On our last day in Dharamsalah emotions are raging.
Receiving ceremonial white scarves from everyone as a sign of respect and good luck, a tea party at the Women's association, goodbye lunches and events and individual goodbyes. It seems a part of us will never leave.
On my last day I had lunch with a monk who I'd taught English at our conversational English classes at the Hope Centre. He made me noodles in his room- 3 metres x 3 metres. Simple, basic, his life in a matchbox.
As we had our last conversation he explained to me that the Jewish people are very strong- they waited for their homeland for over 1000 years, Tibetans only waited for 50- it's OK. Then he continued to explain how Jews say: Next year in Jerusalem- leading to our mutual rephrasing- Next year in Lhasa- the ancient capital of Tibet. This for me is a final reminder of why we are here.
Last week we had an audience with the Karmapa. The 3rd holiest lama, whom we had the honour of meeting. This 23 year old man, chosen for this role at less then 10 years of age will be the future leader of Tibetans. We are close in age but worlds apart in responsibilities and life course. In response to our question he said:
"You are from the West and we, from East, different cultures are meeting, thank you for your contribution, and maybe take along some compassion from what you experience here, if every person passes on a little bit, the world will gradually improve."
So two final messages:
1) Next year in Jerusalem or Lhasa- safe and free
2) Sending you a dose of compassion- please pass it on!
Signing off from Dharamsalah,
Peace and Love to all,
Maayan
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