He was a bestselling author and rising star of the Buddhist world, but one day Mingyur Rinpoche just walked out and left it all behind. Andrea Miller reports on a modern lama braving the ancient path of the wandering yogi.
Right click to download The Wanderer a new article from the March 2012 Shambhala Sun magazine.
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The old monk Lama Soto knocked on Yongey Mingyur Rinpoche’s door. Then he knocked again. It was noon at Tergar Monastery in Bodhgaya, India, and Lama Soto was bringing Mingyur Rinpoche his lunch, just as he’d done for the past five days, ever since Mingyur Rinpoche had announced that he was going to intensify his practice and remain alone in his room, eating only once a day. Their custom was that Lama Soto would knock on the door; in response, Mingyur Rinpoche would open it a little, then Lama Soto would walk in. But on this day early last June, Mingyur Rinpoche did not open the door and no sound came from his room. At one o’clock, Lama Soto pushed open the unlocked door and on the bed he found a long white ceremonial scarf and a letter. Mingyur Rinpoche was gone and he had taken nothing with him—not money, not a change of clothes, not even a toothbrush. Lama Soto nearly fainted.
Used with permission from Shambhala Sun magazine
How Wonderful!
I think this article embraces all levels of practitioners and those who simply want inspiration to pursue a spiritual – transformational path. Myoshin and Cortlands comments were particularly enriching. Rinpoche’s humility and willingness to discuss his own human frailties have always been endearing to me. I recall him addressing us as a group on Pilgrimage the night after he arrived in Samagaun. The sun was setting over Mt. Manaslu and we were all chilled and exhausted. the first thing he said was “How many of you have diarrhea?” As hands shot up he laughed and said “Me too! Four days now.” Then he took an Immodium. And said “we don’t want an oops!”
His presence undeniably inspiring but a tulku openly human gives me the inspiration that i too can attain liberation.
How Nice!
mark
Deeply inspiring. And a perfect metaphor for what each of us must do in a thousand different ways as we travel through our days.
hahahah.. Dear Myngur: you are welcome to wander in mexico community we promise not to reveal your identity! Lah Gyalo!