Boston Shambhala Center Reading

Last night Diana Mukpo spoke at the Boston Shambhala Center, to a crowd of about 60, many of whom also came to get a book signed. Diana was introduced by Sam Bercholz, publisher of Shambhala Publications, who spoke about his many years of dedication to Chogyam Trungpa and his family and how inspired Sam is by DRAGON THUNDER: MY LIFE WITH CHOGYAM TRUNGPA. Then Diana spoke about her inspiration for writing this book of memoirs -- her desire to share the significance of Chogyam Trungpa's life with others and how hers was one story of many that will be told. She read several amusing anecdotes from early days at Tail of the Tiger, now Karme Choling, including one about how her mother arrived at Tail hoping to convince Diana to abandon the marriage. One of the questions from the audience asked if Mrs Pybus had ever accepted the marriage. Those who've read the book know that indeed she not only acquisced but became devoted to Rinpoche herself. The other questions and comments were heartfelt and personal. I was struck during the event by the coincidence that Diana chose to wear a golden jacket, the Shambhala Center gave her a chair with golden fabric on it, and the wall of the shrineroom behind her had just been repainted in golden paint. It was quite a golden moment. Off to the left there was a large ikebana arrangement of three spider Chrysanthemums and maple leaves. Chrysanthemums were one of Chogyam Trungpa's favorite flowers for arranging. Following the formal events in the shrineroom, people reassembled downstairs for dessert and book signing. Today we are about to head off to the Brown University bookstore for a booksigning there. After that, there are rumors of a bottle of champagne to be shared. Hmmm, this touring business is not all bad.