After two and a half years of construction and community work, the stupa building project at the Kauai Dharma Sanctuary has been completed.  Lamas from the four main Hawaiian islands, and Kauai students gathered from February 16 – 19 to perform a Mahakala practice for three days, ending with the stupa consecration on the 19th. It was an auspicious series of events, with stormy weather during practice days outside in a tent, followed by a clear day for stupa blessings.  No obstacles appeared, and all who participated were in awe of the outcome.  Filling the bumpa with treasures and sealing the chamber with the last gawo block was a group effort.  Everyone was able to take a close look inside to see the placement of the tsokshing on the mandala and the offerings surrounding it.  

It’s hard to believe that the project is done.  The stupa grounds are now a quiet place, the grass all grown in, the hedges filling out, and the monkey pod trees growing upward to someday create a canopy over the entire site.  On a daily basis people are coming to walk around the stupa and spin the prayer wheels.  Everyone is invited, seven days a week!  Our prayer is that this place becomes a foundation for self-realization, a support for Buddhist practitioners following the path.  May all beings benefit!