Planning for Impermanence
Since Khyentse Foundation began, we have pondered the organization’s legacy and considered how to allocate our resources if Rinpoche leaves us. We would rather not think about this, but the truth of impermanence requires that we do. Rinpoche has always emphasized the importance of generosity and whole-hearted offering, and in that spirit KF continually aspires to be both diligent and mindful about never wasting a single dollar that is donated. We always strive to create the most benefit from the offerings that we receive. This mindset is an important part of Khyentse Foundation’s dissolution resolution.
Since Khyentse Foundation began, we have pondered the organization’s legacy and considered how to allocate our resources if Rinpoche leaves us. We would rather not think about this, but the truth of impermanence requires that we do. Rinpoche has always emphasized the importance of generosity and whole-hearted offering, and in that spirit KF continually aspires to be both diligent and mindful about never wasting a single dollar that is donated. We always strive to create the most benefit from the offerings that we receive. This mindset is an important part of Khyentse Foundation’s dissolution resolution.
Rinpoche talks about KF’s dissolution resolution
What exactly does it mean for the foundation to have a dissolution resolution? The primary purpose of this document is to stipulate that the foundation will be dissolved in the event that Rinpoche can no longer lead it. The document also describes how the remaining assets will be used at that time. It is reviewed, updated, and approved by Rinpoche and the KF board of directors each year at the annual meeting.
We have found that some people are surprised to learn that KF will dissolve after Rinpoche is no longer with us. We realize that many KF supporters expect that the foundation will last forever and continue Rinpoche’s legacy, so we feel that it’s important to explain the dissolution resolution.
Rinpoche’s decision to dissolve the foundation is in itself a teaching on recognizing impermanence and being prepared for it in a practical way. In fact, this is an ongoing aspiration, to accept the present and do our best while we can, without attachment to the results. The existence of our dissolution resolution is a skillful and practical means to be prepared for the unexpected. Just as many people have a will and estate plan, so does the foundation.
Having this plan in place does not mean that we are shrinking; in fact, just the opposite. We are making use of our present resources to the utmost, and thinking of bigger and grander things. An aspect of Rinpoche’s legacy lies in all the projects that KF is engaged in—from preserving and digitizing Buddhist texts to translation projects to endowed chairs to Buddhist curricula for children. These projects are going to last a very long time. There is still so much that we need to do, and can do, under Rinpoche’s leadership.
Rinpoche feels that it is important to explain the reasons for dissolving KF. In this video, he talks about why Khyentse Foundation will come to an end when he can no longer oversee it, and what has been done to ensure the maximum impact of ongoing projects for future generations.
Long Life Supplication for Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche
OṂ SVASTI
Skull-Garland Lotus Heruka, conqueror of māras,
Whose deathless natural wisdom mind has transformed
The root of existence into great vajra bliss,
Subjugator of apparent phenomena, please shower the blessings of immortality.
Fearless lord of speech,
You are the vajra-holder of the profound secret treasures of wisdom and compassion;
Victorious one of all-pervading activity,
May your three secrets remain indestructible and everlasting.
As vowed by Vimalamitra and King Trisong Detsen
To constantly manifest out of compassion,
You came as a warrior to protect the doctrine and all beings in this dark age;
May you remain forever as the unchanging vajra essence.
May the virtuous seed of this supplication,
Warmed and moistened by the undeceiving two truths,
Ripen into a splendid fruit
That beautifies the three worlds with utmost auspiciousness.
_______
Requested by Drukchen Dungse Rinpoche, Mipham Ngawang Dechen Gyume and Chadral Sangye Dorje on the tenth day of the fifth month at Ghoom monastery in Darjeeling.
From the Collected Writings and Revelations of H.H. Dudjom Rinpoche, vol. 25, pages 376 – 377. Translated by Ani Jinba Palmo.
Impermanence
Alas! Composite things are impermanent!
It is their nature to arise and pass away.
Once they arise, they will surely pass away—
Their quieting is happiness.
What pleasure is there? What joy?
In the midst of this blazing fire?
You have plunged into the darkness –
Why don’t you seek out a lamp?
From “Impermanence: A Translation of the first chapter of the Tibetan Udānavarga” by Professor Peter Skilling