The smiles you see are huge and bright, illuminating the whole of space. People genuinely have a great time as they practice together, laugh together, clean and cook and plan and work together. All in the name of Dharma. They do a whole lot of smiling together too, it’s like one giant family unit here moving around, skirmishing through, bringing abundant jarring cheer and no shortage of whooping laughter outbursts as they pass by. Ole is a shining example of this kind of mentality. He is the man whom nothing fazes, as he comes and goes and teaches and walks and swims and dances and eats among his brethren and students he is a beacon of positivity. He brings a light of joy to their eyes. Early morning or super late at night he is there amongst them, just forever turning the wheel, never unavailable or too tired. Ever. For a man of his age and duties he has incredible strength and stamina, and more energy and wit than most teenagers, so whatever he’s doing seems to be working wonders. He seems to have time for everyone. Here, it’s a family thing. Here you can bring your kids, meet up with old friends or make new ones. Here everyone is welcome. This family environment is starting to wear off on me and I can feel the inevitable smile of epic proportions growing on my face and staying plastered there all day long. Here it’s all about the love. It’s all about the family. I for one am deeply moved by what I am seeing here, this Family thing, it’s a thing of beauty.
Lama Ole Nydahl
