Let us set our stage with this statement from the Dalai Lama: “The world will be saved by the Western woman.” His comment stirred up a great deal of discussion and some controversy, yet it highlights an essential issue of our times. The statement also mirrors the sentiment of my teaching, and it points to why it is important that women take the journey of enlightenment.
Throughout the ages there have been individuals who sought enlightenment, spiritual illumination. We tend to think of this as solely an individual matter; although, when individuals reach this holy state, they often become illuminators and benefactors for an entire society. Think of Buddha, Jesus, Lao-Tzu, Adi Shankara, and countless other luminous or nameless sages who preceded or followed them, and the lasting impact these individuals had on the world around them. Today, many people are seeking enlightenment. While they may benefit personally from their quests, humanity at large is in even more need of such awakened wisdom. We need the guidance of awakened beings, especially awakened women, to chart our course into the future. Part III of “Woman, Goddess and Savior” delves into the importance of women’s awakening.