Pema Mandala
Pema Mandala
Pema Mandala
And so it is. From across this nation and around the world, we have
come together in this lotus mandala as a sangha family, united under
the banner of the Buddhadharma and by devotion to our teachers. The
A Publication of
cause of our coming together is within each of us... our own merit, our
Padmasambhava Buddhist Center
Nyingma Lineage of Tibetan Buddhism Buddha nature. And our teachers provide the ideal condition for us to
explore our true nature. We are drawn together as we are drawn to
Founding Directors them and to the light of the dharma we see reflected in them.
Ven. Khenchen Palden Sherab Rinpoche
Ven. Khenpo Tsewang Dongyal Rinpoche For those of us who are thus drawn, Pema Mandala is a gathering
Rita Frizzell, Editor/Art Director
ground across the miles. In this issue, you’ll read a variety of contribu-
Ani Lorraine, Contributing Editor tions from our sangha members, each one a shimmering facet of our
Beth Gongde, Copy Editor sangha jewel. You’ll read of ways that you can also become involved,
whether through sharing a moment of inspiration you received from
Pema Mandala Office
the lamas, penning a dharma poem, or recounting how you came to
For subscriptions, change of address or
editorial contributions, please contact: the dharma in the first place. Perhaps you have an idea for an article
Pema Mandala Magazine or even a series. Maybe you have photos or art to share.
c/o Rita Frizzell
1716A Linden Avenue Or maybe you’d like to be one of the people who helps make it all
Nashville, TN 37212 possible. This issue has eight color pages due to the generosity of ten
(615) 463-2374 • ritadakini@comcast.net
“color sponsors” from Nashville, TN. Tibetan Buddhism is so
Pema Mandala welcomes all contributions vibrant, and our teachers’ aesthetic is so beautiful, it’s a joy to see
for consideration for publication. All submis- color burst from the page.
sions will be edited as appropriate for
appearing in a PBC magazine representing Also, starting with this issue, we invite you to subscribe. The Khenpos’
the Ven. Khenpos. Please send submissions
to the above address. Deadline for the next
vision for Pema Mandala is expanding, but they are careful to allocate
issue is August 1, 2005. PBC funds wisely. We can fulfill their vision of a sangha magazine by
helping Pema Mandala pay for itself via subscriptions, sponosors, and
PBC Office even advertising. As funds become available, Pema Mandala can grow,
For information about PBC, please contact: extending the voice of the lamas and the precious teachings of this lin-
Padmasambhava Buddhist Center
618 Buddha Hwy
eage ever further. A subscription form can be found on page 30.
Sidney Center, NY 13839
jowozegyal@catskill.net That you are reading this magazine now is also not “co-accidental.”
(607) 865-8068 Many conditions have made it possible, and each one is deeply appreci-
www.padmasambhava.org ated. May this issue be of benefit and may the merit spread to all beings.
features
5 PBC Project Update
Khenpo Tsewang Dongyal Rinpoche shares the progress
of the nunnery and monastery, the stupa, and the west-
ern ordained sangha.
8 12 19 Dharma Poetry
20 Elemental Yoga
Diane Avice du Buisson presents a method for integrat-
ing the five elements with one’s yoga asana practice.
24 Glimpses of Wisdom
Students share moments of insight gleaned from our
teachers on living the dharma in daily life.
14 20
26 PBC Schedule for Spring / Summer 2005
28 PBC News
18
Model of the new nunnery wing.
Tashi deleg!
It is nice to let you know that we are well and our small activities on
behalf of the Buddhadharma are also flourishing in their own way.
Thank you for all your kindness and support.
Another memorable year has passed. We are all in the Wood Bird Year.
We hope and pray that this bird is a white dove singing the melodious
song of peace and harmony in the lush forest of this planet.
I N T E R V I E W W I T H K H E N P O T S E W A N G D O N G Y A L R I N P O C H E :
nunnery
Orgyen Samye Chökhor Ling was dedicated very energetic. They are chanting and damarus for three or four nuns, so they all
just three years ago in Sarnath, India. Its studying every day. have them now. Residents at the neigh-
four acres of beautiful land are full of fruit boring Kagyu monastery tell us that they
trees, and it is just a few minutes walk from Editor: What is the curriculum like at
can hear the nuns practicing every
the Khenpos’ monastery. The nunnery the nunnery?
evening and it’s really beautiful.
reflects our teachers’ commitment to having Khenpo Tsewang: The nuns’ education
equal educational and spiritual opportunities Editor: I understand an addition is being
is exactly the same as at the monastery.
for males and females. The beginning nuns first learn the basics, made to the nunnery.
Editor: Rinpoche, how many nuns are like reading and writing and they learn Khenpo Tsewang: At present there is a
now residing at Orgyen Samye Chökhor the chants. They all receive a good aca- wonderful two-story house on the land.
Ling and where are they from? demic foundation, including grammar,
The architecture is beautiful but there
English, and art. From the Khenpo, they
Khenpo Tsewang: We now have ten
aren’t many rooms for the nuns and
learn philosophy and principles of the
nuns, ranging in age from 13 to mid- guests to stay. The new wing will have a
Bodhisattva life. From the Lopon, they
30s. The younger nuns are from Nepal, shrineroom, library, reading and studying
learn about ritual and ceremony, and
Bhutan, and Sikkhim. The two senior room, as well as better facilities for the
how to make torma. So it’s really just like
nuns are from Tibet and they help with the monastery. nuns and visitors. We’re planning to have
the younger ones. The senior nun, 20 to 30 bedrooms, each with its own
Dolkar, has completed two three-year Actually, the nuns have a little extra, bathroom attached, so it will be very con-
retreats and came from our village. The because they are learning more about ducive for private practice and retreat.
next most senior nun is also from our Chöd and using the hand drums
area of Tibet, not far from our village. (damarus). They practice Chöd every The construction is already up to the sec-
She has completed one three-year evening. David and Margo from Florida ond floor. If all goes well and if the funds
retreat and has been at our nunnery for helped sponsor drums for six nuns, while are available, we hope to complete it by
three years. Together, the nuns are all Ani Lorraine sponsored bells, dorjes and the end of year.
SPRING/SUMMER 2005 | Pema Mandala 5
Our newest and youngest monk, Chakra. The new abbot and vajra acharya, The monks and nuns practicing with Rinpoches
Khenpo Tsewang and Dorje Lopon Tsewang. in the monastery shrineroom.
monastery
Padma Samye Chökhor Ling is located just a Finally, there are about five helpers who ney across the Tibetan border last year
short distance from the Deer Park at attend to administration, food and all the and found his way immediately to us.
Sarnath, where Buddha Shakyamuni gave necessities of both the monastery and
his first teaching on the Four Noble Truths. nunnery. The manager is our cousin-in- Editor: What have you heard about con-
Due to the significance of this site, the land law, Nyima. ditions at Gochen today?
for the monastery was purchased in 1972
Editor: Please tell us about the new Khenpo Tsewang: The current situation
according to the inspiration and blessings of
Khenpo and Lopon. is not very great. So far, they have been
H.H. Dudjom Rinpoche. Financial circum-
unable to rebuild the monastery. There
stances came together in [R ??] Construction Khenpo Tsewang: They are both lamas are still devotees, monks, and nuns there,
began in 1990 and the completed monastery from Tibet named Tsewang! Khenpo but since they don’t have a monastery
was officially inaugurated in 1995. means Abbot and a Dorje Lopon is a they are scattered, some even two or
Editor: What is the latest news about our Vajra Acharya – or a teacher who is qual- three days away. They are not concen-
monks at Samye Chökhor Ling? ified to teach Vajrayana. trated together as in ancient times. Even
The new Khenpo Tsewang is from His so, we have heard that they still have the
Khenpo Tsewang: There are now 17
Holiness Penor Rinpoche’s monastery. best treasure of antique statues and
monks, ranging in age from 9 to about 30.
Last year we asked His Holiness to send blessed objects in the area, but they don’t
Like the nuns, the monks also come from
one teacher and he kindly agreed. have a place to put them.
the Himalayan region near the Tibetan
border. The two newest monks are also Khenpo Tsewang is a relative of our
the youngest – ages 9 and 11. Like the monastery manager, so there was a con-
nuns, they were offered the refuge cere- nection already. He came last year and
mony and now they are learning the we wanted to honor his presence there so
basics. Early every morning they are read- we installed him as the new Khenpo.
ing dharma texts in Tibetan, especially
Dorje Lopon Tsewang Dudhul is from our
Manjushri, and the older monks are
own monastery in Tibet – Gochen. He
teaching them.
studied with the older monks at Gochen
The Khenpo and Lopon head up teach- and completed more than a three-year
ing at both institutions, plus there are retreat. He is one of the last few experts
two or three assistants teaching subjects on the Gochen tradition and Tsasum
such as English and Tibetan grammar. Lingpa’s teachings. He had a hard jour-
The Khenpos’ cousin-in-law Nyima,
manager of the monastery, with his family.
6 Pema Mandala | SPRING/SUMMER 2005
Pema Tsultrim (Laia) walking with Rinpoches. Pema Dragpa with his family and the venerable Khenpos Ani Joanie after her ordination
on his ordination day. at the Miracle Stupa.
Ani Lorraine with two of the nuns at the Deer Park. Practice in Jetavan Park, Shravasti.
SPRING/SUMMER 2005 | Pema Mandala 7
the great miracle stupa
Padma Samye Jetavan, the Miracle Stupa for landscaping the grounds. There are many erosity of our sangha members, we have a
World Peace, was dedicated last year in beautiful activities happening in Jetavan Sangha Dana fund, which helps support
India. It is located in Jetavan Grove in Grove and it is good to be a part of it. all those living and working full time at
Shravasti, where Buddha Shakyamuni Padma Samye Ling, both ordained and
resided for the longest time after his enlighten- Editor: Looking at all the PBC projects,
lay practitioners. Offerings to the fund
ment and performed many miracles. Rising both here and in India, it’s easy to see
are always welcome.
100 feet into the sky, the Great Miracle there is a great need for dana – generosi-
Stupa commemorates Lord Buddha’s activi- ty. In Tibet, the tradition of supporting In addition, individuals can sponsor
ties in this auspicious location. monks and nuns was well established. It monks and nuns, or give to specific proj-
seems that this tradition is still being ects or to the general fund. We have a
Editor: This was your first trip back since developed in the west. How can we help? saying in Tibet, “The eye medicine is
the stupa was consecrated. How is it now? only for the eye,” so if people wish to
Khenpo Tsewang: It’s true that monas-
Khenpo Tsewang: It’s really beautiful. donate to a specific project, it will be used
teries have always been able to exist
We stayed for one week, but it felt like exactly as they wish.
because of dana. Whenever people had
only three days. The atmosphere is very
requests for prayers or teachings, they Many thanks to Khenpo Tsewang
peaceful. The temple is open daily from 9
always made offerings. If you make offer- Rinpoche for taking the time to share the lat-
am to 6 pm, and many Indians and tourists
ings, it makes a stronger connection and est news from India with the readers of
come for pilgrimage and practice.
sets up favorable conditions for a good Pema Mandala. The progress of all the proj-
We have one monk who now lives there result. We have heard that some dharma ects is inspiring. May they continue to
full time, practicing, plus one Indian centers have a dana bowl to help support increase and flourish, and be of benefit to all
caretaker. They are currently working on their monks and nuns. Due to the gen- beings everywhere!
8 Pema Mandala | SPRING/SUMMER 2005
Sponsor a PBC Monk or Nun
Due to the kindness and generosity of our PBC sangha and friends, two oases for the Nyingma lineage have been established in Sarnath, India,
where Buddha Shakyamuni gave his first teaching after his enlightenment. It is the Venerable Khenpos’ wish that these two institutions be thriv-
ing centers to continue the teachings, practice, and culture of Tibetan Buddhism, strengthening the lineage now and ensuring its continuation
in the future. Your support of a monk or nun gives you a strong connection to these noble activities, and your patronage is deeply appreciated.
Sponsorship Application Please photocopy and complete this application, or apply online at www.padmasambhava.org.
Please indicate whether you will be contributing monthly or in one annual donation:
Monthly One annual donation
ONE-TIME CONTRIBUTION:
I am contributing $ ______________ towards:
NAME ___________________________________________________
General Fund to be applied as needed
Nunnery in Sarnath, India ADDRESS _________________________________________________
Monastery in Sarnath, India CITY/STATE/ZIP ____________________________________________
Sangha Dana fund at PSL
PHONE __________________________________________________
Miracle Stupa at Jetavan Grove in Shravasti, India
Other E-MAIL___________________________________________________
medicine
buddha
BY KHENCHEN PALDEN SHERAB RINPOCHE
At some point in the process of becoming a buddha, a bod- announced them to the infinite field of buddhas and bod-
hisattva will define the avenues by which he or she will most hisattvas throughout space. In addition, he vowed that he
directly and effectively benefit sentient beings. These clear would defer his transition to buddhahood until the day he
aspirations arise from bodhicitta. In this way, countless types of had completed the purification and perfection of the pure
pure lands come into existence for all types of beings, meeting land, Lovely To Behold.
the infinite diversity of their needs. As a form of skillful means
arising out of bodhicitta, advanced beings and bodhisattvas are Declaring a series of twelve vows, he described the bod-
able to seek rebirth in a universe that will provide specific types hicitta practices that would shape the course of his journey
of benefits. through the ten bhumis of the bodhisattva path. He chose
these attributes to be the objects of his prayers and practices.
While still a bodhisattva, the Medicine Buddha likewise Ultimately, the Medicine Buddha’s commitments have the
proclaimed a set of twelve aspirations that defined the spe- force of truth. They are a distillation of his bodhisattva path.
cific ways in which he sought to benefit beings. He We can have full confidence in them.
1 9
In my pure land, may all beings exhibit the 32 major May those who hold wrong views or beliefs regarding
marks and the 80 minor marks of a buddha. If this does dharma immediately develop right view when they
not come to pass, may I not reach enlightenment. hear my name. As a result, may they engage in bod-
hisattva activities. If this does not come to pass, may I not
2
May all sentient beings born in my pure land radiate
reach enlightenment.
glowing light – a light that dispels all dwelling in dark-
ness. If this does not come to pass, may I not reach
10
May those who live in fear and are easily controlled,
enlightenment. who feel threatened with incarceration and punish-
ment, leave behind their fears of catastrophe. If this
3
Whoever is born in that pure land, may they always
enjoy material abundance and be free of all worldly does not come to pass, may I not reach enlightenment.
concerns. If this does not come to pass, may I not
11
May those whose subsistence has depended on
reach enlightenment.
predation and the killing of other beings have all
4
May the beings in that pure land possess a stable vision their material needs met upon hearing my name.
of the pure view. If this does not come to pass, may I not May their freedom result in the recognition of their innate
reach enlightenment. bodhisattva nature. If this does not come to pass, may I not
reach enlightenment.
5
May those born in my pure land pay utmost attention to
the purity of their conduct. May the results of negative
12
Upon hearing my name, may those who suffer
karma due to previous actions be deferred to the time of from any kind of hunger, thirst, or cold have all
most benefit to spiritual growth. If this does not come to pass, their needs provided for. May their food, drink,
may I not reach enlightenment. and clothing free them from mundane concerns so that
they may begin to benefit others. If this does not come to
6
May they all emanate health and growth in body and
mind. May they be relieved of any discomfort or disorder pass, may I not reach enlightenment.
that hinders spiritual growth. If this does not come to
After the great Medicine Buddha made these bodhisattva
pass, may I not reach enlightenment.
vows, he kept these promises throughout all his lifetimes as
7
May my name become a mantra that heals all ail- a bodhisattva. When we practice the Medicine Buddha, we
ments. May the sound of my name and the image of should remember these commitments and aspire to do the
my nirmanakaya be a balm that eases all pain. May same, for the sake of all living beings. If we do this with
the sound of my name or visualization of my image cure love, compassion, and bodhicitta, it will benefit us and all
physical troubles and sickness. If this does not come to pass, other living beings. ■
may I not reach enlightenment.
8
May those who wish to change gender have that wish The Khenpos gave this Medicine Buddha teaching on May 24-26, 2003,
be fulfilled. May that choice lead directly to enlight- at Padma Samye Ling. Ed Contaldi edited this text from the original
enment. If this does not come to pass, may I not transcript. Ed is a teacher and music therapist living in Philadelphia.
reach enlightenment. edcontaldi@hotmail.com
SPRING/SUMMER 2005 | Pema Mandala 13
T I B E TA N L A N G U A G E S E R I E S
TIbetan
ORIGINS OF THE
Language
BY KARMA GONGDE, WALTON, NY
The Tibetan language is an important aspect of Tibetan Buddhism, especially for Vajrayana students.
It was first developed due to the joyful efforts of Thumi Sambhota, who was sent to India by the
dharma king Songtsen Gampo. This article is the first in a series of articles on Tibetan language.
L
anguages develop concurrently in societies and communities with the development of people’s
needs, ideas, and thoughts. To share feelings and thoughts with other people, we can communi-
cate by using physical and verbal signals. Among these two, the verbal signals of words can com-
municate more precisely and in more detail so that feelings and thoughts can be clearly understood.
Therefore, the nouns, verbs, and phrases used for communication gradually developed in many differ-
ent languages.
During the time of Buddha Shakyamuni in India, around 2500 years ago, Tibet was under the sea
and there were no human beings. Chenrezig, the Buddha of compassion, saw many sentient beings
experiencing enormous suffering as they swam in the sea. He liberated many of these beings, but the
next day their number did not decrease, instead, it seemed that more beings were suffering. Chenrezig
most graciously asked Buddha Shakyamuni, “Please accept these beings and liberate them from suffer-
ing.” Buddha Shakyamuni told Chenrezig, “You have a karmic relationship with those beings in
Khawachen (the land of snow). You must go to that place and teach the spiritual path and liberate them
from suffering.”
According to the Manjushri Mool Tantra, Lord Buddha spoke the following words to his disciples:
What is YI GE?
The tone of the voice used to express words is called YI GE. The vowels and consonants are the two
classifications of YI GE. The term YI GE also means syllables, written language, a letter that one sends, or
general subject of study. A good online resource for studying the vowels and consonants can be found
at www.geocities.com/Athens/Academy/9594/tibet.html.
My Path to
the Dharma
BY ALAN POPE (PEMA DONDRUP), CARROLLTON, GA
Each of us has a unique and interesting path. How remarkable that our paths have con-
verged in our devotion to the Khenpos! Sangha members are invited to share their per-
sonal stories about meeting the dharma. These stories, no doubt, will vary as widely as
does our DNA. The intention is to compile them in a book to be made available to the
sangha. Please send your stories in a Word document (preferably) to Alan Pope at
apope@westga.edu. Alan has kicked things off by sharing his story below.
I
n 1989, I was a doctoral student at extremely unrealistic expectations upon proposed dissertation research, a very
the University of Delaware. I had me. When these expectations were strange and unfamiliar physical sensa-
completed my master’s degree and revealed to be clearly unrealistic, my tion suddenly came over me. I had a
was beginning a dissertation in Artificial advisor would lower them a notch, tremendous feeling of not being well. I
Intelligence, a specialized area of com- when they actually needed to be low- tried to write this feeling off as the symp-
puter science. I never really had my ered ten notches to even come close to toms of a cold, and I attempted to ignore
heart in Artificial Intelligence. Up to being realized! Although she frequently it as I worked very hard over the follow-
this point in my life, I had chosen paths expressed approval of my work, I felt ing two weeks, anticipating that during
of study based less on a heart connection increasingly ineffective and stressed. I spring break I would rest and heal.
and more on a sense of what constitutes initially had anticipated in Artificial Spring break arrived and I rested, and
a “proper” area of study. Proper in this Intelligence the possibility of engaging instead of feeling better, I grew worse.
case meant three things, only two of fascinating philosophical questions, For a long time afterwards I became sick-
while at the same time satisfying my er and sicker. Eventually, I was diag-
which I was consciously aware: it offered
three criteria for success. In time, how-
the prospect of financial security, it was nosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome,
ever, I felt more and more trapped in an
scientific, and my father would approve. a diagnosis and condition that shattered
engineering enterprise that did not
My academic history was one of starting my world. In the early stages, my eyes
ignite my passion, and that could not
majors or programs and subsequently burned so badly that I could not read,
begin address the deeper longings of my
leaving them unfinished. Head and and I spent large amounts of time in bed.
heart. Worse yet, I was not aware that
heart were at odds, making commitment To get up from my bed – a futon on the
these deeper longings even existed.
very difficult. I was working in a very rig- floor – it felt as though I were on a much
orous and stressful graduate program In March of 1989, immediately after larger planet, weighed down by a fero-
with an advisor who was placing giving a colloquium presentation of my cious force of gravity. My girlfriend of
16 Pema Mandala | SPRING/SUMMER 2005
Ironically, as I learned more of the theory of Buddhism, I recognized that at
another level it was articulating what I already knew, but didn’t know I knew.
many years took me to a bookstore to tional, although I was still quite ill for The group was quite small, but the
buy audiotapes to listen to in my conva- two years. As energy and time permit- shrine room was very ornate. In contrast
lescence. In addition to some novels on ted, however, I found that a huge force to the many people I have since met
cassette, I picked up Steven Mitchell’s of spiritual seeking had been awakened who knew immediately that this was the
reading of his new translation of Lao- in me, and I hungrily explored a number practice for them, I initially found it
Tsu’s Tao te Ching. I naively thought, of different books and traditions. I bizarrely religious and off-putting. I had
“Maybe this Chinese philosophy will learned basic breath counting from a been raised as an Episcopalian, and
help me put things in perspective.” when my burning theological questions
After unsuccessfully trying to absorb (posed when I was child) were left unan-
myself in a science fiction novel, I decid- swered, I became a staunch atheist. My
ed to try the Tao te Ching. My boom box disappointment was so great that I
was next to my bed, and when I started developed an angry reactivity toward
the cassette I found myself frequently any form of organized religion. Still,
reaching up and putting it on pause to those unresolved burning questions
sit in wonder at what I had just heard. bespoke a vital spiritual need that
The Tao te Ching turned my world craved recognition and expression. For
upside down, completely inverting the reasons I could not explain, I returned to
positivistic and linear assumptions that the dharma group the following week.
underlie the Artificial Intelligence At a conscious level, I was intrigued that
mindset. I still vividly recall my first its members were bright and articulate
hearing of verse 9: and knowledgeable, and as I talked with
them, I began to understand the deeper
Fill your bowl to the brim meanings of what we were doing. It was
and it will spill. hard for me to admit that there was
Keep sharpening your knife something in the practice that I really
and it will blunt. liked, something that really spoke to me.
Chase after money and security book by a psychologist, and I practiced The practice was awakening a dimen-
and your heart will never unclench. this technique whenever I could (I espe- sion of feeling that I had almost com-
Care about people’s approval cially remember doing this in doctors’ pletely stifled in my quest for certain
and you will be their prisoner. waiting rooms). Almost exactly two knowledge. Ironically, as I learned more
years later, in February of 1991, I saw an of the theory of Buddhism, I recognized
Do your work, then step back. advertisement at the food co-op in
The only path to serenity.1 that at another level it was articulating
Newark, Delaware, where I lived. It what I already knew, but didn’t know I
Not only do I not need to work so advertised a meditation group under the knew. This was a profound recognition.
hard, but I shouldn’t work so hard! This guidance of two individuals with Soon afterwards, I learned that there
realization was at once liberating and extremely long titles. I now know those was a summer retreat coming up and
anxiety-provoking. I felt recognized and two names as those of my precious that it would be an opportunity for me
validated and, at the same time, terrified teachers: Ven. Khenpo Palden Sherab to meet the Khenpos.
at the prospect of what this epiphany Rinpoche and Ven. Khenpo Tsewang
might mean to my future. Dongyal Rinpoche. Not knowing then That summer I attended the annual
what to make of this, my curiosity led Dzogchen retreat, which was held at
After six months, my symptoms me to a Sunday morning practice with Clark and Lotte’s place near Delhi, NY,
improved such that I became more func- the Delaware sangha. this being some years before PSL would
SPRING/SUMMER 2005 | Pema Mandala 17
blossom. The Khenpos by spending five months
were so open and accept- in Nepal and India, expe-
ing of me, and I was privi- riencing the life of a
leged to have a 45-minute “dharma bum,” learning
interview with them. That rudimentary Tibetan, and
interview changed my life. following dharma teach-
When I declared myself a ings. Although I was
man of science, Khenpo tempted to make this a
Tsewang, translating for permanent way of life,
Khen Rinpoche, kindly during an interview,
said, “Science is good. Jigme Khyentse Rinpoche
Science discovered the encouraged me to return
atoms.” I thought to to the states to pursue a
myself, “Oh, so you specific job – which is the
[Buddhism] already knew one I currently hold!
about that [the subatomic
world]?!” The Rinpoches’ Today I am an Assis-
kindness and patience and tant Professor of Psychology
open-heartedness deeply in a humanistic/ transper-
touched me in ways I sonal program at the
couldn’t fully fathom. The University of West
nological psychology at Duquesne
community at large was also a huge Georgia in Carrollton. I teach a gradu-
University. Finally, I felt passionate
source of inspiration and support. What ate seminar in Buddhist Psychology and
about my studies!
a marvelous group of people! a variety of other courses. Ten other peo-
While I studied European philo- ple in Carrollton have now taken refuge
Although I successfully defended sophical traditions and their applica- with the Khenpos, and a small but solid
my proposal and continued with my tions to western psychology, I could practice community has arisen.
research in Artificial Intelligence, I not help but think of them in terms of Although my own capacities are still
woke up one morning with the Buddhism. Buddhist thought helped weak, I see this good fortune as the flow-
thought: “There’s something very arti- me see their strengths and understand ering of my devotion to the Rinpoches
ficial about what I’m doing.” Indeed! It them more deeply, and it exposed their over the years. Before I found this path,
was as if the very name of my discipline limitations, particularly their lack of my life felt dry and brittle. Now I feel
were its own warning label that I had emphasis on wisdom and compassion. I nourished and alive. May all beings ben-
been too blind to read. Having finally am grateful, however, to have conduct- efit by my unfolding path and by this
seen the obvious, I could not continue. ed these studies that now form such an story of my meeting the dharma, and
I realized that by trying to teach com- integral part of how I understand may our beloved teachers live long and
puters how to think like me, they had myself as both a western psychological healthy lives. ■
taught me to think like them. I decid- being and a Buddhist practitioner.
ed to leave the field altogether. I 1. Mitchell, Stephen, Tao te Ching,
moved to Pittsburgh where I earned Following my graduation from HarperCollins, New York, 1988, p. 9.
my doctorate in existential-phenome- Duquesne in 2000, I pursued a dream
18 Pema Mandala | SPRING/SUMMER 2005
D H A R M A P O E T R Y
As Vajrayana practitioners, we are moving toward experiencing all phenomena according to pure view. Whether in formal sitting
practice or moving about in our everyday life, we can mingle the view with whatever arises so that we truly experience everything
as the play of enlightened energy. In this article, Diane Avice du Buisson shares how to bring a contemplation of the five elements,
five Buddha families, and five Wisdom Mothers to one’s traditional yoga asana practice.
O
ur body is a temporary vehicle – our bodies – into alignment with the our bodies are in harmony. When the
for receiving the Buddha’s five Dhyani Buddhas and the Wisdom outer elements are in balance, the
teachings, achieving enlight- Mothers and all that they represent. world we experience around us is in
enment, and actively living the dharma harmony as well.
Every living being, including all of
in this lifetime. It is important to take nature, is constantly seeking balance. Each of the five Buddha families is asso-
this to heart and maintain respect for Both our outer and inner worlds are ciated with one of the five elements and
the body as we respect our altars and made up of the five elements: earth, by focusing on an elemental force or
precious teachers. With movement, water, fire, air, and space. When our calling upon the Buddha family associat-
mindfulness, breath, and visualization, inner elements are in balance, we are ed with each element we can stimulate
we can bring our nirmanakaya vehicles free of dis-ease as well as disease and and purify that element in our life.
Connect with the five elements and invite them to come into balance. Begin at the
base of the spine and connect with the earth, then move to the water element below
the navel; next move upward to the fire in the belly; rise to the air element in the
chest, and finally expand into the space element at the head and beyond.
As each element is activated, set an intention for the Buddha or Wisdom Mother
from each family to be present. Stay connected to the five elemental forces and the
five families, inviting the wisdom of each Buddha to enter your central channel. The
central channel begins about four fingers’ width below the navel and runs up to the
soft spot on the top of the head.
Once your body is set with intention and the elements are acknowledged
with the Buddha families present, we can introduce some movement and breath.
Chair Pose to Forward Fold coming into a chair while keeping the the shoulders, step back and lay onto
Utkatasana to Uthanasana heels on the floor. Exhale into the for- your belly with your hands next to your
Come to a standing position. Bring both ward fold again. chest. Place your forehead on the floor.
feet together and lower the arms down All five elements are represented with
along the outside of the legs. On an Repeat this a minimum of three times. your two hands, two feet, and the head
inhale, bend your knees as if you are all connecting to the earth. Tighten the
Let your awareness settle into the water ele-
going to sit back into a chair and keep buttocks while pressing the upper
ment just below the navel. Activate the flow
the heels on the floor. As the knees thighs into the floor and inhale as you
of the water element with the rising and
bend, bring the arms up like bird wings, lift your upper body up, elbows hugging
falling movements, creating a wave of ener-
opening away from the sides of your the sides of your torso while gazing
gy. As you fold forward, imagine that you
body until the arms are beside the ears. upward at the third eye between the
are submerging into water, and as you bend
The spine sinks in toward the front of brows. Exhale and lower, placing the
your knees and lift your torso, you are float-
the body and creates a gentle backbend. forehead back on the earth.
ing back up to the surface cleansed and puri-
On the exhale, come into a forward fold
fied. Become fluid with the breath and Repeat this a minimum of three times.
by hinging forward while straightening
movement while inviting the water element
the legs, arms lower like wings to the Become aware that the inner air and space
to absorb, refresh, and stimulate.
sides of your legs, and bring the hands as elements rise upward into the outer air and
close to the earth as possible. From the Cobra Pose – Bhujangasana space elements, while the inner fire, water,
forward fold, on the next inhalation, From the forward fold, bend your knees, and earth elements stay connected to the
bend the knees again and sit back as if place your hands onto the floor under outer earth elements.
SPRING/SUMMER 2005 | Pema Mandala 21
Y O G A P R A C T I C E – Joining Intention
Hero Pose – Virasana (Option 1) or Switch legs after doing the technique Activating and purifying the inner ele-
Cow Pose – Gomukhasana (Option 2) described below an equal amount of ments with sitting and moving yoga
With Lion(ess) Pose – Simhasana times of both sides. meditations will bring the undeniable
result of creating more space in our bod-
There are two options for positioning On an exhale, open the jaws and drop ies and this spaciousness loosens our grip
the body for the next yoga practice. the tongue down the chin as far as you on the physical and invisible aspects of
can. Pull the eyes upward, gazing at the life. It is easier to identify with the ten-
OPTION 1: Come to your knees and sit
third eye between the brow. On the sions and blocks that occur in our gross
back onto your heels with your feet and
inhale, close the mouth and lower the physical bodies than to realize when our
knees together. For a more intense
eyes. subtle, invisible bodies are stressed, shut-
stretch, separate your feet and place your
buttocks on the ground between your Repeat three to six times. ting down, or not flowing. As the subtle
feet. If this is too difficult, place a folded body of channels, elements, winds, and
blanket or pillows between your feet and This Lion(ess) yoga practice increases the energy centers are unlocked and cleared,
sit your buttocks up onto the cushion- fire element and helps eliminate desire or we naturally experience increased gen-
ing. Bring your knees together, or as attachment. It intensely stimulates the space erosity, creativity, courage, love, compas-
close together as possible. Place your element and clears the mind. On the physi- sion, sensitivity to others, mindfulness,
hands on your knees, slightly draw the cal level, it energizes the head, eyes, throat, and joy.
navel in toward the back of the spine and digestion.
Space is the most mysterious, most
tilting the pelvis under slightly and Corpse – Shavasana invisible, and most open of all the ele-
elongate the spine. Connect with the Conclude your yoga practice by laying ments. Without space, there could be no
central channel of your body. the body down in a corpse position. earth, water, fire, or air. By creating more
Place the feet hip-width apart, allow space in our personal universe – this
OPTION 2: Begin from a seated position
the feet to fall away from each other, body – we are providing an irresistible
with your legs extended straight out in
and lay the arms along the sides of the playground in which the wisdom ener-
front of you. Bend your left knee and
body with the palms facing the sky. gies can delight us as they enlighten us.
place the left foot next to the right but-
Soften your breathing. Relax and
tock, then bend the right knee and place
release into the earth.
the right foot next to the left buttock, Diane Avice du Buisson teaches yoga during
right knee on top of the left. The further With the body in the position of a corpse, the annual Calm Abiding retreat at Padma
you move the feet out away from your bring your awareness to impermanence. Samye Ling. This year’s event is Labor Day
body, the deeper the opening will be for Withdraw your senses – pratyahara – and weekend, September 2-6. For details, see the
the hips. Both sitting bones are ground- allow the prana generated from your prac- schedule on page 27. Diane has studied and
ed as you place your hands on the top tice to penetrate and integrate. practiced yoga for 26 years and is the director
knee, balance your shoulders, and then of Yoga Source in Nashville, Tennessee. She
elongate the spine connecting with the has an extensive background in Ashtanga yoga
central channel. and has studied with the Venerable Khenpos
since 1987. yogasource@comcast.net
This is the first of a regular column for students to share such glimpses of wisdom they receive from our teachers.
The insight may come from a question and answer session in a group, it may be a private word of advice, or it may
be a moment you quietly observe. It can be a story or a few lines. If you think others would benefit, please send
your submissions to ritadakini@comcast.net. Please include your dharma name and where you live.
Three Words of Advice I’ve ever wanted in a relationship is a spiritual partner, so that
our relationship could be a vehicle for our enlightenment and
There are three things Khenpo Tsewang has said to me that
a blessing for others. And yet, it’s not happening. Is there any-
still resonate clearly in my ears:
thing I can do? Should I practice Vajrasattva to purify all my
1. “It’s never too late.” (This applies to anything! For example, past relationships? Should I dedicate merit to anyone I’ve ever
it’s never too late to do practice, to have a rela- been in relationship with?” Then I started laughing, “Should I
tionship with someone even if they are gone). pray to Tara, for heaven’s sake, what can I do?”
2. “The past has served its purpose.” (So it’s Khenpo laughed gently with me and said,
completely ok to let it go). L E T I T C O M E , “You could do that. Or... maybe best to just
relax in the natural unfolding of karma. No
3. Once when I called Khenpo Tsewang, I was push, no pull. If you push, then the relation-
in a complete and totally unwanted rage with L E T I T G O , ship will just bring suffering anyway. If you
my son about his ‘attitude’ about something I relax, then the person who is karmically suit-
wanted him to do. Khenpo told me, “It’s okay. ed to you can arise, when and where appro-
Don’t worry. Go outside and look up at the L E T I T F L O W.
priate. Until then, no worries. Let it come, let
blue sky. Let your mind open.” it go, let it flow.”
With the deepest gratitude to the Khenpos – — Khenpo Tsewang Dongyal Rinpoche
His words broke a spell of suffering that had
to the Buddha, Dharma, and Sangha – I offer left me disempowered for years. I had been
these healing words and love for the sake of all afraid I would somehow miss my destiny, or
sentient beings. miss “the right one.” I had stayed in relationships long after I
– Marjorie Soule, Pema Dhechom, Chicago, IL should have, pushing to make them work. As I began to apply
his advice, I realized that I really enjoyed my life exactly as it
was. If conditions changed, I knew I could enjoy that too. In
Relationship Advice: Relax into the Natural Unfolding just a few words, Khenpo Rinpoche’s advice dissolved my
grasping and gave me confidence in the natural flow of life,
Many years ago, after the end of a difficult relationship, I had beyond hope and fear.
the opportunity to ask Khenpo Tsewang for advice.
“Rinpoche,” I said, “I think I have bad relationship karma. All – Rita Frizzell, Pema Ting’dzin, Nashville, TN
24 Pema Mandala | SPRING/SUMMER 2005
A Lesson in Contentment at Target
A few years ago when the Venerable Khenpos were visiting Rinpoche was no longer behind me. I retraced my steps and
Tennessee, they asked to be taken to a store to buy a thermos found him in the men’s shoe department, holding a white ath-
for the road. So I took them to a Target store – remarkable letic shoe in his hands and lifting it up and down.
enough in itself, since it’s not very often that robed lamas visit
“Wow,” he said, “Rita, feel this. It’s so light.” I took the shoe and
our Target stores in the south. Once inside, Khenpo Tsewang
said, “Wow, it really is light, Rinpoche.” Then I looked at his
was all business and joyful effort. He moved swiftly to locate the
shoes and said, “Would you like to have a pair of these? You
department where he could buy a thermos for tea on the road.
might enjoy having such light shoes and we’d be happy to buy
Khen Rinpoche lagged behind a little, taking in the colorful dis-
them for you.” He took the shoe back and said, “Oh no, I don’t
play with enjoyment and murmuring, “Wowwwwww” from
need. I already have shoes.” He put the shoe back on the rack
time to time. We found the correct aisle and after some consul-
and turned to me brightly, “Maybe if I had FOUR feet.”
tation, they chose a thermos.
So many times since then, when I’ve been shopping and tempt-
Then Khenpo Tsewang said, “Okay, let’s check out,” and forged
ed by some trinket, I think, “No, I don’t need. I already have.
ahead to the cash register. Again, Khen Rinpoche took his time
Maybe if I had four feet.”
coming along. I stayed between the two, trying to make sure we
didn’t lose each other, but halfway to the checkout, Khen – Rita Frizzell, Pema Ting’dzin, Nashville, TN
SPRING/SUMMER 2005 | Pema Mandala 25
PA D M A S A M B H AVA B U D D H I S T C E N T E R
APR 30-MAY 2 • SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO JUNE 9–12 • TENNESSEE of Padmasambhava revealed in the 14th centu-
ry by Karma Lingpa which directly introduce
Nyungne Retreat with Ani Lorraine. Empowerment & teaching on Vajra Guru Pema
naked awareness and explain the meaning of
For further information contact Fernando González: Thod Treng Tsal at Padma Gochen Ling June
self-liberation in terms of view, meditation and
pamasambhavapr@prw.net, (787)755-2816 or go 10–12. Public talk in Nashville June 9.
achievement. Rigdzin Karma Lingpa was the
to www.geocities.com/padmasambhavapr. For more information, contact Dolly Carlisle:
renowned emanation of the translator Chog-ro
dollycarlisle@comcast.net, (615) 512-9071,
or go to www.nashvilletibetbuddhism.com. Lu’i Gyaltsen, one of Padmasambhava’s twenty-
MAY 14-16 • NASHVILLE, TENNESSEE
five disciples, and a student of Shantarakshita
Nyungne Retreat with Ani Lorraine. and Vimalamitra as well.
JUNE 18–23 • SAN JUAN, PUERTO RICO
For more information, contact Dolly Carlisle: Suggested Donation: PBC members $269; $46/day
dollycarlisle@comcast.net, (615) 512-9071, Empowerment & teaching on Amitayus. Non-members $331; $60/day
or go to www.nashvilletibetbuddhism.com. For further information contact Fernando González:
pamasambhavapr@prw.net, (787)755-2816 or go AUGUST 1–7 • PADMA SAMYE LING
MAY 28–30 • PADMA SAMYE LING to www.geocities.com/padmasambhavapr. Tibetan Language for Beginners
MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND RAISING THE Develop Basic Conversation & Reading Skills
WIND HORSE ENERGY RETREAT JULY 16–24 • PADMA SAMYE LING
Empowerment and Teachings on Golden SUMMER DZOGCHEN RETREAT A seven-day course led by Archarya Karma
Dzambhala Machig Labdron’s Union of Dzogchen and Gongde and Philippe Turenne. This introduction
Mahamudra. Empowerment of Troma Nagmo to the basic structure and principles of Tibetan
In order to protect beings from poverty and mis- grammar will provide a base for continued learn-
ery, the manifestation of the precious qualities of In this week-long retreat, Machig Labdron’s pith
ing. Morning and afternoon classes for partici-
the buddhas appeared as the wealth deity instructions regarding the union of dzogchen and
pants will focus on conversational Tibetan,
Dzambhala. Along with receiving the empower- mahamudra will be presented together with her
pronunciation, and basic reading skills, as well as
ment of Golden Dzambhala with instruction for life story. Machig (1055-1152 CE) was the direct
practical techniques for consulting Tibetan dic-
practice, we will hold our annual springtime cele- emanation of Yeshe Tsogyal, the wisdom dakini
tionaries. Students planning to attend are request-
bration, “Raising Up the Wind Horse Energy,” who played a crucial role in the establishment of
ed to please pre-register by July 4 in order to make
with colorful prayer flags that carry bodhichitta Buddhism, especially the Vajrayana, in eighth
preparations of class materials, etc.
inspiration, with the support of the wind, around century Tibet. Yeshe Tsogyal was an emanation
of the three kayas: inseparable from dharmakaya Suggested Donation: PBC members $275.
the world and beyond. Non members $332.
Samantabhadri and Prajnaparamita, from
Suggested Donation: PBC members $156; $65/day
sambhogakaya Vajravarahi and the five wisdom
Non-members $196; $76/day AUG 27–SEPT 1 • PADMA SAMYE LING
mothers, and from nirmanakaya Tara and her
twenty-one emanations. The retreat will begin SHEDRA: The Four Philosophical Schools
MAY 30–JUNE 5 • PADMA SAMYE LING Series, Part Three: Middle Way School
with the empowerment of Troma Nagmo accord-
Kriya Yoga Workshop
ing to the terma of Tsasum Lingpa and a blessing In this third year of our continuing investigation
You are welcome to participate in nurturing the transmission from the Troma Nagmo cycle of HH of Buddhist philosophy, we begin our study of
mandala of Padma Samye Ling for this and future Dudjom Rinpoche. Madhyamaka or the Middle Way school.
generations. Members, students, and friends Suggested Donation: PBC members $380; $46/day Madhyamaka – the direct teaching of the essen-
with skills to contribute are invited to come share Non-members $493; $60/day tial nature free of all extremes – can be divided
in this week of joyful and intensive activity. Areas into two categories: True Reality madhyamika
of contribution where capabilities are needed are JULY 25–31 • PADMA SAMYE LING and Word madhyamika. True Reality madhyami-
outdoor landscaping, gardening, exterior paint- SELF-DEVELOPMENT DZOGCHEN RETREAT ka is divided into ground, path and fruit; Word
ing, and other preparations for opening the sum- Terton Karma Lingpa’s madhyamika into teaching and commentary.
mer season. Morning and evening practices will Beholding Naked Awareness
Commentary is divided into Prasangika and Sva-
be held. In the course of this one-week retreat, the tantrika. Svatantrika is divided into Sautrantika
Donations are your time and effort. Khenpos will elucidate the dzogchen teachings madhyamika and Yogacara madhyamika.
26 Pema Mandala | SPRING/SUMMER 2005
Yogacara madhyamika is associated with three
teachers called the Three Teachers of the East:
Jnanagarbha, Shantarakshita, and Kamalashila.
The Khenpos will be teaching from Shantarak-
shita’s Madhyamakalamkara (The Ornament of
the Middle Way).
Suggested Donation: PBC members $268; $46/day
Non-members $332; $59/day
New Center Boards Announced Books & Videos for the library intention is to provide 108 matching
mats and cushions (both round and
Three of our centers have installed new While the Shantarakshita Library at
square varieties). If you would like to
board members in the past year. Boards Padma Samye Ling has the entire
work together with the Venerable donate to this project, send a check to
Tibetan canon and more on its shelves,
Khenpos and sangha members to fulfill the address above, noting that it is for the
current dharma books in English are
the vision of PBC International at the Cushion Project.
needed. Videos, Tibetan art books and
local level. Please join us in welcoming pictorial books on Tibet are also desired.
the following: In-kind donations are tax deductible; New Morning Dawn CD Series
contact Laia (e-mail and phone above). Morning Dawn is PBC’s audio study
Puerto Rico: Coordinator, Fernando
series featuring teachings by the
Gonzalez; Co-coordinator, Enrique
The Cushion Project Venerable Khenpos. The first set, con-
Giraldo; Secretary, Pin-hui Li; Treasurer,
The PBC North Carolina sangha is taining 3 CDs, was released last summer:
Edna de Jesus.
spearheading a generous effort to provide “Commentary on Calling the Lama from
Tennessee: Coordinator, Dolly Carlisle; cushions for the gonpa at Padma Samye Afar: from the Tersar Ngondro by His
Co-coordinator, Cathy Crooks; Secre- Ling. Announced by Donna Davis at the Holiness Dudjom Rinpoche.” Now two
tary, Hunter Armistead; Treasurer, North Carolina retreat last fall, the new titles are available:
Ward Stein.
In “The Diamond Sutra,” Rinpoches lay
West Palm Beach, FL: Coordinator, out the sublime Mahayana teachings
Mary Shaw; Co-coordinator, Mimi Bailey; from the highest view during a two-day
Secretary, Rodney Jones; Treasurer, Chris teaching in Naples, FL, November 8-9,
Rothman. 2003 (4-CD set).
28 Pema Mandala | SPRING/SUMMER 2005
“The Four Boundless” is a one-CD talk
given by the Venerable Khenpos dur-
ing last year’s Calm Abiding retreat,
laying out the four immeasurable qual-
Puerto Rico center reaches skyward
ities of lovingkindness, compassion, joy Located just a five-minute walk from the and mental health and general well-
and equanimity. ocean in a lovely San Juan neighbor- being. Iván’s medical background was
hood, the PBC Puerto Rico center is a useful as he shared why it is so important
In addition, the first two years of hub of study and practice in the Nyingma to reserve some time to relax the mind
Rinpoches’ Shedra teachings are avail- lineage. For His Holiness the Dalai each day, and in that way nurture our-
able. Shedra is the traditional academ- Lama’s visit last year, many improve- selves by connecting to our inner peace.
ic component of the Nyingma lineage, ments and embellishments to the build- He explained that meditation promotes
currently focusing on the four philo- ing were made, due to the blessings of our pleasant, harmonious, and definable
sophical schools of Buddhism. teachers and the generosity and devotion physiological states in the body.
of sangha members.
To order, see the Chiso ad on page 31.
Throughout the seminar, Iván’s sense of
To continue the center’s ever-expanding humor made the atmosphere feel light as
E-mail Addresses Requested dharma activity, it was determined that a he conveyed how human and natural it is
Are you on our e-mail list? If so, you’ll second floor should be added. The first to connect to our inner wisdom. He pub-
be the first to receive the latest news fundraising activity to fulfill this vision lished a small booklet to serve as a sup-
from PBC, including the teaching was created by Dr. Iván Figueroa, a pedi-
port tool for those starting to meditate.
schedule, new Tashi Deleg! issues, prac- atric surgeon and acupuncturist and one
tice invitations and more. If you’d like of the center’s founding members. He The event raised more than $7,000 from
to be added to the list, write to Laia at gave a four-hour seminar, describing how ticket sales and private donations, and
jowozegyal@catskill.net, with the sub- the Buddhist teachings he has received also gave PBC Puerto Rico the opportu-
ject line: Add to E-Mail List. from the Khenpos have helped him and nity to become better known in the com-
the ways in which meditation can munity. Bookstore items and information
Online News improve the health of any person, regard- about the center and its practice schedule
less of their age or religious (or nonreli- were available.
Whenever you’re wondering about the gious) affiliation.
upcoming schedule, keep an eye on the May the wishes of our teachers be ful-
PBC website for the latest postings. The seminar, held at the Museo de Arte filled without obstacles and may this mer-
Plus, our online bulletin Tashi Deleg! de Puerto Rico conference auditorium, itorious activity bring joy and peace and
offers news and dharma teachings. Go was based on the historical origins of be of benefit to all sentient beings.
to www.padmasambhava.org and click meditation and its basic techniques and
on Tashi Deleg! scientifically proven benefits for physical —Beba Febo (Pema Drolma), Puerto Rico
SPRING/SUMMER 2005 | Pema Mandala 29
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Lion’s Gaze: A Commentary Door to Inconceivable Prajnaparamita: Praise to the Lotus Born: COMING SOON!
on Tsig Sum Nedek Wisdom & Compassion The Six Perfections A Verse Garland of The Light of the
Dzogchen teachings. A Mahayana Buddhist teachings: This profound work illuminates Waves of Devotion Three Jewels
Commentary on The Special The Three Minds of the Buddha, the six paramitas (perfections) of Khenpo Tsewang Rinpoche’s Rinpoches present a clear intro-
Teaching of the Wise and The Seven Treasures, Refuge, The generosity, self-discipline, epic ocean of praise, which duction to view and practice in
Glorious Sovereign by Patrul Eightfold Path, The Way of the patience, joyful effort, concentra- Dudjom Rinpoche said would the Nyingma lineage of Tibetan
Rinpoche and The Three Words Bodhisattva, Meditation, tion, and wisdom in a universal, stand as a “stone monument” to Buddhism. The reprint of this
that Strike the Crucial Point by Exchanging, The Five Paths. $18 dynamic, and practical way for Guru Padmasambhava. Hard popular book features updated
Vidyadhara Garab Dorje. $20 living. $15 cover $35; Soft cover $20 design and graphics.
Please contact us for shipping rates. Sales tax applies in New York.
For more information, contact Pema Dragpa or Elizabeth at
(607) 865-8068 or e-mail us at chiso@padmasambhava.org.
Padma Samye Ling, 618 Buddha Hwy, Sidney Center, NY 13839.
Our online store is being renovated, so visit often and watch for
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Best wishes for the
Wood Bird year