Turning our minds towards what is good and beneficial, and away from our own sorrows and petty tribulations can bring light and energy to an otherwise dim and dusky world view.
We can so easily be caught up in the moment: the suffering, the pain, the loss, the need, the greed - but a simple reminder of what we are truly thankful for is like a gift; wiping the slate clean and giving us the opportunity of looking at the world with a fresh clear view. It can give us wings, set us free, and it has the power to liberate our hearts and those all around us as well. It is in this mindset that today Karmapa led a gratitude walk in celebration of our love and support for India, the birthplace of Buddhism and the gracious host to so many of our Dharma family from around the world. Starting from the Karma Temple and coming all the way up to the Bodhi Tree, it was unlike anything I have seen before in Gaya. The streets lined with hundreds if not thousands of participants, shouting and singing, rejoicing together, just coming together in harmonious celebration on this walk led by the Karmapa himself. Organized by SABA, bringing students from the Bodhi Tree School and Magadhi University together with locals, westerners, monks, lamas and anyone in the close vicinity covering the streets with smiling faces and signs adorning slogans like “We Love You India” and “Love Light Blessings”. It was such a powerful statement. So many united voices, so much positivity, so many people it was impossible to count - so much hope and joy in the air. Karmapa right at the front of the endless pack, hands in the prayer mudra the entire time, steady and calm, like a beacon of light we could all follow home. This is what Monlam is all about. This is why we are here. This is the great opportunity to show the world and each other what love is capable of. This is an incredible act of genuine awareness that we can all share together. Creating bonds between generations, understanding and compassion, giving back to this incredible country and its people. Incredible India, incredible Gaya, incredible Karmapa. Set yourself free, Liberate your heart! This is why we are here!!
Posted for: The Kagyu Monlam
