Vajra Tent of Protection mp4

© 2008 Lama Tharchin Rinpoche

Format: 1mp4 video download (link will be sent within 5 business days); Also available on DVD

Running Time: 57 min

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Recorded at Pema Ösel Ling, Corralitos, California; May 2008

Language: Rinpoche teaches in English

A teaching by Lama Tharchin Rinpoche after the Santa Cruz Mountains Summit Fire, May 2008.

On May 22, 2008, fire broke out on the Summit above Pema Ösel Ling, Vajrayana Foundation’s retreat center in the Santa Cruz mountains. It rapidly spread and covered areas surrounding Pema Ösel Ling and Sang Ngak Chökhor Ling, the 3-year retreat land. The mountainside above the retreat area as well as the slopes behind the office, bookstore, and cabins down nearly to the stupa were significantly scorched. We suffered some damage and lost two cabins, but most were not affected. The shrine and stupa were completely safe.

Lama Tharchin Rinpoche gave this teaching at Pema Ösel Ling and Sang Ngak Chökhor Ling shortly after the fire. Rinpoche walks around the land to show us the effects of the fire and the amazing protection in all the areas that were saved. He spoke about the lessons we can take from this fire, such as how to use catastrophic events in our practice, as well as deep appreciation for the blessings of Guru Rinpoche and the Three Jewels who provided a canopy of protection, like a Vajra Tent. Rinpoche also expresses deep gratitude to the firefighters who devoted their lives to saving our precious land, as well as to the lamas and sangha members who worked bravely and tirelessly in such difficult conditions during the fire. He’s so happy this land that was dedicated to benefit all beings was able to provide a sanctuary for the firefighters and a large source of water to fight the Summit Fire.

Sent to subscribers: June 2008