Featured Discussions - Peace for the Soul2024-03-28T17:12:11Zhttps://peaceformeandtheworld.ning.com/forum/topic/list?groupUrl=my-inner-light-for-tibet&feed=yes&xn_auth=no&featured=1∼ A beautiful documentary of a great journey ∼tag:peaceformeandtheworld.ning.com,2022-11-04:5143044:Topic:4209412022-11-04T20:25:15.874ZRosmarie Heusserhttps://peaceformeandtheworld.ning.com/profile/RosmarieHeusser
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</p> the yogis of tibettag:peaceformeandtheworld.ning.com,2021-11-19:5143044:Topic:3781282021-11-19T15:10:56.585Zdesmond dillonhttps://peaceformeandtheworld.ning.com/profile/desmonddillon
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<p> this clip is 75mins and i post it for those deeply interested in Tibet and its peoples ways..</p>
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<p>.<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GrWhX1BixBk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">THE YOGIS OF TIBET - Rare Documentary Film - YouTube</a></p>
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<p> this clip is 75mins and i post it for those deeply interested in Tibet and its peoples ways..</p>
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<p>.<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GrWhX1BixBk" target="_blank" rel="noopener">THE YOGIS OF TIBET - Rare Documentary Film - YouTube</a></p>
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<p>.</p> Birthday Celebration of His Holiness 14th Dalai Lamatag:peaceformeandtheworld.ning.com,2019-07-06:5143044:Topic:2740292019-07-06T16:48:54.825ZEva Librehttps://peaceformeandtheworld.ning.com/profile/Eva
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 8pt;">HH 14th Dalai Lama with HH 34th Menri Trizen. Photo credit: Unknown.</span></p>
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<p>July 6th is the birthday of the one born as Lhamo Döndrup recognized at the age of two, and formally installed at the age of fifteen as the leader of the Geluk school…</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 8pt;">HH 14th Dalai Lama with HH 34th Menri Trizen. Photo credit: Unknown.</span></p>
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<p>July 6th is the birthday of the one born as Lhamo Döndrup recognized at the age of two, and formally installed at the age of fifteen as the leader of the Geluk school of Tibetan Buddhism and therefore also the spiritual leader of Tibet. Upon his enthronement, he was renamed Jetsun Jampel Ngawang Lobsang Yeshe Tenzin Gyatso: Holy Lord, Gentle Glory, Compassionate Defender of the Faith who is an Ocean of Wisdom. He is referred to as Yizhin Norbu Rinpoche, the Precious Wish-fulfilling Jewel. He is known around the world as His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama.</p>
<p>Especially on this day, it is beneficial to make offerings and to offer prayers for his long life.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><b>Prayer for the Long Life of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama</b></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Gang ri ra wé kor wé zhing kham su</em><br/> In a heavenly realm, surrounded by a chain of snow mountains,</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Pen dang dé wa ma lü jung wé né</em><br/> The source of all happiness and help for beings</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Chenrezik wang Tenzin Gyatso yi</em><br/> Is Tenzin Gyatso, Chenrezik in person.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><em>Shyap pé kal gyé bar du ten gyur chik</em><br/> May his life be secure for hundreds of eons!</p>
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<p></p> THE CHIME PHAKME NYINGTIK DRUPCHEN : A VISUAL JOURNEYtag:peaceformeandtheworld.ning.com,2012-02-23:5143044:Topic:1545452012-02-23T08:44:38.485ZEva Librehttps://peaceformeandtheworld.ning.com/profile/Eva
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<p style="text-align: left;">Let yourself be guided through a visual journey beyond time.<br></br> During ten days, <strong>Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche</strong>, <strong>Neten Chokling Rinpoche</strong>, <strong>Orgyen Tobgyal Rinpoche</strong> and the monks of Chokling Monastery in India performed a Drupchen of <strong>Chime Phakme Nyingtik</strong>, a special cycle of practices to gain power over life, to inaugurate the monastery's new temple.</p>
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<p style="text-align: left;">Let yourself be guided through a visual journey beyond time.<br/> During ten days, <strong>Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche</strong>, <strong>Neten Chokling Rinpoche</strong>, <strong>Orgyen Tobgyal Rinpoche</strong> and the monks of Chokling Monastery in India performed a Drupchen of <strong>Chime Phakme Nyingtik</strong>, a special cycle of practices to gain power over life, to inaugurate the monastery's new temple.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-1"><span style="color: #808080;">FILMED AND EDITED BY</span></span></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">STEPHANE LUN-SIN</p>
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<p>Drupchen literally means vast accomplishment. It is a form of intensive group practice that embodies the depth, power, and precision of the Vajrayana, drawing together the entire range of its skilful methods: mystical, ritual, and artistic.</p>
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<p>Its purpose is to accomplish one or several buddhas, who embody the ultimate state of enlightenment. As one follows the sadhana (means of accomplishment) day and night without interruption and actualizes its meaning through visualizations, mantra recitation and meditation, one's habitual perceptions are transformed and purified into their true and sacred nature, where everything is seen and experienced purely: ourselves as a buddha and our surroundings as a pure realm.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">If you liked this documentary, you can buy a copy of it and support the filmmaker. :-) More will come... </p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">Order a high-quality copy of this 55 minutes documentary in direct download (HD 720p) or on DVD (PAL or NTSC).*</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.sixfiftyblue.com/drupchen/">http://www.sixfiftyblue.com/drupchen/</a></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">* A percentage will go to Pema Ewam Chogar Gyurme Ling (Chokling Monastery). Text reproduced here with the kind authorization of <a href="http://www.rigpawiki.org" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Rigpa Wiki</a></p>
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<p> </p> Compassion and the Individualtag:peaceformeandtheworld.ning.com,2012-01-29:5143044:Topic:1525482012-01-29T10:39:13.687ZNada Junghttps://peaceformeandtheworld.ning.com/profile/Nada
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<p><b>Compassion and the Individual</b><br></br><br></br>Tenzin Gyatso; The Fourteenth Dalai Lama<br></br><br></br><strong>The purpose of life</strong><br></br><br></br>ONE GREAT QUESTION underlies our experience, whether we think about it consciously or not: What is the purpose of life? I have considered this question and would like to share my thoughts in the hope that they may be of direct, practical benefit to those who read them.<br></br><br></br>I believe that the purpose of life is to be happy. From the moment…</p>
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<p><b>Compassion and the Individual</b><br/><br/>Tenzin Gyatso; The Fourteenth Dalai Lama<br/><br/><strong>The purpose of life</strong><br/><br/>ONE GREAT QUESTION underlies our experience, whether we think about it consciously or not: What is the purpose of life? I have considered this question and would like to share my thoughts in the hope that they may be of direct, practical benefit to those who read them.<br/><br/>I believe that the purpose of life is to be happy. From the moment of birth, every human being wants happiness and does not want suffering. Neither social conditioning nor education nor ideology affect this. From the very core of our being, we simply desire contentment. I don't know whether the universe, with its countless galaxies, stars and planets, has a deeper meaning or not, but at the very least, it is clear that we humans who live on this earth face the task of making a happy life for ourselves. Therefore, it is important to discover what will bring about the greatest degree of happiness.<br/><br/><strong>How to achieve happiness</strong><br/><br/>For a start, it is possible to divide every kind of happiness and suffering into two main categories: mental and physical. Of the two, it is the mind that exerts the greatest influence on most of us. Unless we are either gravely ill or deprived of basic necessities, our physical condition plays a secondary role in life. If the body is content, we virtually ignore it. The mind, however, registers every event, no matter how small. Hence we should devote our most serious efforts to bringing about mental peace.<br/><br/>From my own limited experience I have found that the greatest degree of inner tranquility comes from the development of love and compassion.<br/><br/>The more we care for the happiness of others, the greater our own sense of well-being becomes. Cultivating a close, warm-hearted feeling for others automatically puts the mind at ease. This helps remove whatever fears or insecurities we may have and gives us the strength to cope with any obstacles we encounter. It is the ultimate source of success in life.<br/><br/>As long as we live in this world we are bound to encounter problems. If, at such times, we lose hope and become discouraged, we diminish our ability to face difficulties. If, on the other hand, we remember that it is not just ourselves but every one who has to undergo suffering, this more realistic perspective will increase our determination and capacity to overcome troubles. Indeed, with this attitude, each new obstacle can be seen as yet another valuable opportunity to improve our mind!<br/><br/>Thus we can strive gradually to become more compassionate, that is we can develop both genuine sympathy for others' suffering and the will to help remove their pain. As a result, our own serenity and inner strength will increase.<br/><br/><strong>Our need for love</strong><br/><br/>Ultimately, the reason why love and compassion bring the greatest happiness is simply that our nature cherishes them above all else. The need for love lies at the very foundation of human existence. It results from the profound interdependence we all share with one another. However capable and skillful an individual may be, left alone, he or she will not survive. However vigorous and independent one may feel during the most prosperous periods of life, when one is sick or very young or very old, one must depend on the support of others.<br/><br/>Inter-dependence, of course, is a fundamental law of nature. Not only higher forms of life but also many of the smallest insects are social beings who, without any religion, law or education, survive by mutual cooperation based on an innate recognition of their interconnectedness. The most subtle level of material phenomena is also governed by interdependence. All phenomena from the planet we inhabit to the oceans, clouds, forests and flowers that surround us, arise in dependence upon subtle patterns of energy. Without their proper interaction, they dissolve and decay.<br/><br/>It is because our own human existence is so dependent on the help of others that our need for love lies at the very foundation of our existence. Therefore we need a genuine sense of responsibility and a sincere concern for the welfare of others.<br/><br/>We have to consider what we human beings really are. We are not like machine-made objects. If we are merely mechanical entities, then machines themselves could alleviate all of our sufferings and fulfill our needs.<br/><br/>However, since we are not solely material creatures, it is a mistake to place all our hopes for happiness on external development alone. Instead, we should consider our origins and nature to discover what we require.<br/><br/>Leaving aside the complex question of the creation and evolution of our universe, we can at least agree that each of us is the product of our own parents. In general, our conception took place not just in the context of sexual desire but from our parents' decision to have a child. Such decisions are founded on responsibility and altruism - the parents compassionate commitment to care of their child until it is able to take care of itself. Thus, from the very moment of our conception, our parents' love is directly in our creation.<br/><br/>Moreover, we are completely dependent upon our mothers' care from the earliest stages of our growth. According to some scientists, a pregnant woman's mental state, be it calm or agitated, has a direct physical effect on her unborn child.<br/><br/>The expression of love is also very important at the time of birth. Since the very first thing we do is suck milk from our mothers' breast, we naturally feel close to her, and she must feel love for us in order to feed us properly; if she feels anger or resentment her milk may not flow freely.<br/><br/>Then there is the critical period of brain development from the time of birth up to at least the age of three or four, during which time loving physical contact is the single most important factor for the normal growth of the child. If the child is not held, hugged, cuddled, or loved, its development will be impaired and its brain will not mature properly.<br/><br/>Since a child cannot survive without the care of others, love is its most important nourishment. The happiness of childhood, the allaying of the child's many fears and the healthy development of its self-confidence all depend directly upon love.<br/><br/>Nowadays, many children grow up in unhappy homes. If they do not receive proper affection, in later life they will rarely love their parents and, not infrequently, will find it hard to love others. This is very sad.<br/><br/>As children grow older and enter school, their need for support must be met by their teachers. If a teacher not only imparts academic education but also assumes responsibility for preparing students for life, his or her pupils will feel trust and respect and what has been taught will leave an indelible impression on their minds. On the other hand, subjects taught by a teacher who does not show true concern for his or her students' overall well-being will be regarded as temporary and not retained for long.<br/><br/>Similarly, if one is sick and being treated in hospital by a doctor who evinces a warm human feeling, one feels at ease and the doctors' desire to give the best possible care is itself curative, irrespective of the degree of his or her technical skill. On the other hand, if one's doctor lacks human feeling and displays an unfriendly expression, impatience or casual disregard, one will feel anxious, even if he or she is the most highly qualified doctor and the disease has been correctly diagnosed and the right medication prescribed. Inevitably, patients' feelings make a difference to the quality and completeness of their recovery.<br/><br/>Even when we engage in ordinary conversation in everyday life, if someone speaks with human feeling we enjoy listening, and respond accordingly; the whole conversation becomes interesting, however unimportant the topic may be. On the other hand, if a person speaks coldly or harshly, we feel uneasy and wish for a quick end to the interaction. From the least to the most important event, the affection and respect of others are vital for our happiness.<br/><br/>Recently I met a group of scientists in America who said that the rate of mental illness in their country was quite high-around twelve percent of the population. It became clear during our discussion that the main cause of depression was not a lack of material necessities but a deprivation of the affection of the others.<br/><br/>So, as you can see from everything I have written so far, one thing seems clear to me: whether or not we are consciously aware of it, from the day we are born, the need for human affection is in our very blood. Even if the affection comes from an animal or someone we would normally consider an enemy, both children and adults will naturally gravitate towards it.<br/><br/>I believe that no one is born free from the need for love. And this demonstrates that, although some modern schools of thought seek to do so, human beings cannot be defined as solely physical. No material object, however beautiful or valuable, can make us feel loved, because our deeper identity and true character lie in the subjective nature of the mind.<br/><br/><strong>Developing compassion</strong><br/><br/>Some of my friends have told me that, while love and compassion are marvelous and good, they are not really very relevant. Our world, they say, is not a place where such beliefs have much influence or power. They claim that anger and hatred are so much a part of human nature that humanity will always be dominated by them. I do not agree.<br/><br/>We humans have existed in our present form for about a hundred-thousand years. I believe that if during this time the human mind had been primarily controlled by anger and hatred, our overall population would have decreased. But today, despite all our wars, we find that the human population is greater than ever. This clearly indicates to me that love and compassion predominate in the world. And this is why unpleasant events are news, compassionate activities are so much part of daily life that they are taken for granted and, therefore, largely ignored.<br/><br/>So far I have been discussing mainly the mental benefits of compassion, but it contributes to good physical health as well, According to my personal experience, mental stability and physical well-being are directly related. Without question, anger and agitation make us more susceptible to illness. On the other hand, if the mind is tranquil and occupied with positive thoughts, the body will not easily fall prey to disease.<br/><br/>But of course it is also true that we all have an innate self-centeredness that inhibits our love for others. So, since we desire the true happiness that is brought about by only a calm mind, and since such peace of mind is brought about by only a compassionate attitude, how can we develop this? Obviously, it is not enough for us simply to think about how nice compassion is! We need to make a concerted effort to develop it; we must use all the events of our daily life to transform our thoughts and behavior.<br/><br/>First of all, we must be clear about what we mean by compassion. Many forms of compassionate feeling are mixed with desire and attachment. For instance, the love parents feel of their child is often strongly associated with their own emotional needs, so it is not fully compassionate. Again, in marriage, the love between husband and wife - particularly at the beginning, when each partner still may not know the other's deeper character very well - depends more on attachment than genuine love. Our desire can be so strong that the person to whom we are attached appears to be good, when in fact he or she is very negative. In addition, we have a tendency to exaggerate small positive qualities. Thus when one partner's attitude changes, the other partner is often disappointed and his or her attitude changes too. This is an indication that love has been motivated more by personal need than by genuine care for the other individual.<br/><br/>True compassion is not just an emotional response but a firm commitment founded on reason. Therefore, a truly compassionate attitude towards others does not change even if they behave negatively.<br/><br/>Of course, developing this kind of compassion is not at all easy! As a start, let us consider the following facts: Whether people are beautiful and friendly or unattractive and disruptive, ultimately they are human beings, just like oneself. Like oneself, they want happiness and do not want suffering. Furthermore, their right to overcome suffering and be happy is equal to one's own. Now, when you recognize that all beings are equal in both their desire for happiness and their right to obtain it, you automatically feel empathy and closeness for them. Through accustoming your mind to this sense of universal altruism, you develop a feeling of responsibility for others: the wish to help them actively overcome their problems. Nor is this wish selective; it applies equally to all. As long as they are human beings experiencing pleasure and pain just as you do, there is no logical basis to discriminate between them or to alter your concern for them if they behave negatively.<br/><br/>Let me emphasize that it is within your power, given patience and time, to develop this kind of compassion. Of course, our self-centeredness, our distinctive attachment to the feeling of an independent, self-existent �I�, works fundamentally to inhibit our compassion. Indeed, true compassion can be experienced only when this type of self- grasping is eliminated. But this does not mean that we cannot start and make progress now.<br/><br/><strong>How can we start</strong><br/><br/>We should begin by removing the greatest hindrances to compassion: anger and hatred. As we all know, these are extremely powerful emotions and they can overwhelm our entire mind. Nevertheless, they can be controlled. If, however, they are not, these negative emotions will plague us - with no extra effort on their part! - and impede our quest for the happiness of a loving mind.<br/><br/>So as a start, it is useful to investigate whether or not anger is of value. Sometimes, when we are discouraged by a difficult situation, anger does seem helpful, appearing to bring with it more energy, confidence and determination.<br/><br/>Here, though, we must examine our mental state carefully. While itis true that anger brings extra energy, if we explore the nature of this energy, we discover that it is blind: we cannot be sure whether its result will be positive or negative. This is because anger eclipses the best part of our brain: its rationality. So the energy of anger is almost always unreliable. It can cause an immense amount of destructive, unfortunate behavior. Moreover, if anger increases to the extreme, one becomes like a mad person, acting in ways that are as damaging to oneself as they are to others.<br/><br/>It is possible, however, to develop an equally forceful but far more controlled energy with which to handle difficult situations.<br/><br/>This controlled energy comes not only from a compassionate attitude, but also from reason and patience. These are the most powerful antidotes to anger. Unfortunately, many people misjudge these qualities as signs of weakness. I believe the opposite to be true: that they are the true signs of inner strength. Compassion is by nature gentle, peaceful and soft, but it is very powerful. It is those who easily lose their patience who are insecure and unstable. Thus, to me, the arousal of anger is a direct sign of weakness.<br/><br/>So, when a problem first arises, try to remain humble and maintain a sincere attitude and be concerned that the outcome is fair. Of course, others may try to take advantage of you, and if your remaining detached only encourages unjust aggression, adopt a strong stand, This, however, should be done with compassion, and if it is necessary to express your views and take strong countermeasures, do so without anger or ill-intent. You should realize that even though your opponents appear to be harming you, in the end, their destructive activity will damage only themselves. In order to check your own selfish impulse to retaliate, you should recall your desire to practice compassion and assume responsibility for helping prevent the other person from suffering the consequences of his or her acts.<br/><br/>Thus, because the measures you employ have been calmly chosen, they will be more effective, more accurate and more forceful. Retaliation based on the blind energy of anger seldom hits the target.<br/><br/><strong>Friends and enemies</strong><br/><br/>I must emphasize again that merely thinking that compassion and reason and patience are good will not be enough to develop them. We must wait for difficulties to arise and then attempt to practice them.<br/><br/>And who creates such opportunities? Not our friends, of course, but our enemies. They are the ones who give us the most trouble, So if we truly wish to learn, we should consider enemies to be our best teacher!<br/><br/>For a person who cherishes compassion and love, the practice of tolerance is essential, and for that, an enemy is indispensable. So we should feel grateful to our enemies, for it is they who can best help us develop a tranquil mind! Also, itis often the case in both personal and public life, that with a change in circumstances, enemies become friends.<br/><br/>So anger and hatred are always harmful, and unless we train our minds and work to reduce their negative force, they will continue to disturb us and disrupt our attempts to develop a calm mind. Anger and hatred are our real enemies. These are the forces we most need to confront and defeat, not the temporary enemies who appear intermittently throughout life.<br/><br/>Of course, it is natural and right that we all want friends. I often joke that if you really want to be selfish, you should be very altruistic! You should take good care of others, be concerned for their welfare, help them, serve them, make more friends, make more smiles, The result? When you yourself need help, you find plenty of helpers! If, on the other hand, you neglect the happiness of others, in the long term you will be the loser. And is friendship produced through quarrels and anger, jealousy and intense competitiveness? I do not think so. Only affection brings us genuine close friends.<br/><br/>In today's materialistic society, if you have money and power, you seem to have many friends. But they are not friends of yours; they are the friends of your money and power. When you lose your wealth and influence, you will find it very difficult to track these people down.<br/><br/>The trouble is that when things in the world go well for us, we become confident that we can manage by ourselves and feel we do not need friends, but as our status and health decline, we quickly realize how wrong we were. That is the moment when we learn who is really helpful and who is completely useless. So to prepare for that moment, to make genuine friends who will help us when the need arises, we ourselves must cultivate altruism! Though sometimes people laugh when I say it, I myself always want more friends. I love smiles. Because of this I have the problem of knowing how to make more friends and how to get more smiles, in particular, genuine smiles. For there are many kinds of smile, such as sarcastic, artificial or diplomatic smiles. Many smiles produce no feeling of satisfaction, and sometimes they can even create suspicion or fear, can't they? But a genuine smile really gives us a feeling of freshness and is, I believe, unique to human beings. If these are the smiles we want, then we ourselves must create the reasons for them to appear.<br/><br/><strong>Compassion and the world</strong><br/><br/>In conclusion, I would like briefly to expand my thoughts beyond the topic of this short piece and make a wider point: individual happiness can contribute in a profound and effective way to the overall improvement of our entire human community.<br/><br/>Because we all share an identical need for love, it is possible to feel that anybody we meet, in whatever circumstances, is a brother or sister. No matter how new the face or how different the dress and behavior, there is no significant division between us and other people. It is foolish to dwell on external differences, because our basic natures are the same.<br/><br/>Ultimately, humanity is one and this small planet is our only home, If we are to protect this home of ours, each of us needs to experience a vivid sense of universal altruism. It is only this feeling that can remove the self-centered motives that cause people to deceive and misuse one another.<br/><br/>If you have a sincere and open heart, you naturally feel self- worth and confidence, and there is no need to be fearful of others.<br/><br/>I believe that at every level of society - familial, tribal, national and international - the key to a happier and more successful world is the growth of compassion. We do not need to become religious, nor do we need to believe in an ideology. All that is necessary is for each of us to develop our good human qualities.<br/><br/>I try to treat whoever I meet as an old friend. This gives me a genuine feeling of happiness. It is the practice of compassion.</p>
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<p> </p> a piece of teaching by Tilopa to Naropatag:peaceformeandtheworld.ning.com,2012-01-28:5143044:Topic:1525132012-01-28T01:53:04.187ZNada Junghttps://peaceformeandtheworld.ning.com/profile/Nada
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<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2311633609?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2311633609?profile=original" width="397"></img></a></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #333333; line-height: 16px; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;">Tilopa then handed a string full of knots to Naropa…</span></p>
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<p><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2311633609?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2311633609?profile=original" width="397"/></a></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 16px; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" class="Apple-style-span">Tilopa then handed a string full of knots to Naropa and asked him to untie them. Naropa did it and gave the string back. Tilopa threw it aside and asked Naropa what he understood.</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 16px; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" class="Apple-style-span">Naropa replied, "All beings are tied by the eight worldly dharmas, and we need to untie them."</span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 16px; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" class="Apple-style-span">(<em>The eight worldly dharmas are: praise/criticism; fame/disgrace; gain/loss; happiness/misery</em>)</span></p>
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<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 16px; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" class="Apple-style-span">"Once we have done so we have to remain natural and rest the mind in itself without being artificial."</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 16px; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" class="Apple-style-span">"We have to get rid of all our expectations, hopes and fear."</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 16px; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" class="Apple-style-span">"We always hope to be praised and we are afraid of being criticized."</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 16px; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" class="Apple-style-span">"We are looking for fame and we are afraid of being disgraced."</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 16px; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" class="Apple-style-span">"We want to gain something and we are afraid of losing it."</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; text-align: left; line-height: 1.5em; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;"><span style="color: #333333; line-height: 16px; font-family: 'lucida grande', tahoma, verdana, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px;" class="Apple-style-span">"We are striving for happiness and we are afraid of misery."</span></p>
<p> </p> Tibetan Book of The Dead - The Great Liberationtag:peaceformeandtheworld.ning.com,2011-11-21:5143044:Topic:1430042011-11-21T23:54:49.846ZEva Librehttps://peaceformeandtheworld.ning.com/profile/Eva
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<p> </p> The Statement of Kalon Tripa on the Occasion of the Fifty-first Tibetan Democracy Day 2 September 2011tag:peaceformeandtheworld.ning.com,2011-09-04:5143044:Topic:1240392011-09-04T17:11:30.760ZNada Junghttps://peaceformeandtheworld.ning.com/profile/Nada
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-3"><b><font color="#797953">Dharamsala (India) -</font></b> 2 September 2011</span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">Today, we celebrate the fifty-first anniversary of Tibetan Democracy Day. On this auspicious occasion, in which we…</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-3"><b><font color="#797953">Dharamsala (India) -</font></b> 2 September 2011</span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">Today, we celebrate the fifty-first anniversary of Tibetan Democracy Day. On this auspicious occasion, in which we celebrate our shared aspiration for human freedom, I extend my warm greetings to fellow Tibetans around the world particularly to those in occupied Tibet.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">I pay my sincere and heart-felt tribute to our most revered leader His Holiness the Dalai Lama, whose vision of a democratic and secular Tibetan society I am fully committed to realizing. Let me begin by acknowledging and celebrating the pivotal role of His Holiness the Dalai Lama who is a true democrat and a magnanimous people’s leader. He was drawn towards fairness and democratic principles even when growing up as a young child in the Potala Palace. Being from a humble peasant family himself, he befriended the Palace sweepers, gatekeepers and cooks, and these people became his source of information about ordinary Tibetans and conditions in Tibet. Two years after assuming leadership of the country, His Holiness established the Reform Committee in 1952, which had exempting poor farmers and indigent Tibetans from heavy taxes as one of its objectives. However, the occupying Chinese forces disrupted the work and disbanded the committee. <br/><br/><br/>I would like to share my own experience of His Holiness’ magnanimity in 1995. Along with other students, I received an audience with His Holiness just before we were to leave for further studies in the United States. As I was introduced, His Holiness mentioned an article that I published in the Tibetan Review entitled “Human Rights and Asian Values.” I was struck and honored that he took notice of an article published by a young and ordinary Tibetan. I know countless others who have had similar encounters. <br/><br/><br/>The story of Tibet’s democracy, after the early attempts in 1952, continued in 1959 after His Holiness sought refuge in India following the occupation of Tibet. At a time when anti-colonialism was taking hold and new democracies were being established around the world, the first step towards establishing the Tibetan parliament began at Bodh Gaya, where the Na-gyen Chenmo (great oath) was taken and Tibetan leaders pledged an iron-like unity under one leadership. On June 29, 1960, at a very emotional public event, His Holiness shared his vision of democracy to Tibetan construction workers of Indian highways near Dalhousie. It must have been a traumatic experience for Tibetans; who having lost their nation, homes, and family members; had to witness their 26-year-old leader as a refugee amidst makeshift tents that served as their home. Tibetans - young and old - were overwhelmed with emotions - many cried and were deeply moved. <br/><br/><br/>Tibetans elected (actually selected) their members of parliament and had their first meeting on September 2, 1960, which from that day on came to be commemorated as the Tibetan Democracy Day. As for selecting the regional representatives, Tibetan road workers from Sikkim to Manali met on roadsides and nominated candidates by raising their hands. The elected representatives, carrying tin box full of documents, met under a tree (not far from Tsuklagkhang) on weekends to conduct parliamentary business. Women members were elected as early as 1963, when some advanced democracies still did not have female parliamentarians. In 1977, representatives of Bon were also included.<br/><br/><br/>In 1963, the constitution of Tibet, modeled after India’s, was adopted and His Holiness the Dalai Lama insisted that the constitution include a provision that allowed for his own impeachment which went against the wishes of his own people. In 1970, the Tibetan Youth Congress was established by Tibetan youth leaders, and in 1984 the Tibetan Women’s Association was re-established in exile. Both organizations have played an important role in producing leaders with emphasis on non-sectarianism, non-regionalism and unity. <br/><br/><br/>With the collapse of the Soviet Union and the Berlin Wall and the spread of “third wave” of democracy around the world in the early nineties, more democratic reforms ensued in the Tibetan community. These reforms occurred while the Chinese government was cracking down on its own people seeking democracy during the Tiananmen Square massacre. In 1991, the Charter of the Tibetans – the supreme law governing the functions of the Central Tibetan Administration (CTA) – was drafted and adopted by the Tibetan parliament. The parliament was expanded and constitutionally empowered to elect the Kashag. The parliamentary procedures and functional processes akin to Indian parliamentary system became more disciplined, sophisticated and effective over time. <br/><br/><br/>Tibetan democracy continued to flourish in the 2000s when the world witnessed the color revolutions in Eastern Europe. As per an amendment in the Tibetan charter, the first direct election for the post of the Kalon Tripa, administrative head of CTA, took place in 2001. Professor Samdhong Rinpoche won the election with more than 80 percent of the votes and provided admirable leadership. <br/><br/><br/>A decade later, in March 2011, amid the Arab Spring and where some leaders are still violently resisting their people’s demands for change, His Holiness the Dalai Lama announced his devolution of power ten days before the final round of Kalon Tripa and parliamentary elections. He expressed his strong desire to transfer all his political and administrative powers and announced his decision to “devolve his formal authority to the elected leader.” His Holiness the Dalai Lama rejected impassioned appeals by both the parliament and the people to stay on even as the nominal head of state. <br/><br/><br/>It is important to note that His Holiness Dalai Lama made significant changes that coincided with major global developments. In retrospect, it is clear that His Holiness’ decisions were not driven by these developments. Rather, he was taking advantage of these events to hasten the democratic reforms that he had initiated (which his people resisted) since coming into exile. The timing of each one of His Holiness’ major steps: the impeachment clause in the 1960s, establishing a leader’s position between himself and the Kashag in the 1980s, and the direct election of Kalon Tripa in the 2000s, has been brilliant. The timing of the devolution of political power in particular is masterful as His Holiness’ decision has legitimized the outcome of the 2011 Kalon Tripa elections – the largest and most democratic round of elections in Tibetan history.<br/><br/><br/>The recent elections is a testament to the growing maturity and vibrancy of Tibetan democracy. The historic elections attracted an unprecedented number of Tibetans from 30 countries, particularly the youth. Tibetans from Tibet also showed keen interest and solidarity by going to monasteries to pray for the success of election, following developments closely and bursting fireworks when election results were announced. The Kalon Tripa elections were intensely but fairly contested with the three final candidates participating in around seventeen debates and visiting majority of the Tibetan communities in exile. The parliamentary elections resulted in fifty percent new members, including substantial number of women and new arrivals from Tibet. The successful outcome of these elections have given new hope for our compatriots inside Tibet, and sent a strong message to Beijing that the Tibetan movement is gaining new momentum.<br/><br/><br/>His Holiness’ magnanimity and democratic values is again reaffirmed by his remarks at the recent oath-taking ceremony of the Kalon Tripa. His Holiness when transferring a piece of important history and more importantly the political legitimacy of the 369-year-old institution of the Dalai Lama to the leader with democratic mandate stated, “When I was young, an elderly regent Takdrag Rinpoche handed over Sikyong (political leadership) to me, and today I am handing over Sikyong to young Lobsang Sangay… in doing this I have fulfilled my long-cherished goal.” The transferring of the 1751 seal of the 7th Dalai Lama to the current Kalon Tripa, a lay Tibetan from a humble background who grew up in a refugee settlement, truly represents continued legitimacy and symbol of Tibetan leadership. <br/><br/><br/>My fellow Tibetans, history of Tibetan leadership and its glorious legacy will continue. <br/><br/><br/>Today our democracy, while nascent, is a successful model of an exile community establishing a strong democratic base and governance system. This is in large part due to the generosity of the Indian government and people, our host. In fact our experience has attracted the interest of other exile and refugee communities and students of democracy. The CTA and some of our non-governmental organizations have shared our five decades of experience in implementing democratic principles, processes and mechanisms with others, and we invite everyone to examine and study our experience. Having said that, our democracy is still far from perfect and we must make it even more robust.<br/><br/><br/>I can say with confidence that our exile democratic administration is far superior to China's colonial rule in Tibet. Tibetans in Tibet live under harsh autocracy while those of us in exile enjoy democracy. While I have the mandate of the Tibetan world, the Party Secretary of “Tibet Autonomous Region” (TAR) is hand picked by Beijing, and has never been a Tibetan. We are part of a democratic family in the world, China is not. The Kalon Tripa is the legitimate representative of the Tibetan people, while China’s rule in Tibet is undemocratic and illegitimate. China cannot be a legitimate superpower without accepting the universality of freedom. I call upon the Chinese regime to respect the freedom of both the Tibetan and Chinese people.<br/><br/><br/>Finally, let me conclude by stating that the devolution of political power is not solely to me, but to all Tibetans. The time has now come for us to demonstrate that we can survive and indeed thrive independently with our new responsibilities. We must actively participate in the democratic process by ensuring that our leaders remain accountable and true to the democratic spirit.<br/><br/><br/>My election as the Kalon Tripa is a vote of confidence in the newer generation of Tibetans. So, it is expected of the younger generation to work with renewed dedication and conviction. We must live up to the expectations of His Holiness. This is no time for cynicism but optimism. Our focus must be to pursue the sacred cause of supporting the brave men and women inside Tibet who continue to sacrifice their lives for the preservation of Tibetan identity and dignity. With Tibetan spirit as strong as the majestic Mount Jomolangma, we must all work hard towards ensuring the return of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama and emulate the honorable service of our elder generation who successfully ensured the 13th Dalai Lama’s return to Tibet.<br/><br/><br/>My dear fellow compatriots inside Tibet! Many of us in exile have never seen Tibet, but Tibet is in our heart and soul. With determination, dedication, and Dharma on our side, we will make sure to achieve our parent’s dream to return to our homeland. I want to reiterate my deep conviction that with unity, innovation and self-reliance as our guiding principles we will ensure the restoration of freedom, reunification of Tibetans and the return of His Holiness the Dalai Lama to Tibet.<br/><br/><br/><strong>BOD GYALO !</strong></p>
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<p> </p> Save Tibet ... Why ??tag:peaceformeandtheworld.ning.com,2011-09-01:5143044:Topic:1229072011-09-01T11:01:32.517ZNada Junghttps://peaceformeandtheworld.ning.com/profile/Nada
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4"><strong>In honor of Congressional Gold Medal for The Dalai Lama</strong></span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">In honor of the U.S. Congress awarding the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet the Congressional Gold Medal of Honor, The Tibetan Photo Project will send a DVD copy of this film to the 100 honorable members of the United States…</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><span class="font-size-4"><strong>In honor of Congressional Gold Medal for The Dalai Lama</strong></span></p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">In honor of the U.S. Congress awarding the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet the Congressional Gold Medal of Honor, The Tibetan Photo Project will send a DVD copy of this film to the 100 honorable members of the United States Senate.</p>
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<p align="left"><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2" color="#660000">Left in the dust of the human race are tiny remnants of tattered cultures trying desperately to hold on to the keys that unlock the great mysteries of life. Did the American Indians understand things that we will never know? And what of the Aborigines of Australia? Did one ever find proof of the existence of the human soul while on a walkabout? One of these keys also belongs to the Tibetans.</font></p>
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<p align="left"><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2" color="#660000">The concept that solutions to the ills of the world lie within the content and quality of each individual's heart are now lost on the "me" generation. Bigger weapons, faster computers and wireless technology are the answers and things have become the gods. More money, more power, more...that is the new sound of Om, the new amen, the new shalom.</font></p>
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<p align="left"><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2" color="#660000">"Free Tibet" is a cause that has risen on the world stage to the level of the Nobel Peace prize for the Dalai Lama in 1989.</font></p>
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<p align="left"><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2" color="#660000">For most who know their plight of human annihilation and cultural desecration by the Chinese over the past 50 years, the soul of Tibet is embodied in the Dalai Lama. Every Tibetan seems to contain a portion of that soul.</font></p>
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<p align="left"><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2" color="#660000">While life holds little mystery, those who have come in personal contact with the Dalai Lama can at least recognize that his gentle presence is powerfully felt-ike a mystery of life. To the ingrained Judeo-Christian sensibilities of the West, in its understanding of the Tibetan cause, the Dalai Lama is ironically seen as the symbolic representation of Tibetans soul. Ironic because Tibetan Buddhism does not recognize the existence of a permanent human soul, but rather a transitory spirit trying to find its way to being nothing more than truth. What is it about the Save Tibet effort that seems to maintain a hold on the one element of human nature that we cannot define in DNA or through technology? Do we recognize that we can not let another culture be swallowed up lest we lose all chance to find and prove there is something greater within us than DNA, cells and bone and flesh?</font></p>
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<p align="left"><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2" color="#660000">Why will the concept of saving Tibet not stop nagging at the collective conscience? A Tibetan monk, when asked what he thought was in it for those in the West who were trying to help Tibet, said there is nothing in it for us, except that it is right. When asked about becoming a Buddhist, one Lama answered that religion should be a choice that follows ones own tradition. A person should pick a religion that matches their nature because religion is there to make people better.</font></p>
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<p align="left"><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2" color="#660000">China is rising on the world stage as a military and economic force. China could save Tibet with a slight change in policy and in doing so it would rise above all other great nations. Their current path is to gut the Tibetan culture, while leaving a corpse dressed up to attract tourist dollars as a sort of Tibetan amusement park. Parading the image of the Tibetan culture will undoubtedly part of the propaganda gained when China presents the 2008 Olympics.</font></p>
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<p align="left"><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2" color="#660000">But realistically, there will be no great change coming from China. That leaves it to us to do what ever we can, large or small, to help the Tibetans save their culture. Individually we will gain nothing from the effort, but in saving Tibet we prove the existence and power of the human spirit</font><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">.</font></p>
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<p align="center"><font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2" color="#660000">Write your representatives and the President about your concerns for Tibet and on trade with China at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.congress.org/">http://www.congress.org</a> This site offers both free and paid-for services. Most find what they need for free by clicking "Write Elected Officials" at the top of the site's home page.</font></p>
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<p align="center"><span class="font-size-6"><strong><font face=" Bradley Hand ITC" color="#660000">Save Tibet ... Why ??</font></strong></span></p>
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<p align="center"><span class="font-size-5"><strong><font face=" Bradley Hand ITC" color="#660000">The Tibetan Photo Project</font></strong></span></p>
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<p> </p> His Holiness the Dalai Lama's live size portrait being enthroned in eastern Tibettag:peaceformeandtheworld.ning.com,2011-07-29:5143044:Topic:1114052011-07-29T02:45:21.466ZEva Librehttps://peaceformeandtheworld.ning.com/profile/Eva
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2311633115?profile=original" target="_self"><img class="align-center" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2311633115?profile=original" width="670"></img></a> His Holiness the Dalai Lama's live size portrait being enthroned in eastern Tibet at a large religious gathering. Over 5000 people took part in the congregation, defying Chinese government orders.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">A religious gathering of over 5000 people in eastern Tibet violated Chinese government orders and…</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2311633115?profile=original"><img width="670" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2311633115?profile=original" class="align-center"/></a>His Holiness the Dalai Lama's live size portrait being enthroned in eastern Tibet at a large religious gathering. Over 5000 people took part in the congregation, defying Chinese government orders.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">A religious gathering of over 5000 people in eastern Tibet violated Chinese government orders and publicly enthroned a portrait of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama with full religious ceremonial gaiety. <br/><br/>The enthronement of the portraits of the Dalai Lama and the 10th Panchen Lama took place at the Kham Lithang Gonchen during the 10-day Jang Gonchoe Chenmo religious congregation which began July 15.<br/><br/>Speaking to <i>Phayul</i>, a member of the Tibetan exile parliament, Mr Atruk Tseten said that it was an extremely joyous and emotional moment for the Tibetans who had gathered from all corners of Tibet as they lined up in front of the throne to offer <i>khataks</i> (Tibetan scarves). <br/><br/>“Many people told me that for the first time in their lives they felt as if they really could see His Holiness the Dalai Lama in person and seek his blessings”, Mr Tseten said. <br/><br/>Organisers of the religious gathering had in advance told local Chinese officials of their plans to enthrone the portrait of His Holiness the Dalai Lama warning that the organisers won’t be responsible for the actions of the assembled people in the event of the religious procession being obstructed.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><a target="_self" href="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2311633258?profile=original"><img width="670" src="http://storage.ning.com/topology/rest/1.0/file/get/2311633258?profile=original" class="align-center"/></a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Monks and nuns from over 100 monasteries in eastern Tibet gathered for the 4th Jang Gunchoe Chenmo held at Kham Lithang Gonchen from July 15-25, 2011.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">Around 100 monasteries representing all four schools of Tibetan Buddhism and Yungdrung Bon from eastern Tibet participated in the yearly congregation with the organisers defying official orders and sending an invite to Ngaba Kirti Monastery as well. <br/><br/>Mr Tseten told <i>Phayul</i> that the organisers had laid down strict rules to encourage all those gathered to speak in pure Tibetan language and made it mandatory for everyone, even Chinese officials to wear traditional Tibetan clothing inside the congregation grounds. <br/><br/><i>Tsethar</i>, the Buddhist practice of saving lives was also conducted as prayer offerings for the long life of the Dalai Lama. Live stocks in great numbers were rescued from slaughter houses and released under the care of herders and farmers.</p>
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<p style="text-align: center;">By Sherab Woeser</p>
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