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Home , Dashabhumika, Lhundub Sopa, Yamantaka, Zong Rinpoche

SUMMER COURSE 2003 HIGHLIGHTS OF SOPA’S TEACHING JULY 7 TO AUGUST 1, 2003 TOUR TO PUERTO RICO & MEXICO by Linda Atkins Je Tsong Khapa’s Illumination of the Thought, Our most kind teacher Geshe Lhundub Sopa was invited to An Extensive Explanation of Candrakirti’s Puerto Rico and Mexico to give teachings during five weeks in ‘Supplement to the ’ mid-November and early December. Lobsang Thapkey, a resi- dent monk at Deer Park, accompanied him. The following is a summary of their itinerary based on interviewing Thapkey-la. DEER PARK NEWSLETTER Ven. Geshe Sopa will continue for the third summer Je Tsong Khapa’s dGongs pa rab gsal, a Nov 11 - 24, 2002 San Juan, Puerto Rico commentary on Candrakirti’s Madyamakavatara. 85 people attended Lam Rim teachings. Geshe-la focused February 2003 mainly on The Three Principal Paths and briefly on the Four The primary subject of this text is the Ten Noble Truths. divides everyone into three types of Perfections. Geshe-la will pick up from where beings. When Atisha talks about begin- Nov 24 - 27 Mexico City, Mexico ners, he says that the first type or first he left off at the end of the 2002 Course at the Geshe-la attended a meeting regarding Casa Project: scope of being includes both of these, point in the Wisdom chapter where Je Tsong plans to build a monastery complex on land outside Mexico the special small and the mere small. He says: Khapa identifies and discusses the eight difficult City in Valle de Bravo. He also gave an evening Lam Rim Seeking only samsaric pleasures by any method points in the Prasangika system. teaching. whatsoever, Nov 27 - Dec 2 Monterrey, Mexico Striving after their own goals, that is known as the smallest. Tentative schedule: Geshe-la taught on The Three Principal Paths and gave Je This means that if one is just inter- Nang to 80 people during a 5-day Lam Rim retreat. ested in merely the pleasure of this Geshe Sopa-la will teach Monday through Friday life, not seeking any goals beyond that, from 10:00 AM–noon and from 2:00 PM – 4:00 Dec 4 Mexico City, Mexico or not even believing in future lives, among the beings, that is the small- PM. Although Geshe-la’s commentary is offered Geshe-la gave Tara Je Nang to 200 people. est. However, special small beings are primarily in English, a reading knowledge of Dec 5 - 8 Tonalli, Mexico interested in learning about future lives, and are concerned about falling into a Tibetan is recommended. 180 people attended a Lam Rim retreat. Geshe-la taught on miserable life after this one. Therefore Formal announcements are being emailed to The Three Principal Paths. they seek freedom from that and strive for a higher as a human or . attendees of the last three summer courses. Dec 9 - 12 Valle de Bravo, Mexico The special small being worries about future lives in accordance with the spiri- Others can obtain further information and the Geshe-la visited the site of the future monastery complex Recent group photo of Deer Park resident monks. From left to right: Venerables Yangsi , Lobsang Thapkey, Geshe Lhundub Sopa, Lhundup Sherab, and Geshe Sherab Thabkay. tual teachings which explain that as a registration form under “What’s New” at: planned by the Casa Tibet organization. result of evil negative karma, one will be www.deerparkcenter.org born in three lower realms, called hell, Dec 13 - 15 Guadalajara, Mexico and animal. These are all lives in Geshe-la taught on the Meditation Chapter of Shantideva’s A THE THREE SCOPES which one constantly experiences only Questions should be mailed to: Guide to the ’s Way of Life (Bodhicharyavatara). 80 misery and suffering. By Ven. Geshe Sopa The special type of being is one who is people attended. 50 people attended Tara Je Nang. Geshe-la [email protected] or Every being in the world is looking for who are concerned mainly with this life, interested in learning what will happen gave blessing and to 20 children. Deer Park Summer Course at address below. some kind of peace or happiness, and and ‘special small beings’ who are pur- to them after this life. If one is born in trying to solve their problems and avoid suing samsaric goals, for future lives. these kinds of realms, what kind of mis- undesirable things. On that basis, we For that reason, according to Buddhism, ery and problems will one face? If one are all equal. But Buddhist teachings the special small being is considered to is born in a good rebirth, as a god or Deer Park Buddhist Center discuss differences between beings, be pursuing a spiritual life. Buddhist human, as explained in the teachings, Non-Profit Org. what will one experience? Then, based 4548 Schneider Drive mainly based on their spiritual capaci- teachings offer special methods based Standard ties and on the objectives or goals they on the goals of those beings who seek on learning what one may experience in Oregon, WI 53575 US Postage are seeking. Basically, there are two a spiritual life. future lives, one tries to analyze to see PAID types of goals. One type of goal is tem- The mere small being is not special, what the causes of those experiences Permit No. 2548 porary, where one seeks a worldly good and can include everyone, even beings are. Understanding that, the special Madison, WI life or higher rebirth; the other is the in lower realms. Most small beings are being will try to develop positive causes final highest goal, called complete lib- mainly interested in the pleasures and as much as possible in this life, and to eration from misery and problems. We happiness of this life--that is, they are get rid of negative causes. Even though humans mostly spend our time pursuing interested mainly in a samsaric type of these second beings, the ‘special small’ temporary or worldly goals. life and mainly seek higher rebirths. But beings, are not seeking emancipation Anybody who is seeking samsaric hap- the small beings who are called special or , but merely a future life piness, which is the temporary goal of do not think only of this life. Instead, after this life in which they are born in happiness and peace merely in this life they have started learning a little about a higher rebirth and are free from lower or after this life, is called a small being what comes after this life, and know life and its miseries. According to in Buddhism. According to the teachings that there are higher lives that are the Buddhism, that is the beginning of the of Buddha, when one is looking not just result of wholesome virtuous actions, first type of spiritual being. to solve the problems of this life and to and much lower lives that are the result A person who is mainly involved in find happiness in this life, that is called of bad actions or karma. In his sum- methods that are wholesome and virtu- spirituality. Small beings are divided mary of Buddhist teachings, Lamp on ous actions that stop evil karma and into two types, ‘mere small beings,’ the Path to Enlightenment, Lord Atisha (CONTINUED ON PAGE 2) THE THREE SCOPES - from cover nated, then of course their result can karma. Such a person, who is merely becoming abbot, I was able to concen- produce positive future lives is a ‘spe- be eliminated. But if the causes cannot seeking perfect or everlasting peace trate on religious training and responsi- cial’ small being. In general, this special be eliminated, then there is no way to for oneself, is called an intermediate bilities. In Tibetan society recognized level of small beings can develop higher seek cessation. being. would normally give initiations. spiritually, looking beyond just the sam- Buddha taught the truth of suffering In many Buddhist teachings, one may However, at that time His Holiness saric happiness of this or future lives, and the cause of suffering, showing hear of the ‘’ and ‘’ and seeing that samsaric pleasures are what kinds of sufferings beings expe- systems. ‘Hinayana’ practitioners are of had a very strong idea that the abbot not the final goal, not the solution. They rience, from those of hell all the way this intermediate type, mainly seeking could give , Guhyasamaja, can begin to seek to be completely free up to those of the deva realms, and their own goal of complete emancipa- and other initiations in the monas- from all types of problems, including showing that this suffering cannot hap- tion without too much emphasis on tery. So that is what I did. This was those of gods, humans and, of course, pen without a cause. This cause is not others. The term ‘Hinayana’ in not established in earlier times, but lower beings. Each of these types of purely outside; the main cause is within means lesser or lower vehicle. Usually His Holiness asked that we do that. existence has different kinds of suffer- each individual: mental afflictions which small vehicles carry a small load, and ing, and freedom from those sufferings are mainly prime ignorance, or egotistic big vehicles can carry huge loads. In I served as abbot for three years. can be achieved by completely removing view, and then attachment to one’s own the same way here, the mental attitude During that time, I took one tour out- their causes. side and hatred towards others. These of practitioners of the Hinayana vehicle side of Asia. That is when I first visited These causes are explained in detail are the three mental poisons, which is to take responsibility for one’s own Deer Park. as karma and its cause, the delusions. are the key causes of suffering; and goal; on that basis, the scope is smaller Current activities at Sera Je Basically the delusions are the three from those three root delusions many because one is looking for one’s own Monastery. These days I have many mental poisons--attachment, anger and branches are described, such as jeal- individual way. One whose personality is students. My schedule varies a little. I ignorance--and the many other types of ousy, pride and all kinds of other delu- mainly involved in the path in this way is mental afflictions. Those are the causes sions. One needs to know that each of called a follower of the small vehicle. teach one or two classes in the morn- that create evil or impure actions and these delusions is removable, and one It is a great thing when one has SOME ANSWERS FROM VENERABLE KHENSUR RINPOCHE ing and four classes in the afternoon. are the main cause of samsara. One needs to know by which antidote they developed even that much, to the point I do this 5 to 6 days a week. I will Frank Barone and Cathy Kennedy had and one sister....My parents were very who wishes to remove those things, are removed temporarily and by which of clearly seeing one’s short life as not return to Sera and continue to teach. the wonderful opportunity to inter- poor, but I don’t remember very much to completely liberate one’s own mind they are completely uprooted. Some being for the purpose of samsaric sen- When I have time, I will do retreat. view Gyume Khensur Rinpoche about because I was so young. They were and personality from them, will first ask antidotes reduce or subdue delusions, sual pleasure, but rather for the goal Advice for Deer Park students. You whether that is possible. Then, if it is, and some remove them completely. of the much better and longer lasting parts of his life. We have selected just a normal working family. I remem- they will ask by which method they can Thus there are two different levels of peace, and then working mainly towards only a few topics and the verbatim ber sometimes herding some of the should continue to study, of course. completely cease karma and delusions. practices or methods taught in detail that. It’s difficult to fit into this category answers here, but invite you to go to family animals and going to visit rela- Your practice should be gradual––first They will want to learn those methods, in Buddhist teachings. If one is mainly of being. Ordinary beings are usually the website for the complete interview. tives. My father was good with sewing Lam Rim. Then based on and then by applying them, will mainly seeking not samsaric pleasure--impure below that because this is a special texts, practice ––again gradu- seek their own complete emancipation life in this life or in future lives--but kind of mental scope. www.deerparkcenter.org and made his living that way. My moth- from impure life, whether lower lives in instead is seeking complete emancipa- The third level of beings is the great er did weaving on a big loom. I became ally. You should take advantage of hells or higher lives up to the devas. If tion, and based on this, one is mainly beings of the Mahayana. These are Previous visits to Deer Park. For a monk when I was 7 years old. Until I having three who are teaching a life is created by karma and delusion, engaged in studying, learning and people who have first trained in the three years, 1990 to 1992, on was 19 years old, I studied at Ganden here: Geshe Sopa-la, Yangsi Rinpoche, then it’s impure. But when one seeks a implementing those practices for those proper knowledge in the small and Thursday evenings I taught the Middle Ogmin Monastery near Shigatse. The and Geshe Thabkay-la. You should life beyond that for oneself, not tied to purposes, then one has become an th intermediate scopes. But then their Length Lam Rim by Je Tsong Khapa. monastery was founded by the 5 study well with them, reflect on what this karmic situation, then one is called intermediate being. concern finally turns mainly towards In that time I reached the section on Dalai . While there I did a lot you have studied, and then put the an intermediate being. Buddha taught the path extensively, others, giving up seeking one’s own Total freedom from suffering for one- but Atisha taught it in a summarized the Being of Middle Scope. I also gave of memorization of texts. There was teachings into practice as much as selfish goal and taking full responsibility the Cittamani Tara Blessing and other some debate but not nearly as much self, or emancipation, is the intermedi- way. Lord Atisha in his short Lamp on for the freedom of others: starting with you are able. But you still must work ate being’s goal. That requires a lot the Path explains intermediate beings initiations and commentaries. On my as is done at Sera. At age 19 I went their own dear mother and from there, at your jobs. Don’t give that up, but of studying, meditating and practicing as: next visit in 1997, I taught a summer to Sera Je Monastery in . (Note: the methods to solve all the problems to everybody in the world. do what study and practice you can Those who turn their back on the pleasure of Since everybody is looking for hap- program on the Seven Point Thought Rinpoche was later forced to flee from of this existence and to remove their existence and turn away from evil actions to Training. As we again just finished, I Tibet and went to South to con- while working. Then when you are able causes. piness and pleasure, in that sense strive only for their own peace: everybody is the same. Knowing this, also performed the Cakrasamvara and tinue his studies.) you can dedicate more of your time Knowing what causes bring about to the . You must remember what results is one of the most impor- These beings are called intermediate. one’s attitude changes. One sees that Initiations, followed by com- Gyume Tantra College. After finishing tant teachings. When Buddha taught This verse refers to those who spend looking after merely one’s own small mentaries on the Vajrayogini practice the Lharampa Geshe exam (in India), that the Lam Rim is the essence of the , the first truth, their whole life striving mainly for peace area is not enough. Instead it is much and the Six Session Yoga. I studied for one year at the Tantric the practice, and that this must be for themselves, and who reverse their the truth of suffering, showed the dif- greater to fulfill everybody’s wishes. Teachers and studies. With college. After that, I became the dis- backed up with philosophy, logic and ferent types of suffering in detail. Then own mind from any kind of pleasure of One sees so much misery and suffer- samsara--that means impure pleasure, Geshe Sopa-la I studied the ciplinarian (Ge Gur) at Gyume. But reason. So it is important to study the second truth, the truth of the cause ing worldwide, everywhere, from hells Abhisamayalamkara, Shantideva’s before I could actually begin as Ge of suffering, is explained as karma, sensual pleasure, high rebirth and all the way to impure lives in the higher Abhisamayalamkara, and Bodhicaryavatara, Madyamika, Gur, I had to memorize 81 texts and and karma itself is caused by various so on. Because one’s mind has been realms, and one wants to free them all. Madyamika as well. Also, it is good to turned away from samsaric pleasures, Pramanavartika, and . This was take an exam on those in front of the mental delusions, mainly ignorance. If Great beings have so much desire to study about the mind, such as texts on one tries to turn away also from evil all in Tibet. After 1959, Geshe-la went abbot. The preparation for Ge Gur these causes of suffering can be elimi- take responsibility for all beings. They Lo Rig and Mind and Mental Events. to Himachal Pradesh and eventually to can take 3 to 6 months. I was able to Credits: A grateful thank you to all volunteers. develop first love and compassion for To get an understanding of emptiness, all beings, and when they have a strong the United States, and I went initially complete the preparation in 4 months. Editorial Staff: Ann Chávez, Frank Barone, Ven. Lhundub Damcho, wish to act on that, they then determine to Buxa. So I wasn’t able to study with Not long after beginning as Ge Gur, you should study Madyamika. Other Cathy Kennedy how to become most beneficial for oth- Geshe-la after that. I was made a candidate to become areas to study are the stages and Design/Production: Paul Judziewicz, emanationgraphics.com ers. At that time, one sees that the only Relationship with Yangsi Rinpoche’s the abbot of Gyume. The prepara- paths, and tenets. Then, of course, Scanning & Imaging: Martín Chávez perfect way, without error or discrimi- predecessor. I studied Madyamika with tion to become the abbot takes about Geshe-la is teaching the summer nation, is achieved with one’s highest Gen Ngawang Gedun-la, and I appreci- three years. During that time I served courses. If you have the time and the Photography: Martín Chávez Pages 1, 5, 6, 9, 11; Lori Cayton Page 10 Enlightenment, where all obscurations ated that very much, and what I have as the Lama Um Ze. The Um Ze is right background, these classes will Proofreading: Christopher Goodrich, Valerie Thrush have been removed and omniscience now is because of his kindness. responsible for the administrative and Mailing List: Dale Decker, Karen Stevenson, Kalleen Mortensen has been obtained. Until one reaches help clarify the teachings. Early life and studies. My parents political aspects of the monastery. I Comments: [email protected] (CONTINUED ON PAGE 3) had three children. I had one brother did this for three years. Then, after 2 Deer Park Newsletter February 2003 11 Construction begins4 Spring 200

GOAL______$2.3 million

Long Life Puja Offerings given to Geshe Sopa by 12/31/02______$475,000 Lama Zopa Rinpoche at end of summer course. Computer rendering of proposed new temple on left. 12/31/01______$335,000 12/31/00______$188,000 tification of the eight difficult points in HELP US BUILD YOUR NEW TEMPLE! the Prasangika system, most of which by Penny Paster, Fund Raising Chair are treated in subsequent portions of excess? One of our donors col- the text. lected $760 at her garage Geshe Sopa-la has requested from ing. Built in traditional Tibetan style The mere list of the topics Geshe- sale and she recycled in the his students worldwide that we break using sustainable architecture, this la taught only begins to suggest the bargain. ground for the new Deer Park temple sacred space will outlive you. My grand- richness of the feast of Madhyamika •Have a ‘Good Karma’ pot luck 2002 DEER PARK SUMMER TEACHINGS in the spring of 2004. What an excit- father joined others and built a temple by John Newman he provided for us. This kind of teach- for friends and co-workers and ing—in which a teacher explains one ing proposition! His Holiness the Dalai in the city of Chicago; it was his proud- Last summer from June 24th to July concentration are briefly discussed, and donate the money. of the great classics of Madhyamika Lama has personally blessed the site, est legacy. Now we are given an oppor- 26th our teacher, Ven. Geshe Lhundub began the lengthy topic of the perfec- •Organize an auction with from beginning to end—was extremely and our efforts of the past six months tunity to practice altruism and become Sopa Rinpoche, gave a detailed expla- tion of wisdom. Under each of the third, friends bringing books and rare even in old Tibet; for an unexcelled have all been directed this way. We a part of our own history. nation of a portion of Illumination of fourth and fifth stages Candrakirti and objects from their home in master of the tradition to present it hosted a tea for neighbors and our Dunn Many of you have been affected by the Thought of the Middle Way (dBu ma Tsong Khapa emphasize the relationship search of a new home. Decide in English in the West undoubtedly Township chairman Ed Minihan where someone or something at Deer Park. dgongs pa rab gsal), Je Tsong Khapa’s between the active and affective dimen- together that your bids are represents some kind of special good we shared our ideas and invited their Help share with future generations the famous commentary on the Introduction sions of the path—the method side, going for a designated part of fortune. comments about our building project. remarkable on site teachings, oppor- to the Middle Way (Madhyamakavatara) and the cognitive side of the path—wis- the temple, like library shelving, In conjunction with Geshe Sopa’s After a welcome by Geshe-la, a stunning tunity to support teachers in India and of Shri Candrakirti. This was a continu- dom. What distinguishes the perfection children’s classrooms, lighting, exposition of the Illumination of the architectural presentation, a brief his- other countries, library acquisitions, ation of the teachings given during the of patience and so forth from their ordi- wood floors, landscaping or Thought of the Middle Way, during tory of our center since 1967 and tour language classes and honored Tibetan summer of 2001, when Gen Rinpoche nary forms is that the perfections are statuary. Then empower those afternoons throughout the summer of the Deer Park property, the reception traditions. Raising money takes work taught the first portion of the text. performed in a way that is motivated by people to set a group personal course Ven. Yangsi Rinpoche continued was an overwhelming approval for our and commitment. The consequences This year about 65 people attended, and governed by an under- goal and become your own out- to explain the principal doctrines of the new building project. Our community of your help will enrich you and the including 22 members. As in standing of the essencelessness and reach committee. four schools of . outreach had a diverse age group of old people you cherish. Best of all, it will previous years, the audience included interdependence of agent, action, and •Plan an athletic fundraiser This summer we arrived at the views and new friends saying that Deer Park enrich the lives of people you’ve never people of many different nationalities object. Thus the difficult philosophical event to take care of your body of the two Madhyamika traditions— has enriched the environment where we even met. Decide now--as you read and backgrounds, evidence of Geshe- ideas employed in the investigation of as your Deer Park connection Svatantrika and Prasangika—and thus all live. this--what you believe you can send la’s worldwide reputation as an exem- reality are always grounded in an altru- helps your mind and spirit. there was often a happy coincidence Architectural drawings and models are Deer Park in one year. Pledge that plary teacher and of the appeal of these istically-oriented ethic of working to free •Ask a business that sells con- of the subject matter covered in Geshe- being fine-tuned. We have submitted amount and begin. You can raise the teachings to people around the world. others from their suffering. struction materials to become la’s and Rinpoche’s sessions. Because permits and infrastructure requirements money. Why? Because you understand Je Tsong Khapa’s Illumination of Turning to the perfection of wisdom, a matching partner for your per- Rinpoche gave a general overview of with the county. Our first fund raising what will happen when more people can the Thought of the Middle Way is the principal subject of Introduction to sonal fund raising goal. Think Madhyamika based on the ‘systems brochure was a great beginning toward come in contact with the practice of the itself the culmination of a long line the Middle Way and Illumination of the about all the components that of tenets’ presentation, he often aug- reaching the $2.3 million goal neces- Dharma and . of Madhyamika exegesis. The origi- Thought of the Middle Way, last sum- go into a building and excite mented Geshe-la’s explanation of the sary for construction. Added to our We are available to help you by provid- nal source is, of course, the Buddha mer Geshe-la covered about one-third of people to donate materials. Illumination of the Thought of the Middle efforts for the past three years we now ing drawings, Buddhist literature on gen- himself—Madhyamika in general eluci- Tsong Khapa’s treatment of the subject. Help comes in many sizes and Way with discussion drawn from the have $450,000. If YOU can personally erosity and its consequences, speakers, dates the Buddha’s thought expressed This included such major topics as: shapes. Donated tax-exempt monastic debate textbooks. In the pro- make a commitment to financially sup- PowerPoint presentations, and organiza- in the Mahayana , especially •identification of the object of building materials are as pre- cess Rinpoche admirably demonstrated port the building of a new temple in tional ideas for having group meetings the Perfection of Wisdom sutras. In negation as it is understood in both cious as talented men and the degree to which the challenging 2004, it will be built. It will not happen and specific fund raising events you can this case, however, Candrakirti’s the Svatantrika and Prasangika women their profes- philosophical issues in Madhyamika if you depend on someone else’s gener- host where you live. Introduction to the Middle Way takes schools sional construction skills at a continue to be debated as part of osity. Will you join this effort? Here are just a few of those ideas: the basic structure of the Buddha’s •ways in which Madhyamikas reject later date. a living tradition. All in attendance A donation directed to the ‘New •What about supplying all of teaching in The on the Ten Stages production from self or other were impressed by Rinpoche’s deep Temple Fund’ is the first step. We are your supportive friends with (Dashabhumika Sutra) as a framework •presentation of the two truths You be the conduit in your own unique knowledge of the texts and ideas being immensely grateful to those of you who banks and every month col- within which to present the Mahayana •precise identification of conven- way. It starts with your mental com- studied, by his enthusiasm and skill responded to our initial request. Please lecting the change they save bodhisattva path. Among the ten bod- tional truth mitment. Add your personal agenda of in teaching, and by his desire to com- continue to share our passion, see our for Deer Park? Sounds too hisattva stages, Candrakirti—and thus •unique way in which the Prasangika ideas. Tell others about the teachings municate the knowledge he laboriously numbers grow, and help us again. For simplistic? A youth collected Je Tsong Khapa—devotes most of his school defines the mental afflic- and compassionate way of living that acquired in the classrooms and debate many people the motivation to contrib- $894,000 for a local char- effort to explaining the sixth stage, in tions Deer Park offers to students and friends courtyards in Sera. Rinpoche exempli- ute a donation is strong. But personal ity with a single newspaper ad which the bodhisattva develops special •identification of ultimate truth around the world. Then take a deep fies the success Tibetans in exile have circumstances make you wonder if you requesting pennies be sent to skill in the wisdom realizing emptiness. •discussion of the ways omni- breath: We can do it TOGETHER. achieved in transmitting the Dharma to can. Why do it alone? Involve others. him. Last summer Geshe-la completed his science knows the two truths. a new generation of masters, a success Become a creative volunteer in raising •How about encouraging your explanation of the third, fourth, and fifth that offers hope for the continued sur- funds. Each of you have wondrous friends to clean out their CONTACT ME AT: [email protected] bodhisattva stages, in which the perfec- Geshe-la concluded with an initial vival of this precious tradition. capabilities and untapped talents. This closets, garages, attics and tions of patience, effort, and meditative overview of Tsong Khapa’s famous iden- is a monumental, beneficial undertak- basements and bring you the TO COMMUNICATE DIRECTLY. 4 Deer Park Newsletter February 2003 9 the ’s birthdays. Although THE THREE SCOPES - from page 2 to know what kind of action, what meth- Deer Park provides facilities for these that state, one will try to help others, ods and what path should be taken. special religious occasions, the Tibetan but it won’t be perfect. Once that state For those of us who are interested in community would like to have a place is attained, one will be of perfect help Buddhism, we have to first thoroughly for secular functions. Our present goal is to purchase a Community Center and benefit to others. Therefore, one learn and study these areas. Otherwise, where Tibetans can hold meetings, mainly seeks that highest goal called blind faith will not bring us to those weddings and parties. In particular, perfect Enlightenment, purely for the goals. Therefore, first try to study and the Community Center can provide a benefit of others. When a person’s understand. First you have to under- place for the Saturday School where attitude changes towards fulfilling the stand mentally, and then examine and it can grow and diversify. In addition, purposes of others, and that attitude analyze. Finally when those things come we would like the Community Center arises spontaneously, from then on, one into one’s own mind clearly, you have to to be self-sufficient, earning enough Monthly Teaching Schedule to help cover some of the expenses fits into the category of great beings. put them into practice; this is what we Now from the point of view of these call ‘meditation.’ Regular teachings by one of the facility will generate. Therefore, we the three resident teachers are are considering making the Community three scopes, one can see that being According to Buddhism, it is important Center a day care for either the elderly interested in the sensual pleasures of to first study one’s own mind, and then given at Deer Park on Sunday or children, which will also provide this life and not believing or seeking put the teachings into practice, over and mornings from 10:00 a.m. to employment for Tibetans and others. anything else, from a spiritual point of over again. This is meditation. These noon, and Thursdays from In the meantime, we are looking for vol- view, is the worst. It has no spiritual spiritual goals will not be obtained 7:30 p.m. to 9:00. The Jor unteers, sponsors, and a facility to help make this dream a reality. If anyone is value. This is the scope of the mere merely by hearing and reading. Also, Cho preparatory rite is chanted WISCONSIN TIBETAN ASSOCIATION UPDATE interested in helping with this project in small being. If one is looking for meth- by merely thinking about them, they will on the first Sunday of each by the WTA Board of Directors any way, please contact Khamlung ods to bring about this kind of pleasure not come about. Great effort at hear- month before teachings begin. Since the last Deer Park newsletter musical instruments. The students at 233-2703. The Board of Directors of and enjoyment, not only for this but ing, thinking and meditation is required Please consult the calendar at the WTA, on behalf of their members, the Tibetan community in Madison has learned these arts so well that the WTA also for future lives, then one fits into over a long period of time. Nowadays www.deerparkcenter.org for would also like to thank the Deer Park the category of spiritual beings, which there are so many intelligent people continued to grow to approximately decided to raise money for traditional special events and monthly 400 Tibetans. Many of the Madison costumes. We raised about two-thirds community for their interest in WTA and begins with special small beings. who are interested in investigating for providing space in this newsletter. Tibetans are children who attend the of the funds needed to purchase cos- From there, there are three goals. and doing all these things. When we pujas. For specific questions, public schools, and several are now tumes for the dances they perform. The Wisconsin Tibetan Association is a updates, and last minute 501(c)(3) non-profit charitable organization One is to be free in future lives from fit into any of those spiritual scopes, enrolled in different colleges around Wisconsin’s Tibetan Dancing Troupe the worst miseries of lower lives and to we should rejoice that we are seeking changes, please call 835-5572. Wisconsin. The Tibetans in Madison has already performed several times for continue to work hard holding jobs in schools, charity groups, the Children’s attain a higher life, thinking that even if this, rather than living an empty life various fields, and many of them have Museum, as well as for the Celebration the happiness one seeks is samsaric, it pursuing the sensual pleasures of a purchased homes. of Youth at Monona Terrace. In all doesn’t matter; it still is worth pursuing. full stomach and a comfortable living Our Saturday School at the Dale instances, the Tibetan Dancers were With just the goal of fighting not to be place. Even animals can attain these Heights Presbyterian Church is now well received. reborn in a lower situation as a result of temporary goals. But we have a human entering its fourth year. Recently, we Every July the WTA members elect negative karma one begins the spiritual life, and not just any human life, but increased the school hours to give the new representatives who serve two- scope. As explained, for the interme- one which offers the opportunity to students more time to learn Tibetan year terms. Last July it was decided culture. At present, there are three to increase the Board of Directors to diate scope being, temporarily being hear all the teachings that are avail- teachers: Geshe Jampa Khedup-la, seven representatives. The representa- free from lower beings’ miseries is not able in the world. Especially having a -la and Lhalung-la, who tives who are now serving their second enough. Achieving higher birth is not life where teachings and teachers are teach Tibetan language, history, singing year are: Kushog Ngawang Chodjor- enough. Realizing that any kind of sam- widely available, and also where one and dancing, etc. Without their contri- la (vice-president), Chung Tsering-la saric life is impure and in the nature of is in that place and is involved in that-- Geshe Sopa-la’s Teaching butions the Saturday School would not (accountant), Choephel-la (green book suffering, and then wanting complete that’s wonderful. It is most rare, so one Tours Winter-Summer 2003 be possible. Occasionally, we invite accountant), Thinley Namgyal-la (green emancipation from that for oneself, is should have an appreciation for one’s special guests who share their indi- book accountant) and Wangmo Chomor- vidual experiences with the students. la (treasurer). The new representa- What’s New on the Web the intermediate scope. Then, wanting own life, rejoice and direct one’s short We very much appreciate the support tives who will serve for two years are: complete freedom not only for oneself life towards that. Tentative Schedule: of the parents who take turns provid- Khamlung Tulku (president), Kelsang •2003/4 Tsok Dates but for others too, and mainly seeking I think that is the purpose of achieving Feb. 4-7 Las Vegas ing snacks and transportation and the Gyatso-la (secretary), Tenzin Monlam- to accomplish that, makes one a being a human life. Here I am basically talk- generous kindness of the Church for la (cultural coordinator) and Tenzin of great scope. ing in connection with the teachings of Feb. 7-10 San Jose, CA providing their facility; both have been Kunsang-la (cultural coordinator). Tenzin •Photos of Ven. Khensur There are three different levels or Buddha, since I myself am a Buddhist Feb.11-April Taiwan essential components of the school’s Monlam-la and Tenzin Kunsang-la were Rinpoche’s fall visit & Interview scopes, and it is important especially person. But we are very fortunate that success. Since the Tibetan community appointed by the Board of Directors. April 2-9 Singapore continues to grow, we hope that the The Board felt that it was important for us who are following Buddhism we have so many choices of special Saturday School will remain an impor- for the younger generation to be a part •News from one of Geshe-la’s and following the teachings based on teachings, religious teachers, and vari- April 9-16 Malaysia tant part of the community, preserving of the local governing body. They both Florida Dharma Centers these scopes, to know what is needed ous kinds of groups in different places. Tibetan culture. agreed to be a part of the WTA board and what must be avoided in order to Having this is itself a sign of richness. April 16 –June 1 Tibet In addition to the Saturday School, and are now coordinating the Wisconsin •Photo/report on recent trip to accomplish the goals of each scope. On According to Buddhism, if one is born June 1- 14 Mongolia Kelsang Gyatso-la, the Wisconsin Tibetan Dance Troupe activities. each level, it is important to know how as an animal, during that life one cannot Tibetan Association Secretary, through Venerable Geshe Sopa-la and the Deer Tibet with Lama Zopa Rinpoche to accomplish one’s spiritual goals and fit anywhere among these three scopes. June 16-21 Ireland his position as Bilingual Resource Park Community have been very gener- Specialist with the Madison Public ous to the Madison Tibetans and the •Summer course registration then engage mainly in doing that. Within Although the teachings and teachers July Deer Park Summer Course Schools, organized an after-school Wisconsin Tibetan Association. We feel materials the third scope too, when achieving are available in this world, for animals, group with some Tibetan high school very fortunate to be a part of the Deer those goals for oneself is not important nothing is available. So this is one of teens. The group, under the auspices Park community participating together www.deerparkcenter.org and one is concerned mainly for others, the ways one should be rejoicing. of the WTA, focuses on learning Tibetan on special Tibetan holidays, in particu- one needs to know what one has to do singing, dancing and playing Tibetan lar Tibetan New Years and His Holiness mentally to bring that about. One needs 10 Deer Park Newsletter Febuary 2003 3 vidual story and break down aspects of REFECTIONS ON BUDDHISM - from page 6 Santideva’s Guide to the Bodhisattva’s his/her emotional suffering that can be clients are practicing the first stage, Way of Life which is near completion. managed in some way by techniques hearing. Just hearing the information Next, the project will work on Geshe like the one above. Once we establish will do nothing, however, unless there Sopa-la’s teaching on ’s a plan clients initially feel hope that is a period of contemplating. The Letter to a Friend. These represent there is something concrete to work on. information must be considered: does LEGACY OF DEER PARK— Geshe-la’s three largest works; he will However, in the long process of chang- it make sense; is it useful to me; and then decide in which direction the proj- ing mental patterns clients experience is it worthy of investing my time into a HE RCHIVE ROJECT ect will turn its attention. hopelessness or doubt. Clients may T A P plan of action? Clients must consider By Susan Gemmill Along with doing the archiving work understand the need to change nega- carefully if the information is relevant, the project is trying to keep abreast tive mental patterns, but they become Once upon a time, thirty-odd years discouraged by the struggle. People useful, and pertinent to their goals of of the weekly teachings, the summer often say they know what they need to treatment. Meditating is taking the ago, a most wise person suggested tap- courses and the variety of teachers do but find that they can’t seem to do it information a step deeper. At this stage ing all of Geshe Sopa’s teachings. The coming in at different points, like when they are called upon to engage a the client chooses to invest in the plan project grew over time, particularly with Khensur Rinpoche’s six week visit this new pattern of behavior. of treatment and the process begins of the arrival of Venerables Geshe Thabkay year—and the many teachings they At these points in recovery, I have integrating the information into practice, and Yangsi Rinpoche, until the words have given. In this way, the project is found the Buddhist concept of faith can building faith in the practice, and work- and wisdom of many visiting teachers, not creating more work for itself. be extremely helpful. In my opinion, ing hard to accomplish the goals. doctors and dignitaries, including His Almost the entire collection of record- faith is an internally focused concept A huge step in successful psycho- Holiness, the Dalai Lama, had been ings completed thus far has been which is empowering in itself because therapy is when clients move into the recorded. saved in two different versions and that it begins with the idea that “I chose” third wisdom. They have information. Fifteen months ago, the archiving proj- requires another step in the process REFLECTIONS ON BUDDHISM where to place my faith. First, I evalu- They understand the relevance of the ect became a number one priority as once it has been recorded in real time. by Sharon Hendricks ate and analyze the information that information. Then clients begin to prac- concern for the condition of the tapes The project is also encoding the wav files into MP3 format, which enables while walking down the street, or in my I am getting. Then, as Geshe Sopa tice, implementing new ways of manag- grew. Some of the earliest tapes in the When I first began studying with Geshe the technicians to get something in the own room if I woke up. Buddhist teach- teaches, when I develop faith in the ing emotional patterns in daily life. It Deer Park archive were recorded almost Sopa in 1975, one of my graduate order of fifteen to twenty hours of teach- ings state that the mind can only be on teaching and/or the teacher, my spiri- is my role as the therapist to be there casually in Geshe Sopa’s former houses interests was to explore the Buddhist ings onto one CD. one subject at any one moment in time; tual practice will be much more accom- as a guide, watching carefully for small and cover a specific work on just about teachings in order to learn practical The project started out using dedi- therefore, if a person focuses the mind plished. Likewise, I encourage clients accomplishments which become sym- everything you can think of: Uttaratantra ways of finding peace from mental pain. cated equipment that Professor Jim on a helpful or positive concept, the to examine and analyze the information and other of the Five Books of , bols of the potential for greater changes Blumenthal picked out with Ani Some of the best lessons I learned mind could only be capable of taking in they get in treatment, and encourage in behavior later. For example, consider a small chat about everyday living, Dechen’s assistance. It is solid equip- were in Tibetan language class, in par- that concept in that moment. I began them at some point to develop faith in an individual who is dealing with anger. pregnancy from a Tibetan perspective ment that will work for a long time, but ticular, while studying A Guide to the a practice of focusing my mind on “OM something, whether in the potential for In therapy one may hear about ways in or Lama Zopa touching upon an obscure it does not allow for wide latitude over Bodhisattva’s Way of Life by the great MANI PADME HUM” each time I noticed change, in the therapist as a guide, in which anger is eroding his/her capacity translation. making adjustments to the original. If Indian Saint Shantideva. For example, fear begin to arise. the plan of treatment, or in themselves to have happiness in life. Together we Although the tapes go on for years the recordings are in good condition consider verses 2-3 from Chapter 5: Of course if the emotion is stronger to keep practicing. Faith in any or all may contemplate ways to reduce anger (Geshe-la’s works on the Lam Rim in the first place, the dedicated equip- In this world, untamed, mad elephants do not than the ability to focus on the , of these areas becomes an antidote to or ways to manage anger, yet when the Chenmo span thirteen years of Sundays ment works well. However, six months the mind will then go to the emotion. hopelessness, doubt, and despair. inflict as much harm as the miseries of the deep- individual goes out of my office and and a 9-week summer intensive), there into the project, it was discovered that So with fear, for example, one must pay While there are many techniques avail- est hell which can be caused by the unleashed into a vulnerable setting, he/she may are guest speakers who taught while using the computer to archive the works attention to the details of the arising able to deal with particular mental prob- elephant of my mind. But if the elephant of the Geshe-la was out of town or in retreat resulted in better quality recordings. fear--it arises in the dark, when alone, or lems, I’d like to consider a more general immediately fall back into the patterns Once a tape is digitized, it is much eas- mind is completely restrained by the rope of in a particular place. The point here is concept of mental healing which can be of rage that cause misfortune. Finally, and during summer programs, or who ier to manipulate the data with comput- , then all perils vanish and complete to detect the feelings as they begin their understood by the teaching of the three s/he needs practice, meditation--over happened to be visiting and then er software—it’s possible to see what well being is obtained. ascent, versus being overwhelmed by types of wisdom arising from: hearing and over again practicing, consider- asked to give a teaching. Kyabje Zong is being done, allowing the technician The realization that the mind is out them when they hit with their full inten- (thos pa), contemplating (bsam pa), ing, and acting out new patterns with Rinpoche and Geshe Rabten, for exam- a lot more freedom to adjust the sound of control like a wild elephant in rut in sity. Finally, no matter how many times meditating (bsgoms pa). These three increased conviction--that will eventually ple, taught during the first Summer quality. In recording the tapes that were the marketplace can be understood as one is distracted, always go to the man- wisdoms represent an overview of the create change. Course in 1978. done in days of yore the technician can a philosophical starting point for the tra and focus. After a lot of practice, healing process in recovery from mental These are a few ways in which For the most part, the condition of the go from a boom box to a computer. even before being conscious of fear, the suffering. The first wisdom comes from Buddhism is used in my practice of psy- tapes has been fairly good considering mental health practitioner. When we There is talk of experimenting with mind starts, “!” hearing--listening to teachings, a period chotherapy. As I look at the individual that the original recording equipment understand our mind is by nature out doing double-time recording as the proj- From then on this mental pattern of fear of gathering information. The second and understand his/her suffering, my and tapes were not professional qual- of control then we are open to methods ect moves into more recent years where is changed. There is a transformation wisdom comes from contemplating-- ity. There has been some deterioration; of restraining it. People who come for first task is to sort out specific prob- the tapes are in better condition. of an ingrained negative mental pattern thinking about the information, deepen- mental health treatment usually have lems from the complexity of emotional one side of a tape will bleed onto the Expensive archival quality CDs are into a positive one. For clients who are ing understanding of the information, experienced ways in which their minds and intellectual confusion. It is pos- other—quite a surrealistic effect. On used to record this precious body of not Buddhists, we develop a phrase and questioning the efficacy of using lack control and are initially quite open sible to draw upon many techniques other tapes the audio has been lost work, yet there is much conjecture as to that is simple, direct and meaningful the information in practical applica- to ideas for change. available in Buddhist teachings and use completely. Many of the early tapes how long these discs actually last. The to their current situation. This simple tions. The third wisdom arises from Over the years as a practicing psycho- them as antidotes to mental confusion. need the volume pumped up to the manufacturer claims that the data will straightforward process is an example meditating--a stage where we put infor- therapist I have used many Buddhist Still, no matter what technique is being highest recording level possible to be last forty to fifty years whereas other of how Buddhist concepts are so useful mation into practice. Yangsi Rimpoche considered, it is beneficial for the client able to hear any sound at all. Then technicians stand beside their belief principles and meditational techniques in mental health practice. states that in this stage we naturally to develop faith in some aspect of the the process of filtering any background that the discs will hold the data a good as tools in my professional practice. Faith and diligence will dramatically grow in faith and conviction, which in healing process and to understand the noise begins. hundred to two hundred years. One technique I’ve used a lot is a accelerate the transformation process. turn strengthens our capacity to effec- To date, all tapes of the 1970’s are The earliest recordings in the focusing technique that is very useful in For example, I had faith in the teacher tively integrate what we learn into how path to healing as seen in the three wis- archives are from the early to mid- regulating a variety of emotions includ- and practiced the technique diligently we behave. Meditation is a stage where doms: gather the information; consider archived and the work has moved well 1970s. Some of the guest teach- ing anxiety, anger, and even cravings. I in order to transform fear into peace. we apply antidotes to negative mental applying the information; and integrate into the eighties. Once the project got ers already transferred to CD are: began practicing this myself as a stu- People come to see me with a variety states and eventually transform nega- the information into daily living. to the point where the tapes seemed to His Holiness the Dalai Lama, Lama dent when I had struggled for years with of emotional problems: depression, tive mental patterns into healthy ones. be in fairly good shape, it switched to Yeshe, Geshe Tsultrim Gyaltsen, Geshe fears of the dark. At that time I often anxiety, post traumatic stress disorder In the therapeutic process, when enter- concentrating on Geshe Sopa-la’s lon- Wangchuk, Kyabje , experienced irrational fears at night, and various kinds of related mental ing therapy, getting new information, ger works, that being Je Tsong Khapa’s Geshe Rabten, Locho Rinpoche, imagining that I’d be hurt in some way suffering. I listen carefully to the indi- (CONTINUED ON PAGE 7) Lam Rim Chenmo, which is finished, and (CONTINUED ON PAGE 8) 6 Deer Park Newsletter February 2003 7 THE LEGACY OF DEER PARK - from page 7 es you no matter where you stand in sensations, the intensity of the voice translators throughout the visit. Geshe Kyabje Serkong Rinpoche, Kyabje Tri your practice—how precious a thing and it’s inflection—urgent at times— Jampa skillfully translated the first set Rinpoche, Khensur Lobsang Tenzin that is—then you will understand the have a tremendous effect on you that of teachings, and Venerable Tsenla flew Rinpoche, Lati Rinpoche and Ven. magnitude of these legacies of Deer words on a page just can’t do no matter to Madison directly from retreat in Nepal Lobsang Namgyal. Park. To have great teachers that you how good the writer. If you consider the in order to translate the initiations and Several interesting radio shows can hear in their own voice with their difference between reading Hamlet and subsequent commentaries with her char- have also been transferred to disc own jokes, like Lama Yeshe or Geshe watching Sir Lawrence Olivier act it—the acteristic grace and clarity. and include: Sacred Music of Tibet, a Sopa-la—to hear them talk about these contrast here is even greater. And, as Khensur Rinpoche’s visit concluded WHA program, interviews on Wisconsin subjects and give you the teaching—is information is fleshed out over the with a community potluck at Deer Park Public Radio with H.H. Dalai Lama. a completely different experience than years, it will become even clearer just the night before his departure, and more Tapes have been discovered represent- reading a transcript or a book that has how many treasures dwell in the Deer goodbyes were said as Rinpoche depart- ing Geshe Sopa’s talks to Chinese been edited on the same material. The Park Archives. ed from Deer Park on October 18th. students at Deer Park, His Holiness’ scheduled to be weekend teachings, Among the themes that seemed to talks on at San Jose State they continued on the evenings of the arise repeatedly throughout Rinpoche’s University in 1989, the Namgyal monks following weekdays. Rinpoche completed teachings—sutra and tantra—were the at Deer Park for the 1981 a detailed discourse of the entire text, recognition of precious human rebirth ceremony, Ven. Lekshe Tsomo, Ven. covering the foundations of renunciation, and the exhortation to make the most Thubten Pende, Ven. Lobsang Jampa, bodhicitta, and emptiness and the basics of the opportunity to practice dharma the Nechung Oracle, Geshe Sherab of the stages of the graduated path to while one has the conditions to do so. Thabkay, and Yangsi Rinpoche. Ven. Gyume Khensur Rinpoche and Ven. Tsenla enlightenment. Many students commented that this point The teachings are divided between On the following Saturday Rinpoche led rang especially true when examining their sutra and tantra; the tantric teachings FINANCIAL SUPPORT FOR DEER PARK TREASURY OF PURE DHARMA: a refuge ceremony in which fifteen new own lives—for as students of Deer Park are kept separate. The bulk of what by Mike Atkins students took refuge for the first time and we are particularly blessed not only to is being recorded is not for distribu- KHENSUR RINPOCHE’S VISIT received refuge names from Rinpoche, have somehow attained human rebirths, tion without Geshe Sopa-la’s express Material support is vital for spreading and preserving Buddhist teach- by Ven. Tenzin Namdrol and twenty more experienced students met the dharma, and received teachings permission on an individual basis. An ings. The Sangha who transmit the Dharma and follow the lifestyle prescribed had the opportunity to renew their refuge from such a realized master as Khensur From late August to mid-October of this extensive list of all the tapes in the by Buddha need facilities where they can gather to practice and teach. They commitments. Rinpoche on this occasion, but also, we year the students of Deer Park experi- collection is being made. On comple- After a five-day rest, Rinpoche gave have the supreme fortune to receive the need food, protection from the elements, and health services. They need an enced a remarkable karmic ripening in tion, it will be posted on the Deer Park the highest yoga tantra initiations of guidance of our kind teachers Geshe appropriate environment away from the myriad distractions of worldly activi- the form of the visit of the Venerable website. Chakrasamvara and Vajrayogini in their Sopa-la, Yangsi Rinpoche, and Geshe ties. Long ago the great Indian teacher Shantideva referred to the importance Gyume Khensur Rinpoche to our cen- The archiving project is a great oppor- complete form, followed by seven days Thabkay-la on a regular basis at Deer of material support when he said, “May the teachings, which are the sole ter. Over the course of his six weeks in tunity to rediscover missing recordings. of explicit explanation on the practice of Park. attendance, Khensur Rinpoche bestowed A volunteer could offer to contact for- medicine for suffering and the origin of every joy, be materially supported and Vajrayogini following the commentary of In addition, Khensur Rinpoche began upon us what could only be described as mer students who have moved out of honored, and abide for a very long time.” Pabongka Rinpoche. Rinpoche elucidated each teaching session with the reminder a treasury of pure Dharma—teachings state, asking them if they might have Deer Park’s budget is relatively modest. The projected cost this year every part of the sadhana with great clar- that our motivation for every action of spanning the entire spectrum of the path any old tapes. Perhaps those tapes ity and patience. The series of teachings body, speech, and mind, and certainly for to provide the six residents with food, a small stipend, and basic transporta- to enlightenment, from the foundational are in better condition than what is culminated in a Vajrayogini puja and tsog our dharma practice, should be the altru- tion and health services; to host guest teachers; to clean and maintain the practices of the small scope practitioner currently in the archives or maybe they offering led by Khensur Rinpoche. istic motivation of the Mahayana—the temple, , two large houses and extensive grounds; and to provide audio- to the inner yogas of highest yoga tantra. have tapes that round out or complete During the last week of his program wish to learn, study, and practice in order visual materials and equipment for preserving the teachings, is approximately Rinpoche arrived in Chicago from Europe, a particular teaching and that are miss- Rinpoche gave teachings on Panchen to bring about the happiness of everyone, where he had spent a month giving teach- ing from the archives. This fortunate $95,000. Losang Chokyi Gyaltsen’s Six-Session and not just ourselves alone. In the kind- ings at centers in France and England. being could also contact host centers in These annual costs are funded by donations from members of Deer Guru Yoga for five nights, followed on the ness, patience, and joy that Rinpoche Upon arrival at Deer Park, Rinpoche was Indiana, California, Florida, Puerto Rico, Park’s community and from other friends who value Tibetan religious and cul- weekend with the offering of two empow- manifested through his teachings during greeted by an assembly of enthusiastic Nepal (Kopan) and Mexico to find out if erments. The Green Tara empowerment his six weeks at Deer Park, these points tural traditions. A number of donors have pledged to make regular donations. past, present, and future students—lin- tapes were made of Geshe-la’s teach- on Saturday was widely attended by both were truly brought to life. These pledges provide a measure of financial stability for Deer Park, and ing the driveway at Deer Park and bearing ings there. the Tibetan and Western Dharma commu- Amidst the gratitude and tears for cover roughly 40% of costs. Donations from participants of special programs traditional Tibetan offering scarves. The project continues to operate on nities. At the conclusion of the Vajrasattva the incredible kindness that Khensur such as the summer course and weekend retreats provide another 10%. The In some sense it was a return home very little money. Ven. Thapkey will empowerment on Sunday the final man- Rinpoche showed us through his teach- for Khensur Rinpoche, who had visited continue the systematic transferral of remainder comes from general purpose contributions. Although the kindness dala offering was made, and senior stu- ings were many and persistent requests several times before and spent the years information from tape to disc that was of so many friends provides substantial support, donations often fall short of dent Ann Chávez read a praise to Khensur for Rinpoche to return to Deer Park as from 1990 to 1992 as a resident teacher begun more than a year ago as triage on the needed amount. Rinpoche composed of various words of soon as possible—perhaps as early as at Deer Park. As a result of connections the oldest tapes. It has been and will homage and thanks from Rinpoche’s next year, when Rinpoche is scheduled to Donations are sincerely appreciated. If you would like to contribute developed through these stays, many of continue to be a most fortunate project assembled students. teach again in Europe. At the same time, or offer additional support, please make your check payable to Deer Park and the Deer Park students consider Khensur on which to work. Throughout the entire event Khensur there was a general concurrence among mail it to: Rinpoche one of their root teachers, and The most wonderful thing about these Rinpoche generously offered his time the students that until that time should have well-established personal relation- archives is that there are multiple for private audiences with students who come to pass, we will certainly have our ships with him. For this reason, his visit versions of different people doing a Deer Park wished to see him for personal or practice hands full with what we have learned from was particularly long anticipated, and he teaching—the Vajrayogini commentary, 4548 Schneider Drive questions. this visit—inside and outside the temple. was greeted with great joy and affection. for example. There is an incredible Oregon WI 53575 Khensur Rinpoche was accompanied Until we again have the fortune to meet Rinpoche began his stay at Deer Park breadth of work here—something on and attended by Geshe Sonam, who is with Rinpoche, may each and every one with a couple of weeks of “rest,” during the list for everyone. People who have also a classmate of Yangsi Rinpoche’s of us have the internal and external condi- If you have Internet access, include with your donation a completed which he attended to his usual schedule been practicing for fifty years will still from Sera Je Monastery. Geshe Sonam, tions to perfectly practice everything that copy of the Donation Registration Form available at Deer Park’s website at of prayers and practice, spent time with find something of tremendous interest who is particularly adept in ritual prepa- we have been taught; may we be inspired www.deerparkcenter.org/NewFiles/facilities.html Geshe Sopa-la, Yangsi Rinpoche, Geshe there. If you just walk in cold off the ration and execution, created beautiful to do so; and may this effort ripen our Thabkay-la, and the other monks from street, you’ll find wisdom that is quite torma offerings for the ceremonies. He is karma to bring Khensur Rinpoche into our Deer Park is an IRS-approved 501(c)(3) religious organization, so donations are typically Tsangpa Khangsten at Sera Je Monastery applicable to where you stand at the especially known for his skills in the ritu- presence again very, very soon. deductible from U.S. taxable income. However, for large donations where tax deductibility in South India, and greeted old students. moment. And there is everything in als of the highest yoga deity . may be crucial, donors may wish to consult professional tax counsel to assure the deduc- In early September, Rinpoche began As long as space remains between those two as well. In addition, the students of Deer Park tion will be usable as anticipated. Each January Deer Park mails out receipts to all donors his teachings at Deer Park with Lama As long as sentient beings remain If you think in terms of the Buddha’s were very fortunate to have Geshe Jampa showing their donations to Deer Park during the prior calendar year. Tsongkhapa’s Three Principles of the May the glorious guru remain speech as being something that touch- Khedup and Venerable Tsenla as our Path. Although these were originally To dispel the miseries of the world. 8 Deer Park Newsletter February 2003 5