For even after teaching a full program in Karma Guen just a few days ago, we have all been treated to such great kindness and compassion from Rinpoche as he graciously makes time for everyone for a two-day course at the Stupa De Benalmadena. His never ending energy, patience and warm presence can be felt so strongly here - outside under the blue sky or inside the beautiful Gompa done in pastels drawing inspiration from Bhutan - his smile quite literally lights up the room, and as each person had the opportunity to approach the throne for blessings at the end of the empowerment this morning - this glow and burst of happiness can be seen on each and every face as they came near.
After yesterday’s outside teachings, this afternoon we have now moved inside, and the gompa is completely full, so much so that in fact the entire ground floor is also crammed to the brim with people watching the teachings on the TV installed just for the occasion, numbering well over three hundred in attendance. More than seventy people also had the opportunity to take refuge with Rinpoche, and the air was full of vibrant energy and laughter as Rinpoche’s wonderful sense of humor, wit and charm were ever present. Seated in front of the amazing buddha statue inside I am completely transfixed on his movements and presence, from the preparations for the initiation, to the public talk and blessing line, Rinpoche’s eyes, smile and attention seem to be constantly and calmly scanning the room, reassuring everyone that he is indeed speaking to each and every one of them personally, thanking them for coming, and letting them know in his own amicable way that he is so very glad to see them.
Having had the opportunity to see Rinpoche many times, thanks in great part to the fact that I’ve been in Dhagpo these past three years, I have always found myself drawn to his warmth and wisdom, for he is truly a wonderful teacher. These past two days however, he has been in form like I may have never seen him before. I too am beaming and glowing myself - laughing out loud and rejoicing with the rest of the audience, his contagious glow affecting me so very much as I move through the dense crowd, trying hard not to step on people, or their belongings as I do so. Even after a full morning program, and an afternoon talk Rinpoche again makes time for a large array of questions coming from all over the building, in the gompa above as well as the crowded downstairs hall - taking time to answer each and every question. Despite the fact that he has already been going non stop for over three hours, Rinpoche is just beaming, his happiness and compassion clearly transferred to us all - written on the face of everyone in the room.
This amazing stupa, the warm spring air here in Spain, the great blue sky and the grateful and happy people who have made the trek to come and see Rinpoche have left me truly touched. We have been more than blessed to have this special time with Rinpoche, and I cannot imagine two days better spent, or with better friends and family to spend it with. My greatest impression however, has been Rinpoche’s great presence and heart with us here these past two days - for as he has always been a great teacher and a joy to be around, these past two days I have been treated to an up close and personal view to much more than just that - today I have seen his great, great heart, more so than ever before, and I am so deeply touched.
After yesterday’s outside teachings, this afternoon we have now moved inside, and the gompa is completely full, so much so that in fact the entire ground floor is also crammed to the brim with people watching the teachings on the TV installed just for the occasion, numbering well over three hundred in attendance. More than seventy people also had the opportunity to take refuge with Rinpoche, and the air was full of vibrant energy and laughter as Rinpoche’s wonderful sense of humor, wit and charm were ever present. Seated in front of the amazing buddha statue inside I am completely transfixed on his movements and presence, from the preparations for the initiation, to the public talk and blessing line, Rinpoche’s eyes, smile and attention seem to be constantly and calmly scanning the room, reassuring everyone that he is indeed speaking to each and every one of them personally, thanking them for coming, and letting them know in his own amicable way that he is so very glad to see them.
Having had the opportunity to see Rinpoche many times, thanks in great part to the fact that I’ve been in Dhagpo these past three years, I have always found myself drawn to his warmth and wisdom, for he is truly a wonderful teacher. These past two days however, he has been in form like I may have never seen him before. I too am beaming and glowing myself - laughing out loud and rejoicing with the rest of the audience, his contagious glow affecting me so very much as I move through the dense crowd, trying hard not to step on people, or their belongings as I do so. Even after a full morning program, and an afternoon talk Rinpoche again makes time for a large array of questions coming from all over the building, in the gompa above as well as the crowded downstairs hall - taking time to answer each and every question. Despite the fact that he has already been going non stop for over three hours, Rinpoche is just beaming, his happiness and compassion clearly transferred to us all - written on the face of everyone in the room.
This amazing stupa, the warm spring air here in Spain, the great blue sky and the grateful and happy people who have made the trek to come and see Rinpoche have left me truly touched. We have been more than blessed to have this special time with Rinpoche, and I cannot imagine two days better spent, or with better friends and family to spend it with. My greatest impression however, has been Rinpoche’s great presence and heart with us here these past two days - for as he has always been a great teacher and a joy to be around, these past two days I have been treated to an up close and personal view to much more than just that - today I have seen his great, great heart, more so than ever before, and I am so deeply touched.
