But this is not a sad and somber occasion, we are gathered to rejoice in all the ways he touched our hearts, and all the ways he changed the world. His presence is still lingering here, strong as ever in this place he called home. The seven day Puja begins with the creation of a Mandala to be carefully crafted over the coming days, and this is presided over by none other than Karmapa himself. His presence is massive and powerful, I must say every time I see him he seems to be 1000 years older, wiser, and somehow even more bold and charismatic than before. His sense of humor and compassion are even more evident today. Gone is the feeling of loss and grieving, instead he guides us with graceful tact and a steady softness in his eyes. Let us not forget, this was his teacher too, but it is crystal clear that he has now come into his own. He is without a doubt the head of this lineage with absolutely nothing holding him back. He is the Karmapa. Rinpoche I miss you dearly, but you have left us all in the most capable hands. So the Mandala begins…
Diwakar Buddhist Academy
