I do not have classes on Fridays, so instead I took the opportunity to go to a few presentations today. I feel a little bit more cultural, and a little bit smarter, so that's good!
The first presentation I went to today was by two Deaf, Native Americans. They were here presenting on Native American Sign Language, and more specifically that of the Plains Indians, and the importances of researching and saving this beautiful language. For more information you can visit the Hand Talk website. It's all very interesting.
The morning started off with a beautiful blessing over our college, and program. Even though it was is a different sign language, I could understand some of it. I think it was just a precious way to start off the event.
After the blessing every one trooped inside, out of the drizzle, and settled into the auditorium for a power point slide show. Hmmm... my favorite! lol. It was so interesting, and I wish I could share more, but to be honest, it was all new information to me!
To my right is James Wooden Legs, and to my left is Melanie McKay-Cody. Their presentation was interesting, and engaging. After the presentation James said a "closing prayer" and then invited any one in the audience to come up and be blessed. It was really special, and I'm glad I had the chance to be there.
Afterwards, I also got to go to the sit-down lunch and just chat and ask questions. It was cool because my roommate, Nikki, from last year, was also in attendance. Yeah!
After hanging out a little bit more, and enjoys Jame's magic tricks, I headed over to the UC so I could see a presentation from a Tibetan Monk.
This is Arjia Rinpoche, the high lama, and Abbot of Kumbum.... and the list goes on and on. I had never met a Tibetan monk before, so it was an experience, albiet, not a life changing one. His story really is incredible, so if you have an extra $20 to spend on a book, I would highly recommend it.
This is another monk who was with him, but I didn't catch his name. :) Lol. They were from the Tibetan Monogolian Buddhist Culteral Center, in Bloomington, Indiana! That kind of makes me giggle a bit. Regardless, if you are interested in learning more about them, you can check out their website!
Now what? I have traveled through time and space today! So now... Brandan and I are going to the movies, then maybe to dinner, and then... maybe roller skating. We'll see how the night goes!
So tell me... have you ever met any one incredibly interesting? Tell me who, when, and why?
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