The Gyalwang Drukpa

I just finished celebrating New Year with about 765 people, mainly Europeans, at Drukpa Plouray. Many people took the Brahmacharya Vows, with very pure motivation. I didn't force them, they just decided by themselves, that's very nice. Some of them took the vows for their entire life, some for a certain period of time. Nevertheless, they will definitely have an experience that will help their development for the sake of all sentient beings.

I am happy not only because they put on their multi-colour robes, but also they are able to make a commitment to change and improve their day-to-day life, so that they will be more satisfied and contented and eventually, they will be able to share this positive experience with others.

Yesterday was the end of the retreat at Drukpa Plouray. Drubpon Ngawang performed a very grand mandala offering ceremony. Drubpon Ngawang, as usual, performed this with sincere heart while going through the entire ritual. I believe that this will make me come again and again, to meet all my friends and students here at Drukpa Plouray. I believe this was a very good omen.

In the morning, we did an extensive Ganachakra feast offering based on Sengey Tsewa practice. Speaking about Sengey Tsewa, everyone that came for the retreat was very familiar with the prayers and the chanting tune of Sengey Tsewa. I am very proud of this, even though I know that some of them were actually not sure of what's happening. It doesn't really matter, at least this would start them on the path, and I just want to encourage them to gradually go deeper into the practice.

You can see Drukpa Plouray's own report about this program in their website, there are many photographs which I don't think I should repeat here.

My short stay in Mexico was also quite refreshing, the only thing is that people need to sort out many issues with more gentleness, patience and open hearts. I believe that nothing is impossible if everyone has one direction, I hope and wish that when I visit Mexico the next time, there will be more people, especially young and active people among our members, helping out actively and that the existing members will help the new ones with kindness, patience and a great heart of openness. I also look forward to hearing good news about the setting up of a physical centre in Mexico City, so that members and friends of Drukpa Mexico can gather to work for the benefits of all beings.