Spiritual Calling of an IT Guy

  It is easy to move through life doing many things, yet achieving very little that truly matters. When our energy is scattered and unconscious, even our hardest efforts can feel empty. Life, after all, is precious and without direction, we risk spending it without fulfillment. I have come to realize that what matters most is not just what we do, but how consciously we channel our energy. And with that realization, I have finally discovered a sense of purpose in my life. From this point onward, my personal brand is Tendrel a commitment to live intentionally by channeling my energy into three guiding watermarks: Competent, Caring and Compassionate . From the outside, I am an IT lecturer. This is my professional identity and I am committed to being competent in my field. Technology evolves rapidly and so must I. I will continue to invest my energy in learning, improving my teaching and engaging in research so that I can share knowledge that is relevant, practical and meaningful...

  In the vast and profound world of Vajrayana Buddhism, protectors of the Dharma play a vital role in safeguarding both spiritual practice and the wellbeing of sentient beings. Among these powerful protectors, Ekajati stands out as a unique and deeply revered figure, especially within the Dzogchen tradition. Her origin is traced to the divine realms, where she is believed to be the daughter of Lord Shiva and Umadeva. In Buddhist practice, Lord Shiva is often known as Lha Wangchuk, a deity to whom prayers are offered at the beginning of rituals. This reflects the deep interconnection of spiritual traditions, where wisdom transcends boundaries and manifests in different forms. Through the intervention of Vajrakilaya, Ekajati was entrusted with the sacred responsibility of protecting the Dharma. Since then, she has remained a central guardian in Dzogchen teachings, symbolizing unwavering awareness and fierce compassion. In Bhutan, Ekajati is not just a symbolic figure she is believed ...

In Bhutan, we do not separate the spiritual from the worldly; what unfolds before us often carries deeper meaning-subtle, symbolic, and timely. What many may see as coincidence, we understand as Tendrel, a sacred convergence of causes and conditions. As our nation steps forward on the visionary path of Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC), guided by the wisdom of His Majesty the King, I find myself reflecting on a series of powerful signs that do not appear isolated, but interconnected-forming a pattern, a message that feels both urgent and clear: the time is now. Near the Amochu (Toorsa) River in Phuentsholing lies Aum Dungtima Ney, a deeply sacred site associated with King Dondrup, a previous life of the Buddha. This Ney carries a prophecy, which I believe is Tendrel-that the time is now. Recently, near this Ney, a remarkable incident unfolded when two men, swept away by violent floodwaters, survived against overwhelming odds. While many call it a miracle, I see it as something more-a Tend...

Perched on a quiet hilltop in Samtse Dzongkhag, above Samtse Gewog, Numlakha View Point is a place of serene beauty and profound calm. From this elevated spot, one can enjoy the beautiful views of Ligmethang Village (Bukkey), surrounded by gentle hilltops, and other scattered villages, including Gawadrong Chorten, a revered chorten built according to the prophecy of Manjushri, the deity of wisdom. On bright days, sunlight illuminates the hilltop and during sunset the horizon glows in a golden hue, transforming the hilltop into a naturally blessed vantage point. For travelers, Numlakha has long been a place to pause, breathe in the fresh air and admire the harmonious beauty of the view.Yet beyond its scenic charm, Numlakha has recently taken on a deeper spiritual and auspicious significance, marked by an extraordinary event that unfolded naturally and spontaneously. On a recent visit, Tang Rinpoche came to Gawadrong Chorten to conduct the Jampel Lophel Rilbu Drubchen. After the Drubch...

 The recent incredible story of survival at the Amochu (Toorsa) River in Phuentsholing has left many of us awestruck. Two men, swept away by violent floodwaters, clung to life against overwhelming odds. What many call a miracle, I see as a Tendrel- a convergence of meaning, time and spiritual reminder. This incident occurred near Aum Dungtima Ney , a sacred site where King Dondrup (a previous life of Lord Buddha) once endured immense hardship. It is a place deeply associated with prophecy, perseverance and the ripening of karmic connections. For some time now, I have felt that this Ney carries a message meant for now, especially as our country sets a new direction through the vision of Gelephu Mindfulness City (GMC) under the guidance of our Kings. When I reflect on the survival of these two men, I could connect the dots. To me, the symbolism is striking: ·        Two survivors, ·        Two Enlightened Buddhas, ...

  During the Payling Chhokhor conducted by Lham Namkha Nyingpo Rinpoche at Samtse College of Education (SCE) -a place where I have worked for over 16 years-I found myself reflecting deeply on the significance of the number 6 . Around 3:00 PM , I stood in a queue with my college staff and other groups to offer Ku Sung Thuk Mendrel to Rinpoche. Due to the large number of devotees, the coordinator was calling 6 people from each group to make the offering. At that moment, it struck me that this was not the first time the number 6 had appeared repeatedly in my life over the past weeks. Earlier, while volunteering at GMC, I stayed at my sister’s Quarter no. 6 . During that time, my father arrived in Gelephu after suffering a leg fracture and had to seek medical treatment. As a result, he had to cancel his plan to attend the Payling Chhokhor . At Gelephu Hospital , my registration queue number was 16 , and we were referred to the orthopaedic surgeon’s Chamber no. 6 . The follow...

The preparation for the celebration of the 16th Kuechey of Khenchen Jigme Phuntsho at Kadam Chorten (Buddha’s Memorial Chorten) in Gawadrong, 2020, was nearly complete. But being a coordinator of the Dewachen Tshogpa, I visited the   preparation site on Bhutanese winter solstice, Nyilo (ཉི་ལོག) day to clear some remaining unfinished work—some stones and construction nails—surrounding the chorten. My mind was filled with devotion and the determination to make the first celebration of the 16th Kuechey of Khenchen Jigme Phuntsho at Kadam Chorten a successful and meaningful event.While clearing the stones and construction nails, I unconsciously separated one stone from the rest and placed it inside a torn tin. Discovering this stone on Nyilo, 2 nd January, 2020( ཟླབ་ ༡༡་ ཚེས་༧ ) seemed particularly significant, leading me to ponder the timing of this discovery. The Significance of Winter Solstice, Nyilo ( ཉི་ལོག ) According to the Loden Foundation (2021), Nyilo literally means ‘t...

  Due to the Tshe Nga Mai Lethro, I found myself at Devi thang sometime last year, located near Aum Dungtima Ney—a place I often visit after my mystical event. It was enlightening to learn that visitors to this Ney(Devi thang)should abstain from consuming meat and must respect the area's sanctity, for example, by not urinating nearby. Violating these norms can provoke punishment from the Devi deity. Today, I am here at the Shiv Mandir, praying for the successful conduct of the Devi Puja by the people of southern Bhutan, especially by all the local communities. This ceremony is typically held in April month on Buddha Purnima or Devi Purnima (Full Moon Day), primarily for agricultural purposes, such as ensuring timely rainfall at the start of the vegetable and crop sowing season( Subba & Phanching,n.d). It is also performed to prevent hailstones and storms during the growing and harvesting of crops like maize, paddy, and vegetables such as chili, broccoli, spinach, cabbage, beans...

  Today, I circumambulated this Chorten three times. Firstly, early in the morning when I went to spread chundu and offer flowers to it after dreaming about it last night. Then, in the afternoon, when I accompanied my wife to her friend's place for dance practice. Lastly, as shown in this photo. I believe what is happening forms a Tendrel for something to reveal.

  Wow! What an auspicious day! Early this morning, I found myself here, where the Vakrakilaya Drupchen is commencing today, presided over by His Eminence Patseling Trulku Rinpoche. Usually, in the early morning, I open the window near my bed to let in the fresh morning air as I engage in sleeping meditation for about 5 to 10 minutes. However, today, while I was in the midst of my meditation, my wife approached me to deliver a parcel for our friend who is on emergency in Thimphu for some reason since last night. It was 6:29 AM when I hurried to the bus station and back. Upon returning, as I entered the gate of the Drupchen, I could still see chundu on the road. It felt as though I was also being welcome to this Vakrakilaya Drupchen, a site where I h ad experienced about Lord Buddha Heaven. Therefore, Today as I write this post about my today early morning Tendrel here at Vakrakilaya Drupchen site, I am opening my statement saying this place is a Buddha heaven based on my own experie...

 To me, Samtse2020 project represents a significant milestone in Bhutan's history. It was a time of remarkable achievements, made possible by the unseen yet formidable force within our nation. I am aware of the unseen tasks carried out to put in to strengthening our country's position amidst the towering presence of neighboring giants. Samtse2020 was not merely an event; it was a Tendrel —a harmonious alignment of auspicious circumstances, foretelling a prosperous time ahead for Bhutan under the wise and benevolent leadership of His Majesty the 5th King.

From this Buddha’s memorial chorten, amidst the celebration of the 16th Kuechey of Khenchen Jigme Phuntsho at Gawadrog, Samtse in 2020, a profound realization struck me like a thunderbolt: for 37 years, I had been navigating through life without a moment's respite from the relentless churn of thoughts. Tears cascaded down my face as I grappled with this realization. In the morning, I found myself unexpectedly driving Rinpoche in my car to the chorten, accompanied by my wife and Rinpoche's assistance. During the drive, I asked Rinpoche whether I needed to visit Jagar Dorjiden to attain enlightenment. Rinpoche's response that enlightenment resides within one's heart rather than in a physical place, his words left me immersed in deep contemplation. As we approached the up rough road, navigating the recently constructed road with sand on top, making it hard to drive, Rinpoche and I almost had an accident. Upon arrival, I observed with a sense of auspiciousness that the Ch...

   In 2020, something truly special happened during the ninth lunar month of the Bhutanese calendar, known as Lhabab Dawa, which generally coincides  with November in the Western world. It's a time when Bhutanese people come together for virtuous activities and prayers, all in the pursuit of peace and harmony. What made Lhabab Dawa 2020 remarkable was the coincidence of especial Buddhist and Hindu festivals, along with celebrations honoring Bhutan's kings and national pride. It was a month filled with spirituality and celebration. The month began with Navaratri, a 9-day festival where Bhutanese invited Devi into our homes, seeking purity and divine blessings. On the 10th day, Dasain and Vajrakilaya Puja were celebrated, symbolizing the victory of good over evil. It was a time of hope and positivity. The 16th marked the coronation anniversary of His Majesty the 5th king. Bhutanese people gathered in different regions to wish for his long and prosperous reign, showing our u...

    The number 16 holds profound significance in the ongoing national transformation of Bhutan and in my life. This significance is rooted in a mystical event that occurred on the 16th day of the Bhutanese calendar during the 16th Kuchey of Khenchen Jigme Phuntsho at the Jangchub Gatshel Chorten in Samtse. This sacred memorial stupa, deeply connected with Buddha, is currently under construction, guided by the wise leadership of His Majesty the 5th King of Bhutan. Its noble purpose is to symbolize peace, security and sovereignty within our beloved nation. Remarkably, in the same year, His Majesty's coronation took place on the 16th day of the 9th lunar month of the Bhutanese calendar, known as Lhabab Dawa, also associated with Buddha. Almost two years later, a significant development occurred on the international stage when India and China reaffirmed their commitment to restoring peace and tranquility along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) during the 16th round of talks add...

  In the journey of self-discovery and spiritual awakening, we often find ourselves in situations that serve as profound lessons. It is during these moments that we realize the importance of self-awareness, mindfulness, and the power of listening, both to ourselves and to others. Today, I would like to share a personal incident that taught me a valuable lesson about this very aspect of life. The Incident: With my Wife Oflet, my wife and I happened to be in one of the friends' house. There were four of us, himself,another friend and two of us. My wife, known for her exceptional social skills, was her usual talkative self. On the other hand, I tend to be more reserved, often preferring to listen rather than speak. Prior to this incident, I had shared with my wife my belief that she should strive to listen more and talk less in social situations. My intention behind this advice was rooted in my spiritual pursuit and my desire to help her unlock the power of mindful listening and, in t...

  When we contemplate the present figurehead in science and technology, Elon Musk readily comes to mind as a front-runner in this domain. His triumph as an entrepreneur is propelled by his revolutionary innovations, exceptional aptitude, influence, and substantial income, which he both earns and relishes. On a divergent note, when considering the foremost spiritual guide worldwide, the name of Sadhguru often emerges. Revered as a yogi, mystic, and modern guru by his followers, he offers diverse programs aimed at fostering physical, mental, and spiritual well-being. Unquestionably, these exceptional individuals are fortunate few who inspire millions seeking success. Now, envision a leader or individual embodying qualities inherent to both these remarkable figures. Such a person would transcend leadership itself. The query arises: What educational framework can cultivate such exceptional individuals within our nation? Education stands as a prime catalyst in shaping a child's life. As...

  You might be acquainted with Aum Dungtima Ney and Kopi Dham, situated near the Amo Chu (Toorsa) river in Phuntsholing. These sacred sites hold a special place in my heart, owing to my personal experiences with them. As per the historical account provided in the " སྟོན་པ་བདེ་བར་གཤེགས་པའི་རྣམ་ཐར་ཏཱ་ར་ནཱ་ཐས " (Biography of Buddha), King Dondrup (the previous incarnation of Lord Buddha) faced adversity at Aum Dungtima Ney due to the གང་ལ་གང་འདོད་སྦྱིན་པ་བཏང་།  including animals. However, with his visionary leadership, harmony was swiftly restored. These Neys have been prophesied to exhibit "Tendrel" (auspicious interdependence) in the future, which appears to be unfolding now.   In my view, it is an auspicious alignment for these two Neys to collaborate harmoniously, guided by compassion and adhering to the legal principles of our nation, to achieve our collective vision. My prayers extend to these sacred sites for the successful realization of transformative refo...

  To ensure the fruition of our triumphant transformative reforms—a precious offering from our Dharma King—I would earnestly propose adhering to the guiding tenets of མཉམ་རུབ། ཞི་འཇམ། and ཁྲིམས་མཐུན། as we strive to attain our envisioned future for Bhutan.

To me, the alignment of the Bhutanese New Year in 2023 with His Majesty's 43rd birthday resonates as an auspicious omen for triumphant transformative reforms—a precious bestowal from our Dharma King. Presently, I find myself partaking in the festivities at Ten-Drel Thang, Samtse, offering heartfelt prayers and fervent wishes.

  Without prior arrangement, and with intentions stemming from the depths of my heart, a meaningful occurrence unfolded. It transpired at Panbari Lhakhang during the Drup Tshezi festival—a foreshadowing of the passion I am fervently pursuing: the construction of an equitable and harmonious society in our nation, in alignment with the vision of His Majesty the 5th King.   My companions and I were fortunate participants in the Drup Tshezi festival at Panbari Lhakhang. This was my inaugural experience as a "Jinda," an offering participant, at this sacred occasion dedicated to my root guru, Lord Buddha. I gleaned additional insight from the Tshogpa, who informed us that the Lhakhang had recently undergone a Rabna (consecration) by Lama Namkha Ningpo Rinpoche, a rite aimed at enhancing the well-being of the local community post-renovation. It marked a dual first—a Jinda from my end and a Chekhor representing the Lhakhang and the local administration, both contributing to the wel...