May the 8th was a day of great joy at NB Toronto as we welcomed our beloved teacher, Dzogchen Ponlop Rinpoche, who arrived to bless our new centre at the official opening. Local sangha and friends were joined by members from Halifax and Montreal for this wonderful occasion.
The day began with sangha singing King Song-tsenGampo’s Song of Auspiciousness (mostly in tune!) as Rinpoche and Lama Rabten entered the building and walked towards us. After cutting the ribbon, Rinpoche, with Lama in attendance, offered many blessing prayers for the centre.
We gathered again after lunch to hear Rinpoche teach with humour, ease, and clarity on the three elements needed to recognize the nature of mind. He compared these to service stations for our mind: clear view of the path, calming the mind at the “mind spa”, and the mindful activity of compassion and loving-kindness.
A lively reception and Open House followed, where many new people had a chance to meet and converse with Rinpoche in person. Dinner with Rinpoche for NB members completed this day of blessings.
Our good fortune continued on as Lama Rabten stayed with us, turning the wheel of the dharma with Refuge and Bodhisattva Vows, teaching and meditation throughout the following weekend.
We are filled with gratitude for such an auspicious beginning and look forward to sharing the dharma at our new home for many years to come.
