Tim Loewenhaupt – Close Student of Michael Roach | Buddhism, Mindfulness & Path to Happiness
Tim Loewenhaupt is the Executive Director of the Asian Classics Institute (ACI), a member of the boards of ACI, Diamond Mountain, and Yoga Studies Institute (YSI). In this interview, Tim shares his personal story of meeting Geshe Michael Roach, how his life changed through Buddhist teachings, and his vision of success.
A Life of Service and Responsibility
Tim has been leading ACI for over six years, managing numerous projects, including fundraising through hotel businesses in Sedona to support the organization’s activities. His approach to success has evolved over time — he sees it not only in personal happiness but also in the harmony and wellbeing of people around him.
“You can have a lot of money and hate what you do — or have no money and love what you do.”
Meeting Geshe Michael: From a Book to a Teacher
Tim’s first connection with Geshe Michael happened through the famous book The Diamond Cutter in 2005. At the time, Tim was working with Reiki treatments for cancer patients in Philadelphia. The book became his everyday guide for solving life and business problems.
Later, Tim felt a deep urge to meet the author. He attended the first Diamond Cutter Institute event in the U.S., where he met Geshe Michael personally in 2010. This encounter marked the beginning of a lifelong relationship between student and teacher.
Commitment to Buddhist Studies
After meeting Geshe Michael, Tim became involved in the Lam Rim teachings — a profound multi-year program based on ancient Buddhist wisdom. What started as a single event turned into a 10-year commitment and eventually became his lifestyle.
“It wasn’t difficult. It was like — yes, I’m doing this.”
Working with Geshe Michael
Tim describes working with Geshe Michael as both inspiring and challenging. He admires Geshe Michael’s kindness, patience, and ability to guide without direct control.
“He let me really do a lot — and also make a lot of mistakes.”
Even during difficult times, such as public criticism of Geshe Michael or internal conflicts, Tim observed how Geshe Michael never responded with negativity. Instead, he consistently focused on kindness, patience, and doubling down on good actions.
A Vision for the Future
Tim believes the true impact of Geshe Michael’s work will be seen in the next 50 years — not just in Buddhism but as a global movement of wisdom, kindness, and practical tools for improving lives.
ACI and other organizations founded or inspired by Geshe Michael have already reached tens of thousands of students worldwide. Tim sees this not as a closed system or cult, but as an open invitation for people to live better lives.
“It’s not about Buddhism — it’s about an idea that can change the world.”
Final Words
When asked if Geshe Michael is a good person, Tim answers without hesitation:
“I haven’t met anyone who is as generous and as kind.”
He highlights Geshe Michael’s lifestyle of modesty, generosity, and dedication to helping others, seeing him as a living example of the teachings he shares.
