In the hustle and bustle, we must bring back our mindfulness, reevaluating the true meaning of being in Bodh Gaya, taking part in the holy event of Mönlam.
While it is true that Kagyu Mönlam is an annual event where sangha members from all corners of the world gather, connecting and reconnecting with friends, it is of utmost importance to realize the true meaning of being here at this holy place, of being in the presence of great masters.
The Buddha walked on this very ground, teaching and liberating all beings – we are walking on the very same ground. THIS VERY GROUND. The great master Nāgārjuna is believed to have renovated the existing Mahābodhi Temple, where the Buddhas of the past, present, and future have attained and will attain buddhahood – we are circumambulating the very same holy temple. THIS VERY TEMPLE. After six years of hardship, under the Bodhi tree, the Buddha proclaimed himself to be 'Buddha' – under the shade of the descendant of the original tree, we are developing the inner qualities. THIS VERY BASE. Karmapa is our link to the uninterrupted Kagyu lineage consisting of many great realized masters – we are seeing Karmapa. We are hearing his speech. HE IS TRULY IN FRONT OF OUR NAKED EYES.
In the hustle and bustle, we must bring back our mindfulness, reevaluating the true meaning of being in Bodh Gaya, taking part in the holy event of Mönlam. After exchanging pleasantries with friends, we must set aside time for the real purpose of being here, so that when we return back to our respective bases, we have an abundant reminiscence of inspiring moments, not just ordinary feel-good time. We must distinguish this precious gathering from other types of gathering. May I remind all to exercise your discernment, assessing and valuing this precious moment – an unsolicited reminder, nonetheless, it is mainly for myself and persons of my aptitude and inclination.
