After all the preparation, all the sleepless nights and activity driven, crazy filled days, with the heat and anticipation of it all, the moment has finally come.
In the morning we will officially commence the event we’ve all been waiting so eagerly for, Karmapa Trinley Thaye Dorje back in France for the first time since 2012, and to say that everyone is happy to see him would be a huge injustice to the overwhelming joy and celebration, the immense feelings of excitement from all those present in Dhagpo today. Tears of happiness, excited smiling faces are everywhere, kataks at the ready as the car pulls into the courtyard crammed full of people, everyone eagerly awaiting to see, to welcome, to enjoy, to relish and celebrate in the fact that Karmapa is here with us all once again. Karmapa is glowing, in great form and powerful presence, from the moment he emerges from the car - even after such a long travel, he is grinning from ear to ear, a radiant smile that touches your heart immediately and completely, his captivating attention to us all in every moment is still mind blowing to witness, a display of heart and warmth that is always a reason to rejoice, to spontaneously grab whoever is next to you and give them a big hug, to share it for fear of bursting into pieces from excitement if you don’t. Jean Guy offers the traditional Katak on behalf of the entire community, then passing the crowd and greeting all with a huge smile and a wave, stopping several times to say hello, taking his time, leisurely and calmly making his way to the Lama House. Even after he has left the courtyard for a well deserved rest, the grins, laughter, hugs and smiles are continuously exchanged and shared with everyone. The blessing is felt strongly here as some simply start to cry again, overwhelmed with happiness and the knowledge that after all the hard work that we have all put in, despite any difficulties along the way, with everything added up, we know that it has all been more than worth it.
The 17th Gyalwa Karmapa has arrived!
