by Claudia Webinger

Praise of Ratna Cabin in Tara Mandala:
Jewel-like place of meditation where all wishes are fulfilled

Vast is the view facing south over peaceful valleys and soft rolling hills
Impressive is the view facing west towards Chimney Rock and the snowy mountains
Clear and blue is the sky like a crystal reflecting the morning light
At night incredible sunsets amaze the eye with red, orange, purple in all kinds of shades
In the east Ekajati Hill forms a protective wall, firm and reassuring
Her one breast nurses the fearful as a permanent source of power
In the north junipers, oaks and pines, a forest of trees and bushes
Gives shelter to birds, rabbits and squirrels, my sweet little guests and friends

Every season is beautiful in this sacred land:
Luminous and fertile is fall, white and clear and fresh is winter
Blossoming and gentle is spring, warm and sensual is summer

All you need is brought together at Ratna, this blessed place
Spacious cabin with high ceiling, warm in winter, cool in summer
Large windows to all sides invite the sun to reflect on the orange walls and
On the earthen floor made of local oiled clay
Even inside you are connected to the surrounding vast expanse
Enough water, wood and room, good facilities for heating and cooking
Shady and sunny places to eat and meditate outside

All this is only the surface beauty underneath rests Mother Tara
Holding the meditator in her arms, calming, soothing, purifying in moments of fear and doubt
Providing insight and bliss, protecting against every disturbance
Cutting fiercefully through all demons
Tara, the powerful lady behind the scene guides the caring retreat helpers
In their invisible supportive actions of bringing all that is needed

Tsultrim living manifestation of Tara`s body, speech and mind
Is one with the land, the cabin, the practice, permeating all and everything, all the time
How precious her special visits in this mountain solitude
When she offers gifts of her great love and generosity in
Nurturing, inspiring, teaching and giving wise advice

This is my praise of Ratna Cabin, my home for more than a year
May I never leave, may I always come back, may everyone be as happy as I am
in this Wishfulfilling jewel in Tara Mandala

Ratna Cabin, Dakini day April 23, 2006 Yeshe Dawa

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