Like the Phoenix that rises out of the ashes and spread its wings to fly into all the directions, like this Dorje Shugden's practice will grow and spread into the ten directions.
As I recall, Tibetan Buddhism only took off and spread worldwide after China's invasion of Tibet. If Tibet had not been invaded by China, Buddhism may remain closed and confined within the snow-covered walls of Shangri La. So, in losing their country, they are forced to flee. In fleeing, the gates and walls come down. The world learns of Buddhism.
So, why can't we all take the same positive view of the ban on Dorje Shugden? Why must we just brew in negativity and spew out venomous words against each other or other Lamas? What does that serve, really, and ultimately?
If there was no ban, nothing will be challenged, pushed, tried and provoked.
If there was no ban, life could possibly go on as before and it returns to its complacent and lethargic state.
How would that ultimately serve the spread of Dorje Shugden or Lama Tsongkhapa's teachings?
If there is one thing the ban has done for sure, it has given the practice of Dorje Shugden real urgency and importance.
Because of the ban, every practitioner, for the first time in his or her life, asks themselves - what does the practice mean to them? They begin to ask questions that they have taken for granted and never had to think about - how important is the practice to them? What will they do for the practice, to protect it and help it?
The Protector has helped many of us in so many ways, for so long. How do we help the Protector in return?
What does the Protector really want? Why did the Protector come into being in the first place?
If it has not crossed your mind yet, may be it is time we should seriously contemplate and open our eyes.
Are there more Dorje Shugden monasteries and temples being erected as we speak?
Is the growth and spread declining or increasing?
What does it all mean to you and me?
I'll say this from my heart -
Because of this Forum and all the ideas and contribution in the Forum, I have gained much knowledge and courage to do much more for our great Protector. And practice even harder for myself.
I used to be so afraid of people even finding out that I am a Shugden practitioner and I had to keep it a secret.
But in the end, as a result of others finding out, I get to see who my real friends are and who are not.
I get ostracized, but so what of it? Our Protector had endured greater pains than what I have gone through. All the high Lamas have endured greater hardships than little ol' me in my small little world and mind. Yet they did not give up. So, why should I even utter a word of complaint?
In the end, I get to see where I really stand and want to stand. And I chose to stand with the Protector. Because that's where I belong.
And would I endure much more for the Protector?
Indeed I would, without a doubt. Bring it on.
