Hi guys,
Had a fab night last night at the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts (TIPA)where almost the whole Tibetan population of Mcleod had gathered to watch HH The Dalai Lama receive the Congressional Gold Medal from President Bush. TIPA is a large concert hall and sports ground where all big music events are held here. There had been activities all day - tug-o-war and music. The build up to the live ceremony at 10pm.
The ceremony was broadcast to everyone via a Tibetan/American TV channel so everything that was said was translated into Tibetan. It was fantastic to hear politicians speaking of peace, non-violence and honesty. Not words that usually spill from politicians mouths! Suit after suit took to the stage to praise the Dalai Lama and even more importantly (in my opinion) too lend their support to the Tibetan cause. It was wonderful to hear such powerful, influential people speak about the situation in Tibet. I just hope the ceremony got plenty of coverage across the world and that the people that matter were listening, the people that can actually help change the situation, and that they take action.
As I sat and watched this ceremony amongst the people who are actually being affected by the things that these politicians were talking about, I wondered if people in the crowd carried a glimmer of hope that this ceremony might just change things for Tibet. That soon they may be able to return to their homes and their families. Or were most people sceptical of any changes occuring? HH The Dalai Lama has received much recognition, support and awards over the 50 years, but still Tibet remains under occupation and Tibetans remain a second class citizen in their own country. I don't know how the crowds were feeling but you could certainly feel the love and respect they hold for their spiritual leader, HH The Dalai Lama. I just hope that for people with a glimmer of hope it will grow to something more than hope and that any sceptical people will be proved wrong!
Hopefully oneday The Dalai Lama will meet with Chinese officials to discuss and hopefully resolve the issues surrounding Tibet - environment, religious freedom, human rights, population transfer and the safe return of refugees to their homes. The congressional Gold award is certainly an honour to receive but surely the best gift HH The Dalai Lama could receive is Tibetan autonomy (or at least concrete steps towards this dream) in his lifetime.
On a lighter note - things going really good here in Mcleod. Before the ceremony last night the Tibetan army took to the stage to entertain the crowd. One guy had us all laughing with his crazy dance moves. Had to be seen to be believed!
Still taking Tibetan lessons everyday and even attempted to speak to the old guy selling tsampa in Tibetan today. Unfortunately he had sold out so that conversation was short and sweet! Discovered they do a language Tibetan course in NOrblingka (about 1 hr from here). But it does require staying in a monastery - and i'm not sure if i'm ready to go cold turkey just yet!
Have been entertaining more dinner guests - a group of young Scottish guys who we met in momo cafe. Had them all round ours for a momo feast! The hostess had one 2 many 8pms though and fell asleep before they had left! No suprise there for anyone who knows me!
The weather is getting chilly - the nights are really cold. Will have to bring out the sock hat again soon . . . .
Can't think of much else to say at the mo - apart from love and miss everyone tons and tons xxx
