I recently witnessed this amazing event - a sand painted mandala created by a Tibetan monk associated with the Dali Lama. His visit to Billings, Montana was facilitated by my daughter's life partner, Jim Nymeyer, owner of Barjon's Book Store.
By the time I arrived, the painting was finished and a large crowd had gathered to witness the destruction of the painting.
The monk spent a lot of time explaining his process, the symbolism, and the purpose through his interpreter.
Then, he ceremoniously destroyed the painting he had spent 3 days creating.
Afterward, participants were given small bags of sand to take home and return to the earth in their own way.
I have mine, still. I am somewhat undecided about where I will place it.
This was a very moving event. I was surprised by how deeply touched I was by the sand painting when I had the opportunity to view it up close. It brought tears to my eyes!
2 comments:
One was done at the local museum when the exhibition for Sir Edmund Hillary was on. They are really something else :)
viv in nz
How utterly wonderful! I used to shop at Barjon's. Most excellent book store. Congratulations to them for their world view of diversity. ~JM Spokane, WA
Post a Comment