Remembering Rinpoche by Candida Wright

The following are some words taken from an article I wrote for the Mirror titled; “How I Met Chogyal Namkhai Norbu”.  I feel they sum up my experience meeting Rinpoche while on my first retreat to Merigar in Sept/Oct 2008:

When I arrived for the first evening of the teachings at Merigar I felt transported to the Tibet I had read about in The Crystal And The Way Of Light. Mountain mists, the largest incense burner I’d ever seen, as well as painted and carved symbols on stones and rock all added to this impression. I listened intently to the teacher, Chogyal Namkhai Norbu, and tried to follow and take notes. I felt immersed in a centre of wisdom and that the Master and the sacred place were trying to communicate with me.

As the week progressed, although I had beginner’s nerves, I had the feeling that I’d arrived at a home I didn’t realise I had. I was made very welcome by long term students of Rinpoche and also found camaraderie with the new students. There were many discussions which helped my understanding of this new study. I tried the Vajra Dance and Yantra Yoga and attended explanations of practices. Even though everything seemed very new and somewhat confusing, I had complete confidence in Rinpoche as my new teacher and in following the Dzogchen teachings. I realised I was studying something fundamental, the most important thing I’d been taught in my life, even if I was only just beginning to understand some of it.

Best wishes and love to all at this time.