A Enlightenment Stupa
KUNZANG PALYUL CHOLING
River Rd, Poolesville MD
As I sat with the Stupa at mid-day, open to whatever it might offer, a woman appeared and walked around it three times clockwise in silence. As the third time ended she bowed in its direction and started to leave. I asked, “are you free to talk”. She seemed to hesitate for a moment but then said “yes” and walked over.
We talked about her Buddhist community (sangha), where the Stupa stood, stupa history and symbology, interspirituality, miksang contemplative photography, and ourselves.
I told her jokingly that I was just a “book Buddhist” (no vows) and had a non-conceptual “Christian” meditation practice. She said her parents were Buddhists and they had raised her as Buddhist since birth.
I considered our conversation what the Stupa had to offer. As the I-Ching says, “there are forces in the world bringing people together who need to be together”. Our contact and conversation was special. Enlightenment? I suppose it awaits another day perhaps. I’ll try to stay open. Amen -
End