Golden tinged leaves are being caressed delicately, swaying easily, gently, as their outstretched palms catch the last of the sun’s farewell on this the final day of Monlam.
I am baffled by the incredible group we have here, from all across the planet we have ventured to be here, with only each other for warmth, united once more under the Great Tree. While the sun’s setting tone is warm and aglow, the feeling I have in my heart is burning brightly all on its own. The warmth, passion, support, pride, love, sharing, caring, joy, laughter and growth that we have shared has been remarkable and the unmistakable pinnacle of this already astounding year. You have all opened your hearts to me and shared your deepest, this has not gone unnoticed for I have been extremely touched and am without words. As a photographer I am hoping only to bear witness to the sights and emotions that have occurred around me, and it is my greatest wish that those of you who could not be here with us have been able to share in this in some way. The beauty of this place is near impossible to describe. The way the light comes down through the trees is like being on the edge of the world, watching up-close as the earth meets the heavens, the sky opening up to bring us all up into the stars. It's like being in the center of the universe, like the whole world is aglow - emanating from this very spot. On every face I see the Dharma for what it really is: a powerful uniting force that keeps us all connected no matter where we are. This family of ours is unlike any other, and I couldn’t imagine sharing this with anyone else. You all are my inspiration and my support. You are my will to continue, and my passion will never wane. You all are the reason I get up in the morning. You are my family, my Sangha, and together we are so strong and powerful. My heart is singing, my eyes are ablaze with inspiration, for it is with you all, among these beautiful dancing shadows that I am home.
Thank you for sharing all that you are with me.
-Tokpa
Posted for: The Kagyu Monlam
