We started out very early from Namche, with a 0540 wake up and out the door at 0640. The walk was spectacular with the huge peaks of Everest and Ama Dablam visible for most of the morning. We stopped at the Tangboche monastery,the largest monastery in the Khumbu region, for a quick visit and lunch. The weather closed in for a short while and then the sun broke through.
We arrived in Pangboche at 1700. I have spent a lot of time in this village but havent been back since 2007. It seemed like time had stood still. A quick cup of tea then Rob, our Sherpa guide Ang Nuru and myself went to visit Lama Geshe with the replica Yeti artifacts. The idea was to ask for his guidance as to what to do with them. The four of us sat in Lama Geshe's home and discussed what would be the appropriate steps with regard to gifting the replica artifacts. Lama Geshe liked the idea of them generating a small income again and thanked us wholeheartedly. It was really nice to see him again. Rob was particularly impressed with the Lama, he mentioned the timbre of his voice, his presence and his infectious laugh.
3rd May.
Today the whole team went up to Lama Geshe's house to receive a blessing, ahead of our trek to Everest. We waited outside for a short time before each team member met Lama Geshe. Each person presented him with a Kata (silk scarf) and a small donation for the monastery. He then put the kata on each team member and tied a small red string around their neck. The Lama then took our hands and as you knelt down touched foreheads. It was an incredibly moving and spiritually significant moment for the team.
Afterwards there was a special team blessing and then a formal blessing of the replica skullcap and hand. I was then asked to come forward as I had asked for Lama Geshe to name my two eldest children (my youngest had been named by him previously). After a small ceremony he announced the two names, he had never named a girl before. My kids will find out their names when I return.
The team then went to the local monastery where the replicas will be displayed. Lots of locals had heard of the gifting and had gathered in anticipation. They were thrilled and clearly delighted with the gifts and the head Lama presented myself and Rob with a second kata.
At the end of a very emotional and spiritual morning for the team, we headed back for a quick lunch at our accommodation in Pangboche before the backpacks and wet weather gear went on again and off we trekked to our next stop, Pheriche. Hi to Wendy, Ethan, Maya and Dylan, love Dad (Mike).
We arrived in Pangboche at 1700. I have spent a lot of time in this village but havent been back since 2007. It seemed like time had stood still. A quick cup of tea then Rob, our Sherpa guide Ang Nuru and myself went to visit Lama Geshe with the replica Yeti artifacts. The idea was to ask for his guidance as to what to do with them. The four of us sat in Lama Geshe's home and discussed what would be the appropriate steps with regard to gifting the replica artifacts. Lama Geshe liked the idea of them generating a small income again and thanked us wholeheartedly. It was really nice to see him again. Rob was particularly impressed with the Lama, he mentioned the timbre of his voice, his presence and his infectious laugh.
3rd May.
Today the whole team went up to Lama Geshe's house to receive a blessing, ahead of our trek to Everest. We waited outside for a short time before each team member met Lama Geshe. Each person presented him with a Kata (silk scarf) and a small donation for the monastery. He then put the kata on each team member and tied a small red string around their neck. The Lama then took our hands and as you knelt down touched foreheads. It was an incredibly moving and spiritually significant moment for the team.
Afterwards there was a special team blessing and then a formal blessing of the replica skullcap and hand. I was then asked to come forward as I had asked for Lama Geshe to name my two eldest children (my youngest had been named by him previously). After a small ceremony he announced the two names, he had never named a girl before. My kids will find out their names when I return.
The team then went to the local monastery where the replicas will be displayed. Lots of locals had heard of the gifting and had gathered in anticipation. They were thrilled and clearly delighted with the gifts and the head Lama presented myself and Rob with a second kata.
At the end of a very emotional and spiritual morning for the team, we headed back for a quick lunch at our accommodation in Pangboche before the backpacks and wet weather gear went on again and off we trekked to our next stop, Pheriche. Hi to Wendy, Ethan, Maya and Dylan, love Dad (Mike).
Hi Mike,
ReplyDeleteWow I am so pleased to hear the gifting went well as you have worked really hard to give them something back. At least now they will be able to generate some income again. It sounds like you guys are having the best time and I can't wait to hear all your stories. Wendy is looking forward to jumping on that plane.
See you when you get back!
Penny
Hi Mike,
ReplyDeleteAllow me to offer a Hearty Congrats to you and the whole team on the successful completion of your www.ReturntheHand.com mission.
I believe this is a very personal and significant mission for you. I read on your website (www.MikeAllsop.co.nz) all the effort (via Weta Workshop) you've put into this - even before organising this expedition!
Hats Off & Best Wishes, Amar