Tibetan Monk Workshop - Van Wezel - April 21, 2010 - Sarasota, Florida

On Wednesday, April 21st, Judy Levine did a very informative presentation on Buddhism and the Tibetan Monks. Judy and a friend traveled to Tibet, Nepal, and surrounding countries eight years ago. They were able to visit many Buddhist monasteries and other buildings in Tibet, Nepal, India, and Indonesia. Judy included many of the photos she took during that month-long visit.

At the end of the presentation, everyone was invited to see the Tibetan Monks who have been working on a five-foot diameter mandala made of colored sand applied a few grains at a time using specialized instruments. They construct this mandala over a five-day period. At the end of this time, they hold a special ceremony and then deconstruct the manadala. The sand is placed in cups, given to participants as a blessing, and carried to an open, flowing body of water to be dispersed. The mandala represents life and its impermanent nature.