From just about the beginning of this Central Asian odyssey, Brother Khishigt has generously served as idea instigator, introducer, ace translator, and fellow Guru Rinpoche enthusiast. Here we are on the day of the initial printing of the Mongolian translation of Mipham Rinpoche’s Shower of Blessings practice:
Lately, though, Khishigt’s been a wee bit preoccupied. He participated in an Australian English language program (taught by New Zealanders, but whatever, it’s all just kind of Down There, isn’t it), rang the bell on the standardized exam, and earned himself a full ride for two years’ Masters study at a university in Perth. He’ll soak up alternative energy technology, smarts Mongolia could really use, then boomerang back.
I’ll miss him greatly, but I’m sure you’ll join me in wishing him all the best. I loved my time in Australia and hope he will too.
Update: I forgot to mention one thing. Because of my top secret spyware, I know DODR gets readers from Perth. If this is you, and you're willing, it'd be awfully nice to extend Khishigt some of that famous Aussie hospitality. He's a great guy, speaks English (obviously), is a faithful Buddhist, and he'll be a long, long way from home. If you'd like to get in touch with him and welcome him to your land, please email me (my email's in the margins here somewhere) and I'll arrange it.
Oh! That reminds me – I recently read an Australian
Buddhist joke of all things:
After a long journey, an Aussie spiritual seeker approaches the meditation master at a remote hermitage in the Himalaya. After sitting respectfully, the meditation master looks him over, leans in and asks, “Have you come here to die?”
“Aw, no mate,” replies the Aussie, “I got here yesterday.”
Oy, Australia and New Zealand are not the same thing!
... the joke is pretty accurate, though.
<.<
>.>
Posted by: Stealthflower | January 11, 2009 at 04:51 PM
Oh dear, and I forgot the most important thing: congratulations Khishigt!
Posted by: Stealthflower | January 11, 2009 at 04:53 PM
OK...I tried and tried to get it, but I'm either not Buddhist enough or Australian enough or smart enough or maybe all three. Help?
Posted by: Sarah | January 11, 2009 at 07:04 PM
I don't get the joke. Gimme a hint.
Posted by: Sangye | January 11, 2009 at 08:12 PM
Stealthflower: Come on now, just joshin' ya. I can tell a Kiwi from an Aussie. I was wondering which of my Down Under readers I'd rile first.
Sarah and Sangye: Sigh. Some Australians pronounce the the word "today" like "to die." There. Now it's not funny.
Posted by: Konchog | January 11, 2009 at 10:11 PM
This joke cracked me up. I needed a good laugh. Best wishes for your friend's adventure Down Under.
I'm heading to Nepal. :)
Posted by: Rinchen Gyatso | January 11, 2009 at 10:46 PM
I never would've gotten it without you cracking the code. Really, I was WAY off. I still think it's funny. Being simple-minded has its advantages.
Posted by: Sangye | January 12, 2009 at 11:33 AM
I got the joke!
Ah!
Posted by: Christian | January 13, 2009 at 04:25 AM
An Australian soldier, upon his arrival to Vietnam says to his American counterpart: "I came here to die"
Posted by: Bolor | January 13, 2009 at 07:09 AM
I'm in Sydney, which is a good way away from Perth (let's face it, just about everywhere is a good way away from Perth), but you're welcome to pass my email addy on to Khishigt if he needs help from a semi-local; I have inlaws and friends there, so I may be able to help.
Posted by: Stealthflower | January 13, 2009 at 05:37 PM
Squirrel watching should be fun!
Posted by: footiam | January 15, 2009 at 02:10 AM