In reflecting on the influences in my life, I must credit the remarkable impact of Paramhansa Yogananda, Swami Kriyananda, and our lineage of realized masters at Ananda. Alongside these figures, I have drawn deep inspiration from Ananda Moyi Ma, St. Francis, and Padre Pio. Recently, Devi and I have found great inspiration in the book "Padre Pio and I" by Adolfo Affattato, which offers unique insight into the spiritual essence of Padre Pio. This has brought to mind a significant trip we took to San Giovanni Rotondo, where Padre Pio lived most of his life.