Tulku Karma Gyurme's Visit

During Tulku's visit this weekend, we experienced a gorgeous snowfall that stayed on the ground, unlike most snowfalls in Sedona that melt away in the afternoon. The snow began falling on Friday night where he talked about Sustaining Compassion in Difficult Times, and taught us his tune to "Praise to Tara."

On Saturday, he bestowed the Medicine Buddha empowerment. The Medicine Buddha empowerment gives us the tools to not only help ourselves but to help others as we deal with physical suffering, using the purity of an unbroken lineage that is totally applicable and perfect for today.


"When sickness strikes
To destroy the fragile bodies of sentient beings
And diseases plunge us into unbearable suffering and agony
Without the slightest doubt or hesitancy we pray..."
(from the Medicine Buddha practice)

Sunday afternoon, Tulku insisted we not cancel the scheduled outdoor event at the Stupa despite cold weather and additional snow. As attentive listeners looked on, all were mesmerized by his sincerity, warmth and humor and reminded that making a sacrifice like coming out in this weather for the sake of others gave rise to great merit that could be dedicated to all sentient beings. The power of a stupa is immeasurable and this was a wonderful gift to future generations according to Rinpoche.

And Monday evening, after sharing a DVD of his fundraising work in India, he offered a healing and blessing ceremony to all in attendance.