An Open Letter of Gratitude to Master Carlos

Thank You for the Mentorship

This is an open letter of pure gratitude to Master Carlos, who served as my training master during my short time as an apprentice. It is part of my personal reflections after leaving the Temple and is not connected to any other aspects of my departure.

Dear Master Carlos,

I wanted to take this moment to publicly express my deep and sincere gratitude for the mentorship you offered me during my brief time as your apprentice.

Our early morning meditations became one of the most cherished parts of my training. I especially remember how we both committed to reading the Temple's doctrine every day throughout July, a practice that grounded me deeply and helped me connect more fully with the teachings. What made those mornings even more special was how our routines aligned, even across timezones. With me rising early in Pacific time for my school bus driving job and you in Central time, we often met in the Discord chat nearly every morning: making coffee, settling in (with the occasional hurkle durkle), and sharing quiet time in meditation. Those simple, shared moments of presence felt profoundly meaningful and helped us connect so naturally.

You also opened up about your family heritage in such a generous way, and shared stories and photos from your family's homestead. It was a beautiful reminder of how personal history and lived experience weave into the larger path we walk. Above all, I truly appreciated how you could always bring things back to the doctrine and the Force. No matter the topic, your guidance gently returned to those core principles, helping me see their relevance in everyday life.

I’ll never forget the joy in your response when I shared that I had been accepted into the clinical pastoral education internship program at the VA hospital in San Diego. Your excitement felt genuine and affirming, and it a bright moment that meant a lot to me. Though it was heartbreaking that the news of my departure came so soon after, I hold onto that warmth it represented.

Because of your steady encouragement, thoughtful feedback, and the way you embodied compassion and dedication, I carry forward a deeper appreciation for the Force as a living, guiding presence that connects us all to each other. Those lessons continue to shape my path, even now.

Thank you, Master Carlos, for the time, wisdom, and kindness you shared with me. I wish you continued peace, strength, and fulfillment in your service to the Temple and the wider community.

May the peace that surpasses all understanding keep you and guide you on your path, and the Force be with you. Always.

With sincere gratitude,
Umalohókan