How does Mama Chia differentiate planning from preparation?

How does it help Dan that Mama Chia is herself a wounded healer?

How does meeting Redbird prepare Dan for learning about the "Tower of Life"?

How is birth used in this novel?

How does Dan's gymnastics background help and hinder him in his spiritual journey?

How do memories of the Oberlin student who died affect Dan's spiritual journey?

Is there any indication that potential "Peaceful Warriors" can rise to spiritual awareness and achieve their destiny without a personal teacher like Mama Chia or dramatic experiences such as Dan survives? Must someone like Kimo ("Beer Belly") await another "embodiment" to find his true course?