Cultural Event: Monk Losang Samten

At six years of age Losang Samten embarked on a wondrous journey. Along with several members of his family Losang journeyed across the Himalayas, refugees forced out of Tibet due to religious/ethnic persecution. The trip was taxing, his family traded jewelry for food with gypsies out of necessity. What has become of Losang? Has he become a bitter, vengeful man in his later years?

No, quiet the opposite.

As I sat in on a lecture given by the venerable monk Losang Samten I was amazed at his peace. As he stood in front of one hundred students he gave off an aura of centeredness. For an hour I sat with my fellow students listening to some of his experiences and teachings.

He shared briefly about the past, present, and future of Tibet. He shared about how China hostilely took over Tibet. How Tibetans to this day are suffering under Chinese oppression. He stressed that the Dali Lama simply wants to negotiate with the Chinese government. The Monks mission is to bring peace back to Tibet and the world.

With his knowledge he has journeyed around the United States creating numerous Mandalas. He loves to share about his religion and beloved homeland. He is currently creating a Kalachakra Mandala at Chico State University. I can personally attest for his hospitality and goodwill after spending time watching his meticulous hard work.

Monk Losang Samten shared that he loves talking and listening to people. He commented on how the mandala creates doors. These Doors open into other people’s lives, as they come to see him create the mandala he is able to talk and learn about people’s hopes, dreams, and lives.