These past two months have been relatively quiet here at Thosamling. The nuns have been busy working on cleaning up the nunnery and adding new features. In September during His Holiness’ teachings we had our first big group come to Thosamling from Taiwan to listen to Geshe-la’s teaching and also to see the nunnery.

Applications for the 2009 courses are in full swing with places filling quickly.

And, next years Ladakh tour has already received a few confirmed places.

Quite often during the teachings, Thosamling prepares a stand just outside Namgyal Temple, where we sell lunch, and are able to promote the nunnery and the courses. So, during this time we were able to speak to many people and it was during these teachings that approximately 30 Taiwanese students came to Thosamling for lunch and a wonderful teaching from Geshe-la. The teaching was given in Tibetan and translated into Chinese. The teaching was a basic introduction to Buddhism but the meaning was extremely profound and even moved a few people to tears. We wish to thank the Taiwanese group for coming to Thosamling, and with the donation they gave this will go towards building Geshe-la’s house. Plans for this begin in January.

Recent photos taken of our Bodhi tree indicate that it is growing extremely well. This tree was given to us as a seedling by the monks who look after the Bodhi tree in Bodhgaya, where the Buddha gained enlightenment. The seedling was planted by Ling Rimpochee who visited us a few years ago. The tree gets regular blessings as after each Drol Chog Puja we offer it the remaining nectar. This area was recently improved, thus creating an area for circumambulation and a peaceful place fro study or contemplation and in the very near future we hope also to put some seating around the tree.

1st Year Tibetan Language Class. – Written by Lea Godfrey (Student)
We are proud to say we have started translating sections from His Holiness Dalai Lama’s book ‘My Land my People’. Translating literary Tibetan is far more difficult than speaking Tibetan. At this time of the year we feel a definite sense of achievement at being able to speak, although the brain ticks over like a grandfather clock, we eventually get it out. Our comprehension of course is far greater and it is a delight to listen to our conversation partners explaining, talking about or telling stories for us.

GREAT FOR GIFTS
Gift packs are still available. Four types of gift packs are available; 2 types of Buddhist gift packs and 2 types of Non-Buddhist gift packs. Each packet contains selected items such as Indian and Tibetan handcraft and ritual objects. The donations collected in this way will go to the construction of the Tibetan School and Hostel for students.

For further information regarding these fun packs, please contact our office.

Places are still available for our 2009 Tour to Ladakh which will be held from 25th of June 2009 until the 11th of July 2009.
This tour offers two choices. At the end of the tour, if you wish you may also join the group and continue on to the teachings of His Holiness the Dalai Lama in Kaza, Spiti. This is a wonderful opportunity to attend such precious teachings.
For our Nirvana Tour members we can organize transport.

If you have interest in this tour, organized by Ekno Experience, please take a look at www.eknoexperience.com

There are still a few places in the 2009 courses available.

1st Year Tibetan Language Class –	Suitable for beginners or for those who wish to improve their already established colloquial Tibetan.
2nd Year Tibetan Language Class –	Suitable for intermediate to advanced students. This class looks at translation of spoken teachings from our resident teacher.
3rd Year Tibetan Language Class – NEW.	Suitable for advanced students. This class looks at translating teachings from His Holiness Dalai Lama.
Philosophy Class –	In 2009 will begin studying Tenets followed by the Perfection of Wisdom Sutras. Ideal for those with sound Tibetan language, but this is not essential as we have a translator.

For further information regarding our classes, please email our office.

CONTACT DETAILS

Thosamling Institute

Tel: 0091 - (0)1892 246731
Mob: 9816 141 830
Email: office@thosamling.net or
lozang_khandro@yahoo.com.au

Website: www.thosamling.net

Post Address:
Thosamling Inst.
Sidhpur, 176057
Distt. Kangra
H.P. India

DONATIONS

Towards the Nun’s Study Fund or to the Nunnery directly can be organised through the Thosamling office.

Any donation would be greatly appreciated.

Upcoming Dates.

Wednesday 19th November:
Buddha Shakyamuni’s descent from Tushita Heaven

Wednesday 10th November:
Commemoration of the Nobel Peace Prize to His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama