMT, requesting a copy of Mandala and inquiring as to the possibility of corresponding with someone as a spiritual teacher.

I am sure, because of partial memories as well as dreams or visions, that I have been involved with the Dharma in past lives. I have been caught up in samsara, and because of karma only now feel like I'm awakening from a long sleep. I have been disoriented and though I've spent many years in search of truth in many of the groups purporting to have great truths, I feel, since Lama Yeshe's visit, that I have at last arrived at the doorway to the true path to liberation. I am busy studying Buddhist teachings, but realize I cannot walk the path alone without a guide. I therefore plead with you to assist me to realize the vision of the Victorious One, Guru Shakyamuni Buddha.

Perhaps you can advise me as to how best to proceed? I am open to your guidance if you will accept me as your humble student.

I will close this and ask the blessings of the Compassionate One to abide with you.

J.W. Johnson