Rev. Danny Fisher

(L-R) Alisa Roadcup and the author at the Chicago Hilton Tower during the 2008 American Academy of Religion Annual Meeting.

My latest “On the Buddhism Beat” post is now online over at Shambhala Sun Space.  This week, it’s a conversation with my friend and former Naropa University colleague Alisa Roadcup, who serves as Outreach Director and Development Associate for the Council for a Parliament of the World’s Religions.  (Full disclosure:  I think the world of Alisa.  She’s also incredibly fun to pal around with, out-of-control brilliant, and one of the best people I know–if I end up 1/10th the human being that she is now, it will have been a life well-lived.)  We discuss the most recent Parliament event, and the significance of that gathering (and all the previous ones) for Buddhists.  Here’s just a taste:

It’s a little stunning to consider how many important Buddhist figures and scholars were gathered at the most recent Parliament, which was held this past December in Melbourne.  Please tell us about all the Buddhist activity there.

Buddhist participation was so vibrant and intense that it’s hard to say! Almost 80 Buddhist programs, panels and ceremonies were held over the course of seven days. I was fortunate to be invited to participate in a Youth Conversation with His Holiness the Dalai Lama. A group of about 20 participants spent an hour with him; we laughed together, asked many questions and explored various themes highlighted at the Parliament, such as Indigenous and Aboriginal reconciliation, overcoming poverty, and cultivating inner peace. His Holiness challenged us to be authentic and honest about who we are, even if we see ourselves as “religious”; especially if we see ourselves as “religious”. His presence held gravitas; yet at the same time felt light and incredibly gentle. I sensed his delight in us… in me. He loves people – loves to laugh and enjoy and watch. He’s a keen observer. Those moments with His Holiness were the highlight of my Parliament experience. I don’t think I’m speaking out of turn when I say that for many Parliamentarians, the Closing Plenary address by His Holiness was the ultimate moment.

Read the rest here.