Tibetan Monks in Flagstaff

Ah today brought me back to the newspaper days. My sister, always quick to point out a great news photo opp, called me today about some monks creating a Sand Mandala at the local coffee shop, Late for the Train, where she works. Anyway, I thought I'd bring my camera just for fun. So I did. Then I thought, does the newspaper know about this? So I called my pal and photo editor at the local paper and voila, it will run in Saturday's paper. I hope in color on A-1 page, right? It's colorful for sure.



cutline info: Tibetan Buddhist monks, Tamding Sichoe (left) and Lobsang Damchoe (right) create a Sand Mandala at Late for the Train Coffee Shop on Fort Valley Road (hwy 180). A Mandala is created by filling small tubes with colored sand and rubbing them with a stick vibrating the sand out onto a flat platform until an image unfolds. Mandalas vary, yet they all represent the Buddhist world in its divine form and contain a path the mind travels to become enlightened. The Mandala begins with an opening consecration ceremony of mantras and finishes with the Mandala being swept away, representing the impermanence of all that exists. The monks are here with Dr. Lobsang Tenzin, doctor of Tibetan Herbal Medicine. Dr. Lobsang will be hosting a medical clinic at Late for the Train Roastery 1071 E. Old Canyon Court- Rio de Flag Business Park. For appointments and more info call 928-773-0100.