Pilgrimage 2008

Gull above Lakeport, California

Fall Foliage in Cobb, CA

I just got back from a pilgrimage to several places of significance to the Nyingma Buddhist lineage in California and Oregon, along with some other fun along the way.

I left Oakland on Oct. 26th, and wound my way up through Calistoga and Cobb, where I landed at Douglas' house in Lakeport on Clear Lake. Douglas and I drank wine and discussed the integration of the view of Dzogchen with daily life, late into the night.

Live Alone and Stay Free

Whoever you see isn't human, but a fraud;

Whatever people say isn't right, but just lies.

So, since these days there's no one you can trust,

you'd better live alone and stay free.

If your actions conform with the Dharma, you'll antagonize everyone;

If you're words are truthful, most people will get angry;

If your mind is truly good and pure, they will judge it as a defect;

Now is time to keep your own way hidden.

Patrul Rinpoche

Heart Treasure of the Enlightened Ones

Verses 15, 16