Work Hard, Party Hard

Yesterday was the second DM service day of the term. Not only that, but it was also the day of the mid-term party. After hard and dusty day of work in the desert we all cleaned up and headed to Pizza Hut in Willcox followed by a frightening movie at the Rex Allen Theater. Good times were had by all. Here are the pictures to prove it.

Bets' Photos

Bets Greer, Diamond Mountain registrar and without whom nothing is possible, has been quietly posting some very fun DM photos on her flickr account. The latest are of some recent and very cold debates. I think you'll enjoy them. I know my mother will as I am in a couple pics.

On a more general note, the term is well under way and it is fantastic. It seems that people get smarter, kinder, and more dedicated every term. Diamond Mountain is an inspiring place to be. Oh, and this Tuesday will be the second work day of the term and the mid-term party. The party will be at Pizza Hut and will be followed by a movie of our choice at the Willcox theater.
link to photos

Communtiy Service and Meeting W06

Yesterday was the first service day of Winter term 2006. All types of jobs were undertaken, from washing windows, making paths, and digging ditches to removing skunks from storage areas. Following the service day a delcious dinner was provided for all in the temple. The day was concluded with a community meeting. The main topic of discussion was the next building on the DM campus. Many ideas were expressed regarding the uses and design of the structure. Some would like to see a student union, others and a book and food shop, and some would like to see it used as a quiet space. It was great to hear everyone's thoughts.

Check out the pictures here.

Advice for a More Meaningful Life

Between Fall and Winter term an anonymous student asked for some advice from Diamond Mountaineers on how to maintain a successful career and live a spiritual life. Many responded, sharing their ideas and experiences. The responses have been compiled and are available for all to read.

This is to be a resource of wisdom.

Advise for a More Meaningful Life

Use it well.

Ordination at DM!

This evening, after years of preparation, Gail Deutsch and Eric Brinkman took nun and monk ordination respectively. It was a powerful and emotional ceremony. Many Diamond Mountain students were there as well as friends and family of the ordainees. Gail has been given the name Lobsang Gyelsay, which means Pure Mind Rose. Eric has been given the Lobsang Nyingpo, Pure Mind Heart. Wow.

Here are some pics. It was low light, so they aren't so great.

Tucson, SP3

Tucson is buzzing again with DMers. Seeing everyone again last night after a long break was like a big family reunion or (as I am now reading the Harry Potter books) like coming back to Hogwarts after summer break. The topic of this weekend's talks is spiritual partners. To teach this Geshe Michael and Christie are using A String of Shining Jewels by Arya Nagarjuna. It's very exciting.

The audio from last night is already up and you can download it directly from this link:
Spiritual Partners 3, Day 1
Spiritual Partners 3, Day 2 (new 1/8/06)
Spiritual Partners 3, Day 3 (new 1/9/06)