Thomas has been studying and practicing Buddhism for over a decade and was ordained as a monastic for more than three years between 2004 and 2008. During this period, he spent more than one third of his time in silent meditation retreat. His retreat time has been focused on cultivation of mindful awareness in conjunction with the immeasurable attitudes of love, kindness, joy, compassion and equanimity.

Thomas considers the practical aspects of implementing mindful Dharma in everyday life to be of utmost importance. His teaching style takes complicated teachings and delivers them in an accessible, straightforward and often light-hearted manner. His greatest gift may be helping to steer other practitioners away from the many "practice-potholes" he has visited on his journey.

Having taken teachings with numerous western, Tibetan and Theravadan teachers, Thomas has also participated in multiple 30-day group & solo meditation retreats as well as longer-term retreats of both 90 days and one year in duration. He has traveled on pilgrimage and for teachings to India, Tibet, Nepal, Myanmar/Burma and Thailand.

Thomas feels blessed to have the opportunity to practice mindfulness and lessen his own experience of suffering. He aspires to uphold the Buddha's teachings and practices in everyday life. He enjoys the richness of Indo-Tibetan Buddhism, admires the simplicity of the Zen tradition, and has a deep respect and gratitude for the Theravadan system of teaching and practice. Sharing the value of meditation practice, regardless of tradition, in an authentic and modern way, is the primary mission of his life.

As an American-born student, Thomas' wish is that his study and practice will help him better understand and deliver the Buddha's teachings to Western students. Thomas was born in rural Georgia and has lived in Colorado, Alaska, Burma, India, and Thailand. He currently lives in Florida and is delighted to be closer to his 11 nieces and nephews.