His command of the English language, his ability to simplify and colloquial-ize the most dense and complicated subjects never ceases to amaze me. Passionate, funny, stern when needed, and with a gentle and soft heart the radiates out, instantly affecting everyone in the room. What teacher - it’s easy to see why he has become extremely popular in the West. Someone of such understanding, who is both very available, and totally open to talk to about literally anything. I find it especially fabulous to ask a high Rinpoche life advice, and to receive something tangible and solid as an answer. Yes, the answer is also vast, and with deep Dharmic layering, but it also helps me to do something directly, in the real world. Something now - which can bear fruit also later on. Or advice on seemingly mundane subject, and to have a response by someone steeped in knowledge, but also brimming with actual experience. This is the magic of Sachu Rinpoche, the enigma of modern and traditional, forging a very special connection with his Western students that many others simply cannot.
Every time I visit the NALA center it seems like another huge change has taken place. Looking up, down, around, I do a double take. Was that there before? Is there another floor on the main building? What lovely Thangkas, are they new? Has this wall been moved over there? The answer is yes to all! After their ever growing programs, the need to expand has been met with, well, a great expansion! The Gompa is more than twice its original size, with brightly painted walls and giant windows to let in more light. The Garden is beautifully tended, there is even a Mantra Wheel wall as you make your way around the lush landscape. A retreat hut, Tibetan Medicine clinic, yoga studio. It’s rather endless the activity here. There is even a new stupa being built this summer, with a special guest coming to inaugurate. It’s all very exciting - and you can see that excitement played out in the faces of all the NALA team. Dharma Activity breeds joy and wellbeing, we should all take part as often as possible.
