We are in Australia, surrounded by friends, amazing hot and summer weather, tromping around all day going to radio interviews, a Hannah film premiere, teachings in the big tent, swimming, Lama Ole Nydahl doing Lama Shang and incredibly powerful blessings abound… did I miss anything?
It’s been a non-stop ride since I arrived, and I must say that this trip has had a profound effect on me. During yesterday’s blessing line I stayed and took a picture of every single person, waiting until the bitter end sitting right next to Ole. I couldn’t believe how powerful it was, how much energy was exchanged between this man and every single person who passed by. The way they genuinely expressed themselves and opened up to him, how he took it all in stride and provided comfort, advice, solace, connection, whatever was asked he brought in spades, in one effortless motion. People were bringing us both water and asking if he wanted a break - no way he says - of course not, and keeps on going another hour or two until all had passed. Unbelievable. If he can do it, then I can stick it out as well.
This morning Ole did two radio interviews with the full troop tagging along. Three cars driving around the Aussi countryside, interview one, stopping for a quick coffee and delightful banter along the way, then quickly back to the station for interview number two. Afterwards we went to another center, did 8th Karmapa together, Ole blessed the space, and we all had a wonderful lunch together. Like a family gathering, everyone hanging out in the kitchen and talking, laughing. It’s beautiful, these simple precious moments. Simple moments surrounding these other outrageous and amazing events seemingly coinciding in the same space in time. Nothing seems to be too simple, too familial, too ordinary, just spending the day together - while in a heightened state of everything. I could get used to this. As the Ballina course draws to a close and we’re moving on to Melbourne tomorrow, I feel tremendous joy and gratitude for these past days we have spent here. Beautiful, ordinary moments. Incredible power, then back to precious normality. A beautiful life indeed. Beautiful people too, so much love in the air. It has been remarkable how close we all have become, or perhaps it is only I looking in on those who were already close for so long and they were simply kind enough to let me join in.
