Born on June 4th, 1958 in New York City, both parents from Havana, Cuba. Grew up in Jersey City, New Jersey. PS. #5 School, Ferris H.S. 2 years, then Lebanon H.S. New Hampshire, as an ABC student, graduated 1976. Attended Rutgers, New Jersey but dropped out in 1978. Worked odd jobs in New Jersey, became auto mechanic. Left the north in 1980 and became resident of Miami, Florida. Again worked odd jobs, became locksmith for 7 years before securing position in Miami-Dade County, Building Maintenance at Police Dept. 30 years until the present. Varied interests, chess, music including classical, rock, jazz, etc. 'poor man's audiophile.' Self-taught and well read in most things Zen Buddhism, no formal training. Many years reading, sitting, learning, unlearning, contemplating navel. Stumbled across Elaine Pagels' works including 'The Gnostic Gospels' and 'Beyond Belief.' Read the Gospel of Thomas and became inspired to write a book reviewing same but from the point of view of zen. Thus 'The Zen of Jesus Christ' came to be, circa December, 2015. Carlos O. Santacruz continues to live and work in Miami, Florida with his wife and son.