Dear friend of Dechen Chöling,
It all started on the solstice, on June 20th, this energetic alignment which marked the beginning of the Summer. On that day, began the first large assembly at Dechen Chöling: Scorpion Seal 6. Were the traditional solstice bonfires at play or was it moreover the tantric flames of Ekajati? Whatever the case, France had its second hottest summer ever recorded and Dechen Chöling, at its level, had its share of the flames: the spark of the allegations – released at the end of June, the burning of emotions, the fire of transformation…
The planet speaks to us and its message resonates from the macrocosm to the microcosm – earth, humanity, society, personnal – to push us to raise awareness and to transform us.
This blazing wind blew through our two months of Summer while our largest assemblies followed one after another. After the SS6 of June, July received Warrior Assembly, Ziji Youth Retreat, Family Camp, Sun Camp and the archers of Kyudo… Then August saw an impressive gathering of Kasung (Magyal Pomra Encampment), Vajrayana Retreat, Dakini Principle and Scorpion Seal 9, which will give way, within a few days, to Scorpion Seal 3.
Although, quantitatively, the participation in our programmes has not been too negatively affected, the dynamics of the retreats were strongly influenced by the current events, as I have already shared in my previous letter about participating in Warrior Assembly.
Talking circles and exchange groups were held left and right which made it possible to freely express what needed to be said, to contribute to the progress of the necessary healing processes, to point out the challenges of the organization and, at the same time, begin to imagine grounds of reconstruction, especially around governance, structures or inclusivity.
Although this new cycle of destruction-creation is only at its start – the important thing is the journey – we can already feel the promise of the solid elements that are emerging now: the deep love of the teachings, the commitment to practice, the sense of community. We can reasonably hope that this new push will allow us to rebuild Shambhala and contribute more powerfully to catalyze the awakement of societies. It is up to us to engage resolutely in these dual processes of purification and innovation. ‘Chaos is good news’ – Chögyam Trungpa Rinpoche.
Then the fire of destruction will give way to the novel wind of change…
FALL PROGRAMMES
The residential center Dechen Chöling is of crucial importance for the future of the European sangha and we know you care about it. More than ever, we need your support, starting with your participation in our programmes.
To start with here are two new programmes that deserve your attention:
10-14 October: Living in the challenge : Introduction to Mindful Focusing, by David Rome
Through Mindful Focusing, access the vast resources and wisdom of your body to move ahead in your life with renewed vision and energy. Taught in English. Translation upon request. David Rome is the creator of Mindful Focusing. He began practicing Buddhism in 1971 and served as private secretary to Tibetan contemplative master Chögyam Trungpa.
See his biography
8-14 October: Choosing Sanity Over Confusion, by Peter Conradi
An important programme with Peter Conradi: deepening the Buddha’s Four Noble Truths and choosing sanity! Beginners or experienced meditators, don’t miss it. Taught in English. Translation upon request. Peter Conradi was Professor of English Literature in London before becoming a freelance writer. His books include Going Buddhist, Panic and Emptiness…
See his biography
Other upcoming programmes:
Meditation retreats for all
30 sept – 7 Oct: Silent Meditation Retreat, with Dorothea Gädeke
1-7 October: Writing and Meditation Retreat, with Amy Hollowell
3-11 November: Silent Minfulness Retreat, with Acharya Mathias Pongracz
Way of Shambhala
29-30 September: Shambhala Training Level V – Open Sky
20-22 October: Rigden, Unconditional Confidence
23 Oct – 3 Nov: Enlightened Society Assembly, with Acharya Mathias Pongracz
BLOG NEWS
With a view to total transparency about Shambhala current events, you can find on our public website all the communications relating to Shambhala governance and the allegations of sexual misconduct.
On a lighter note, read our latest news:
Strength and Beauty in Imperfection
Compassion and Gardening
New structures Summer 2018
Community Offerings from the Acharyas
See you soon at Dechen Chöling!
Yours in the vision of the Great Eastern Sun,
Pascal Gaillard
