Zasep Tulku Rinpoche's last visit to Moscow was full of power: a dazzling thunderstorm, withering heat, new bonds of friendship and the radiance of the study of the Dharma. The weekend began Friday, August 1, with a public talk held at the Moscow Community Center. About 80 people gathered to hear Rinpoche speak on the Buddhist perspective on death and dying. The group was keenly interested, asking questions as varied as, "What is the experience of death for an animal?" and "How can I help my embittered and dying father?"
Rinpoche answered each question with characteristic care and clarity, often pausing to consider the most effective and easily understood response. With death as a topic, you might have expected the meeting to have a somber tone. However, Rinpoche's delightful smile and lighthearted humor -- as well as the kind viewpoints expressed in Buddhist thought -- created a cheerful atmosphere. As the group dispersed, the room was full of laughter and pleasant conversation, and, later that night, the most powerful thunderstorm of the season swept through the Palouse. I, for one, considered it an auspicious sign.
A group of about twenty students gathered the following morning at the Yoga Center to receive the Green Tara Empowerment. These instructions, explanations and meditations -- when handed down by a qualified master -- provide students with a powerful tool for awakening active compassion within their mind streams. As one of the students, I feel extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity to receive the initiation from Rinpoche, and continue to benefit by using the knowledge in my personal practice.
Although our study of the Dharma was intense during that weekend, the
students also had time to get to know each other and Rinpoche in more relaxed
social settings, including a highly enjoyable potluck supper. Several Canadian
students traveled to Moscow for the teachings, and it was particularly
interesting to meet them. In fact, the entire weekend -- despite the temperatures
reaching 100 degrees and more -- was a tremendous joy. Thanks so much to
all the members of the Sangha who worked to make the event the success
it was. Let's do it again!
