No. 123 THE MIRROR July, August 2013

Upcoming Events with Chögyal

2013

Italy September 28–30 Zhitro practice and Jyangchog Open webcast

UK On the boat with travelling towards the Oberbaum bridge crossing the Spree between Kreuzberg and Friedrichshain, formerly West and East Berlin. Photo: L. Vesselova London October 3 Public Talk October 4–6 London, Camden Centre Berlin(g) Calling or Teachings Longsal Ati Nadzer Open webcast Spain Be(rl)ing in one Boat Barcelona Jan Böhm October 9–13 Kyungchen Khading (Tib. khyung hen we found out (after being in- I jumped in the car, with a couple of a couple of hours when I suddenly began chen mkha’ lding) of Vimala Mitra formed by our magnificent Mir- screens and projectors that we needed for to wonder: “Where did I park the car again?” Closed webcast Wror staff and checking the sched- the translation for our deaf practitioners I’m at first shocked and then very relieved ule on www.melong.com) that Rinpoche during the teaching and the singing and after I rush out and find it still standing Canary Islands, Tenerife was planning to visit Berlin, at first we dancing of the 108 Tibetan songs afterwards right in the driveway of the hotel, appar- November 15–18 were singing and dancing with joy. Then in the backseat, to drive to the big hotel ently without anybody having noticed. Time Dzamling Gar Inauguration we stopped dancing quickly because being which would be the site of our retreat and flies by, but also seemed to stretch and it Open webcast proper Germans, we felt the need to im- was riding shotgun. Quite became increasingly surreal how much ac- mediately start planning in order to have literally so, as I just put the seatbelt around tivity can be packed into a single day. And December 5–9 everything ready in time. As usual, at first the box containing the beautiful statue one Rinpoche has not even arrived yet. Mandarava Chudlen retreat it really seemed as though we had plenty of our practitioners recently brought back What might sound like a lot of stress is Open webcast of time and the Rinpoche’s visit was still from her travels to Nepal, China and Tibet actually a very interesting experience, es- Spain, Canary Islands so very far away. Then after only a couple and generously offered to be used on the pecially since everybody who was collabo- Tenerife of days seemed to have passed, suddenly altar during the retreat. rating in the preparation was doing their December 26–January 1, 2014 it was not so very far away anymore at all, As I just wanted to go very quickly into best and somehow everything got done Kyim (zodiacal new year) retreat but already the day after tomorrow and I the hotel, I parked the car right in front right on time, not always as it was planned Anu Ati Kalachakra teaching found myself thrust in a state of perpetual to bring everything inside very quickly. “It before, but according to what was possible and practice mainly according to overdrive trying to connect a couple of the will only take a couple of minutes”, is what in the moment, with many hands moving Rigzin Changchub Dorje’s last loose ends that our planning mind of I think, before getting swept away by the smoothly in unison. When it was so obvious teaching course was not able to join in advance. continuous waves of tasks that demanded to everyone that there really was no time Open webcast >> continued on page 3 to be addressed immediately, so that after >> continued on page 11

Content

Evolution ...... » Page 2 Singing and Dancing . . . . » Page 13

Editorial ...... » Page 3 International Dzogchen Community News . . » Pages 14–21 International Gakyil . . » Pages 7–9 Artists: James W. Fox . . . » Page 22 Kunsangar South . . . . » Page 12 How I met ...... Page 24 THE MIRROR · No. 123 · July, August 2013

Chögyal Namkhai Norbu

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e are practitioners of Dzogchen and I always say that we have responsibility for all sentient be- Wings. Not all of them are on the path and even though they have no relationship with the cause of libera- tion, we are on the path, and sooner or later we will have total realization. We have that responsibility to create ben- efit for all sentient beings. You know how to use this method [for the cause of liber- ation] with different aspects like tagdrol [liberation through touch], thongdrol [liberation through seeing] etc., any dif- ferent methods related with the function of our senses, to create benefits for sentient beings. I have already taught how to do that in a correct way so you should not think, “Oh, that is thödrol [liberation through hearing], which means that if I pronounce something, if I make that sound, it will make a good cause of liberation for everybody”. It doesn’t work that way. If you use this, there is a way of using it. You should be in the state of contemplation. If you have that possibility, that capacity, when you use this , by being in that state, you can make a cause of liberation. If you do not have this capacity, there are other methods – you transform, just like etc. – you learn this method and use this mantra. There are also other things, for example nyongdrol [lib- eration through tasting], thongdrol, tagdrol, but you don’t just prepare a piece of paper and it works. This is only an object of preparation. You should empower it, related with your state of contemplation, and then you can do something for others. Many people think something like, “Ah, I want to make some very nice music for the Song of the Vajra and perform it publicly. I’m creating benefit for all sentient be- ings because they will hear it.” But it doesn’t work like that. You should be very careful and do these things in a correct way otherwise they have no benefit. Photo: A. Domanova

Evolution begins with us as practitioners Then we should go in a more concrete way. We have good intention towards all sentient beings, and even though we Evolution and Our cannot apply something gigantic for all sentient beings, in this moment we are human. We live on this globe. There are so many people. So it is very important that you know how the principle of the Dzogchen teaching is. Knowledge Responsibility Towards of Dzogchen teachings goes beyond limitations. Try to get into its real nature. I always say that we should develop evolution – that means developing my knowledge, not re- all Sentient Beings maining in dualistic vision too much, not being conditioned by that. And developing my knowledge then that becomes a Merigar East August 21, 2013 good example in this society. Many people say that we need peace in this world. But how can we have peace in the world when everyone is lim- at all. You can observe yourself and free your tensions. It is very relative in this moment. But when we die, when we ited and will not open up a little, always thinking of ‘me’ not difficult to discover your real nature, your condition. If disappear, our world does not disappear, neither does this ‘we’ etc. Political parties are the same, countries are the you have this kind of problem and free your tensions, you population of human beings. same. If we need peace, we need evolution and evolution feel much better. You are happy. If you develop your ten- So we have this responsibility, we should take this re- must develop in the condition of the individual, not revo- sions more and more, you feel much heavier and are more sponsibility – it is very important – and continually keep lution. We always have the idea that we want to change charged up and confused. the pure dimension of the teaching and knowledge [of it]. For someone. This is called revolution, but it doesn’t work and that reason I have dedicated [myself] only to the Dzogchen it has no benefit. The Dzogchen Community is the seed of evolution Community everywhere in this world. Evolution means that one by one we know the principle It is very important that we pay respect. In general we pay The teaching is also very much related to Tibetan people of the Dzogchen teaching, we relax, we should do our best respect to all dimensions. All sentient beings have their di- and Tibetan culture. You should understand that because and work with people according to the circumstances. We mension, particularly human beings. And particularly peo- many people have no idea. When I sing Tibetan songs, when know that limitation is negative, but relatively, if we do not ple who are near us, we are practitioners together, we have I ask people to do Tibetan dances, many people are not in- apply limitations, we cannot live in this society. Everything the same knowledge, this is called Dzogchen Community. terested. They think that because my origins are Tibetan, is limited - this is our condition, our dualistic vision. We are Many people think that the Dzogchen Community is like that is why I like them. But that is not the main point. not yet in the state of Samantabhadra and for that reason, any kind of center, but it is not like that. Other I’m singing and dancing because the Tibetan people are the we must be present. kinds of dharma centers are more related to social condi- only population in this world who have saved this precious We know that everything is limited but it is indispens- tions. In our society, if there must be some kind of group, teaching that we have today. If there were no Tibetan peo- able. I eat two or three times every day. This is also a limita- the group makes money, carries out certain activities, and ple or Tibetan culture and tradition, today Dzogchen teach- tion and I cannot go beyond that because I have my physical this is how it develops. ing would not exist in this world. Even teaching body and I should respect it. But I know that this is not re- The Dzogchen Community is the seed of evolution. You would not exist. For example, the origin of the Vajrayana ally the main point. It is relative. For example, when I die I must understand this. You should learn this if you want to teaching and Dzogchen teaching is [what is known] today as don’t need food. My consciousness continues but my body learn Dzogchen teaching. For that reason you have many Pakistan and Afghanistan. Most of the teaching came from finishes in the cemetery. responsibilities – the responsibility for all sentient beings India where Buddhist teaching does not even exist and is We know that everything is relative. We cannot see ‘rela- particularly for the Dzogchen Community. I always say that only developing now. Everything like , like the col- tive’ – “Now I am not going after limitations, I don’t want if you are interested in the Dzogchen teaching, you should lection of the teaching, the , the , and not ‘relative’”. We should pay respect and work with ‘relative’. collaborate. The Dzogchen Community is not only a social only books but transmission, practice, everything is alive in We must be very aware of it. This is related to the teaching. organization. Tibet up to today. Some people say, “Try to do evolution”. But nobody does But you might think – then why are we organizing the evolution. People cannot understand what evolution is. But Dzogchen Community? If we do not organize anything, we Importance of Tibetan Culture and Language for the if you do practice, if you discover your real nature, knowing cannot do anything in society, because we are living in a whole world what the relative condition and the real condition is, then limited society. At least we should organize what we need. You know very well how the situation is in Tibet today. Tibet you can do it. Our organization is mainly coordinating and collaborating is part of China. China is a very big nation with many differ- Some people have conflicts and think egoistically, “That with each other. This is the main point. It is not a hierarchi- ent peoples. Tibetans are considered to be one of these. The person is creating problems for me, but I am innocent.” That cal kind of organization. different places where Tibetan people live are now divided is not true because Buddha said that everything is interde- into five parts – the Autonomous Tibetan Region and the pendent, so if you know that, it is not difficult to understand. The continuity of the teachings for the future others that are different separate provinces. None of these If you have nothing to do with that person, why do you have We also have a responsibility to the teaching, to continu- officially use the Tibetan language and writing. The official problems? If you have a problem it means that there is a ing this teaching, this transmission, understanding it very language and written language is Chinese. Of course I am relationship. In this case you shouldn’t think that you want deeply, not only for us, for our generation. After a hundred not saying that Tibetans need to separate from China. It is to make a revolution. You cannot convince another person years not one of us will be alive on this earth. Our lives are >> continued on the following page THE MIRROR · No. 123 · July, August 2013

Chögyal Namkhai Norbu

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>> continued from previous page not like that. I very much agree with what His Holiness to the paper Mirror would receive ‘on demand’ newspapers the Dalai says. He says that we Tibetans are under- Editorial printed individually or in small numbers, on higher quality developed people and we need the Chinese. We need to be paper and print, but, of course, at a higher price. with the family of the Chinese. I also agree with that. But ecently we sent out an online survey to our read- we must maintain Tibetan culture and writing etc. It must ers regarding The Mirror. The survey was conducted How would you prefer to help us supporting not disappear. Rbecause at the moment the Dzogchen Community the costs? The last time I went to Tibet, for example, a few years newspaper is facing a serious challenge to continue with ago, I saw some Tibetan children who had just finished the printed version because of the relatively high costs of a. by yearly subscription of 20 euro (6 issues) school and were walking on the street. I stopped for a while printing and mailing. We felt that it was essential to receive b. by inclusion of the subscription in the member- there and gave the children some pens and I spoke to them some feedback from our readership so that we could go ship fees, understanding that this will involve an asking them which class they were in, what they were back to the Gars and Lings with a proposal based on the increase in those fees studying etc. When I spoke I used the east Tibetan dialect, interest of our readers. c. by having the possibility to request a printed ‘on which they could still understand, but they replied to me We asked for responses to two questions: demand’ subscription from the website, knowing in Chinese. After a little I told them that it was very useful · if readers would like the paper version of The Mirror to be that this would cost more per issue for them to study Chinese but that they should understand continued or discontinued that Chinese and Tibetan are two different languages. I told · how they would prefer to help support the costs: by 20 a. 41 % them that I was talking to them in Tibetan and they were euro annual subscription for 6 issues as is the case at the 26 % replying in Chinese, but that they should reply in Tibetan. moment, by including the cost of printing in Gar member- b. Then they answered saying a word which meant ‘it’s true, ship fees thus possibly increasing them, or by having an c. 33 % it’s correct’ but in Chinese! individual ‘on demand’ subscription which would be more This is [happening] in this very lifetime, with this gen- costly. eration. When all my generation of Tibetans and I will have We received 39 7 replies to the survey and, from the re- In addition to the responses to the survey we also received disappeared, the new generation will only know Chinese. sults, we saw that there was no definitive answer to our some messages justifying particular choices and expressing Then where will Tibet be? Tibetan history, Tibetan culture first question with our readership being split almost equal- personal opinions, such as: and knowledge will be in a museum. You should think a ly on whether to continue the printed version or not. little about how it will be then because although you are “I hope the paper version continues as my work involves not Tibetan, Tibetan culture and knowledge is valuable for Would you like the paper version of The Mirror looking at a computer all day, and even now at home I am all the people on our globe. For that reason I am also mak- to be: still on the PC.” ing sacrifices to do my best and many of my students are “Is it possible to format the newspaper online such that also working through the organizations called A.S.I.A. and Continued...... 52 % it would be easy enough for individuals to simply print Shang Shung Institute for maintaining Tibetan culture. This Stopped. I think the Online off the entire edition for themselves if they want a paper is important. Everyone should support them – you should Version is sufficient...... 48 % version?” understand this. “I always upgrade to a paper version and take The Mirror Sometimes people show that they do not understand or Although the survey did not permit people to give the rea- with me on the subway to work.” they are a bit indifferent and I feel very sad about that. I sons for their choice, over time, we have received written cannot do very much by myself but I hope people under- and verbal feedback from many readers who prefer the pa- Although unfortunately the results of the survey have not stand that. ! per version because they do not have a computer or do not been conclusive, they have demonstrated that there is inter- have computer skills to access the online version, or be- est in the future of the paper version of The Mirror. They Transcribed and edited by Liz Granger cause they find it more pleasurable to read paper copy, or have also raised many other potential questions about the simply because they work on a computer all day and prefer online format, the type of printing if the printed version to read paper copy when they are not working. continues, and resolving how to cover the costs. From the Moving on to the second part of the survey, since the two questions on our survey, there are many more coming main obstacle to continuing with the printed version is up that will need to be taken into consideration. supporting the costs, the responses to the second question We would like to thank everyone who participated in the were equally important, but once again the feedback we survey. If you have not participated and would like to do so, received was inconclusive. here is the link: At the moment annual subscription for 6 printed issues https://docs.google.com/a/shangshunginstitute.org/ is 20 euro. This option had a slightly higher percentage of forms/d/166Gi46JbDButzLALDj68zI02kkFjP3Fkf1wEFe5m 39 %. The second option of including subscription to paper B7A/viewform in the memberships fees of the Gars and hence slightly in- creasing them, was chosen by 28 % of those who replied. The If you would like to send us your personal feedback and third option of having individual ‘on demand’ subscriptions suggestions, contact: [email protected] received 33 % of the total responses. This last option is a new possibility that would avoid the large costly offset printing The Editors process and mass mailing and would mean that subscribers [email protected]

February 21–25 Italy Italy Brazil Chögyal Dzogchen Community Merigar West Merigar West December 5–9 Namkhai Norbu Instructors Dagther April 24–30 July 31–August 2 Sao Paolo retreat conference Merigar West Retreat Changchog retreat Schedule Peru Feb. 28-29 May 7–13 India Lima Festival for ending Guru Amitayus teaching and August 27–31 December 17–21 >> continued from page 1 the Melo 3930 Chudlen practices Retreat at Doboom Peruvian retreat Rinpoche’s centre Romania Venezuela – Wood Horse Melo: 3931 – 2014 May 23–31 Bhutan Dec. 26–Jan. 1, 2015 Merigar East retreat September 2–11 Tashigar Norte retreat January 10–14 March 2 Sorig Lhandus Tshogschen Losar Festival Ukraine, Crimea Singapore For the year 2014 there is June 6–14 September 17–21 March 7–11 not yet information about the January 24–28 Kunsangar South retreat Singapore retreat Int. Ludroi Tshogschen Ati Yoga retreat at Meriling Teachings. For that reason, Open webcast Russia PRC we do not yet know about the February 6–9 June 20–28 September 26–28 nature of the webcasts. April 4–10 Tibetan Culture Event Kunsangar North retreat Shanghai retreat of Ati Yoga at La Laguna Longsal Thodgal teaching retreat USA October 1–7 February 16–20 (For this retreat, those who July 4–6 Main Ati Yoga retreat at Umdze Training at Dzamling really believe they have the New York retreat Samtenling Gar – a special course on base of the Tregchod should how to lead ritual practices Tsegyalgar East Australia make a request to attend to the led by Adriano Clemente July 11–13 October 20–26 Dzamling Gar Gakyil who will Hall Inauguration Namgyalgar North retreat coordinate the retreat.) July 16–20 Argentina Tsegyalgar East retreat November 21–27 Tashigar Sur retreat THE MIRROR · No. 123 · July, August 2013

ASIA

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ASIA Onlus Association for International Förderverein ASIA Deutschland e.V. Via San Martino della Battaglia 31 Solidarity in ASIA, Inc. c/o Gisela Auspurg 00185 Rome, Italy ASIA, Post Office Box 124, Königswieser Str. 2 Tel +39.06.44340034 Conway, MA 01341-0124 USA 82131 Gauting Fax +39.06.44702620 Phone: 413.369.4153, Tel.: 089 / 127 630 32 [email protected] Fax: 413.369.4473 www.asia-ngo.org [email protected] www.asia-ngo.org/en/

betan people are the guardians. ASIA’s New If, as has already happened with other rich and fruitful cultures, T-Shirts Have we should lose the contribution Arrived! of Tibetan culture in the develop- ment of Humanity, we will lose Manuela Canneti everything. The + Tibet T-shirt is therefore a way of saying that we he new shirts have finally do not want this to happen, we arrived. It took us a long want there to be: Ttime to make up our minds + Tibet in Tibet because serious and a long time to make them. social, cultural, economic and en- This time last year, we had vironmental dangers are severely just launched a contest asking affecting its existence; all of you to help design a special + Tibet in our daily lives because T-shirt, one that was not a simple the values of this culture are essen- piece of clothing but a real means tial bulwarks to which we can an- of communication. chor our lives in this time of crisis; Every time we choose an item + Tibet in the evolution of Hu- of clothing we are actually mak- manity for the valuable contribu- ing a choice that is not at all su- tion that this centuries old tradi- perficial, but that tells something tion can give. about us, about who we are. For The T-shirts are available for this reason we wanted to make women, men and children, in vari- a T-shirt that would be able to ous colors and sizes. We need a convey a message that we feel donation of 15 euro per T-shirt strongly. With the slogan + Tibet to which we must add the costs want to say that Tibetan culture is of postage. The funds we collect one of the ancient paths of evolu- from the T-shirts will be used for tion opened by mankind. It is the our projects in Tibet. bearer of universal values of com- passion, tolerance, respect for man Information from: and the environment, of aware- www.asia-onlus.org ness, values that are today, more The prize-winning T-shirt in words + Tibet with the universal remind us why it is important to than ever, necessary to support this competition says this – the values of peace, tolerance, har- safeguard the cultural heritage the evolutionary path of Humanity. creation of a combination of the mony, spirituality etc., is a way to and traditions of which the Ti-

Our thanks go to all, but es- Paola Manuela and Adriana who Finally, a special thanks to our “To Raise a pecially to Giulia who made the came from Venice to teach the Ti- Master Chögyal Namkhai Norbu, beautiful surroundings available; betan dances, and to Claudio and who is the source of this event. Child it Takes a to the Essentia Cultural Asso- Stefano who entertained us with Whole Village” ciation that encouraged us and their music. The staff of Kunsalling helped us to promote the event; to Gargnano, July 27, 2013

nd so Campolivo Village in Villavetro of Gargnano A(BS), Italy came about. In May the friends of the Es- sentia Cultural Association told the Dzogchen Community in the province that they would like to host a party for Asia to promote its activities, in particular the project “Let’s get them to school.” Thanks to them, in the pictur- esque setting of Campolivo we had a chance to join our energies to create what we called Event + Tibet. The common thread was the Tibetan songs and dances that communicate and make known the feelings of Tibetans with joy, fun and enthusiasm. The evening was enhanced by other activities that we have learned about over the years, such as Vajra Dance, Yantra Yoga and Kunye massage. Those who were in the mood for shopping enjoyed the stalls of Asia. The dinner was varied and tasty, and elicited generous dona- tions from those enjoyed it. There was no lack of help to keep the site of the event clean and tidy. Many people both from the Dzogchen Community and outside worked together for the success of the event. THE MIRROR · No. 123 · July, August 2013

Shang Shung Institute

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Shang Shung Institute Italy Gschmaier 139 Shang Shung Institute UK, Shang Shung Institute of America Località Merigar 8265 Gr. Steinbach, Austria The London School of Tibetan 18 Schoolhouse Rd 58031 Arcidosso (GR, Italy) Office: 0043 3386 83218 Studies P.O. Box 278 Phone : +39-0564-966940 Fax: 0043 3386 83219 The London Centre for the Study Conway, MA 01341, USA [email protected] www.shangshunginstitute.org of Traditional Tibetan Culture Phone (main-Anna) 413 369 4928 www.shangshunginstitute.org www.ssi-austria.at and Knowledge Fax/Bookstore 413 369 4473 www.shangshungstore.org www.shangshunguk.org www.shangshung.org Shang Shung Institute Austria

about others.” But our highly Books of the “Complete Works lect enough funds for covering Ka-Ter Translation Project qualified translators are not self- of Chögyal Namkhai Norbu” the costs for the translation pro- ish and egoistic at all! They use already published: grams, especially in 2013 in which Complete Works of their qualifications and their po- Chögyal Namkhai Norbu: we have received just about half of tentiality to offer it to all those Longsal Teachings Vol. 1 the needed funds. Chögyal Namkhai Norbu who are interested. Due to their Chögyal Namkhai Norbu: Please, let’s follow the example immense to our society Longsal Teachings Vol. 2 of our Master with our transla- “To learn the Dzogchen Teach- you able to read and understand even our children and grandchil- Chögyal Namkhai Norbu: tors. Let’s not think too much ings we must remember first of these texts in Tibetan? It would dren will have the opportunity to Longsal Teachings Vol. 3 just about our problems and our- all that the key lies in our three- be really great if you were one if read unique texts of wisdom in a Chögyal Namkhai Norbu: selves – let’s act for the benefit of fold existence of body, voice and those privileged people who have language they can understand. Longsal Teachings Vol. 4 others. Please support the Ka-Ter mind. All our knowledge is linked such abilities, but probably this is Due to their effort and wisdom Chögyal Namkhai Norbu: translation project and the “Com- to these three aspects, and this is not the case for most of us. a remarkable list of books has al- Longsal Teachings Vol. 5 plete Works of Chögyal Namkhai also true for any kind of teaching In order to make the most pre- ready been published. Chögyal Namkhai Norbu: Norbu” by donating to the Shang or method.” cious teachings of our Master Longsal Teachings Vol. 6 Shung Institute Austria. Chögyal Namkhai Norbu in written in Tibetan understand- Books for the Ka-ter Translation Chögyal Namkhai Norbu: You can do so by using PayPal “The 21 Semdzins of Dzogchen able and applicable for all of us, Project already published: Longsal Teachings Vol. 7 or by using our web-safe credit- Upadesha” the Shang Shung Institute Austria Awakening upon Dying: Chögyal Namkhai Norbu: card-offering site. Shang Shung Edizioni, 2008 started an extraordinary initiative The Tibetan Book of the Dead Longsal Teachings Vol. 8 You can also make a bank trans- more than ten years ago: the Ka- Chögyal Namkhai Norbu: Chögyal Namkhai Norbu: fer to our bank: We can understand these words Ter Translation Project and the Birth, Life and Death accord- Longsal Teachings Vol. 9 Name of the bank: intellectually – but that is just one translation program “Complete ing to Tibetan Medicine and the Chögyal Namkhai Norbu: Raiffeisenbank Ilz aspect of our threefold existence. Works of Chögyal Namkhai Nor- Dzogchen Teachings Longsal Commentary Series Vol. 1 Address: Hauptstr. 39 We also need to apply this advice, bu”. Besides a few very qualified Chögyal Namkhai Norbu: Chögyal Namkhai Norbu: ZIP and town: 8262 Ilz this teaching, with the help of translators from Tibetan, Chögyal Healing with Fire: A Practical The Four Methods of Development Country: Austria precise methods and finally inte- Namkhai Norbu has chosen Adri- Manual of Tibetan Moxibustion BIC (= SWIFT): RZSTAT2G151 grate the experience and wisdom ano Clemente and Elio Guarisco as Chögyal Namkhai Norbu: To be published in 2013: IBAN: AT19 3815 1000 0003 0387 we have gained into our daily life. the main translators of his teach- ’s Advice from the The Mejung Tantra: the Marvelous Name of account: But what do we do if we cannot ings and put the responsibility of Heart Primordial State Shang Shung Institute remember the teachings and the these translation programs into Chögyal Namkhai Norbu: methods? What do we do if we are their hands. Rainbow Body: The Life and Real- Since 2002 the Shang Shung Insti- Thank you for your generos- not sure anymore about the cor- For several decades Adriano ization of Togden Ugyen Tendzin tute Austria has been responsible ity, your support and your rect way to apply the methods? and Elio – and of course other Chögyal Namkhai Norbu: for collecting funds and for financ- collaboration. Very simple – we purchase one of translators, too – have dedicated The Longsal Divination of Dorje ing the two translation projects. Chögyal Namkhai Norbu’s books all their knowledge, their skills, Yudronma Every year about 65,000 Euro are Oliver Leick that contains the teachings we their time and their energy to the Jamgön Kongtrul Lodrö Thaye: needed. The translators get com- Director of th e Shang Shung need. Fantastic. Now we remem- translation of the teachings writ- Creative Vision and Inner Reality puters to work on and a small do- Institute Austria ber again and we can continue ten in Tibetan into English. How Kathog Situ Chökyi Gyatso: nation for their outstanding work Project Manager of the Ka-Ter our practice. wonderful. The translators could Togden Shakya Shri. The Life and on a monthly basis, so that they Translation Project and of But what would you say if you say: “I am a Tibetologist and stu- Liberation of a Tibetan Yogin do not need to look for a job to Complete Works of Chögyal were only able to get the teachings dent of Rinpoche, I can read and cover their basic living costs. Namkhai Norbu in Tibetan? In that case – what understand these teachings. In the last years it has be- www.ssi-austria.at would be the benefit for you? Are That is fine for me. I don’t care come increasingly difficult to col-

Ka-ter Tibetan the door of lower rebirths” or “How relates to what (yes, there are easier for me. At the beginning I my time to Tibetan will probably to obtain the Lama’s blessings”, it some grammar rules, but again, was not very happy when Fabian not come again soon. Translators was still somehow manageable they can be interpreted in more Sanders, the teacher, insisted that Now, being back at my Dharma Training Course (after all, these sentences are quite than one way!) was a hard job. On I should also try to translate and centre and back to my Dharma simple in English too), but when it top of that, all the other students not only listen to the others, but studies, I can see the benefits of August 2013 came to “What is the meaning of in the group were much more ad- then I had to admit that it really the course coming up, from prac- dharmata”, I felt rather lost. vanced than me, so sometimes it makes a difference just to listen tical things like being able to read Ani I started to study Tibetan quite was difficult for me even to follow or to try to produce something. and look up words faster, up to the recently. Before the course I had what they were talking about. Also, all the other people in the fact that I became a bit more re- had the pleasure to take never tried to translate a text on Starting the next text from group were very patient, helpful ceptive to the language in terms part of the Ka-Ter Tibetan my own, perhaps a few little sen- the beginning and being already and happy to share their deeper of seeing more possible ways of I Translators Course in Meri- tences, but when I came across more used to working with the knowledge. translating things and also – be- gar this summer. Not the whole something that I had no idea language almost the whole day And then – I had to leave be- ing more patient and determined course though, I could only join about, I simply looked into the as well as the fact that there were fore the course finished. It left me to figure them out! I hope I will two weeks of it and not from the English translation – and then, topics more familiar to me (initial with a feeling of an unfinished job. be able to do a similar course in beginning, so when I arrived, I of course, the Tibetan sentence homage to the four bodies of a I would have definitely appreciated future and last but not least, I re- jumped straight into the middle somehow made sense. But to elicit Buddha, precious human , some more time to organize and ally enjoyed my stay at Merigar, a of a question – answer session be- something meaningful when each - unlike specific “digest” what I learned and also I beautiful place with many friend- tween Vairochana and Guru Pad- of the words can have many pos- Dzogchen ideas, these are things realized that the opportunity of ly people. So thank you to all. masambhava. When Vairochana sible meanings and when I am re- I had already come into contact dedicating if not all, then most of asked questions like “What closes ally not sure about which word with before) made it somehow THE MIRROR · No. 123 · July, August 2013

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Chögyal Basic Longde Chögyal Chögyal N a m k h a i N o r b u Positions N a m k h a i N o r b u N a m k h a i N o r b u demonstrated Teachings by Fabio Andrico Teachings The Practice according to the teachings on Longde of Chögyal Namkhai Norbu on Chöd of Chöd

The Marvelous Primordial State Translated from Tibetan by Elio Guarisco, Adriano Clemente, and Jim Valby n this series of seven videos n this DVD Fabio Andrico, in- his is a series of seven vid- n this DVD, Chögyal Namkhai Chögyal Namkhai Norbu ex- ternational Yantra Yoga in- eos containing the complete Norbu performs the practice of With the Precious Help of plains the practice of Longde, structor, demonstrates and ex- teachings on Chöd given by Chöd with damaru and bell. Chögyal Namkhai Norbu I I T I or series of Space, the second in plains in detail the main positions Chögyal Namkhai Norbu in Tener- The practice is performed in three Available now from the three series of the Dzogchen used in the practice of Longde, ife, in December 2012. different versions: www.shangshungstore.org teaching (Semde, Longde and as well as the use of the physical Chöd is a wonderful practice 1. The Chöd of Khandro Kejang Upadesha) according to the divi- supports, namely belt and stick, for overcoming the “four demons” (“The Loud Laugh of the Daki- he Marvelous Primordial sion made by Manjushrimitra, and used in many of these positions. of our ego, that are the root of all nis”) from the Longchen Ny- State of Great Perfection corresponding to Garab Dorje’s The video contains the instruc- attachment and create endless ingthig; Tis a profoundly important second statement: “not remaining tions for learning the positions obstacles to a practitioner on the 2. The Chöd with Ganapuja (Chöd root text of the Mind series of in doubt”. Accordingly, the practic- in a correct way, but no other ex- path. Tsog); Dzogchen. Although this ancient es of Longde help a practitioner in planation: practitioners who have Each video covers one ses- 3. The standard or concise Chöd text is not as large, nor has it as strengthening his or her experi- received transmission are invited sion of the teachings. The videos practice as used in the Dzogchen many chapters as The Supreme ence of contemplation, making it to study the available books, au- are available as high quality HD Community. Source, it teaches all the essen- stable and certain. dios or videos containing the in- mp4 files available for download, The first two were recorded in tial principles of Ati Dzogchen These teachings were given in dispensable, detailed teachings on or recorded on two DVD disks to Tenerife, 2012; the third was re- that can be subsumed in the view Tenerife in November 2012. the Longde practice by Chögyal be sent by mail. Standard DVDs (in corded in Merigar in 1998. without fixations, contemplation The seven sessions are avail- Namkhai Norbu. this case, one disk for each ses- All practices are subtitled with beyond concepts, and the fruit able as high quality HD mp4 files, sion, seven disks in total) can also the Tibetan text in Drajyor trans- that is not obtained by treading either downloadable or recorded be made available on request. literation. This DVD does not con- a path. Therefore, this book con- on two DVD disks. Standard DVDs sion, seven disks in total) can be tain explanations: practitioners tains the essence of all and (in this case, one disk for each ses- made available on request. who have received transmission of the Buddha’s teaching, are invited to study the available with nothing missing. books, audios or videos containing Our English translation and n this video Nina Robinson, au- transmission are invited to study the indispensable, detailed teach- publication of The Marvelous Pri- The Short thorized instructor, explains available books, audios and videos ings on the Chöd practice by Chö- mordial State, an ancient and ex- Ithe short version of the Long containing the related teachings gyal Namkhai Norbu. traordinary text the like of which Practice of Life Practice of Mandarava, a ter- of Chögyal Namkhai Norbu. is rarely found in the world and Mandarava ma teaching of Chögyal Namkhai This video is available as a whose value is immeasurable, Norbu. The short version of this downloadable mp4 file; on re- have been made for the benefit of Explanation by Nina practice includes all and quest, it can be made available as those fortunate ones who wish to Robinson the done without the use a standard DVD. gain an understanding of the real according to the teachings of dadar; for a detai led explana- meaning of Ati Dzogpa Chenpo. I of Chögyal Namkhai tion of the Mandarava practice truly hope and wish that it will Norbu practitioners who have received serve to open the doors of their minds and engender a genuine understanding of the principle of Ati Dzogpa Chenpo. — Chögyal Namkhai Norbu

he root of the three poi- sons having been cut, in me Tthere is no cause and effect of the three worlds. I am the heruka who kills that which has no life. Beyond attachment and grasping, I am encircled by the eight unfet- tered charnel grounds. My pure realm cannot be left, cannot be entered, has no objects, and is devoid of sense organs. Devoid of outer and inner, gate- way and interior, it is the great vastness of the inner reality. Beyond Body, Voice, and Mind, it is the supreme greatness. Beyond mantra and , it knows no violations of commitments. Shang Shung Institute Perfect as the total greatness, it is School of Traditional Tibetan Medicine in Russia marvelous. Kunsangar North, August 11, 2013 — The Marvelous Primordial State, Chapter 30 THE MIRROR · No. 123 · July, August 2013

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Dr Cathy Cantwell: Traditional Painting Shang Shung ‘The Formative Impact of Guru Workshop at the V&A Chöwang’s (gu ru chos kyi dbang with Timea Tallian Institute UK phyug, 1212–1270) Secret Embodi- 12th–13th October For details about the Shang Shung ment of the Lama (bla ma gsang Institute in the UK, please see our ‘dus) on the Padmasambhava Ritua’ his course is suitable for be- website: www.shangshunguk.org Dr Rob Meyer: ginners as well as profes- ‘Padmasambhava and the evolution Tsional artists. After a short of bla ma’i rnal ‘byor (guru yoga). introduction to thangka painting, Upcoming Dr Fabian Sanders: this course gives a taster of tradi- ‘The Farmer of Time and Space, tional methods. Timea will demon- Events some remarks on gter mas and strate the preparation of pigments sbas yuls’ from semi-precious stones and 24 Conference – Padmasambhava, Dr Martin Boord: carat gold, making paint that is Different aspects ‘Padmasambhava as “the second used in , furniture and Ku Nye graduates. 14th September buddha” according to his biogra- wall painting; she will show trac- phy: O rgyan guru padma ‘byung ing methods, brush drawing and Tibetan Medicine On-Line & gnas zhes bya ba’i rnam thar ways of applying colour by floating, SSI USA Tibetan Medicine On-Site Programs bcu gnyis dri ma med pa’i rgyan, hatching, stippling and airbrush- February 3 revealed by bSam-gtan gling-pa ing. The participants will have the Open to the Public – Two Semester one of eight begins for (gter ston sTag-sham nus-ldan opportunity to experiment with Intensive Trainings Back to Back both the On-line and On-site four- rdo-rje, born 1655)’ these methods and playfully ex- year Tibetan medicine programs. Dr Lewis Doney: plore their creative potential. Tibetan KuNye Massage These programs begin only once a ‘The first Padmasambhava Theory and Practice: Level 1 year. Entry level candidates must Biography’ The Tibetan Yoga of Movement: with Dr. Phuntsog Wangmo, Inter- apply to the school for admission Dr Mike Dickman: Yantra Yoga for Beginners national Director of SSI School of into these programs. ‘What Use is Guru Padmasambhava’ 19th–20th October Tibetan Medicine Jamyang Oliphant: November 8–13 KuNye Therapy Certification ‘The significance of Padmasam- antra Yoga is a fundamen- 9:30 am–12:30 pm and 2:30–5:30 pm Program bhava in the bcud len tradition’ tal method to integrate the February 4 Yprofound essence of the Tibetan Hospice Training This is a special opportunity for ollowing the very success- Chögyal Namkhai Norbu Dzogchen Teaching in the three with Dr. Phuntsog Wangmo, Inter- students to become LMTs in the ful conference in Septem- Public Lecture: Light of Kailash doors (body, voice and mind) of the national Director of SSI School of art of KuNye Therapy. The on-site Fber 2011, ‘Bon, Shang Shung Volume II practitioner. Through positions and Tibetan Medicine KuNye Therapy Certification and and Early Tibet’, sponsored jointly 3rd October movements combined with ad- November 15–20 Licensure program is a 3 semes- by SOAS, Circle of Tibetan and Hi- vanced pranayamas one’s energy is 9:30 am–12:30 pm and 2:30–5:30 pm ter program that begins once ev- malayan Studies and the London inked to our conference on coordinated and harmonized, so as ery other year. Entry level candi- Shang Shung Institute, we will be Different Aspects of Pad- to let the mind find the authentic January, 2014: dates must apply to the school for holding a follow-up, one day con- Lmasambhava at SOAS on balance and relaxation which is the Closed to Enrolled Medical admission into this programs. ference on ‘Padmasambhava: Dif- 14th September, Chögyal Namkhai basis for getting into contemplation. Students – Practical Intensive ferent Aspects’ on Saturday, 14th Norbu will be delivering a keynote John Renshaw is a qualified Yan- Preparation of Medicines Contact secretary@shangshung. September 2013. lecture on the second volume of tra Yoga Instructor, who has stud- with Dr. Namgyal Tsering org for more information on these his book ‘The Light of Kailash: A ied under Chögyal Namkhai Norbu Dates TBA and other upcoming classes or events. Speakers and titles include: History of Zhang Zhung and Ti- and been teaching Yantra Yoga for 9:30 am–12:30 pm and 2:30–5:30 pm Dates subject to change due Lama Jampa Thaye: bet’. This volume covers the peri- over 18 years. John is also trained unforeseen events such as last ‘ perspectives on od when Padma sambhava arrived in Traditional Chinese Medicine minute changes in visa statuses Padmasambhava and his legacy’ in Tibet. and runs a London practice. of visiting lecturers, student en- rollment outcomes, etc..

Focus on The International Gakyil

be a meeting of representatives of nity members; and shortly to be Successful appeals have gone International all the Lings of Merigar West in a similar event in Merigar East; out for members for some of the the middle of September, which while Lings, and groups and in- Comittees which will support the Dzogchen Community all are welcome to attend. This will dividuals associated with Tsegyal- IG in its work - the work of these Progress Report include presentations by IG mem- gar East will meet in person and committee members is funda- bers on aspects of the transition. by webex late in August. Many mental to a successful transition. t is fortunate not to have There has already been a thanks to the Gakyils and support As the IDC takes on some of known at the beginning how Following a similar meeting with productive meeting held during teams involved in creating these the services which have been Imuch there is to accomplish in Merigar West Gakyil, it is hoped Rinpoche’s retreat at Kunsangar opportunities for open and more provided by the Shang Shung In- this transition; and also fortunate that its alignment can be achieved South which was also webcast in personal communication! stitute, there will be further calls to discover how many are happy even by the end of 2013. There will translation for Russian commu- for people with skills to match the to participate in what needs to tasks needed. be done, if not already actively in- volved in this work! IDC Reorganization The planned schedule of meet- Red Gakyil Yellow Gakyil Blue Gakyil Project ings with Gakyils and members of Enrico Dell’Angelo Mark Farrington Libor Maly Gars and Lings is going ahead- the Roberto Zamparo Ricardo Kogel Julian King-Salter Transition – “Why” “What” “How” and “When” of Scott Townell Tan Keng Leck Why change? the reorganisation, and the “Five It is to realise Rinpoche’s vision of Key Points” which form the basis of a Global Mandala: At the moment our presentations are given below. Committee Chairs we have a network of separate en- Following a meeting with Nam - tities around the world – although gyalgar North and South Gakyil IDC Coordination Fund Raising Committee Communications Asia Committee mutually supportive, there is no and Gakyil support team, the Committee Mark Farrington Committee Tan Keng Leck formal link between us all. The Gakyil adopted as its aim Roberto Zamparo Ricardo Kogel Julian King-Salter Enrico Dell’Angleo centre of the Mandala is not a Scott Townell Libor Maly Mark Farrington physical place, it is the Master; the · to have Namgyalgar membership Gars around the world have been incorporated with that of the IDC Management Systems Membership Committee Technology, IT & Website Motivation / HR centres for particular activities, at the start of its membership Committee Roberto Zamparo Libor Maly Committee now also Rinpoche has chosen a year, July 2014 Roberto Zamparo Mark Farrington Julian King-Salter Ricardo Kogel place for a Global Gar, where all · and to have a new Statute fully Scott Townell Libor Maly other Gars are represented. aligned with that of the IDC, pre- At the same time, we can cre- pared and ready to be voted on at the Legal Committee AD & G Committee ate a unified international frame- Namgyalgar AGM while Rinpoche is Enrico Dell’Angleo Libor Maly work to which all Gars and Lings at Namgyalgar North in Oct 2014 Mark Farrington Mark Farrington >> continued on the following page THE MIRROR · No. 123 · July, August 2013

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Roberto Zamparo Mark Farrington Ricardo Kogel Enrico Dell’Angelo Julian King-Salter Red Yellow Yellow Red Blue

raduated in electronic engi- inpoche’s student since 1991. et Rinpoche in 2003. tudied Tibetology at the Uni- et Rinpoche in 2003. neering, master in Business Professional background in Biologist, Master in Ag- versity of Napoli with Chög- After graduating in The- GAdministration in Italy. RInternational Finance and Mricultural Science and Syal Namkhai Norbu. Mology, became a self-suf- Main experience in Business Politics. 21 Years as a Fund Man- Natural Resources (specialized in Served on the Gakyil of Merigar ficiency peasant farmer, then art- planning and control as a man- ager, working in New York, Japan, Molecular Biology). and contributed to the establish- ist potter, Buqi practitioner, and ager for 30 years. Singapore, Sydney and London. Worked promoting Organic ment of the Shang Shung Institute. after moving to Australia in 2000, Joined Rinpoche in 2003. Started Member of Merigar since 2003. Agriculture in the field and on the Has been working for many a High School Community Liaison helping the Merigar West Gakyil Previously member of Namgyalgar retail level. years on the Tibetan Plateau to Officer. Joined Namgyalgar Gakyil on Membership in 2008 and then and Tsegyalgar since 1996, and Lot Project manager and director of support the way of life of the local in 2009 and has been working also on other economic topics. Owner at Tashigar Norte since 2002 programs on The Nature Conser- communities and for the continu- full time for the Dzogchen Com- Auditor of Merigar West since Resides in London with wife Ekat- vancy in Costa Rica and at a region- ation of Tibetan culture. munity in various roles, always on January 2013. erina and daughter Moe Andrea. al level (Peru, Ecuador, Colombia, a Karma Yoga basis, since 2010. Venezuela, Panama and Costa Rica). Home is in northern NSW, Austra- Lives on a farm with 7 dogs in lia, but seldom there! Sons Luke >> continued from previous page b) We also have an International Costa Rica. Has a wood workshop and Harri currently both studying and all members of the Dzogchen Coordination Committee, which and is interested in sculpture and in the UK. Community around the world be- includes the directors of the tourism. long. Gakyils of Gars and Lings and This framework will also become all members of the IG. It is the the ‘service provider’, of the web- forum in which its members Libor Maly Tan Keng Leck Scott Townell casts, the Teachers of Santi Maha can work together to establish Blue Yellow Red , Yantra Yoga, Vajra Dance, the organisational and legal and the information channels. structure of the Community in We are already together in a way that corresponds as near- Guruyoga, in this way we bring ly as possible to Rinpoche’s im- that into this material world. age of the Worldwide Mandala

What? When? The most immediate task for the It is hoped that all members International Gakyil is to organise around the world can become the means for: members of the International a) All members of Dzogchen Com- Dzogchen Community by the start munity Gars and Lings around of the year 2015. the world to be registered as It is possible that some Gars members of the International and Lings can complete the pro- Dzogchen Community, connect- cess of alignment with the IDC in tudied computer science, ingaporean of Chinese de- tudent since 2001. First met ed with a particular Gar and a similar timeframe; but it is also worked as a programmer, scent. Student of Rinpoche Rinpoche in Philadelphia in maybe also a Ling. recognised that this can be much Smarketing manager, head- Ssince 1986. Served on Singa- S2002. Member of Tsegyalgar b) All Gars and Lings of the more complicated in some parts hunter and on-line recruitment pore Gakyil for many terms. Pub- East. Dzogchen Community around of the world. business owner. After selling his lisher of Chinese translation of Originally from the Philadelphia the world to be legally aligned business he is active in philan- The Crystal and the Way of Light, area. Traveled or worked in 25 coun- with the International Dzogchen 5 key points thropy and his global gift-econo- Great Perfection, Yantra Yoga etc. tries. Former professional musician. Community, in whatever way is my NGO startup. Chairman of a Tem- Profession: 28 years experience in possible given the national laws 1. Establishing the Governing, Met Chögyal Namkhai Norbu ple in Singapore and Committee corporate strategy, management of the countries involved. managing, administrative for the first time in 2001 in Prague, member of a worldwide World consulting, technology, and general c) And for some central services and coordinating bodies of studying SMS 2nd level. Peace “Shanti” Sponsorship management. Formerly with an in- to members (eg Database, web- the International Dzogchen Married to Jarmila, and has 2 and building project organised by ternational bank, currently owns a sites, webcast, Teacher care) to Community daughters, Natálie and Johana. lay Buddhists from China, Taiwan boutique consulting firm special- be gathered under the organisa- a) Rinpoche is the President, sup- and other parts of the world. izing in turnarounds of middle- tional umbrella of the IDC. ported by the International Gaky- market companies and mid-sized il and General Assembly, which is not-for-profits. Member, board-of- How? a deliberative body that includes 2. The legal & institutional Develop and make available a directors of an arts organization It is also fundamental to Rin- all the voting members of the alignment of Gars, Lings and value-added suite of services for and board-level committees of a poche’s Principles of the Dzogchen global Dzogchen Community any organizational structure the global community. For example: philanthropic organization. Resides Community that these things are b) The International Coordination affiliated with the IDC in Manhattan, NYC. done in a collaborative and non- Committee includes all mem- A Statute and Membership proto- a) The new IG website is visible on hierarchical way, while at the bers of the International Gaky- col for the IDC have already been search engines and is being of- same time fully in line with the il and representatives of the written. Also, a protocol for how ficially launched on August 23rd 5. Develop a financial support structures that exist in society. Gakyils of all Gars and Lings. It the Gars and Lings can apply to at the address http://dzogchen- system for the Community will usually include the Director be formally aligned with the IDC. community.org/. a) Yel low IG is working on this as- a) Therefore we have an Inter- or equivalent of each Gakyil. Templates of these documents b) As soon as it becomes practical pect, for example through estab- national Gakyil as well as the c) Two other bodies need to be es- have been completed and are to do so, the IDC will take on re- lishing a fundraising committee Gakyils of Gars and Lings; but it tablished to meet our legal obli- awaiting legal approval. sponsibility for global commu- b) IDC Budgets will always work is not that one Gakyil gives or- gations – the Board of Auditors, nications, collaboration, and the on a cost basis – that is, seeking ders or instructions to any oth- and the Board of Guarantors 3. Membership management broadcast of teachings only enough income to meet the er. Rather it is that each Gakyil d) We will work to improve the system and Members Data Base c) As soon as it becomes practical actual cost of providing services. and each member of a Gakyil structure and processes by This is already in place and the to do so, the IDC will take on re- In some cases the IDC expense has particular roles, functions which the global community is majority of members around the sponsibility for the coordination will even replace an expense/ and responsibilities according managed and developed. world are now entered on the da- of Santi Maha Sangha, Yantra service at the Gar & Ling level. to what needs to be done. (That tabase. The next step will be for ev- Yoga and Vajra Dance Instructor c) Improved efficiency should also is why, for example, messages eryone to become a member of the services see a net reduction in the cost from the IG use words like “sug- IDC as well as of their Ling and Gar. d) Membership Management of managing the IDC globally. gest”, “recommend”, or “request”). Services THE MIRROR · No. 123 · July, August 2013

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Committee has had several meet- Yellow Report ings and is growing. The other two International Committees will also soon be- August 2013 come more active. At the IDC level, Gakyil Meeting we have appointed our external at Tsegyalgar he IDC Organisational Proj- Accountant and Consultant. The ect Outputs that the Inter- next step for the Accounting Com- East Tnational Yellow Gakyil (Yel- mittee is to obtain the list of all low IG) are responsible for are di- external accountants used by the cott Townell, who is a mem- vided into three categories; Fund Community in different countries. ber of Tsegyalgar East and Raising, Membership, Finance & Together with this list of exter- Sof the International Gakyil, Accounting Systems. We have a nal accountants, we will invite all gave the presentation, which was number of individual task objec- Yellow Gakyil members entrusted about some of the changes being tives within each of these three with managing Community ac- implemented to bring to fruition categories that, if achieved, should counts to join the Accounting Rinpoche’s vision of a Global Gar, result in our overall Output goals Committee. For the Membership a true representation of the In- being achieved. Below are the Committee, we remain at present ternational Dzogchen Community. three categories and related task still focused on defining various Other IG members who attended objectives. types of membership and analys- the meeting online were Julian I. That the Tsegyalgar East Gakyil It was decided by those present as ing our membership base. Get- King-Salter, Mark Farrington and adopts as its aim that its mem- well as those online that the decision Fund Raising ting the membership pricing and Enrico Dell’Angelo. bers become members of IDC as should be taken up at the next Gakyil Establish Fund Raising category formula correct is likely The main document he dis- well as of Tsegyalgar East and a meeting on Sept. 8 at 12:30 pm at the Committee to be the most difficult task, and cussed was Tsegyalgar Five Key Ling (if applicable) by the end of Schoolhouse. Develop Specific Fundraising we are therefore approaching this Points made accessible to inter- 2014. (possibly even at the time of The remainder of the meeting con- Campaigns delicate subject with care. ested people prior to the meeting. membership renewal 2014. sisted of a question and answer session Develop Strategic Fundraising We will keep our Yellow Time- The Five Key Points are: II. That Tsegyalgar East aims to in which IG members clarified various Strategies line graphs on the website and 1) Establish the governing, man- have statutes in place to align aspects of the process and listened to Evaluate Rationale for will announce timeline updates. aging, administrative and coordi- with IDC by the time Rinpoche statements from those present. Establishing a Foundation In addition to this general in- nating bodies of the International arrives to celebrate Tsegyalgar The recording of the meeting will Issue General Guidelines formation report, we will release a Dzogchen Community. East’s 30th anniversary, at which soon be up on the website for mem- and Legal Requirements for fund raising summary for Dzam- 2) The legal & institutional align- time a formal signing ceremony bers. An announcement will go out Fundraising ling Gar (DG). As most of you are ment of Gars, Lings and any other could take place. when it is ready. Develop a Study of Potential aware, IG Yellow has been respon- related organization with the IDC III. That the Gakyil renewal notic- Following the meeting, there was External Donors sible for the “start-up” fundraising 3) Membership management sys- es, as positions fall vacant, include a community meeting addressing Establish a Foundation Aimed for Dzamling Gar. This will con- tem and Members Data Base as additional criteria the need for the application of Anna Bartenstein to Facilitate Effective Long- tinue to be the case until the new 4) Develop and make available a Gakyil members who have skills for the open Blue Gakyil position. Term Fundraising DG legal entity is fully established value-added suite of services for and capacity to enjoy the work of She was unanimously selected so her Target date for this process is according to Spanish law, and un- the Global Community establishing the legal framework name will be sent to Rinpoche for up to mid 2015 til we reach a full DG Gakyil of 9 5) Develop a financial support sys- for this transition. (it is also sug- confirmation. members. At present, the exten- tem for the Community gested that Gakyil renewal process Membership sive retreat and events schedule for Scott covered each of the should become more of a selection Elisa Gonzales, Blue Gakyil Establish a Membership Tenerife is stretching the 3-mem- points and delineated the first than election process); IG is happy Tsegyalgar East Committee ber DG Gakyil to its limits. We are three steps of decisions for Tseg- to support this process. Establish Global Policies/ happy to be a supportive team for yalgar East to make: Guidelines and Define them at this important juncture in Membership Types Dzamling Gar’s evolution. Define the Share of the Membership Fee Allocated to Gars and Lings Leadership Development Establish Logical Structure for A Call for Volunteers to Knowledge Management Necessary Requirements the Management of Member- Product and Service Design All team members should: ship Services Serve on the Management Service Quality Management Activate the Functions of the Systems Committee of the and Improvement have unlimited access to a per- Database Relevant to the Documentation and Knowledge sonal computer with MS-Office Management of Memberships International Gakyil Management Design 2010 or higher, webcam, and Develop System to Monitor and Team Leadership conferencing software, Evaluate Member Satisfaction 3 August, 2013 Designing, implementing and have reliable, high-speed access Develop Systems and Relevant Dear Vajra Sisters and Brothers, maintaining the best manage- Since the MSC has a foundational to the Internet, and Tools that Facilitate Members’ worldwide: ment methods and tools to en- role, we are looking for: be proficient in the Microsoft Participation e are currently in the sure that the IDC and the IG are Office Suite of products (espe- Bringing the Present Skills of process of building the efficient, effective, high-quality productive “team players” of a cially Word and PowerPoint; the IDC Members to the Service WInternational Dzogchen operations, which, we hope, ev- positive, open-hearted nature, proficiency in Visio and Micro- of the Community Community (IDC) organization ac- eryone will appreciate who soft Project is desirable). The aim is to have this in place cording to Rinpoche’s vision of a enjoy building new, real-world by end 2015 Global Mandala. For this reason, Skills Needed things from concepts, and are Awareness of, and sensitivity to, the International Gakyil is seeking To meet this challenging mis- comfortable collaborating in a differing cultural norms relating Finance & Accounting six highly-qualified individuals sion, we seek to recruit Dzogchen structured manner as a virtual, to work and of a diversity of per- Establishing Accounting to serve as members of the IDC’s Community members, or friends global team, and sonal communications styles is Committee new Management Systems Com- of the Community who have had who can deliver high-quality essential, as is fluency in English. Analyse Financial Situation of mittee (MSC). transmission, who have signifi- work products in a dependable the Gars & Lings The MSC’s mission is to design, cant professional experience with manner. Next Steps Analyse the Current Systems build, and implement at a global (and passion for) best practices in If you are interested or know of Accounting and Financial level the methods and processes more than one of these fields: What Can You Expect? someone who might be a good Management of Gars & Lings by which the IDC operates. We ask that each member be will- candidate, please e-mail a letter- Define IDC Accounting Among other responsibilities, Business Architecture (includ- ing to commit to serving up to of-introduction and a current pro- Organisation, Including the key elements of this mission in- ing IT Alignment) three renewable, one-year terms fessional CV or resume to red@ Processes and Relevant IT clude: Business Analysis and Require- on a karma yoga basis. Each dzogchencommunity.org by no Develop Financial Strategies for ments Management member of the Committee will at later than Friday, 30 August. the IDC Proposing the strategy, and de- Process Design and Improve- different times serve as designer, In the cover letter, please clear- Define a Budgeting System for signing the landscape and ar- ment leader, and get-your-hands-dirty ly state specifically how the can- the IDC, Gars and Lings chitecture for the organization Organizational Design and grassroots do-er. Time commit- didate’s professional background Aiming for completion of these and management systems of Transformation ment will vary on a monthly basis aligns with the needed skills list- processes by mid 2015 the IDC and the IG at the global Change Leadership in complex depending on the progress of the ed above. level organizations committee’s overall workload and At the current stage, we have es- Proposing, designing, commu- Project and Portfolio an individual’s share in it. Travel Thank You! tablished the relevant Committees nicating, implementing, and Management is not anticipated but the ability and are recruiting skilled indi- overseeing global standards and Human Resources Management to collaborate effectively in virtual We hope to hold our first team viduals from amongst Commu- guidelines for IDC and IG servic- Corporate Training and Skills teams through the Internet is im- meeting in early September. Un- nity members. The Fund Raising es, products and processes Development portant. >> continued on the following page THE MIRROR · No. 123 · July, August 2013

Reflections

10 Characteristic, Innovative and Unique Aspects of the Dzogchen Teaching of Chögyal Namkhai Norbu Fabio Maria Risolo

The work of Chögyal Namkhai Norbu efore describing some spe- cific and characteristic as- Bpects of Chögyal Namkhai Norbu’s Dzogchen teaching, it is important to emphasize that all 2. Specific aspects that ciple specifically cited by Garab of teaching is his use of a non- edge he/she has received, within his activities and initiatives are characterize the way of Dorje (dga ‘rab rdo rje), the first specialist language, but at the the forms and methods of the tra- based on his intention to make presenting the Dzogchen master and knowledge-holder of same time with great attention dition. It is, therefore, an essen- people aware of the culture and Teaching Dzogchen in our era.1 Dzogchen is to the hermeneutics of the words tial fact, intrinsic to the teaching spirituality of Tibet in order to Master Chögyal Namkhai Norbu a non-gradual path – the teacher and particular care in the choice and which guarantees the origin preserve them for future genera- has, first and foremost, given at- introduces the student directly to of words. What arises above all is and value of it, similar to a sort of tions, in the belief that they can tention to making his transmis- the knowledge of his or her per- faithfulness to the Dzogchen tan- trademark, a seal. be of great benefit to mankind. sion and his teaching alive and di- fect self-perfected nature or natu- tras, of which Chögyal Namkhai The cycle of the Santi Maha The basic assumption of the rect in order to establish an effec- ral state. This state is not gener- Norbu is a tireless scholar, philo- Sangha (San ti ma ha san gha’i) historical research of Chögyal tive and intense contact with his ated by the practitioner through logically going back to their origi- Teachings complies precisely in Namkhai Norbu, which he has students. From this has arisen his the progressive application of nal and essential meaning. this context. supported with precise and doc- use of a direct style of communi- methods of practice, because it To this end it is enough to umented texts, is that Tibetan cation in transmitting the mean- is present in every being. It is for mention the critical edition of the 3.2 The Santi Maha Sangha: the culture is a complex system that ing and the content of the teach- this reason that Chögyal Namkhai Kunje Gyalpo (Kun byed rgyal po’i Dzogchen Community acquired deep knowledge in many ing, always taking into account Norbu gives at rgyud ), the main tantra of the In 1993, the Master created the fields of learning well before the the need to make it accessible by all of his teaching retreats. Dzogchen Semde (sems sde) the Santi Maha Sangha. In the lan- spread of the Buddhism and communicating its essence. For more than ten years, this mind series, and studies related to guage of Oddiyana Santi Maha whose roots can be traced back to From the moment he began to transmission has also been able to the Dra Thalgyur (sGra thal ‘gyur means Dzogchen (Great Perfec- the Bön (bon) civilization and in teach Dzogchen, Chögyal Namkhai take place simply by connecting to chen po’i rgyud), the root tantra tion); Sangha is the community particular the kingdom of Shang Norbu has been committed to the website of the Dzogchen Com- (rgyud) of the Dzogchen Menngag of practitioners. Hence Santi Maha Shung (Zhang Zhung). This ex- reaching Western audiences, who munity in which the teachings of (man ngag), the series of secret Sangha means the Dzogchen traordinary cultural and spiritual are not expert in Eastern philoso- the Master can be followed live in instructions. Community. The purpose of the source was then integrated into phy and Buddhism, in the most audio or video, without any prior In his teachings Chögyal Nam- Santi Maha Sangha is to ensure the Buddhist tradition that fol- direct way possible. To achieve study or practice. khai Norbu pays special attention the continuation of the Dzogchen lowed. this end, he has undertaken, in a The specific method of Chög- to his choice of words and lan- teaching in a pure way, as it has By means of the theory of unique way, to make it possible to yal Namkhai Norbu is, therefore, guage, prescribed by his search been transmitted starting from backdating the origins of Tibetan understand the Dzogchen teach- not only to directly transmit the for a perfect adherence between Garab Dorje up to today, within culture, supported by studies and ing in relationship to the world primordial state, but also to make his chosen words and the au- a very specific and as the innovative contributions and con- and to Western culture, with the this opportunity available for an thentic meaning of the Dzogchen Master has been transmitting it tested with special attention and aim not only to preserve it but increasingly larger number of tantras, an element he has specifi- for more than 30 years. care, Chögyal Namkhai Norbu has also to regenerate the potential for people, regardless of their physi- cally insisted on for a long time. With regard to the structure radically transformed traditional dynamic and creative potentiality cal presence in the same place Chögyal Namkhai Norbu’s ded- of the Santi Maha Sangha and historiographical theory. for the spiritual evolution of hu- where these teachings are given. ication to this philological and its object of study,2 starting from He has provided a decisive man beings. This is made possible by the fact hermeneutic aspect has made a the Base and then throughout the contribution to knowledge of the Chögyal Namkhai Norbu’s ap- that the simultaneous presence of crucial contribution to a real un- next nine levels, it is a completely originality and the depth of Tibet- proach as a teacher and master of master and disciple at the event of derstanding of the teaching and original and unique presentation an culture, in which his work in Dzogchen does not consist of an the transmission is a unique and is also the main guarantee that it in Western culture of the essence the fields of medicine and astrolo- anachronistic attempt to trans- unrepeatable moment, because it remains pure and intact, as it has of Buddha’s teaching in the light gy play a very important role. It is fer Tibet (with its specific social, is beyond the dualistic concept of been transmitted, for future gen- of specific knowledge of Dzogchen, enough to simply refer to the ac- cultural, spiritual characteristics) space and time within our ordi- erations. written specifically for Western tivities of the International Shang to the West, but to bring about nary minds. students. Shung Institute for Tibetan Stud- integrating the essence of the Once the direct transmission 3. Unique and innovative aspects The Master has given com- ies and A.S.I.A., to the publications Dzogchen teaching, through pres- has been received, a practitio- 3.1. The lineage and purity of the plete explanations relating to of Shang Shung Editions and the ence and awareness, in the life of ner who follows the path tries to transmission the three paths of liberation: the Ka-ter (bka ‘gter) project. each person. be in the state of the master in As is generally the case in the path of renunciation (correspond- Research related to the Tibetan The Dzogchen teaching has real each moment of life, particularly tantric tradition – but particularly ing to teaching), the path of cultural tradition and the teaching value only if it is alive in the place through the practice of Guru yoga, stringent in this case – the impor- transformation (corresponding to of Dzogchen, should be considered and time in which it manifests, until his/her recognition of it is tance of the lineage of transmis- tantric teaching) and the path of in their entirety as a single cor- emphasizing its intrinsic potential continuous and stable. Guruyoga sion is especially emphasized in self-liberation (corresponding to pus. Chögyal Namkhai Norbu has to lead every human being who is a word that means the teaching of Chögyal Namkhai Dzogchen Teaching). given a unique and incomparable recognizes his true nature to be union (yoga) with the master Norbu. But the main point is that contribution to the spreading of himself in a way that is complete- (guru), although the etymology of The lineage of the Dzogchen study is only one aspect, not nec- Tibetan culture and spirituality in ly free from rules and regulations, the Tibetan word allows us to un- transmission began, in our era, essarily essential for the Santi the West. in all situations and circumstanc- derstand its true meaning more with Guru Garab Dorje (Bla ma Maha Sangha. It is, in fact, most es – whether human, social or cul- precisely. dGa’rab rdo rje), from whom this important to devote oneself to the tural – in which he has to live. Our In Tibetan Guruyoga is lamai knowledge has been transmitted, Dzogchen teaching by way of in- condition is perfect from the be- naljor (bla ma’i rnal ‘byor). Nal is without interruption, from master tegrating it into one’s life of body, >> continued from previous page ginning and, hence, if we become the essential condition of each in- to disciple up to the present day. voice and mind, the three gates til then, we will eagerly anticipate aware of it, all circumstances are dividual in which there is nothing In each cycle of Dzogchen through which we can access beginning a wonderful collabora- perfect for recognizing our nature to change or to modify; jor means teachings, master Chögyal Nam- knowledge. tion for the benefit of the whole and realizing ourselves. to possess such knowledge. La- khai Norbu points out the spe- No teaching like Dzogchen Community and, as always, for all It is within this frame of refer- mai is the genitive of lama (mas- cific lineage of the teaching that gives so much importance to the sentient beings, everywhere. ence that the almost forty years ter). Guruyoga therefore means he gives. This is not simply an non-separation of the three Dhar- of teaching given in the West by being in the same state of knowl- external fact because, as we have mas of the path: the point of view, Yours in service, Chögyal Namkhai Norbu can be edge as the master, the Guru. This already mentioned, the very ex- meditation and behavior.3 Scott Townell and better understood. is the fundamental practice of the istence of the Dzogchen teaching Through forms, modes of com- Roberto Zamparo Dzogchen teaching, and all other is subject to the continuity of the munication and innovation, Chö- Red International Gakyil 2.1. Direct transmission practices are considered secondary. transmission of teachers who em- gyal Namkhai Norbu’s teachings [email protected] Closely connected with the afore- body this knowledge and transmit have tried to make this aspect be- said is the first characteristic as- 2.2. The language used it to their disciples. come something concrete, active pect of Chögyal Namkhai Norbu’s The second characteristic aspect What it means is that each and integrated within practitio- teaching: the centrality of direct of Chögyal Namkhai Norbu’s way teacher does not invent anything, ners of the Dzogchen Community. transmission [3, 7, 9, 11], a prin- but simply transmits the knowl- >> continued on the following page THE MIRROR · No. 123 · July, August 2013

Reflections

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>> continued from previous page sult of their spontaneous visions. same time autonomous and inter- Firstly, the study of the views of An example of mind terma are dependent. Poem for several vehicles belonging to the those teachings that can manifest The aim is the realization of Tibetan Buddhist tradition should in a dream, that arise from the each person and the continuity Ayu Kandro not be intellectual, but rather lead clarity of one’s mind. of the teaching and the Dzogchen Barbara Paparazzo back to one’s own true condition The cycle of terma teachings Community for the benefit of fu- through the prajña (shes rab) of or rediscovered treasures of Chö- ture generations.4 reflection, in order to arrive at real gyal Namkhai Norbu is constituted This is the final vision and aus- Living for the deep nectar knowledge of oneself. precisely of mind terma. This is pice for the future of the life and your mind clear water Meditating means to recognize the Longsal Cycle or The Lumi- teachings of Master Chögyal Nam- one’s own profound nature and nous Clarity of the Universe, In- khai Norbu. the inner dimension apply specific methods to ensure nermost Essence of the illuminated that this recognition becomes sta- (Klong chen 'od gsal mkha' 'gro' i 1 According to the most ancient ble. Integrating means, ultimately snying thig). Dzogchen tantras, this teaching was light pouring out also known in other times and places, maintaining presence in one’s be- Chögyal Namkhai Norbu has, beyond our solar system. & breaking open the container havior in every circumstance of therefore, begun a new lineage of life. transmission at the visible level on 2 The Master has provided nine con- so bright inside your retreat hut planet earth. The Longsal Cycle is secutive levels of deepening study of the with no windows Santi Maha Sangha. Passing the exam of 3.3. The Longsal cycle a sign of the uniqueness of his a level leads to the next level by follow- Chögyal Namkhai Norbu trans- transmission. ing a training given by the Master. After the lamp in the dark mits terma teachings during in Through the vision of the sym- the Base, there are three levels for each is you of the three series of Dzogchen teach- his retreats. bol of the mandala (center, San- ing: Semde (sems sde, the mind series), The word terma (gter ma) re- skrit kyilkhor, dkyil 'khor) of the Longde (klong sde, the space series) and fers to teachings or sacred objects Dzogchen Community, with the Upadesha (man ngag, secret instruc- tions). hidden in a given period and then Longsal symbol at the center of rediscovered later. According to its vibrant heart, Chögyal Nam- 3 Tawa (lta ba), gompa (sgom pa) and the tantric tradition, Guru Pad- khai Norbu has given us tangible chöpa (spyod pa). masambhava hid teachings and evidence of the real meaning of 4 This is a system that has significant prophesied that the reincarna- the existence of the Dzogchen similarities with holistic models whose various parts are interconnected and, tions of his disciples would bring Community. at the same time, thanks to its own them to light in propitious - Around the pole star, the com- aware nucleus, is productive and self- ments. The title tertön (gter ston) pass, consisting of the trans- generating with extraordinary potential for creativity and realization. See in is reserved for these Tibetan spiri- mission and the teaching of the particular the self-poietic principle of tual masters who, over the centu- Master, represented by the Long- the Santiago School, which can be con- ries, have discovered hidden spiri- sal symbol, have evolved the dif- sidered the culmination of the research of contemporary cognitivism. tual treasures, or terma. ferent Gars (the main centers of In some cases we speak of earth the Dzogchen Community on the terma, or treasures hidden in the Earth) represented by the Gakyils earth, but there are also terma (dga' 'khyil) and then the Lings called mind treasures. These are (local centers), down to individual texts written by masters as a re- practitioners, all connected at the

>> Berlin(g) continued from page 1 laughed. Someone even went to left to discuss or argue about any- check if “Ber” meant something thing, resolving momentary diffi- auspicious in Tibetan. We never culties together seemed to happen really mentioned this to anyone, rather effortlessly. still from this day on Rinpoche al- Then the day came when our ways addressed us in his emails one and only Dharmaraja comes and also his letters as “Dzogchen to town (the ground shook, the Community of Berling”... while the dragons danced, eagles flew and name of the Ling itself is actually: lions roared...) the plane with him Dödjungling. Dödjung means “ob- and Rosa, Adriana and Thinley taining all desires”. arrives and as we were driving While we were driving through back to the hotel, while now there the city Rinpoche asked us about seemed to be rather even more the rivers, how many there are things to prepare and think about, (two) and whether they are con- it seemed as though an ocean of nected (they are), so the next day calm descended onto the city and which fortunately was very sun- we felt very light and happy. ny and clear, we decided to take When we arrived at the hotel, Rinpoche’s words that we are all a group of our practitioners were in one boat literally and organized Rinpoche receiving a statue of at the end of retreat. Photo: D. Siegel already lined up in front waving a collective boat trip from east to and cheering at Rinpoche’s ar- west through the historic center ple in the audience and that this there almost seemed not even “Happiness is not lacking. Our rival with a transparent that read: of the city that many practitioners was a very good sign. To which enough time to eat in the day- state, our condition as it truly is, “Welcome to Berling Maestro!” participated in with great joy. (The we all agreed. To us it all seemed time or to sleep at night, certainly as evolution, we integrate and Why Berling? The story goes boat’s name? “Europa”!) to be a little like organizing a par- no time to waste, but then again applying it the sun of Samantab- like this: Before finally mustering On the following day the ty, it’s not so easy to just sit back and again we find that there was hadra arises. Perfecting fortune up the courage to ask Rinpoche for retreat started officially and and talk to everyone for very long, always enough time to sing and and all positive things. Manifest- a name for a Ling, we had a meet- Rinpoche simply continued to neither to old friends nor new ac- dance with joy together. So also, ing the self-perfected qualities. All ing in Berlin after doing a prac- teach impeccably as always and quaintances, but if everybody is on the very last evening, we ended enjoy the state of definitive happi- tice together and then started jok- without fail perfectly according to happy afterwards, the party can appropriately with all of us sing- ness.” ing between each other how the the circumstances of his students. be considered a success. ing the Dzamling Gar Song to- name of the Ling could be. Some- Afterwards he told us that there During the whole retreat there gether with Rinpoche that ends: body said: “Berling” and everybody were a lot of young and new peo- were so many things to do and

Main Office: PO Box 479, Conway, MA 01341, USA * Tel: 413 369 4208 * Fax: 413 369 44 73 * [email protected] * * European Office: The Mirror, Istituto Shang Shung, Merigar 1, GR 58031 Arcidosso, Italy * Tel: 39 32 98 86 52 92 * Skype: lizmirror * [email protected] * * Editorial Staff: Naomi Zeitz, Tsegyalgar, Conway, MA, USA * Liz Granger, Istituto Shang Shung, Arcidosso, Italy * * Literary Editor: John Shane * * Advisors: Adriano Clemente, Jim Valby * * International Blue Gakyil Advisor: Fabio Andrico, International Publications Committee * * English Language Advisor: Liz Granger * * DC Brand Design: Paolo Fassoli * Design & Layout: Thomas Eifler * * Printer: Turley Publications, Palmer, MA, USA * * Distribution: Tsegyalgar at Conway, MA, USA * * Subscription Rate/6 Issues: 25 ! printed, 15 ! online. Available at melong.com * * Visa and Master card welcome * * Online Mirror: www.melong.com * * All material © 2012 by The Mirror * * Reprint by permission only * * We reserve the right to edit all submissions. THE MIRROR · No. 123 · July, August 2013

Kunsangar South

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Santi Maha Sangha Training with Rinpoche. Photo: A. Domanova

Dzogchen Teaching for the first came for the Santi Maha Sangha ana for dancing every dance with Summer Time at time. Level 1 Training again. The train- us and making us familiar with Right after the retreat the Santi ing took place between 2 and 9 of Tibetan dances. Kunsangar South Maha Sangha Base exam started. August and more than 270 practi- On August 10th we said good- with Tibetan Dances More than 160 people came to tioners participated. bye to Rinpoche and sang one be examined and 4 instructors Of course, all this time we kept more time the Dzamling Gar song, worked 5 days non-stop. At the on singing and dancing Tibetan with which we ended every eve- arm greetings from Somewhere in the middle of same time, we had the Dance of songs and dances in the presence ning spent with Rinpoche. We ex- Kunsangar South to ev- the training Rinpoche arrived at the Vajra Teacher Training and two of our precious Master. We danced pressed our best wishes to each Werybody! This year the the Gar and on the same day Ti- supervisions for both Vajra Dance every day from 5 pm till 9 pm or other and everyone also started to retreat season happened to be es- betan songs and dances started and Yantra Yoga. Once the super- later and, in this way, any person leave for home. pecially intense and we want to at Kunsangar South. In the begin- visions were over, the candidates could have a go and integrate with Kunsangar South sends warm- share the impressions it has left. ning, the number of participants were introduced to Rinpoche and Tibetan culture. This trace stayed est greetings to everyone. See you Everything started with the was few, but people walking he presented them with diplomas. alive in our hearts and there is no again! Yantra Yoga Level 2 Teacher Train- around the Gar gradually became Here are their names: doubt that many of us are still ing, which gathered 20 instruc- spectators, then from spectators singing some of the songs even The Gakyil of Kunsangar South tors and 45 practitioners from they became participants and af- Dance of the Vajra now. Our deep gratitude to Adri- various parts of our continent. It ter a week our Gonpa seemed a Adelya Mustafina was the first time such a training bit small for hosting everyone. Natalia Makarova had been organized in a Russian On July 18, Guru Padmasamb- Polina Kosik speaking territory and it went hava Day, we had the Worldwide Vera Andreeva very well in spite of the wasps Transmission and the next day which invaded the Gar and were the retreat with Rinpoche start- Yantra Yoga constantly crossing it in all direc- ed. The subject of the retreat was Irina Cheverda tions. Our deep gratitude to Laura the “Invocation of Samantabhadra”, Mikhail Greshnyakov Evangelisti and Fabio Andrico for a chapter from the terma cycle Nadejda Kopaneva their patience and desire to pass discovered by Rigdzin Godem in Yanina Bekshibaeva their knowledge further. Hopeful- the 14th century. We hope that all ly, all instructors will make good who could not reach Kunsangar With all our hearts we congratu- use of this knowledge and this South could participate and follow late them! will be reflected in their practice this wonderful retreat via web- By the time August started, and bring benefit to members of cast. The retreat gathered around most of the big retreat partici- the Dzogchen Community who at- 800 people, with many new peo- pants had left, but a new wave tend their courses. ple among them, who met the was approaching – those who

New Gakyil e are pleased to an- nounce that on 26th WJuly at Kunsangar South we had elections of Gakyil and Geko with Rinpoche! We present the new team: Blue – [email protected] Bondar Olga, Rutkovsky Anton Nepochatov Sergey Blue assistant: Smirnov Vladimir, Ponomarenko Ekaterina

Red – [email protected] Avzalov Eduard Rogozina Natalia, Pavlova Elena Red assistant: Surmina Galina Longsal Stupa Yellow – kunsangar.yellow@ Geko – [email protected] All Information about the life of ll summer at Kunsangar South work on the construction of the gmail.com Fomichev Yury Gar, retreats and others – on our Longsal stupa went ahead. Practitioners carried out the work on Pakhno Elena, Domanova Anastasiia website – kunsangar.org Athe lower and upper part of the stupa, the sogshin was painted Evsuykova Elena Secretary – kunsangar.assistant@ with mantras and set in place and relics were put inside. The final as- Yellow assistant: Malkush Anna, gmail.com sembly of the stupa and the finishing works are planned to take place Sukhova Anna, Ovchinnikov Mikhail Pedak Elena in the autumn. THE MIRROR · No. 123 · July, August 2013

Singing and Dancing

ollowing are two examples of the 108 Tibetan Songs compiled by Group 1 Song 6 Chögyal Namkhai Norbu, all of Translation by Adriano Clemente F which are soon to be released in a book published by the Shang Shung Institute. Happy And Fine A few years ago on the island of Tenerife, home to the new international Gar called Yangchen Lhamo Dzamling Gar, Chögyal Namkhai Norbu took a deep interest in the modern Ti- Ya La! Father and Mother are here, the first happiness, betan music disseminated through the Brothers and sisters are all here, the second happiness. internet and after spending many hours Ya La! The joyfulness of my homeland is the third happiness watching each video repeatedly and Happy and fine, happy, happy, happy! writing down the words from each of Ya La! The joyfulness of my homeland is the third happiness. these songs, Rinpoche generously trans- Happy and fine, happy and good, happy, happy, happy! literated them all for his students to be able to sing. The singing became a tre- Ya La! The blossoming gentian flowers are the first (happiness), mendous joy for everyone, as well as a The flight of the little golden bees is the second, way to enter and understand Tibetan Ya La! The voice of the cuckoo resounding is the third. culture, and then the Tibetan dances Happy and fine, happy, happy, happy! developed and are now done all around Ya La! The voice of the cuckoo resounding, is the third. the world. The dances have become so Happy and fine, happy and fine, happy, happy, happy! famous that even Cyber Tibet (see below) has covered them in their news report! Ya La! The thundering of the turquoise dragon is the first (happiness), The rain falling softly rain is the second. An excerpt from the introduction to Ya La! The beautiful leaves of the willow are the third. the book reprinted in The Mirror 122, Happy and fine, happy, happy, happy! page 15. Ya La! The beautiful leaves of the willow are the third. Happy and fine, happy and fine, happy, happy, happy! “Hearing this song, I realized that not only was it pleasing, but that these new Ya La! A lovely period of time is the first happiness, Tibetan melodies also have special value A fortunate , the second happiness. of communicating in words the aspira- Ya La! Happy brothers and sisters are the third happiness. tions and the happiness and suffering Happy and fine, happy, happy, happy! of the Tibetan people and that this ex- Ya La! Happy brothers and sisters are the third happiness. pression is perfectly connected to the Happy and fine, happy and fine, happy, happy, happy! authentic nature of Ati Dzogpa Chenpo, which is endowed with a power beyond limitation.” Chögyal Namkhai Norbu

Group 1 Song 1 Translation by Adriano Clemente Khampa Friend Yangchen Lhamo; Khampa friend, happy in a small house! How nice to be in the meadow in the summer! Wonderful! How beautiful! Flowers are blooming in the meadow. Happy is our land! We are happy in a small house! Happy is our land! May all be auspicious! Happy is our land! We are happy in a small house! Cyber Tibet Happy is our land! May all be auspicious! sering Kyi hosts Cyber Tibet feature seg- Khampa friend, happy in a small house! ment that explores the voices and opinions How delightful to be in a many storied house in the winter! on the Tibetan blogosphere, and shares Ti- T Wonderful! betan music, videos and images that appear on The many storied house is kept warm by the sun. the internet with our wider television audience. Happy is our land! We are happy in a small house! http://www.voatibetanenglish.com/media/all/ Happy is our land! May all be auspicious! latest.html?z=2741 Happy is our land! We are happy in a small house! Happy is our land! May all be auspicious!

Dancing in Kunsangar South. Dancing in Berlin. THE MIRROR · No. 123 · July, August 2013

International Community News

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Merigar West West Arcidosso 58031 phone: 39 0564 966837 [email protected] Merigar GR Italy fax: 39 0564 968110 www.dzogchen.it

Welcome to Merigar Restoration of the Gonpa

uring the spring and summer he Temple of Great Contem- of 2013 a new initiative was plation at Merigar West was Dintroduced at Merigar West Tdecorated 20 years ago and entitled “Welcome to Merigar.” over time the colors of the painted The purpose of these meetings, figures and decorations have become which were held on six Saturday damaged in some places and faded in mornings between March and July, others. For this reason it was neces- was to allow people of the Amiata sary to start work on restoration of area and, more generally, any person the paintings, work that will continue interested, to get to know Merigar, in the coming years. its history and the activities of the On 6 June the first phase of the Dzogchen Cultural Association, found- restoration work began and continued ed by Chögyal Namkhai Norbu more for about 45 days. We had waited for than 30 years ago. the summer to start this project and During the meetings various ini- finished this first phase on July 25 in tiatives were proposed relating to the order not to block the calendar of ac- presentation and the history of the tivities planned at Merigar West over The painting team in the Gonpa at Merigar with Migmar Tsering. Dzogchen Community and Merigar, the summer. Work was done prin- the general principles of the Dzogchen cipally on the ceiling and the large ors and natural pigments were used the various schools will be completed , addition a big thank you to all the teachings, and Tibetan culture and supporting beams to bring the colors and the surfaces were slightly sanded and this will require skilled painters. people who were deprived of the medicine. back to their original shine. Watercol- to allow for greater adherence of the Even the paintings on the external use of this magnificent Gonpa for a Several people coordinated initiatives new paint. A group of highly skilled Gonpa require maintenance at least month and a half! In particular we including Elisa Copello, Fabio Maria people from various countries took every two years because being ex- thank Migmar Tsering, Anna Pucci, Risolo, Tiziana Gottardi, Aldo Oneto, Gino school pupils, and people from all over part in the work under the direction posed to the sun and rain damages Yushan Zhong, Pille Viires, Natalija Vitiello, Gloria Pera, and Giorgio Dallorto. Italy. Altogether a total of about 200 of Migmar and with the help of many them very quickly. Kushnareva, Lalita Dolgova, Magdaz, The initiative was met with ap- people attended the meetings. The local practitioners. We thank all those who partici- Kasia Dmyterko, Nikol Stanisova, Rita preciable interest on the part of the initiative will certainly be repeated in In the next few years the inner ring pated in this work and also all those Bizzotto and Claudio Donadio who residents of the area, including high the coming years. of paintings that depict the Masters of practitioners who supported us. In worked more than 20 days.

Dzamling Gar Urbanización Playa Paraiso phone (+34) 635 21 11 19 Avenida Adeje 300, 38678 Adeje, Tenerife [email protected] Dzamling Gar Parcelas 12 and 13 Spain www.dzamlinggar.net

New Dzamling Gar website Dzamling Gar Placement Service e would like to invite you to visit our new website: zamling Gar is going to offer Wwww.dzamlinggar.net a service aimed at helping It is still a work in progress, but Dpeople to find accommoda- there you can already find some infor- tion. The service is for people from mation about Dzamling Gar, our sched- the Dzogchen Community coming ule, suggestions of accommodation in here for the retreats, and is offered the area, and start planning your trip! for free by employing people working The construction at the Gar is on it as karmayoga. So please don’t progressing and in the website you expect something at the level of a can see photos of all the changes in professional agency, but anyway we’re Libor Maly’s visit to course, as well as the comments from going to try to do our best :) Dzamling Gar our visitors. For information write to: Life around here has its own pe- [email protected] The Risolo family spent some nights keeping the pres- by Libor Malý culiarities – so you can ask questions on vacation in Tenerife ence of our Master and of the future esterday I was lucky to spend a and make your comments about it all community in our heart. few hours inside Dzamling Gar on our Facebook wall http://www. by Maria Napoleone Ana Sanchez, blue Gakyil, is a very Yand I was really surprised. facebook.com/groups/dzamlinggar/ e arrived in Tenerife on kind person who welcomes you with Things are definitely changing Please keep in touch, tell us about July 18th to spend two her Portuguese jingle and “todo es for good and you can see progress your arrival, make suggestions, and Wweeks’ holidays. I was posible para vosotros” ( everything is wherever you look. It was amazing. come give us a hand. particularly happy not only for the possible for you) is the sentence she Dzamling Gar is really waking up With much joy and expectation, we opportunity to enjoy the island and go used to repeat, the same my daugh- through the dedicated effort of many send you our warmest regards from for strikingly wonderful swims right ter Renata mentions, whenever Ana great practitioners and an external Tenerife! in the middle of the ocean currents, comes up to her mind! contracted company. but also in order to know the local During our stay, we went sight- But to reveal its hidden beauty, the Dzamling Gar Gakyil community, to visit the place of the seeing almost all around the island Gar still needs help. What about all of worldwide Gar and to understand the and we really enjoyed the Teide lunar us donating some money to Dzamling state of works in progress. landscape, but what really impressed Gar? Things might change even faster When we arrived, it was the anni- me was the breathtaking view of Los and in even higher quality. versary of Guru Padmasambhava and Gigantes: the sea inhabited by families Long live our precious Master! in the evening together with 15 vajra of whales (a bit smaller than other brothers of the local Tenerife com- ones) and of welcoming and joyfully Made & Empowered in Amdo Tibet munity , we practiced the ganapuja. playing dolphins. I shed quite a few the strength of the elements pres- At the beginning I thought it might tears when watching the dolphins ent here and the harmony ready to be difficult to communicate with swimming freely in the sea and all of manifest thanks to our contribution people speaking different languages a sudden, I thought I might start an as well. but then since all the practitioners association meant to preserve their Our dear Giovanni Boni showed seemed to be used to understanding natural environment, at present in- us the Gar and we realised how the one another utilising a mixture of vaded by tourists like me...... project is rapidly developing and BIMALA20 USD - 15 EUR - 660 RUB English and Spanish, a soft jingle of The energy of the island is very proceeding. I’m happy indeed for Portuguese, Italian and Russian, at the special indeed and I felt ‘ recharged’ the wonderful opportunity of seeing end everything turned out to be much without even realising it, in spite of the Gar at its very beginning. In the himalayanremedies.com easier than I had expected. Fabio had the skyscrapers, resorts, cruising future it will grow and turn into a a few meetings in the afternoon with boats and tourists contributing in paradise, just like the one described Traditional Tibetan Medicine some practitioners to explain the some way to spoiling the environ- by our Master in his song, the one the Santi Maha Sangha in Spanish and ment, but undoubtedly all negative island was waiting for, after naming all together, Renatina and me, joyfully judgements melt away when enjoying the coast ‘Playa Paraiso’. THE MIRROR · No. 123 · July, August 2013

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Merigar East 23 August 907005 phone: 0040 746 26 08 61 East Asociatia Culturala Constanta [email protected] Merigar Comunitatea Dzog-Chen Romania wwww.dzogchen.ro

gain we had a wonderful retreat at Merigar East! Our Adear Master gave us the teaching “Man-ngag Tag-drol Tantra” a precious Terma Teaching of Rigdzin Jyangchub Dorje. The “earliest birds” at the retreat were our Polish gakyil members on the 2nd of August. After the arrival of some karma yogis, work started in and around Rinpoche’s house – paint- ing, gardening – and also at the Gar. Our Master arrived on the 10th and in the next days to our greatest We have a new Gakyil We also asked one of the new but pleasure we accompanied him to the Adriana explained the meaning of Rinpoche’s retreat was followed in Merigar East! active Romanian members to become Hotel Doina and the sea to swim to- some songs – what a difference in by a weekend retreat with Alexander Gakyil assistant to help in collabora- gether. dancing them! Pubants entitled “Guru Yoga, Being Red: Piotr Marcik from Poland tion with local practitioners: Those wonderful songs and dances In the teaching Rinpoche repeat- Aware and Collaborating with Cir- Orlin Karaivanov from Bulgaria Alexandru Anton from Romania every evening – hours of joy! It is by edly stressed the importance of the cumstances: Integrating Daily Life as [email protected] Great thanks for the last year really not so easy to bring one’s right Tibetan songs and dances in order to a Path” first of all for newcomers who members, Yael Rotbard from Yellow, leg to the left arm – especially with preserve Tibetan language and culture. were really interested. Yellow: Harri Jaalinoja from Finland Helga Hegedus from Blue and Mihai the speed that music requires! But As previously announced in our The retreat is over but projects are Lubomir Michna from Slovakia Ciobanu from Red – thank you so these moving funny songs and cho- newsletter, in order to have a clearer continuing at the Gar. Please follow [email protected] much for your work and cooperation reography are an enormous pleasure picture about the situation and needs our website dzogchen.ro for current during the last year! with all the experiences and inner of the ME related countries and Lings, information and possibilities! Blue: Elisaveta Dimitrova from Bulgaria processes one is having while danc- we gathered at the “ME and you” meet- We are looking forward to seeing Paula Dziemidowicz from Poland ing. In order to carry out the move- ing. After having heard all the reports, many of you at Merigar East next year! [email protected] ments more precisely, one afternoon Enrico Dell’Angelo, representative of Tashi deleg! the International Gakyil, spoke about the idea of the Global Gar and helped Slovakia >>Wangdenling us with a lot of useful advice. Serbia >>Thayasling During the general assembly the below the Gonpa and around the new Merigar East gakyil was elected: Thayasling in Serbia stupa. The weather was beautiful and three of the new members were prac- the atmosphere was very friendly, al- titioners from Bulgaria and Slovakia. e are very happy to inform together more than 30 people, coming This is the first time that the gakyil you that we have received and going, attended the course and has Bulgarian members and we are Wfrom Rinpoche the name karma yoga throughout the weekend. very happy about their general activ- for the Ling of Serbia, Belgrade: The weekend was topped with the ity in the community! Thayasling (Ling of the Beyond). surprise visit from Santi Maha Sangha As a good sign of collaboration for www.dzogchen.rs/english and Yantra Yoga instructor Oliver the lottery many nice offerings arrived Leick, who donated some relics for from all countries. Like every time in New Gakyil of Serbia the stupa and gave a short lecture on every retreat Rinpoche offered his own Dzogchen meditation for the people precious objects for this purpose to Maja Agatonovic Markov, blue Gakyil present in Wangdenling. Of course the greatest happiness of the winners. Bojana Ban Djordjevic, red Gakyil this is not the end of the activities Zoran Sokolovic, yellow Gakyil Slovak Dzogchen Community At the end of the second week the here, since we have to complete the [email protected] Update ling hosted a course on the basics stupa before the beginning of October, to come and join, please let us know [email protected] and the first series of Yantra Yoga when an important master, Taklung and contact us at: [email protected] he first two weeks of August with the instructor Jan Dolensky and Tsetrul Rinpoche, the current head of or at phone number +421948226637 With many Tashi Delegs !!! were marked by intense activ- since his partner, Elisha, is a Vajra the School, will come to con- (Lukas Chmelik), so that we can give Gakyil of Serbia Tity in Wangdenling. Dance instructor, people had the op- secrate the stupa. Therefore we invite you actual information about the cur- During the first week we began to portunity to participate in the Dance you to participate in this great practice rent karma yoga and prepare for your build the first ever stupa in Slovakia of Three Vajras and Six Spaces during of karma yoga, which is a profound stay. Also for more information, please by pouring the concrete founda- the breaks between the sessions of method of purification and accumu- check out our web: tion. The activity continued into the Yantra. Others participated in all sorts lation of . The activities related http://www.wangdenling.sk/ second week when we built up the of karma yoga related to building of to the building of stupa and prepar- and facebook: foundation, where the weapons will the stupa, such as making tsa-tsas ing Wangdenling for the reception of https://www.facebook.com/pages/ be buried and above them symbols and painting mantras on the sogshing such precious guest will continue Wangdenling/119835018042793?fref=ts of the worldly wishes and prosperity. – the central axis of the stupa – and throughout the August and Septem- All the best from Slovak Dzogchen even the grass cutting on the meadow ber, so you are more than welcome Community!

Kunsangar South South [email protected] Kunsangar http://kunsangar.org

Meeting of Russian Speaking Yantra Yoga Instructors at Kunsangar South. New Yantra Yoga Instructors: Mikhail Greshnyakov, Irina Cheverda, Yanina Beshikbaeva. THE MIRROR · No. 123 · July, August 2013

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Kunsangar North North Moscow region, phone +7(985) 769-18-52 [email protected] Kunsangar Pavlov Posad, Bolshie Dvory +7(916) 213-97-50 http://kunsangar.org

Green Tara Retreat very-well organized karma-yoga seemingly very strong, healthy and June 28–July 5, 2013 that set up and ran a field kitchen, a always in a relaxed-happy state. tea-bar and a kindergarten. The few A very auspicious retreat indeed! By Song Park people from abroad seemed to be These are a few recollections from his summer Kunsangar North well situated and accommodated in the wonderful times and experiences was blessed again by teachings the Gar. Every day Rinpoche enjoyed of the retreat. Tand with the presence of our swimming in a swimming pool, was Precious Master – Chögyal Namkhai Norbu. Days were warm, bright and Russia, Izhevsk >>Kungaling busy, full of all kinds of activities. The retreat of “Practice of Green Tara in The construction of the accordance with outer tantras com- Longsal Stupa is finished bined with Anu Yoga and instructions on essential methods of Ngang Gom ungaling (Russia, Izhevsk) would practice” attracted many people from like to announce the accom- all over Russia and even from abroad. Kplishment of construction and Deep insights and profound detailed landscaping around the Longsal Stupa. instructions, where the finest points Photo: L. Vasilyeva This project started in 2009. The of Dzogchen teaching, along with Stupa is located in the middle of the intricate subtleties of practice on all participants, and yet a greatly appre- Rinpoche and invited important city near the administrative institu- levels of practice of Green Tara, were ciated precious gift and teaching from guests after the inauguration of the tions of Udmurt Republic facing a given to all fortunate participants. our Master. Five hours of dance every school and a long awaited empower- municipal maternity hospital not far Not only clear oral instructions were evening during a couple of weeks re- ment of Urgyen Manla. This empow- from the city center park. The Stupa given, but also practical experiences ally did wonders, making people smile erment was done at the request of stands in a square near the gonpa of were tasted together with the Mae- and happy, finding both amusement Dr. Phuntsog Wangmo – the director Kungaling and is about 8 meters high. stro’s leading of the practices. A big and discovery of a raw unconstructed of the Tibetan Medicine School under From above it is crowned with the auction was quite a success at the end state, trying to be present and learn ISSI for all the first students in Russia. golden Longsal symbol. Dzogchen Community for the partici- of the retreat, raising money for the these unfamiliar movements with no With Rinpoche’s permission, a little The owner of the Longsal Stupa is pation in this project. Each member development of the Gar. There were instruction, but just following along. over one hundred people had this Chögyal Namkhai Norbu who person- of the Community has a connection to up to 1300 participants every day dur- Once the chaotic crowd recovered opportunity, including all students of ally coordinated all the construction his Gar. The Gars, Lings and members ing the main retreat, listening to the from shock and a hedewa like state, Traditional Tibetan Medicine School stages. of the world Community made rich teachings, learning Yantra Yoga, Vajra they always came out at the end of the in Russia and others, who had profes- Kungaling is deeply grateful to offerings to the Longsal Stupa. The Dance and Collective Practices. daily marathon as a coherent group, sional interest and occupation in this Rinpoche for a miraculous manifesta- energy of the whole Community is The main retreat was followed by a harmoniously moving together with healing field. tion of the Longsal Stupa in the center united in this Stupa. week of Tibetan Culture where there ever changing rhythms of Tibetan Over all, the retreat went joyfully of Izhevsk. It became possible due to There are always many birds was a presentation of Rinpoche’s songs, accompanied by the Maestro and smoothly. It was very nice to see His wisdom, patience and compassion. near the Stupa. Many people come book, “Light of Kailash”; the week singing himself. And the day-by-day Kungaling is deeply grateful to to walk around the Stupa. They also highlighted different events and visible effects of such an unusual Khyentse Yeshe. The Stupa in Izhevsk offer flowers and money. Children of- activities that were organized. There practice became evident – through has a direct connection with Him. fer sweets. Newlyweds come to the were medical and astrological lectures relaxed faces, through seemingly Without His participation this project Stupa. Mothers with babies come to and presentations, as well as Tibetan growing awareness of movements would never havae been accomplished. the Stupa. Many older people come to arts, were among all that happened and body consciousness and, towards Kungaling is deeply grateful to the the Stupa. TV reports about the Stupa during that week. At the end of the the end, a nice performance of all architect and the project coordinator are made. People say that their wishes day, a few hundred dancers gathered newbies, who finally started to look Giovanni Boni. He is certainly the best! made near the Stupa are fulfilled. in the main tent to sing Tibetan songs like natural seasoned Tibetan danc- Kungaling is deeply grateful to the Kungaling hopes that the Longsal with our beloved Master and dance ers. Quite a transformative experience ritual master and the project artist Stupa will be blessed by Rinpoche Tibetan dances, led by Adriana Dal that was! In the evening, Dr. Phunsog Wangmo ex- Migmar Tsering. He is unsurpassed very soon. Borgo, under the attentive supervision The Russian School of Tibetan plained how to prepare and perform Sur, a in his mastery! ritual to pacify the ancestors by burning of Chögyal Namkhai Norbu himself. Medicine (International Shang Shung tsampa on a bonfire. Kungaling is deeply grateful to With love, devotion and respect, This was a great surprise for many Institute) held a Tibetan party for ALL OF YOU, every member of the Kungaling

Namgyalgar PO Box 2014 Central Tilba [email protected] South Dzogchen Community NSW 2546 www.dzogchen.org.au Namgyalgar in Australia Phone/Fax: 61 02 4473 7668

The Santi Maha Sangha tional/psychological level. So you get to strong conditioning in quasi-scientific talked about it – when he talked Scholariship live with your condition “in your face”! cultural skepticism toward anything about having cancer – as something And in the company of the Dzogchen spiritual. important to continue his life for! Arnaud: When did you start the SMS teachings in a more focused way. (this is the cultural norm in Aus- The SMS study for me has given Scholarship and how long did you do People said I got more confident tralia) It made pursuit of a spiritual me insight and respect for all the it for? in my teaching of Yantra. My partner path more valid (to my stupid mind!) Buddhist paths, and the Dzogchen Emily Coleing: 2007–2008 for 12 months was the Gekö at the same time at Since then I see Yantra in the con- community is a healthier community Namgyalgar. He says that I started to text of practice that should be good if we have this understanding of other Arnaud: What motivated you to do it? trust myself more as a Yantra teacher, in the beginning, middle and end. practitioners in the wider community. Emily: The opportunity to dedicate a that I became really focused on it and So I start with , and as well Having it in a retreat centre like year to practice and Dzogchen com- realized the responsibility more fully. as calling Rinpoche to mind I often Namgyalgar South, which provides re- munity life – these things to me It really brought home to me that call on the guidance of Humkara, treat conditions isolated from majority feel like the real work of this life. Arnaud: If you were to qualify this Yantra is an offering in collaboration. Padmasambhava or Orgyen Tenzin. I lifestyle is incredibly precious! Please Why? Because they are meaningful, year in 3 words, what would they be? The karma yoga aspect of the Scholar- try to maintain non-judgmental pres- support the scholarship to continue! dedicated to many beings- not just Emily: Intense. Precious. Illuminating ship rendered Yantra another aspect ence so the practice is good in the THANKYOU FOR THIS AMAZING around Namgyalgar, but way beyond, of service. That year I washed up middle, then I dedicate to the benefit OPPORTUNITY! and also into the future. The SMS Arnaud: How did the SMS scholarship enough cups for all the tea in China! I of all sentient beings like any other MAY IT HELP TO CULTIVATE THE Level 1 retreats I’d attended – at Nam- year influence your development as a collaborated with the SMS teacher on practice, empowering with “Om Dhare DZOGCHEN TRANSMISSION FOR gyalgar and DejamLing – were (are) Yantra teacher? a regular basis re my practices and dhare….” Mantra, (whether out aloud YEARS TO COME! real highlights in my life. To do those Emily: The year at the Gar toughened Yantra was part of my practice sched- or in my mind.) MAY CHÖGYAL NAMKAI NORBU’S practices in an applied way? What an me up in a way! Living in the isolated ule. I was Gekö support (a very needed TEACHINGS REACH FAR AND WIDE! incredible opportunity! The mentoring situation of the Gar wasn’t easy, when role generally) and reported monthly Arnaud: What would you say to po- from Rinpoche’s SMS teachers in Aus- gakyils and most community mem- at gakyil meetings about the Gar. I was tential donors/recipients for the SMS You can be part of this program. tralia was really meaningful too, and bers are at least 7 hours drive away. fortunate to attend and help organize Scholarship? AU$ 600 supports a practitioner for continues to be as they’re inspiring, We had to learn how to live away from local community shared practices as Emily: As students of Chögyal Namkai one month generous women. the electricity grid, away from Mains well as all group practice retreats at Norbu, the SMS Scholarship a wonder- Please contact us at: water and sewerage systems. We had the Gar. ful way to offer gratitude to Rinpoche [email protected] to learn about self-sufficiency not only Being supported by the scholar- for his teachings. The SMS programme at a practical level but also at an emo- ship served to clear away some of my is so important to Rinpoche that he THE MIRROR · No. 123 · July, August 2013

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Namgyalgar South

ing has been done. The money comes Of course, any donation will be much Bank details: With much love to you all, SMS Program mainly from Rinpoche, Mark Far- appreciated. Commonwealth Bank of Australia Arnaud rington and Fabio Andrico. We are Use the Bank detail information BIC/SWIFT Code: CTBAAU2S Dear International Dzogchen asking the International Dzogchen below or write to the committee if BSB/Account No.: 06 2652 / 10032135 Practitioners, Community to give a little bit of help you need any information on the Recipients Name and Address: this year for this extraordinary pro- scholarship: Dzogchen Community of Namgyalgar t is now 10 years that the Santi gram. We need to raise $ 2000 be- [email protected] Inc Operating Account 131 Wagonga Maha Sangha scholarship has fore Christmas for the 2 actual SMS Street – Narooma NSW 2546 Iexisted, and very little fundrais- scholars living at Namgyalgar South. IBAN: 06265210032135

Namgyalgar 206 Glass House-Woodford Rd, Phone: 07. 5438 7696 North Dzogchen Community Glasshouse Mountains, Qld., 4518 [email protected] Namgyalgar in Australia P.O. Box 307, Glasshouse Mountains, Qld., 4518 http://namgyalgarnorth.com

Dear Vajra Kin This is a DCN Community blog periences at NN, support and inspire This Blog will be your gateway to Today we are launching the new to keep you informed with text and this project of Rinpoche’s with your what is happening. Namgyalgar North Blog (you can images of the development progress energy! google Namgyalgar North Blog or at Nam North. Please interact with Something is happening at Nam- Maree Ploetz Nam gyalgar North Development) or us! Ask your questions, make your gyalgar North! (Team Leader NN Development Team) http://namgyalgarnorth.com/ comments, send your photos of ex-

DCA Tsegyalgar East Phone: 413 369 4153 [email protected] East PO Box 479 Fax & Bookstore: 413 369 4473 www.tsegyalgar.org Tsegyalgar Conway, MA 01341 USA

Sustaining Our Dzogchen in some of the most famous res- Community – For the taurants in NYC and Western Mas- Community and by the sachusetts. At RYL the focus is to Community provide clients with solid platforms Interview with Ruben Eduardo in order to achieve a stronger base June 10, 2013 for competitive growth. Tsegyalgar East The initiative proposed by this dy- namic team is something that could ere we present an interview be of great benefit to the Dzogchen with Ruben Eduardo, one of Community financially and as well as Hthe founders of RYL Consult- a model for other Communities. Ru- ing*, informing the Dzogchen Com- ben and Luigi would like to establish munity of a proposal to promote the a restaurant with the sole purpose of sustainability of Dzamling Gar and generating profit for Dzamlingar (the Tsegyalgar East. The initiative pro- new International Gar on Tenerife Is- posed here could become a prototype land in the Canary Islands) and Tseg- for the entire Dzogchen Community. yalgar East, establishing a precedence *Ruben Eduardo and Luigi Ot- of a new view for the sustainability of taviani have formed a consulting the Dzogchen Community. Beginning the coloration of the mandala at the July 8, 2013 services and solid improvements to agency called RYL. RYL has been Universal Mandala Hall with Jim Smith at Up- per Khandroling, Buckland, M. Photo: P. Barry Project Brief our customers’ businesses. successfully providing service to The Mirror: Can you tell us a little Supporting Your Gar For more information, please con- the restaurant industry since 2011. about how you and Luigi came to this tact [email protected] They provide complete restaurant idea, your intention behind it and Objective: startups solutions, custom financial what you might need as far as sup- tion and growth of the new Gar in Promote the sustainability of Goal: analysis and reporting, and front of port from the Dzogchen Community? Tenerife: “Why don’t we actually use Dzamling Gar and Tsegyalgar East. To raise up to $ 300k. the house and back of the house op- Ruben Eduardo: In short, I personally our resources with the purpose of We hope to reach our funds in the erational set up. RYL encompasses have been working as a professional bringing more sustainability to the Approach: following months as we are targeting all the knowledge gathered from in the restaurant trade for more than Community?” To establish a restaurant with the December 2013 as the projected open- their years of experience working twenty years. For the past two and It is very simple. Our intention is to purpose to generate profit for Dzam- ing date. half years I worked with Luigi on two make a business whose sole purpose ling Gar and Tsegyalgar East. major projects here in Western Mas- is to generate profit for the Commu- Location: Supporters: sachusetts. While working together, nity. In the past we have dedicated Outline business case: Currently scouting locations in West- If you would like to contribute mon- we realized how in this area there are our work to make profit for business There is a strong opportunity for ern Massachusetts: North Hampton, etarily and would prefer to receive many non-profit organizations that, owners – now we want to dedicate our Dzamling Gar and Tsegyalgar East to Hadley, Amherst, and South Deerfield. your money back after some time, under their umbrella, have busi- work to bring more economic stability receive a steady flow of income every then we strongly encourage you to nesses that are for profit, meaning to the Community. year by establishing an independent Sustaining the Gars become a supporter. Supporters will businesses that generate money used business whose sole purpose is to How we plan to sustain the Gars: receive after the first full year of op- to bring more sustainability to the M: So what are the first steps, how are support the Gars financially. The ben- Our aim is to give 50 % of the net eration a 3.5 % on their investment. main non-profit organization. you going to proceed? We know you efits of this project should translate income of the restaurant to the Gars This percentage will be paid every We have been very successful in have developed a proposal, a project into a greater influx of income and in form of annual donations. The re- year up to 5 years, and after that, the restaurant trade, and we thought: brief, and you would like to present sustainability for Dzamling Gar and maining 50 % of the income will be the establishment will return the “Why don’t we explore the opportu- that to potential investors inside the Tsegyalgar (East?). invested back in the business to in- initial investment to the supporters nity of having a restaurant where Community, correct? Can you give us sure business expansion and further and then provide the last payment of instead of generating profit for an some idea of step by step how you en- People directing this initiative: its profit potential. interest. Being a supporter is a great independent entity, we generate vision proceeding from the project’s RYL Consulting – Ruben Eduardo and The restaurant’s profit will be way of collaborating in the project profit to support the Dzogchen Com- inception, timelines, etc.? Luigi Ottaviani. divided into (1) main donations to the while gaining interest on your invest- munity?” RE: We started working on this project RYL has been successfully providing Gars, and (2) investments to the res- ment. Being part of the DZ Community around a month and a half ago when service to the Restaurant industry taurant to encourage further business we are aware of the many Commu- we came up with this idea of creating since 2011. We provide management growth. Project Initial Limit: nity projects going on; therefore, one a business with the sole purpose of support, complete restaurant startups This project aim is to establish a of the hard questions is how are we making a profit for the Community, solutions, and custom financial analy- How to Participate restaurant with the sole purpose of going to maintain all these projects in not for personal gain. We have started sis and reporting, POS setup, wine list Donations: supporting our gars. If the funding the future? looking at different venues in Western development, Foh and Boh operational We are currently accepting dona- will not reach the planned minimum When I was participating in the Massachusetts, exploring the differ- procedure set up. RYL encompasses tions. If you believe in the initiative amount of $ 150,000, the amount to Gakyil it was clear that we heavily re- ent alternatives in terms of location. all the knowledge gathered from our of opening a business with the aim reasonably start a successful opera- lied on membership and the income What we know is that we need to years of experience working in some of generating profits for the Gars, and tion, all donations and contributions we could get from retreats. But it is generate a minimum of $ 150,000 US of the most famous restaurants in would like to donate, you may do so by given by supporters and donors will a struggle, year after year, trying to in order to launch the operation. We NYC and Western Massachusetts. At contacting us at info@rylconsulting. be returned minus the bank transac- sustain the Gar(s). So we thought, are trying to appeal to people who are RYL our focus is to deliver superior com tion fees. especially now with the installa- >> continued on the following page THE MIRROR · No. 123 · July, August 2013

International Community News

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Tsegyalgar East Peru >>Norbuling

>> continued from previous page full time for this restaurant. After training personnel and the operation M: Your proposal says the profit of New Norbuling Gakyil in the Community, who believe in the that we did consulting together for itself, while Luigi focuses more on the this particular project will go to importance of supporting our Gars the Deerfield Inn, which is a hotel and financial aspect of the entity to make Dzamlingar and Tsegyalgar. Why We are glad to tell you that in July and consider being either donors or restaurant. It was through that work- sure it is in pristine shape. those two? 2013 our Beloved Rinpoche accepted supporters. ing period at the Deerfield Inn that we RE: What we would like to do is to split the proposal of a new Gakyil. They Donors are people that believe learned how their restaurant and inn M: Can you tell us about the timeline the profit for Dzamlingar and Tsegyal- are: in the project, that understand are the “for profit” sites of a non-profit for the project and by which date the gar East. We reside in Tsegyalgar East Blue: Paul Sablich (Director) that it is not for personal gain and organization called Historic Deerfield funds need to be in place to begin? right now, and that’s where we are Red: Susanna Rodriguez (Secretary) wish to make money offerings. and how this could be run easily! RE: Right now we are trying to find focusing at the moment. The inter- Yellow: José Eduardo Padrón Supporters are investors who want to At that time we realized how people who are interested to col- national Gar is simply a responsibility We will also continue with the participate financially and get a per- we used all our resources and laborate in a business that is not for of all the other Gars. So we wanted support of our Geko, Rocio Rodrigo. centage back after the first five years skills to make other people rich self-gain, that is literally to make to make sure we are doing our part Many thanks to the previous of operation. After that period, we will and asked ourselves: “Why don’t profit for the Gars. We want to find right from the start to help manifest Gakyil members (Charo, Pepo and return their initial investment. This is we use our resources to make donors who would like to participate and sustain Dzamlingar as well. Raúl) for offering their service to the because the focus is that all the prof- our Community rich instead?” in this way or those who would like Community. its go to sustain the Community. I know we have all the know-how and to be sponsors; the sponsor is like an M: Is there anything else you would We invite you all to come to Norbu- We would like to raise the neces- energies needed to make a success- investor. Sponsors can expect to get like to say that we have not covered? ling (Peru)! sary start up funds within this Octo- ful restaurant. In addition, we have their money back in a period of five RE: I would like to make a synopsis. ber. By that time we will still be in a lot of presence here in Western years time and meanwhile they will In short, the intentionality and the Norbuling Comunidad Dzogchen time to launch the operation by the Massachusetts; lots of people already collect some interest for their sup- aim are to generate incomes for the del Peru end of 2013, a restaurant’s high sea- experienced our work style and work port. If for some reason the initiative Gars, in this case for Dzamlingar and [email protected] son in Western Mass. ethic, and their respect it’s been a is not realized, then we will return Tsegyalgar East. http://www.dzogchenperu.org It is a very straightforward opera- great feedback to us. We honestly the money back to the donors and Luigi and I have specialized in the tion and is something we have both believe this is a good opportunity for supporters. hospitality trade, so we have these ex- done in this area with a lot of success. us all to realize a not self-centered A big challenge in the business pertise and resources that we can ap- We have all the expertise, knowledge and self-gain project, but looking into industry is to follow the compa- ply, and instead of opening a business and skills, and the only thing we need offering our expertise for a greater nies’ mission. A company’s mission of our own or for a private entity, we now is the initial capital. We have al- good: our Community’ sustainability. should bring benefits in people’s want to open a business, a restaurant, ready been approached by other busi- Usually we all try to donate here and life. Unfortunately often what hap- to support our Gars. nesses not related to the Community, there according to our possibilities… pens is the purpose is somehow That is why we are making this but at this time we want our focus but can we make something more: forgotten and the profit becomes campaign public for people in the and aim to be addressed in creating starting up an operation that has a the entire purpose of the business. Community to participate. Because a greater good: an organization that solid business platform capable of In our initiative we have purpose it should be for the Community and years from now can be passed off generate steady profit in order to help motives combined with profit mo- made by Community’s members. We to other people who can maintain the development of our Gars? tives. Since we’ve been so blessed to are looking for donors and supporters it and it will continue to generate have met our Teacher, the Teachings for the sole purpose to bring ben- incomes for the Gars. M: What kind of restaurant do you and the Community, there’s a strong efit to us all by creating a business want to open? motivation of combining profit and that sustain our Community. I hope M: Can you give us a little background RE: That is a good question. For purpose together to sustain our Gars to stimulate a conversation among of what you and Luigi have done in people who specialize in the hospital- and the Community. people into how we can continue on restaurant management for potential ity trade that is one of the essential the path where we join profit motives donors and investors? points. We have done a lot of market M: Are there ways that people who do with purpose motives and inspire RE: I am not the best to talk about research, work that we did also be- not have finances can collaborate in others to locally bring greater stability myself because it is not so important fore opening the Farm Table and for this project? to our Community. to put a spotlight on oneself. But for the reopening of the Deerfield Inn. RE: In the past, when we directed The the sake of transparency, I started We are looking at a target of a Farm Table restaurant (Kringle Com- M: How can people get in touch with in the restaurant trade fairly young, broader spectrum of clientele, mean- pany), many members of the Com- you? because my brother was a member ing we have seen that the local munity became part of the experi- RE: They can contact us through of the Court of Master Sommeliers, restaurants that market themselves ence there. Yes, we welcome anyone. email at [email protected] and he still is, and basically I started my as “special occasion or fine dining” Anyone with interest or who believes also at http://www.supportyourgar. career in New York City working for are the ones that are not so stable. in this initiative should contact us by com where they can read more about Lidia Bastianich. I obtained my cer- Our focus would be, in terms of email. the project, the principles, and make tification from the Court of Master price range, a more open offer for donations or become a supporter. Sommeliers, and the American Wine the middle class. We are interested M: Is there any idea about the nature Sommelier’s Society and I became in generating profit – and to achieve of this initiative as a prototype for M: Thank you Ruben for you time. It the wine director for Mario Batali. I that – you must do numbers. To get other Communities? sounds like a wonderful project and it worked for the Bastianich’s family for the numbers you look for, you must RE: The focus is to realize this project can only benefit us all! more than seven years, and for other attract patrons and so you need not as our first pilot, generate money and chefs in the organization, like Dave only an establishment that is attrac- expand the operation because the Pasternak. If people are familiar with tive, but also affordable. The market more financial strength you have the the restaurant business in New York research shows that people want to more possibility of financial donations City, they will recognize these names go out, but they go out to places they you can provide to the Community. as some of the most influential res- can afford. So we look for a restaurant Then we can run this as a model for taurant groups in the US. that is approachable to many people, a other Communities to use. Everyone To be closer to the Gar, I relocated place any of us would like to hang out knows about chain restaurants and in Western Massachusetts and my with friends without the worry of not how they spread to other locations to first contact with Luigi was work- being able to afford it. maximize their profit. Here the focus ing along side him in the Tsegyalgar will be for the model to solidify and East’s Gakyil. At that time I realized M: When and why did you form RYL? adapt to different places, to sponsor that he has a lot of amazing organi- RE: We formed RYL time ago because businesses whose sole purpose is to zational skills and a lot of knowledge we realized that our collective ex- generate money for the Community. related to operating and running busi- pertise encompasses all the areas of What I am hoping for is, not limited nesses. Our first project was the start the hospitality business. We wanted to the hospitality business, that other up and running of The Farm Table to open a consulting firm that could people get excited about this idea and Restaurant in Western Massachusetts. work with anything from a big scale say: “Ok maybe I am not in the hos- [Ed note: This restaurant has become hotel to a small town restaurant. Luigi pitality but I can do this on my own a very successful business, with sales has a very impressive background in related field. Can I make something www.jcrows.com over $ 2 M just the opening year.] We information technology, but even be- to bring profit to the Community? worked from the ground up, starting sides that, what I value a lot, is Luigi’s Can we start to focus on support with the architect and blueprints, we stable and keen approach to business. our Community in unconventional J. Crow’s® purchased everything, we hired all At the end of the day, business is run ways?” I think that especially now it Mulling Spice Folk Medicine the staff, we trained everyone, and we to make profits; he is an asset in run- is important for us to think of ways Tibetan Medicine ran all the operational systems. I had ning the operational and financial side. to bring greater sustainability to our worked for the company that opened He has been the best business partner Gars. SpicedCider.com The Farm Table for about three years I have ever had. As for myself, I work fax or phone: 1 800 878 1965 603 878 1965 before the actual opening the restau- more on the human resource side, [email protected] rant. Luigi spent two years managing THE MIRROR · No. 123 · July, August 2013

International Community News

19 Courses

Merigar West

of introduction to the practice of medi- tation (led by Fabio Maria Risolo). For children aged 6 to 12 years there were Kumari Kumar Yantra Yoga classes and meetings with Cae- sar Torricelli for reading fairy tales theatrical animation. The seminar, which was attended by 40 adults (many of them new to Photo: L. Gräf the Dzogchen Teaching) and 10 chil- dren, was held in a very positive and Yantra Yoga Teachers Training First Level held at the Gonpa at Merigar West with Laura Evan- Yoga Holidays and mind and rediscover the natural cooperative environment, especially gelisti and Fabio Andrico August 26–September 1, 2013. condition of energy. An opportunity appreciated by all participants, fas- rom 4th to 11th of August 2013 for adults and children to experience cinated by the beauty and power of Italy, >>Kunsalling the “Yoga holidays” were held in new ways to cope with the stress of Merigar and no less intrigued by the FMerigar for the third consecu- everyday life and enhance wellbeing. activities that take place there. The Chöd practice retreat instruments. It was precious help and tive year. The residential seminar was For adults the course offered mainly participants were very much in favour we were really grateful to her for that. by Claudio Regali presented as a holiday of Meditation Yantra Yoga sessions for beginners and of continuing this type of initiative translated by Alberto Benassa All participants had to face unfa- and Yoga from the most ancient Ti- advanced (guided by Laura Evangelisti and we all think it is an activity to vorable weather conditions (the re- betan tradition, to help relax body and Tiziana Gottardi), but also sessions foster for the future. rom June 27 to July 1, 15 prac- treat started with a torrential rain and titioners from Italy and Austria rather low temperature but it ended France Ftook part to a Chöd practice with the sun), and everybody collabo- retreat at Kunsalling (Brescia district, rated in communal life. Our special Kunye Course in France “Due to its profound links with the Italy). The retreat place of the com- gratitude to the kitchen chef, who Dharma, I consider kunye massage as munity is especially suitable for this prepared delicious food in such diffi- By Manon Ribat from the French Community an extension of my spiritual practice, kind of practice such as Chöd: hidden cult circumstances. The Chöd practice to integrate in a unique way the dif- in the mountains, far from urbanized was repeated many times a day and e just finished the sec- ferent aspects of the person, physical, areas and from communication tracks. it worked so deeply inside us that at ond session of our Kunye energetical and mental in our funda- So you don’t run the risk of practicing the end we all felt that we had lived Wcourse with Aldo Oneto. mental nature. If a kunye practitioner Chöd and having a policeman show up. an authentic experience. Our cheerful It took place in the wonderful pure gives massage in with presence, in Nina Robinson, thanks to her faces watched delightful white clouds land of Karmaling in Savoie (Kalou the state of contemplation, the patient knowledge of the teachings of our passing in the sky. A great thank you Rinpoche’s center), France. It’s the gains immeasurable benefits”. Master Chögyal Namkhai Norbu and to our Beloved Master! sixth year Aldo has taught Kunye here. For myself during a Kunye mas- to her very long experience, led prac- PS.The retreat place of Kunsalling We are the future sixth generation! the time with us in the small room of sage session I felt a meeting between titioners with clear and essential is the ideal place for collective retreats We were 14 people meeting again the course, on the ancient Chartreuse two dimensions at the energy level, advice to a deep understanding of the of small groups (10/15 people), but it is three months after the first session of Savoie and showed us how to apply that of the patient and the masseur. Teaching, to a literal text analysis, to particularly suitable for individual re- in April, five from the Dzogchen com- acupressure! Kunye gives the opportunity through the pronunciation of Tibetan words, treats in a state of complete solitude. munity with Aldo. And also together with some intention and presence to rebalance to sing the melodies as well as to play It is also possible to do dark retreats. In his very relaxed way of teaching practitioners of the French Dzogchen energy, which is also linked with Visit our web site! www.kunsalling.it inspired by the Master, very condensed community we could follow the physical body and mind. So it is a very and profound, we learned about acupres- Worldwide Transmission of our Mas- complete approach. Also in this way, Italy, Merano sure and, at the same time, experiment- ter Chögyal Namkhai Norbu for the working with transmission can be- ed its effects on each other. We also anniversary of Padmasambhava at come really powerful, Of course, it was reviewed all the previous movements sunrise! A practitioner invited us to just a taste at this level and it gives we learnt at the first session in April. her house to gather for this beautiful us motivation to continue practice We discovered still more how pro- auspicious day all over the world. and feel even more what is happening found that method is, as part of the All those things combined made during Kunye. external therapies in Tibetan medicine. us learn very joyfully the wonderful So all the participants thank Aldo At the same time we could enjoy treasure of Kunye with our dear Aldo! and the Shang Shung Institute very the waterfall of Karmaling for some of Johann, a participant at the course much for having made possible this us who like very cold water, walks and and a French practitioner of the high quality course in France. Always a relaxing time. Dzogchen Community talks about grateful to our Master. Kunsalling, the International Dzogchen Community Brescia) and Gyamtsholing (International It was the first time we met a Ku- how he experienced the Kunye mas- May the benefits of this course Dzogchen Community Venezia) organized the presence of the Dzogchen Community at the Yoga Festival of Merano (Bozen). Carla Castellani and Marco Bassegio, two authorized instruc- nye cat masseur! He stayed almost all sage course: spread for all sentient beings. tors, introduced Yantra Yoga.

Czech Republic UK >>Kunselling

cerned that we practised as much as possible. We were more than happy to oblige as there was so much to do and learn. In particular, we worked through the Kalong Dorjeikar dance and, as the weather was perfect, we were able to complete each practice session dancing the Song of the Vajra. The teachings were recorded, and al- with Michael Katz in Czech Republic May 5, 2013. though the sheep occasionally tried to join in with the mantras, we think we Serbia have a marvellous resource to share Photo: M. Farmer with the rest of the Community. I think this was one of the most Jñanadakini Retreat with usually for Wales it was both hot and harmonious, integrated retreats I Enzo Terzano at Kunselling, dry – in fact it was glorious. Both out- have ever attended at Kunselling. Our July 2013 side and inside the Kunselling Gompa. thanks of course to Rinpoche for pro- Enzo gave a very rigorous and viding such extraodinary teachings By Mike Farmer thorough description of virtually all and to Enzo for his excellent explana- o, there were twelve of us, of the deeply profound Jñanadakini tions and commentary. Many thanks Enzo our teacher and some teachings which Rinpoche has so far also to Amely Becker for organisation Stwelve hundred sheep disport- transmitted to us. We worked hard to and Thomas Beaver for robust suste- ing themselves in the glorious hills perfect the chants and complex visu- nance. Oliver Leick and some participants in SMS base level seminar in Belgrade, Serbia June 2013. around Kunselling in Wales. Most un- alisations and Enzo was rightly con- THE MIRROR · No. 123 · July, August 2013

International Community News

20

Slovakia Kunsangar South

SMS course on Rushan presented by Steven Landsberg at the Slovakia ling from June 28 to 30. It was the first time they had held a course in their new gonpa which is under construction.

Namgyalgar North

Yantra Yoga Teachers Training with Fabio Andrico & Laura Evangelisti July 10–18, 2013.

Tsegyalgar East

Updates and Deepening Course: Song of the Vajra with Cosimo Di Maggio at Namgyalgar North August 2013. We all enjoyed greater harmony on the Mandala. Wonderful!

USA

Vajra Dance Intensive of the Song of the Vajra with Kyu Kyuno August 31–September 9, 2013.

USA, Washington USA, Vermont

Saltong Tsalung Retreat with Elio Guarisco at Tsegyalgar East, Khandroling, August 3–8, 2013.

USA, Berkeley

Yantra Yoga and Tibetan Medicine with Matthew Schmookler at the Introduction to Yantra Yoga with Paula Barry in Vermont, August White Lotus Yoga Studio in Washington Township Michigan July 5–7, 2013. 24–25, 2013.

Passages Died

Italy, USA

Andrea Sertoli h Andrea, my dearest friend – Dream Yoga with Michael Katz in Berkeley California August 22–25, 2013. now you are gone in peace n 19 August at 3 pm in Rome, O– how wonderful. Italy, our beloved Vajra brother All the days we spent together, all Passages Died OAndrea Sertoli, left his body. our common gained experiences – He was one of the first disciples thank you for joyfulness – so wonder- of Rinpoche and he enriched us ful. All your generous support espe- Canada with his generosity and sense of cially towards the Ka-Ter translation humor. project – thank you so much for your atherine Ling Chan passed He left light, he is light generosity – how wonderful. away on August 29 after a Stella Sangiorgi Farewell my dear heart-brother, Ktwo year struggle with can- now you are being free from all cer. She was a student of Rinpoche, in ust a few words to remember a worldly suffering, may you be meet- Vancouver, Portland, Paris and Merigar. brother and a devoted practitio- n loving memory of our beloved ing now your real mother. Katherine will be deeply missed Jner, his kindness, his generosity, Vajra brother Andrea Sertoli. Thank you for everything, by her partner of 22 years, Peter Dimi- his unfailing support to our sangha. I You have gone silently, Andrea, Oliver Leick trov, a long time student of Chögyal Those who knew Andrea Sertoli loved as silently as you have been living all Namkhai Norbu. him, who did not know, may find in- your life. spiration from a life like his, spent in We’ll miss you, your devotion, the only research that is worth to un- your generosity. May you have a very dertake. You’ve gone too soon Andrea. smooth journey and a quick rebirth in Raimondo Bultrini the most wonderful realm. Gloria Pera THE MIRROR · No. 123 · July, August 2013

International Community News

21 Programs

Merigar West Germany

1st Communication-Meeting 3) Kindness and welcoming: Euro- Authentic being with oneself Yantra Yoga, Vajra Dance, Six Spaces of of all Lings and Gakyils pean Karma Yoga network and others course for beginners Samantabhadra Openness: can it be more Location: Library -Zhikang Jamgön Kongtrul Lodrö Taye’s with Saadet Arslan with Karin Heinemann than a theoretical idea? Coordinators: Lella Guidotti e septuple mind training September 27–29 in Munich November 01–03, Munich International reorganization and the Migmar Tsering with Elio Guarisco Registration: Registration: implications for Lings and Gars September 13–15, Berlin [email protected] [email protected] September 14th–15th 2013 Afternoon parallel sessions 16.00–18.00 Registration: [email protected] The Mirror, Merigar letter online, Vajra Dance, Six Spaces of Vajra Dance, Six Spaces of Saturday September 14, 2013 ML magazine, Web sites, Norbunet, First Level Yantra Yoga Samantabhadra Samantabhadra Plenary session 9–10.30 (in web cast) FB, collaboration portal, General with Jan Böhm under supervision of with Karin Heinemann with Lenka Kroh “A general introduction to the web site of the Dzogchen Laura Evangelisti October 04–06, Dargyäling Cologne November 1–3, Berlin International Dzogchen Project” - Community: who are the recipients September 17–22, 2013, Berlin Registration: [email protected] Registration: [email protected] International Gakyil member and what is the message? Registration: [email protected] 9.00–10.00 Location: Gonpa Kumbhaka and Yantra Yoga Vajra dance, 6 Spaces of “The mandala of the Dzogchen Coordinators: Nikol Stanisova and 21 Taras Retreat with Zhenya Rud Samantabhadra for beginners Community – the role of the Gar Sicilia D’Arista with Sasha Pubants October 18–20, Dargyäling Cologne with Karin Heinemann and Ling: results of the survey September 19–29, Höfen Registration: November 08–10, Langen/ Frankfurt conducted among the Lings” 2) Membership and data base of Registration: [email protected] [email protected] Registration: Merigar West Director Giovanna members: current state and future Accommodation: Hans-Jochim Vogel, [email protected] Natalini Location: Meeting Hall – Serkhang 0049 91 66 - 99 53 11 Kumbhaka 10.00-10.30 Coordinator: Roberto Zamparo [email protected] with Zhenya Rud Namkha International Gakyil October 25–27, Munich with Viktoria Gerschevskaya Morning parallel sessions 11.00–13.30 Tibetan Medicine and Registration: November 12–19, Dargyäling, Cologne 1) Vajra Dance and Yantra Yoga 3) “Good Accounting Procedures: Yantra Yoga [email protected] Registration: [email protected] open courses: our language and Transparency and Accountability” with Elio Guarisco and Saadet Arslan the capacity to fully communicate Location: Library – Zhikang September 20–22, Dargyäling Cologne our intentions Coordinator: Pamela Rinci and Registration: [email protected] Coordinators: Fabio Andrico, Giovanni Totino Prima Mai, Adriana Dal Borgo, Laura Evangelisti 15th September 2013 Dzamling Gar 2) Alignment of the Statutes of Gars Plenary session 9.00–13.00 (in web cast) and Ling: changes and implications Presentation of the outputs of each Umdze Training global peace for humanity in the fu- have the capacity to lead and also to Location Gonpa of the 6 sessions ture, and at the end he said, “So now, teach others how to lead practices. Cooordinator: Enrico Dell’Angelo Free discussion e’re pleased to announce to learn evolution, start from learning Knowledge of the melodies, of the International Gakyil Conclusions the Umdze Training: a how to lead a practice!” timings, of the use of ritual instru- Wspecial course on how to “This struck me, and since he was ments, and perfect pronunciation of Dzamling Gar lead ritual practices led by Adriano looking at me while saying this, I the Drajor system of transliteration Clemente thought we should start this course are requested from whoever wishes to Vajra Dance Activities Beginners course on Dance of Date: February 16–20, 2014 for the benefit of all practitioners, be tested and authorized by Rinpoche from November 2013 to April 2014 the Song of Vajra Two sessions a day. and moreover, to show our love and on the last day. Even if no candidate Supervision with Adriana dal Borgo The price will be announced soon. appreciation to our Master and letting shows up this year, the course will Deepening course on and Prima Mai him enjoy collective practices without still be very useful to improve one’s Dance of the Six Spaces of January 11–23, 2014 All instructors of the Dzogchen having to worry about our mistakes. capacity and prepare oneself for the Samantabhadra Community are kindly requested to Also it is fundamental that the ritual next occasion. with Adriana dal Borgo To take this course it is necessary to participate. Qualified candidates will tradition of the Dzogchen Community Before attending the course it is November 5–7, 2013 be a member of the Dzogchen Com- have the possibility to be examined be preserved in a pure way, as all advisable to download the follow- munity by Rinpoche on the last day. melodies are originated from spiritual ing audio recordings of two previous For those who already have the basic Sessions: to be decided. experiences of highly realized mas- courses respectively on the ganapuja knowledge of that Dance and wish to Price: more information soon. During the last few years very often ters and pure dimensions of dakas melodies and on the Drajor translit- work more on the level of harmonious our precious Teacher Chögyal Nam- and dakinis.” Adriano Clemente eration: movements, timing, coordination with Worldwide Vajra Dance Day, khai Norbu has emphasized the need http://www.shangshungstore.org/ arms movements. Anniversary of Ayu Khandro for practitioners and especially for The Umdze Training aims at quali- index.php?l=product_detail&p=529 2 sessions each day: 10–12 am and March 26, 2014 SMS instructors to be able to lead a fying the instructors of the Dzogchen http://www.shangshungstore.org/ 3–5 pm. Vajra Dance Practice and Ganapuja Ganapuja in the right way. He has Community to be able to lead in a pre- index.php?l=product_detail&p=528 Price: more information soon. Sessions: to be decided. repeatedly explained, “If my students cise manner the Ganapuja and other Visit our website for more informa- cannot learn how to sing and lead a collective ritual practices. This course tion and updates Deepening course on Dance Deepening Course on Dance practice after thirty years, what do I will be focused on the Ganapuja in- www.dzamlinggar.net of the Three Vajras of the Song of Vajra have to think about their understand- cluding Namkha and Lungta. It will For organizational purposes, we with Adriana dal Borgo With Prima Mai ing of the profound knowledge of be open to all, but SMS instructors kindly ask you to confirm your par- November 8–10, 2013 End of March/beginning of April, 2014 Semde, Longde, and Upadesha?” are specially invited to participate, as ticipation writing to blue.gakyil@ In Tashigar Norte, one night af- well as Vajra Dance and Yantra Yoga dzamlinggar.net For those who already have the basic For those who already have the basic ter the Tibetan songs and dances, instructors. The reason is that who- knowledge of that Dance and wish to knowledge of that Dance and wish to Rinpoche spoke at length about the ever travels in order to teach any of Warm regards, work more on the level of harmonious work more on the level of harmonious necessity of evolution to guarantee the above mentioned teachings should The Dzamling Gar Gakyil movements, timing, coordination with movements, timing, coordination with arms movements. arms movements. To take this course 2 sessions each day: 10–12 am and it is necessary to be a member of the Tsegyalgar East 3–5 pm. Dzogchen Community. Price: more information soon. Sessions: to be decided. Jim Valby’s Program 2013– 2014 Price: more information soon. Sep 17–21, 2013, Tel Aviv, Israel, The Primordial Source of All Knowledge Vajra Dance instructors Sep 25–29, 2013, Kiev, Ukraine, Dzogchen without Buddhism meeting www.dzamlinggar.net Oct 1–5, 2013, Kunsangar South, Crimea, Ukraine, SMS Base with Adriana dal Borgo and Prima Mai Oct 6–10, 2013, Kunsangar South, Crimea, Ukraine, SMS Level One January 7–10, 2014 Dec 13–17, 2013, Sao Paolo, Brazil, SMS Base For authorized instructors. Jan 3–5, 2014, Kundrolling, NYC, SMS Level One Sessions: to be decided. Jan 17–19, 2014, Tsegyalgar East, SMS Level Two Price: more information soon. Jan 31–Feb 2, 2014, Kundrolling, NYC, SMS Base Feb 14–17, 2014, Tsegyalgar East, SMS Base Mar 7–11, 2014, Berlin, Germany, SMS Base (Primordial Knowledge) Mar 14–18, 2014, Cologne, Germany, SMS Level Two Mar 21–25, 2014, Vienna, Austria, SMS Base (Purification) Mar 28–Apr 1, 2014, Phendeling, SMS Base (Purification) Apr 2–6, 2014, Phendeling, Czech Republic, SMS Level One THE MIRROR · No. 123 · July, August 2013

Artists in the Dzogchen Community

22

of the integration of art forms. Light vision experiences. The rays are James Walton Shelley’s Defense of Poetry is, as Illumination. Inner Light. Enlight- myriad symbologies, schools and well, as a solid prescription for the enment. Ego lux mundi, the list styles, trends, fashions and follies. Fox proper view of Poetry as a kind of goes on. We find light as a prima- This is the realm of composition, pure vision: A passage reads: ry metaphor of mental and supra- the materials have been laid out, his June, I visited the 2013 “In the infancy of society ev- mental states in the poetry of all and the editorial function com- Biennale di Venezia, con- ery author is necessarily a poet, cultures. In the Tibetan Book of mences. As Trungpa Rinpoche ex- Tsidered by many to be the because language itself is poetry; the Dead, we find elaborate in- pressed it in the three principles world’s most important exhibition and to be a poet is to apprehend structions for navigation of the of Heaven, Earth, and Man. Heaven of contemporary art. The show the true and the beautiful, in a several in terms of choos- is the blank canvas, shunyata; we this year is entitled The Encyclo- word, the good which exists in ing between brilliant and hazy col- are a little afraid to begin. Earth pedic Palace. The Italian curators the relation, subsisting, first be- ors; green or grey, red or blue, etc. is the first mark made (“First dot: address the all too human quest tween existence and perception, One’s future birth might become best dot.”) and Man is the organi- to know everything. And the many and secondly between percep- a function of one’s perception of zational relationships. Painting is artworks in the show manifest tion and expression. Every origi- color. For a painter steeped in the the journalism of the flesh; a tran- our urges to organize and manage Portrait by: Varvara Bracho. nal language near to its source tradition of 20th century abstrac- substantiation of sound to light to all that delicious data and spiritual is in itself the chaos of a cyclic tion, the Thodol, a text rays. When green is a symbol of omniscience into a comprehensi- was the Bible written by the holy poem: the copiousness of lexi- firmly rooted in Dzogchen, pres- karma families, etc., contemporary ble format. ghost, but that this same spirit cography and the distinctions ents a rich field of enquiry. If we abstraction takes on a vivid new The centerpiece of the show, was the author of all books. Stu- of grammar are the works of a follow the logic of the Dzogchen potency. the keynote, is Carl Jung’s Red dents of Dzogchen will perhaps later age, and are merely the cat- formulation of Sound, Light, Rays, Book; a compendium of his one day organize and interpret the Nature dreams and prophesies in a book world’s spiritual literature accord- On being introduced to the teach- of watercolor drawings depicting ing to the principles of the great ings of Buddha, I was especially energies of the subconsious and perfection, bringing under one enamored of the philosophical collective unconscious in images bridge the hundreds of rivers of and spiritual implications of Bud- that seem to have many sources; human understanding. dha Nature. The assertion that from ancient Egyptian manu- This year I’ve been living in the enlightenment is innate yet veiled scripts to Navajo sand paintings. pleasant precincts of the Jewish by emotion, as a jewel under cloth, I think Jung himself referred to quarter of Le Marais, in the 3rd was for me a cause for rejoicing, some of these dream designs as arrondissement of Paris. It was in Like so many of my kind, I had la- “”. The Red Book is Carl a bookshop there I discovered the bored long in the debtors prison Jung’s personal spiritual biogra- Sefir Yetzirah, often called “The of Christian morality, and Buddha phy in the form of a dream diary. Book of Creation”, or “The Book of Nature opened the door. Moreover, I think every artist is, in his or Formation”, one of the fundamen- in the literature of the Dzogchen her own way, writing a spiritual tal texts of esoteric Judaism. The tradition, the term “nature” is of- biography. Sefir Yetzirah describes in some ten synonymous with . Ka- As a member of the Dzogchen detail how the Hebrew alphabet simir Malevich said his paintings Community since 2002, my expe- is the source of all creation, from were not natural; Agnes Martin rience in Venice this summer pro- cosmogenesis to artistic composi- said as much about hers. And yet, voked some thoughts about the tion. For example: I wonder why we insist that the relationship between my own art II.2. He hath formed, weighed, life of the mind is not natural if practice and my dharma life. For transmuted, composed, and cre- the nature of mind is. this essay, I would like to propose ated with these twenty-two let- The global environmental ca- two principal categories of artis- ters every living being, and every tastrophe we inhabit is a crisis of tic practice: Creation and Nature. soul yet uncreated. our vision of Nature. And a crisis And, if everything goes well, we II.3. Twenty-two letters are of creativity. Capital insists upon might arrive somewhere nearer formed by the voice, impressed exploitation relative to ecosys- an understanding of the nature of on the air, and audibly uttered tems, and mass extinctions con- creation. On the other hand, per- in five situations, in the throat, tinue apace. Today whole ecosys- haps it was Kukai who said, “For guttural sounds; in the palate, tems are regarded as economic in- a lump of mud in a puddle, big palatals; by the tongue, linguals; puts whose value beyond moneti- plans make no sense.” through the teeth, dentals; and zation is ignored or ridiculed. I am by the lips, labial sounds. in search of a definition of art (and Creation I propose that all linguistic “Ruine Solaire”, 2013 watercolor and pencil on paper, 30 x 22.5 cm what is art if not the metaphor of Creativity is fundamental to the systems are participating in the human creativity oft attributed to human experience. Personally, the kinds of creativity described by alogue and the form of the cre- we may glimpse a genetic heri- gods in creation myths?) that al- mystery of creation as formulated the Sefir Yetzirah. My opinion on ations of poetry tage in all painting that descends, lows universal and limitless states in the Dzogchen teachings has this is certainly a product of my But poets, or those who imag- as light from sound, from Poetry. to be experienced regardless of deeply influenced my approach to practice. For students of Mantra- ine and express this indestruc- cultural biases; where rigpa is the poetry and painting. To take just yana, the relationship of sound to tible order, are not only the au- Rays primordial poem, perception the one example of an explanation of creation is abundantly evident. For thors of language and of music, As light differentiation and dif- natural light, and purified emo- the nature of phenomena found in students of Dzogchen, the multi- of the dance, and architecture, fusion continues, spectrums are tions the rays. And the best thing the Dzogchen teachings, I’d like to modal perception of the relation- and statuary, and painting: they observed, and, as the metaphor of of all about nature? It is natural! consider some modes of artistic ships of each to all that comes are the institutors of laws, and light passing through a crystal, My feeble and clumsy essay, creation in terms of what most with discovery of rigpa is truly the founders of civil society, and from the white light of @ comes filled with nonsense, in now fin- readers of the Mirror will find limitless. For lovers of poetry, be the inventors of the arts of life, infinite rainbows of sound and ished. Tashi! to be a familiar formula: Sound, it terma texts composed in seven and the teachers, who draw into Light, Rays. syllable lines of highly musical Ti- a certain propinquity with the betan, or the songs of , or beautiful and the true that par- Sound the Russian of Joseph Brodsky, or tial apprehension of the agen- In many of the world’s spiritual the Italian of Dante, or the incho- cies of the invisible world which heritages we find narratives about ate mumbling of infants: language, is called religion” the creation of the earth. Some- sound, is an enduring source of In Shelley’s telling, artists are times God speaks; and the word creation. And the utterance of those who “imagine and express magically manifests in the mate- sound, be it The Song of the Vajra, this indestructible order”. Had rial dimension. Sometimes a god or a simple @, has profound ener- Shelley been aware of the po- or hero dreams and from the getic consequences that extend far etry of Padmasambhava, he may dream cosmic systems rise and beyond cultural specificity. Alas, a have said something about the fall. All of these stories of cosmic Dzogchen analysis of European lit- Vajrayana. The “indestructible or - creation are allegories of artistic erature has yet to be written. Mov- der” Shelley refers to, may have creation. More generally, Creation ing forward 3000 years, from the direct correlation to principles of mythology allegorizes the power age of Abraham, to what histori- the Dzogchen Teaching. Such com- of thoughts and emotions to form ans of Europe call, rather euphe- parisons are for me a continuing dimensions. Practitioners of Man- mistically,” The Enlightenment”, fascination. Part of my job as an tra know the power of seed sylla- let’s turn to an essay by the Eng- artist is to bridge disparate cul- bles. I would suggest that Bernard lish poet Shelley. Shelley’s Defense tures, to remove limitations to

Shaw was on to something simi- of Poetry, written about 1819, is an cultural integration. Dzogchen is a Drawing by lar when he wrote that not only inspiring crie de coeur in favor perfect guide. Tenzin Gendun. THE MIRROR · No. 123 · July, August 2013

Review

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list of opponents of the cult, with stroyed large and important Pad- Raimondo indicates the final The Dalai the in the first posi- masambhava statues at Kailash aim of all this is to take control of tion. Starting from here, Raimon- and at the ancient Nyingmapa the selection of (as has al- Lama and the do unravels the facts behind the monastery of Samye (does this re- ready happened in the case of the King Demon murder and follows up clues that mind readers of Pabongka and of ) and thus eventu- lead him back in time to the sev- the Taliban?). However when some ally to choose the reincarnation Tracking a Triple Murder enteenth century and afield into monks from Ganden destroyed a of the Dalai Lama, politically and Mystery Through the Shugden centres as far apart as statue of Shugden in their own spiritually the most important Mists of Time India, England and Italy. (Psycho- monastery they were arrested, Lama in . Thus logically speaking, his encounter imprisoned and made to pay for by controlling this unique and Raimondo Bultrini with the cunning Ganchen another statue. This statue was crucial feature of Buddhism in Ti- 2013 Tibet House in Milan makes a fascinating con- installed in bet, not inappropriately labelled by New York trast with the openness, frankness in the presence, among others, of some as lamaism, the hegemony and concern of the Dalai Lama in Ganden tulku and representatives of the Chinese over Tibet will be Andy Lukianowicz their many meetings.) and officials of the TAR regional complete, with the connivance of Parts 2 to 5 seamlessly weave government, Chinese Commu- the Shugden supporters. At first Raimondo’s message a historic overview of the Gyalpo nist Party and Lhasa municipal- glance theirs may seem an un- of July 12, 2013: Shugden cult from its start among ity, shortly after a law was passed likely alliance, however these are Dear all, pecially antagonistic towards the Gelugpas at the time of the Fifth by the TAR government regulat- two ultra-conservative, authori- I would like to inform you about Nyingmapa order of Tibetan Bud- Dalai Lama (1617–82). Ably assisted ing religious affairs and specifi- tarian and reactionary organisa- the publication of the English dhism, to a lesser extent towards by translator Elio Guarisco part 4 cally the construction of open air tions, one political and atheistic, version of my book ‘The Da- the other schools, and even to- gives a potted biography and de- statuary. With no hint of irony, the the other religio-obscurantist, lai Lama and the King Demon, wards other Gelugpas and in par- tails of the mysterious death of Chinese authorities accused “the both bent on denying freedom of (Tracking a Triple Murder Mys- ticular the Dalai Lama, an outspo- Dragpa Gyaltsen (1619–56), the Dalai Lama clique” of violating re- thought, speech and action and tery Through the Mists of Time)’ ken opponent of the practice of Gelugpa lama who out of rancour ligious freedom. not stopping at beatings and mur- until now available only in Italian this demonic spirit. Its followers became the spiteful gyalpo spirit Interestingly, the fact that the der to achieve their aims. In this language. claim that its aim is to maintain Shugden. (In an interview with Dalai Lama granted Raimondo way the Chinese will continue, It has been published by cou- the purity of Tsonghkapa’s teach- Raimondo the Dalai Lama specu- much time for interviews during with abating opposition, in their rageous Tibet House of New York ing, and are particularly intolerant lates that in fact Shugden may the Tibetan riots early this year inexorable transformation of the with an introduction by Prof. of the present Dalai Lama due to be a ‘dam-sri’ spirit, the spirit of evinces that he deems the Shug- social, human and physical geog- Robert Thurman, curator of this his openness towards the teach- an oath-breaker subservient to den question of great importance. raphy of Tibet, assisted by their new edition, updated and revis- ings of the other schools of Ti- the gyalpo class, and thus not a In Part 6, the most important in Shugden demonocratic lackeys ited after the first Italian version betan Buddhism. In recent years true gyalpo spirit after all.) Part 5 terms of the future of the posi- relentlessly stifling and repress- of 2008. The excellent translation a prominent Gelugpa lama in the deals with Pabongka Rinpoche tion of Buddhism and of the Dalai ing all other spiritual traditions to is by Maria Simmons. west, Kelsang Gyatso, founded the (1878–1941), a prominent Gelugpa Lama in Tibet, Raimondo investi- promote their own ‘pure’ version As many of you may know, New Kadampa Tradition, in which teacher and leading proponent of gates and analyses at length and of Buddhism. In their intentions the text is about the long time the worship of Shugden forms a the Shugden cult and enemy of in detail the growing ties between the freedom of the Tibetans to re- conflict created among Tibet- crucial part – so much so that he the thirteenth Dalai Lama who the Shugden movement and the ceive teachings and transmissions ans (and Westerners in more now forbids membership to those opposed the cult for its divisive Chinese political authorities, in and engage in practices to free the recent years) on the issue of unwilling to do the Shugden puja. sectarianism, and with Pabongka’s particular the powerful United nature of mind from the shackles worshipping Gyalpo Shugden, a Another prominent practitioner is main disciple (and fellow Shug- Front Department (the infamous of the dualistic mind will gradu- controversial entity considered the Milan-based Ganchen tulku, den worshipper) Trijang Rinpoche Chinese Octopus). There have ally be replaced by the sordid wor- extremely dangerous for the once the darling of Milanese me- (1901–81). The latter was junior tu- been international meetings and ship of a demonic spirit. Teaching itself and for the future dia stars, who as we shall see has tor to the Dalai Lama, who in his conventions, attended among oth- As is clear from the last part of Tibet by H.H. the Dalai Lama become very active in forging alli- youth himself did the practice ers by Ganchen tulku who is now of Raimondo’s book, which makes and by most of the Tibetan Mas- ances between his group and the imparted to him by Trijang. (As a prominent figure in a Chinese- grim reading for the future, the ters, including our beloved Chö- Chinese authorities. Raimondo informs us, the cur- Tibetan government committee, danger is real: the NKT is already gyal Namkhai Norbu, who kindly In this book Raimondo thor- rent Trijang tulku has given up further cementing ties between the largest and also the fastest supported and helped in many oughly examines the religious his robes and retired to private the Shugden faction and the Chi- growing Tibetan Buddhist group ways my long research. The Da- and political aspects of this mat- life with very few disciples, not nese authorities. Financially and in the west, and maybe also in lai Lama gave me several inter- ter. It took eleven years to write, wanting to be involved in further politically supported by the Chi- Asia. Practitioners and people views on the historical, religious and it is well worth the wait. The murderous plots devised by the nese, the Shugden Charitable So- with an interest in Tibet need to and political conflict aroused by wealth of detail, the investigative Shugden cult.) ciety now publishes a magazine be informed about the facts and the controversial cult. zeal, the shrewd analysis of per- When however the Dalai Lama whose title, Times of Democracy, take action where possible and ap- For more information on son and fact, alongside Raimondo’s observed the baleful effects of the betrays its largely political intent. propriate. It is for this reason that this book you can check www. honed professional skill in report- practice, both on the individual Incidentally the Shugden support- this book is essential reading for hayhouse.com or www.amazon ing and writing, his evident empa- practitioner and on the present sit- ers, perhaps more media-wise, all those interested in the future .com. thy with the Dalai Lama, his pas- uation in Tibet and among Tibetan organise much other counter-in- of Tibet and of Tibetan spirituality, sion for the subject and concern Buddhists in the world at large, formation. Anyone interested can and Raimondo is to be congratu- Long Life to the Master! for the threats it poses, combine he himself stopped practising the consult YouTube or wikipedia, the lated and thanked for having done to make this a very good read. Shugden puja. In fact the practice online encyclopaedia, in which such a good job. The sub-title of the book, of Shugden gives quick results but nearly all the information avail- “Do not be afraid of spirits, but Tracking a Triple Murder Mystery leads ultimately to madness in the able on the Shugden affair is sup- beware of men with knives” Through the Mists of Time, in- case of the individual practitioner portive of the Shugden side and troduces the three main themes and leads to social unrest and vio- critical of the Dalai Lama. (But on n this important book Raimon- of the book: murder, religion and lence in the case of the populace. the other hand there is a Yahoo do Bultrini, a reporter with 30 politics. (Chögyal Namkhai Norbu has indi- Group specifically for “new Kad- Iyears experience of journal- Part 1 is an account of the mur- cated the excesses of the Chinese ampa survivors”!) ism, provides readers with a de- der in Dharamasala in 1997 of a ‘cultural revolution’, which even finitive account of the cult of Gyal- Gelugpa , Lobsang Gyatso Chairman Mao Dzedong admitted po Shugden that is causing such (who had attended the Confer- got out of control, as an example consternation in the Tibetan Bud- ence on Tibetan Language held of the latter.) In fact he now active- dhist world especially among fol- at Merigar, the west Europe seat ly discourages its practice, speak- lowers of the Gelugpa order. Read- of he Dzogchen Community of ing against it in public. Contrary Books on Asia: ers may wonder why this issue is Chögyal Namkhai Norbu) and two to Shugden propaganda, the Dalai important and what has it to do of his students. The geshe was Lama does not deny others the Buddhist Practice with them? As Raimondo shows teacher and Principal at the Insti- right to worship as they please: Philosophy this is not simply a doctrinal mat- tute of Buddhist Dialectics and an however he does ask those who ter or a quaint esoteric battle of outspoken critic of the Shugden practise Shugden not to attend his Art magic: what is at stake here is the cult among the Gelugpa school. teachings. In one interview with Language survival of Buddhism in Tibet free The police investigation led to the Raimondo the Dalai Lama raises Culture of Chinese control. identification of Tibetan follow- the crucial spiritual issue of this Travel To give a brief overview (in- ers of the Shugden cult as hav- matter when he casts doubt about terested readers may also read ing committed the brutal murder. whether Buddhist practice and my short article published in More importantly, it unearthed spirit worship are compatible. We are pleased to deliver any new and antiquarian books this Journal some ten years ago) the commissioners of the murder A curious fact struck me and on Asia, remote publications, or hard to find titles. Ask for Gyalpo Shugden or Dongyal is a as Shugden followers in Delhi and would be amusing were it not our actual stock list! Garuda Books Switzerland Bookshop. ‘protector’ worshipped by - machinations of a plot master- so sinister. The Chinese People’s Peter Eisenegger•Garuda Books•[email protected]•Fax 0041 56 648 40 88 pa sectarian extremists. It is es- minded by them and a murder hit Armed Police have publicly de- THE MIRROR · No. 123 · July, August 2013

room. No hesitation, nothing to it. And we all sat transfixed, waiting for the statue to How I Met reply. Although it was not audible to us, ap- parently the discourse was rich and woven with meaning. All of this, to me, was mi- Chögyal Namkhai Norbu raculous. How could it be? Beyond explana- tion, beyond definition. I just relaxed in the Gregg Johnson state. What else to do? After those years there were four re- treats. In 1995 a retreat took place at a camp 4 July, 2013 of scattered applause would erupt. On to in Malibu, and we slept over in bunk beds. he supreme good fortune of meet- the next item. It was absolutely the most During the Ganapuja on the last day, as I sat ing Chögyal Namkhai Norbu is an slow motion transaction imaginable, and I in the middle of a sizable assembly of over Toccasion that I sincerely wish may was mesmerized. The pure joy of it, utterly 200 practitioners, the plates were distribut- manifest for as many beings as possible, without tension whatsoever. And, somehow ed, and I found myself overcome with mirth. and it is certainly the most precious of op- a transmission of the most relaxed pres- As we sang and sang A La Ho, Maha Suka portunities in this life. For me, the circum- ence throughout it all. Ho for what seemed like 30 minutes while stances leading up to my first retreat in Now, after 27 years, the Dzogchen Com- everyone received their plate, I was laugh- 1986 evolved through many other favorable munity in Los Angeles is alive and well, and ing out loud. Rinpoche was laughing as well, circumstances, and I am in awe to consider we are growing. The journey of our sangha and the room seemed filled with light. Just the auspicious occasions that ensued. How continues along, having survived 25 years But, somehow, I mustered the courage and another incredible moment in and endless these times of life are brought about, one of cultivation, energized by the amazing agreed. As we waited to cross the street, stream of revelations over the years. Fast never knows, despite all efforts to recon- devotion of our precious Master. Fascinat- Michael said, “Rinpoche, I saw something re- forward to 2005 at a retreat in Topanga. I struct some tattered threads. To recount ing place, Los Angeles. Much maligned, and ally interesting in Santa Monica yesterday.” was ensconced in a small corner surround- the bumps and slides of my life along the deservedly so. I remember Alan Watts us- And Rinpoche replied, “No, I don’t believe it. ed by mixing boards controlling the audio. way is to risk a fatuous exercise in point- ing us as a verb: the ‘Los Angeles-zation’ of Something interesting in Santa Monica?” In- On Sunday morning the audio signal was less vanities. I dedicate it to your entertain- society, when referring to the ugly wanton stantly, a wonderfully humorous way of to- not reaching the webcast equipment, and ment, perhaps a laugh or two, and testa- suburban sprawl of consumeristic hot rod- tal presence and, in the laugh, a profound there was a delay for some minutes. Dur- ment to the supreme compassion of our ders blazing mindlessly across an asphalt statement about the entire scene. Here we ing this time I felt a surge of pressure as precious master. prairieland. But alongside the monstrosity were, surrounded by the noisy smoggy I traced the connections and struggled to When very young I had dreams, night- of Hollywood celebriosity and the endless rumble on one of those stinky humid L.A. solve the dysfunction. On stage, Rinpoche’s mares perhaps, in which vast proportional- miles of concrete, glass and steel there is nights, and, suddenly freed from any ten- presence was radiant, and then, all at once, ity and microscopic tiny-ness were some- also another side. sion, the darkness sparkled. Yet though freed from tension, the signal resumed and how interchangeable. Much later, reading of The first series of annual retreats by this wretched LaLa city, so devoid of any the teaching session commenced. Just an- Milarepa staying dry in a yak horn during a Chögyal Namkhai Norbu in Los Angeles redeeming points of interest, was naked for other concrete transmission – allowing this hailstorm, I understood. Like others in the took place at the International Buddhist anyone to see, out of nowhere this glimmer instant presence to arise naturally, and the sixties, I was greatly amused by an English Meditation Center – a three-story house of “reason to be here” just … arrived, and it struggle ceases. plumber claiming to be a Tibetan Lama, located in a very urban neighborhood at continues to arrive today. Last year our Gakyil formed for the re- T. Lobsang Rampa. Soon after I encoun- 928 S. New Hampshire. Retreats were held Once during those days at the IBMC in treat in Pasadena. It proved that an urban tered writings of Lama Kazi Dawa Samdup in the living room, which could hold maybe which the retreat deliciously stretched long setting could work and propel our momen- through Evans-Wentz – it was 1970 in Colo- 40 people sitting packed on the floor. Yet, through the mornings and afternoons, hav- tum tremendously. This year a venue in rado Springs. there we were, surrounded by light. ing just arrived back from a lunch break, I Glendale was identified for the retreat. Our My freshman year at Colorado State Uni- There were three years of retreats in entered the room to see our precious Mas- Gakyil has expanded; we meet regularly versity passed being enrolled as a philoso- 1987–89 as I remember, and several in North- ter napping on the floor in the center of the and stream our practice so anyone in L.A. phy major studying Eastern thought with ern California as well. On one occasion, Mi- room. Around the edges were various of us can participate. The schedule for this year Professor Suk Koo Lee, and expert in the chael Katz of Dream Yoga fame asked me to practitioners, not daring to peep. The magi- promises Vajra Dance, Yantra Yoga, Santi work of Zhuangzi. Take away? My most accompany them to dinner in small group cal absurdity of the moment was palpable. Maha Sangha retreats and much more. carefully considered conclusions were en- that included our precious master. To say How could this be? Asleep in our midst, Supreme good fortune. And may it be the tirely misguided, and the life of an academ- that I was surprised and overwhelmed was dressed in relaxed L.A. casuals, this master occasion for benefit for all beings, in Los ic would do nothing except reinforce them. an understatement. I felt suddenly embar- of the Great Perfection totally relaxed, and Angeles, on this planet, and far beyond. I was accepted at California Institute of the rassed even to admit that I needed food, then, he rose up, instantly fully awake, and Arts and declared my major in the classical much less to be in the presence of Chög- began conversing with the stone statue of music of North India, Tabla. CalArts. Ahh, yal Namkhai Norbu in a small Thai place. Buddha Shakyamuni on the alter across the the E-ticket ride down the razors edge. What’s it going to be, hedonism or asceti- cism? (Luckily I’ve not been forced to se- lect.) My professor Bill Douglas introduced me to Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche, and Bill brought me to many events, such as with His Holiness the 16th Gyalwa in the Black Crown Ceremony at the Masonic Temple in downtown L.A. By this time I’d been performing in con- certs of the classical music of India and meeting a great many of the musicians in this milieu. Steve Landsberg and per- formed in concerts in California, New Mex- ico and Hawaii. Thus it was that I became aware of Dzogchen and discovered that a retreat was to be held in Redwood City in 1986. When I arrived at this gorgeous piece of wooded land that summer afternoon, a kind of auction was going on such as I had never experienced. Outside in a field, in the most relaxed way one can imagine, Chög- yal Namkhai Norbu was conducting a slow motion bidding exchange: “Who will fifty” he would say in an extremely pleasant and good natured tone. Then, after several min- utes, again, “Who will fifty?” I took my seat in the grass, totally amazed by the proceed- ings. I could not ascertain that anyone was paying attention or communicating their bid. Clumps of friends nonchalantly chatted and laughed, and somehow the bid would be acknowledged, completely unseen by me no matter how I tried. Then, “Who will hun- dred?” and thus time passed by. Eventually the thanka or statue would sell, and a round