The Dalai Lama and Elvis Presley

His holiness, the Dalai Lama, is self-described as a simple Buddhist monk who travels a simple path. His influence over all humanity has been anything but small, however. Born in a farming town to hard-working parents in Tibet, he was recognized at age two by the Buddhist community as a reincarnation of the 13th Dalai Lama. His path seemed set from that moment on, and he continues to bring love, light, and peace to all he comes in contact with.

Elvis, the high priest of rock and roll, came to us from humble beginnings as well; he was born in rural Mississippi, where the roots of religious tradition ran deep. Presley’s first exposure to music was in the Assembly of God church, where he soaked up every delicious choir anthem until his first musical gift at age 11 when his mother purchased a guitar for him. From that moment on, Presley devoted his time to the study and practice of music, rising to be the most culturally significant icon of the 20th century. His music and presence continue to be felt even today, though he is no longer on this earthly plane.