Jed--I'm glad to know this forum is here, and to have an opportunity to interact with a favorite author. I've recommended the book series to many in the Zen community...have even lent out my copy of Damndest to several people, some of whom decided to buy it for themselves and some of whom said "That's not for me--I like Thitch Nhat Hahn or the Dalai Lama."
No problem with the rules. I'll introduce myself in a new thread & keep the length down.
Thanks, SK