Shambhala Vision

(following text written in 1996)

Throughout history, men and women have aspired to create societies that express the dignity of human experience. Joining spiritual vision with practicality, such an "enlightened society" provides a context for meaningful individual life within a flourishing culture. It is this vision which we refer to as "Shambhala".

The inspiration of Shambhala and other enlightened societies never completely fades from human memory, but continues to awaken us, even in the midst of aggression, arrogance, and depression. This timeless, fundamentally simple truth provides a path of social action that is beyond the ordinary struggle for survival and domination. It is fearless and gentle, vast and profound. Shambhala vision combines the most profound appreciation of our possibilities as individuals in community with the many, often demanding, practicalities of livelihood, relationships, raising children, in short our life altogether.

The Venerable Chögyam Trungpa, Rinpoche inspired many students to pursue a spiritual path and to take part in the secular world as part of that path. He provided a number of means, or paths, for students to connect with this fundamental vision. These include the practice and study of Buddhism, Shambhala Training, practicing arts such as calligraphy, poetry, theater and flower arranging, and many more. For over 25 years people have been working together to realize Trungpa Rinpoche's inspiration.

We are at a time in history when all across the globe traditional cultures and communities on which people have long relied are being extinguished. At such a time, it is especially important to proclaim the Shambhala vision in our own lives and to the world. We welcome into this Shambhala community all who wish to join their spiritual vision with secular activity to create enlightened society.