Monday October, 22, 2001

Our group visited Men-Tsee-Khang, The Tibetan Institute for Astrology and Medicine. The first thing I noticed as we approached the main building was the scent. It was very different from the other aromas that drift through the air in India. This one made me want to breathe deeply though my nose! I inhaled the scent of earth, spice, and mineral as I moved with the group though the building. In the entrance hall I discovered where this smell was coming from. Men were loading bags of medicinal ingredients onto a truck from tall piles in the breezeway.

We had some difficulty in the beginning, A misunderstanding had left us with not enough doctors for the whole group, but that was quickly remedied. Instead of large groups touring and seeing the doctors, we went individually or in small groups to visit the doctors, the museum and astrological office where many of us ordered readings of our charts according to the Tibetan system. When we had all finished these activities we were invited to tea with the General Secretary of Men-Tsee-Khang. At the tea, he gave us a short talk. He told us how much he enjoyed that we came to visit and expressed that it gave him a "very special feeling when he looked out on so many smiling dancers" He told us how much he appreciated what we are doing, and our motivation to spread peace, compassion, and wisdom though the most powerful goddess Tara.

He also spoke about the motivation of his organization. He said that they are " trying to bring down intolerance, aggression, and unnecessary desires" though balancing mental and physical states. They are also helping poor people who need medicine but cannot afford to pay. When our talk was finished the General Secretary offered us Katas and we walked our to the courtyard singing OM MANI PADME HUM.

When we reached the courtyard there were many residents of the institute gathered on the steps and balconies. We formed a circle and began to dance our welcome song, inviting others to join us. Many people did and we had the added blessing of many children dancing with us. It truly was a "very special feeling" to have so many people from all over the world sharing a heart connection though song and dance. under the crescent moon and the setting sun, we danced in praise of wisdom, compassion, power, and the divine in every person.

Blessings,
Amy Emrich