For Something Completely Different, an Interview of Me

Since Kenna Day entered my life as my son’s partner, I’ve enjoyed conversations with her, especially the probing questions she asks and the topics she raises on life, writing, and literature. So, I had the brainstorm of asking her to interview me for a video podcast. She accepted, and we both enjoyed doing it. We hope you enjoy watching or listening to it.

We did have some technical problems. Because I failed to push a button when I should have, the sound of Kenna’s voice had issues until I remembered to push that button. So, after Kenna’s first question, I had to edit out her questions for the first 15 minutes of the interview. You’ll hear her again after that.

We had some video issues, too, so the image freezes once or twice and then permanently at the end.

What did we talk about? Here’s a summary prepared by a.i. and edited by me:

The conversation primarily focuses on Mel's spiritual journey, particularly his path to Buddhism. Key Points:

* Mel was drawn to Buddhism after experiencing one personal tragedy, his first cousin murdering his parents (Mel’s uncle and aunt), and then intensified his spiritual practice after the accidental death of his son Thomas.

* He was initially attracted to Buddhism's emphasis on the present moment. Over time, he deepened his practice, exploring more esoteric and mystical aspects of Buddhism.

* Mel emphasizes uncertainty as a core Buddhist concept. He discusses the importance of "making friends with your mind" and highlights compassion, loving-kindness, and interconnectedness as key principles.

* He believes in personal transformation as a way to create broader societal change.

* Mel is writing a book about Buddhism and his spiritual journey.

* He had stopped all writing for a public audience five or six years ago because he let go of his ego.

* He restarted writing a year ago as a way to manifest bodhicitta (commitment to relieving suffering).

* His book aims to provide guidance for Westerners exploring spiritual paths.

* Personal Background: Born to Jewish immigrant parents shortly after World War II, influenced by family history of holocaust survival, developed early equanimity because of that.

* The interview provides an intimate look at Mel's spiritual evolution, philosophical insights, and motivations for writing his book.

From the Pure Land has thousands of readers and subscribers in 40 U.S. states and 21 countries, and the podcast has thousands of listeners in 55 countries. You can find the website at melpine.substack.com.