Ngakpa Zhal’mèd
Craft Retreat, June 2004
Ngakpa Zhal-mèd was the second of Ngala Nor’dzin and Ngala ’ö-Dzin’s apprentices to take ordination. He has become a close friend of Naljorma Rin’dzin. Ngakpa Zhal-mèd is French and lives in Paris where he hosts a thriving meditation group.
Ngala ’ö-Dzin comments:
Ngakpa Zhal-mèd has dedicated much time and effort in solitary retreat and is an accomplished practitioner. He is always willing to enthusiastically engage in sangha activities, even when they are not particularly to his liking. He does not enjoy camping, but is always ready to join in sangha expeditions nevertheless. He has little experience of horseriding, but will fearlessly ride to the challenge when horseriding is part of sangha events.
Ngakpa Zhal-mèd is always enthusiastic about joining in sangha activities, including expeditions and craft work. He comments:
Craft as practice is an ancient aspect of the gö kar chang lo’i dé. It brings about a sense of connectedness to the lineage and the wider tradition of householders over centuries. It is a joy and a privilege to be with everybody and relax in each other’s presence. We can delight in the experience each time we encounter one another and delight in the way they are. The craft itself brings out personalities and skills. I love the way the Sangha is: the harmony of it. It is a safe environment to test one’s growing edge in craft, in relationships with each other, and with our Lamas. What creates the safety is the presence of the Lamas and our trust in them. This moment is a rare opportunity. Having such a small focused group, we can meet here, in our Lama’s home for practice. It is hugely valuable as we lay the foundations for the future of our growing Sangha.
