June 28th – Dinner, dancers, music; momos and more!
By Ann Marshall
In conjunction with the upcoming visit of Abbot Shudup Khen Rinpoche of Menri Monastery (relocated from Tibet) in India, the Tibetan Bon Buddhist Society of Comox Valley is hosting an evening of Tibetan food and culture at the Native Sons Hall in Courtenay, B.C. This has been a long talked of and much anticipated event that is dear to the heart of our spiritual teacher Geshe Yong Dong (Geshela to his students), to raise awareness within the Vancouver Island community of the Tibetan culture and to further the goals of Sherab Chamma Ling to fundraise for a permanent home. This is hopefully the first of many events which will be an annual celebration.
When I think of Tibet, I think of incredible mountains and valleys and mysterious traditions that have lasted centuries in isolated conditions. Of colourful prayer flags snapping in the winds and the tragic flight of so many across mountains into India during the Chinese invasion of their homeland. But what I often forget, and yet what is perhaps most relevant in presenting Tibetan culture, is the kind, warm and easygoing nature of the Tibetan people. Their easy tolerance of difficulties, change and unknowns, simply willing to let things be as they are. The quickness to laugh smile and enjoy in the moment, not worrying too much if things are “as they should be”. So, in organizing this event I try to acknowledge there will be something of everything, expectations of western norms, cultural presentation of Tibetan celebration and way of being, the traditional blessing of Tibetan spiritual teachers, elements of Canadian First Nation traditions a true gathering of our respective tribes. At this point in the planning, we are certain June 28th will be an evening of Traditional culture highlighting Tibetan food, dance and music, additions and details to determined! We know that there will be delicious momos to warm our bellies and new faces and new friends to warm our hearts, and we hope that you will join us.
Get tickets here on our website.
So that is where we are at with 50 days and counting down to the evening event on June 28. Watch this page, I will update you on the festivities as they develop. If you are interested in lending a hand during the organization stage or during the weekend of the event, let me know! You can reach me at annmorgana@yahoo.com or contact Esther at esther@sherabchammaling.com