Note: Losar Schedule Change
Dear Sangha and friends,
Due to the high incidence of colds, flu, and other viruses at this time, KDC has cancelled the potluck that was scheduled for this Saturday, Feb. 21. (see below)
The schedule for Tara Puja and the Dharma Talk remains the same. We hope you can join us.
LOSAR CELEBRATION
Saturday, February 21, 2015
KDC will celebrate the Tibetan new year of the “Wood Sheep” with the following events, we hope you can join us!
10:00 a.m. — TARA PUJA
Arrival by 9:45 a.m.
Tara Puja assists in pacifying obstacles and negativities for the coming new year. The Puja is open to anyone who has received the Green Tara Empowerment or White Tara Empowerment.
11:00 a.m. — DHARMA TALK by VENERABLE LAMA TSANG TSING
Arrival by 10:45 a.m. (Doors to the Talk will open when Puja is finished)
Venerable Lama Tsang Tsing will give an inspirational talk as we embark on the new year. The talk is open to anyone who is interested in attending.
12:00 Noon — POTLUCK LUNCH
Please bring your favorite main entree to share. Everyone is welcome, please feel free to bring family and friends.
( As a courtesy to others, especially during the flu & cold season which is upon us, if you or anyone in your household is ill or could be contagious, please plan to attend a KDC event in the future when you are feeling well.)
GUIDELINES FOR PREPARING FOOD FOR A LAMA (or anyone else)
Every act done in practice or in relation to the Dharma has meaning, usually on more than one level. Observing traditional protocol recognizes that our conduct as practitioners is an expression of our understanding of the truth and blessings of the Dharma. Observing traditional protocol is a form of “creating the sacred”, and as such, benefits ourselves, those with whom we practice, and ultimately all sentient beings. This is an integral part of practice and progress on the path to awakening.
The following guidelines are offered for practical reasons in addition to honoring traditional protocol. Due to a Lama’s development, vows and purity, there is a need for increased sensitivity. Impure handling of food, serving utensils, etc. can cause illness, canker sores and other conditions.
1. First, wash hands thoroughly and immediately prior before preparing any food or beverage.
2. Cleanliness is essential in the preparation of food. If you are feeling ill, please do not cook for a Lama; postpone the opportunity until you are well. The kitchen should be impeccably clean and hands washed frequently.
3. Do not taste from the pot. If tasting is necessary, use a clean spoon and taste the food away from the cooking pot and the stove. It is never appropriate to use your finger to taste the food.
4. Take care not to breathe over the food or beverages during preparation or when serving a Lama.
5. Ingredients should be clean and fresh. It is not appropriate to use leftovers intended for others in combination with food intended for a Lama.
6. Reserve special cups, glasses, plates and utensils for a Lama.
7. Take care to assure cleanliness and purity when handling a Lama’s dishes, silverware, glasses and utensils. Never touch silverware except by the handles; hold dishes by the edges or bottom, not touching any eating surfaces; hold drinking glasses or cups by their handles, stems or bottoms, making sure not to touch the rims from which a Lama will drink.
8. Wash all Lama’s dishes, cookware and utensils separately. Sponges and dish towels should be reserved to clean and dry these items.
9. Do not use hand towels on any cookware, dishes or utensils intended for a Lama.
10. Learn about a Lama’s dietary requirements before preparation of food.
In general, cleanliness and purity are of the utmost importance. While actual protocols are more detailed, these guidelines are basic to cooking and serving a Lama. They also serve as basic guidelines when cooking and preparing food and beverages for others as well.