If you need to find a living embodiment of Buddha Dharma, a walking testament to the incredible power and abilities of an awakened being, the great and very real presence of true compassion in this world; one needs to look no further than Karmapa. On a day such as today, when by the end I am barely able to walk from fatigue, when I can push no more, I can only have my spirits lifted to the heavens when I see what he is capable of.
Such grace and dignity, with a never ending strength to give all of himself and more at all times without exception. We are so incredibly fortunate to have his example - to teach us, to inspire us, to break our concepts about human nature and basic goodness, for it seems the rules do not apply in this scenario, somehow being lifted and expounded in limitless potential. As he dons the crown he takes on an even more powerful and slightly wrathful presence, his gaze is that of a determined teacher, eyes in fixed awareness that is eerily penetrating. This is true compassion. This is a teacher as he manifests himself in his full and most powerful form. This is a shining example of Buddha Dharma, for even without break, without eating, without a moment’s peace he is serene and playful, joyous and profound, warm and inviting, awesome yet regal. He is a Dharma Warrior. He is a symbol of Awake. He is the image of Enlightened Mind. This is an Open and Glowing Heart. I have been touched deeply today, I have been inspired with a grand notion of real worth. Shocking me to the present moment over and over again with this display of compassion is unlike any other I have seen, so raw in nature. It is as if the world has opened up, swallowed me whole, then brought me back down to earth once more with eyes wide open. On a day such as this, when even my own legs fail me, my heart is made to fly by what I have seen. Compassion wears the crown, the crown worn by the true Dharma King.
Posted for The Kagyu Monlam
