Celebrating Mutual Love and Affection: Denali and Cindie

Celebrating Mutual Love and Affection: Denali and Cindie

We asked mother and daughter, Cindie and Denali, some questions about their life and experience at Vajrapani Institute. This is what they had to say about the qualities that lead them to rejoice and the lessons they have learned here.

What do you most celebrate about your mother?

Denali: I am blessed to be my mother’s daughter. She has spoiled me my entire life by giving me her time, energy, emotion, resources, anything and everything she has. She sees people’s best qualities and gives all people the benefit of the doubt. There have been countless lessons I have learned from my mom, but one of the most important lessons has been to take advantage of every opportunity to give what I can to those in need. Her door is always open, and her heart is always present. When she gives of herself in ways of presence, her ability to listen, and her gentle way of always empathizing with others, she reminds me to do the same.

What’s the most precious thing Vajrapani Institute has given to you?

Denali: If those Redwood trees could talk, oh I wonder what they would say. They have watched the community grow at Vajrapani during meditation retreats, teachings, walking meditations, and a variety of special moments in between. The setting is peaceful and open, which creates the space for questions to be asked and questions to be answered. Vajrapani is a catalyst for a deeper connection with oneself. People who have been fortunate enough to spend time at Vajrapani can then bring that blessing with them into the world. This creates a positive ripple effect that extends past the Redwoods and back into the lives of the people in their own communities. I wish for everyone to have a gift in their lives, such as Vajrapani, where they can access a safe place for themselves to feel welcomed, rejuvenated, and inspired.

What do you most celebrate about your daughter?


Cindie: When Lama Yeshe looks at Denali, he would see a caring loving person whose heart is as big as the ocean. Her huge bright smile lights up the room, and you feel her warmth. Anyone who meets her, from the smallest babies to the oldest grandmothers and grandfathers, are immediately at ease. When she makes eye contact with you, you know that you have her undivided attention; she is fully present when she is with you. She intuitively hears what people are trying to say to her and what it is they need. Her tender heart reaches out, and you feel heard. Her caring for others starts with those closest to her and extends to people in all reaches of life. Her joy and exuberance is spread far and wide as she shares her gifts in art, music, poetry and prose – and just being. She wants to make a difference in the lives of people in the world.

Denali always has a ready hug from her loving heart. Her warm caring heart embraces you, and you feel loved.

What’s the most precious thing Vajrapani Institute has given to you?

Cindie: I only have to think of Vajrapani to bring a sense of joy and peace into my being. I am filled with gratitude for the teachings I have received over the years from those who have shared their wisdom which I carry into my daily life. Vajrapani opens my ears so that I can hear them more clearly, and my heart so that I can feel them more deeply. It encourages all of us to be respectful of each other, and to support each other on our individual paths.

And what of the physical aspects of Vajrapani? The gompa is such a serene place with such deep feelings of spirituality and love. You soak in the energy of nature and the huge redwood trees as you walk on the grounds, especially back and forth from the main buildings to the dorms each day of retreats. I love the feeling of being in a safe cocoon when I close the curtains to my bunk in the dorms. I have a private space to go within, to have quiet time to myself. The staff is wonderful, and the kitchen serves the most delicious and nutritious meals. I hear they now have a cookbook filled with their recipes – it’s time to have one at home!

It is a wonderful feeling to know that there exists such a place as Vajrapani that is accessible to anyone who chooses to find their way to item
Our students, volunteers, staff, and visitors gain precious knowledge and invaluable experiences here thanks to the support of all of our donors. This year you can have your donation matched until December 31st. Help us rejoice and bring out the best in everyone!