Update: Another earthquake, magnitufe-7.3, struck Nepal on May 12.

A devastating magnitude-7.8 earthquake struck Nepal on Saturday, April 25, that was also felt in India and Tibet. Another powerful magnitude-6.7 aftershock happened on Sunday, April 26. It is the Himalayan regions worst quake in more than 80 years. More than 8,000 deaths have been confirmed. Thousands of homes and buildings have been destroyed. An avalanche triggered by the quake trapped climbers on Mount Everest.

The Interdependence Project shared a statement from His Holiness the Gyalwang Drukpa, a global humanitarian and friend: "During these dark times, the smallest gesture of kindness can be a great source of light." We are including three practices they recommend after our own prayer.

And so we pray this news . . .

Lord, in your tenderness hold close those
who have lost loved ones in the
earthquake in the Himalayan region.
Wipe away the tears of those who have lost homes,
possessions, and pets in this tragedy.
Send helpers and wise counselors to offer
support and encouragement to the victims everywhere,
especially those who are in hospitals and shelters.

Lord, in your power bring hope out of the despair
which the people in Nepal must be feeling.
Give them the strength and the courage to
weather the long storm of recovery and personal renewal.
For those who are homeless, grant them a new place
to live and work to help them flourish.
For those children separated from their parents.
give them shelter with people who care.

Help us, Lord of Connections, to feel empathy
with our suffering brothers and sisters in the Himalayan region.
Open our hearts and minds to keep them in our prayers
as they traverse the long hard road to recovery.

- Frederic and Mary Ann Brussat

Compassion Practices

These practices are suggested by the Interdependence Project. They note: "Whatever your practice is, it is most important to remain open and willing to be present with the confusion and fear that may arise for you. In doing so, you'll be able to be open and receptive to the sufferings of others, and your clarity will allow you to act from your truest intentions."

Green Tara Practice: Lama Tsultrim Alione and Tara Mandala are starting a campaign of 100,000 Green Tara mantras for the victims of the Nepal earthquake. The mantra is OM TARE TUTARE TURE SWA HA. As you say it aloud or under your breath visualize yourself as Green Tara sending out infinite numbers of Green Taras, these are streaming wherever they are needed to rapidly save those buried or injured and to guide the dead from the Kathmandu earthquake. Start as soon as possible. Green Tara is known for her rapid response. Post your numbers on Tara Mandala Retreat Center.

Metta Practice: Lovingkindness meditation is the cultivation of a steady, unconditional sense of connection that touches all beings without exception. Practicing Metta allows us to connect with the sufferings and joys of all beings without turning away out of pity, or becoming overwhelmed by despair.

Tibetan Prayers: Lama Zopa Rinpoche and the FPMT has posted prayers and instructions to do for the sake of those dealing with this great disaster.


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