When the great Zen philosopher D.T. Suzuki was asked, “What is it like to reach satori (enlightenment)?” He said, “It’s just like ordinary everyday experience, except about two inches off the ground” — Alan Watts

Recently, nearly 2 decades after first moving to the US, I finally received my green card. 2 years of pursuing a Masters degree, 18 years of an exciting, challenging career… but all with a sword of Damocles hanging overhead. A friend asked me how it felt - “are you excited?” - and it reminded me of Dr. Suzuki’s quote. Nothing has changed in my everyday experience… except I feel I’m walking about two inches off the ground.