Monday, November 14, 2005

Hello, Dalai!

Today was my first day at the new job. Very hectic, very busy - I can guarantee that I won't have a moment to be bored, that's for sure.

This afternoon, I had to go to the basement of the building to get my ID photo taken. As I'm sitting on this lonely little bench, I see a Secret Service guy enter the narrow hallway, wire in ear, familiar lapel pin marking his status. I had no idea what was up - was the president dropping by?

Then, I saw a Buddhist monk.

And I knew.

Moments later, walking slowly and silently through the hall, came the Dalai Lama. I just about passed out. He had a small entourage of monks and a group of Secret Service men with him, all draped in white prayer scarves. As he approached where I sat, he smiled broadly, leaned over to me and waved. "Hello! How are you?" His voice was incredibly cheerful and warm.

I did my best "deer in headlights" imitation. "Helloooo!" I waved back. His smile widened and his eyes crinkled.

And, with that, he was gone, down the corridor, his quiet delegation following in his wake.

Holy crow, Batman! I was greeted by the Dalai Lama on my first day of work.

Seriously, that has got to be a good omen, right?

This is also a reminder that I really, really, really need to carry my camera with me all the dang time.

Really, really.

8 comments:

alwswrite said...

Definitely a good omen. If a bird poops on you today you'll know you're golden. (Or is it only Jews who think that's good luck...? My Dad congratulates me every time I find a splatter on my windshield.)

Washington Cube said...

I'd say it can't possibly get better than that. Good luck with your new career.

author said...

I *so* would like to se your "deer in headlights" imitation!

A good start is a great beginning!

suze said...

holy crap! that's amazing.

gonzomantis said...

I swear, this stuff only happens to you. Dalai Lama this week, the Pope next week...

Anyway, congrats on your first day!

Claire said...

Dude! That's truly amazing. I was wondering how your first day went, and well, that takes the cake.

Here's to new adventures!

Merujo said...

I tell ya, guys. It was pretty awesome. Today was cool, too, but more low key. However, I was thrilled to find out there's a machine in the lobby that makes crushed pennies and another one where you can have your picture taken and your head inserted into a NatGeo magazine cover. I so know what I'll be doing next week, when most people are on vacation. Hee.

And Always - I had no idea about the bird poop thing. My mom's family heritage is partly Jewish and there was a big plop on my car this a.m., so I'll take it for any good luck I can shake out of it!

paulnojustpaul said...

Holy, holy, holy cow!!

That's fracking amazing! Like 9845287756 other people, I so would go deer-in-headlights in awe at meeting him too.