MindTrip

Lama Zopa Rinpoche is taking a step towards the manifestation of a more spiritual and socially aware youth body with the creation of Mind Trip, a project designed to bring the principles of Buddhism to young people (teenagers to young adults) in an open, universal way. Rinpoche’s vision of Mind Trip includes youth group meetings, youth-led retreats – “Advice for young people, by young people,” meetings between young people and His Holiness the Dalai Lama, and inspiring, hip events that will bring young people together with a meaningful purpose.

Rinpoche, who has asked Mandala’s Julia Hengst, 23, to coordinate the project, has expressed interest in involving youth in China, and having Mind Trip groups set up in Australia, England, the U.S. and Europe.

Although Mind Trip is only in the planning stages, an example of the type of inspirational gatherings have been the three “Buddhaful” rave-style dance parties held at Land of Medicine Buddha, at which close to $800 was raised to benefit the Land. Several hundred young people established a connection with Land of Medicine Buddha, spun the prayer wheels, and danced to some of the best Santa Cruz DJ music available in the gorgeous forest setting.

“Rinpoche said that it’s important to make the events enjoyable, otherwise the young people won’t be interested to come back,” Julia said. “We hope to incorporate the dance-party aspect with merit-making activities like light offerings, simple visualization meditations and peer discussion groups about spirituality and Buddhism. The possibilities are limitless at this point.”

Mind Trip’s first public venture is Mind Trip Magazine, which will be handed out freely to the 6,000 youths attending the meeting with His Holiness in Oregon next May.

Lama Osel Rinpoche commented to Julia that it’s “nice to read that you are going to set up a group for young people as a part of the universal education vision. May many young people benefit from this education based on wisdom, love and compassion.”

Zong Rinpoche about the program, “I am very happy to know that you plan to develop an international program, Mind Trip, for the young people to help them develop their hidden and highest potential. Lama Zopa Rinpoche has rightly given the project name as Mind Trip.

I would be very much happy to participate and support such a magnificent project. I pray for your success.”

 

Julia Hengst: mindtrippers@yahoo.com

A web page is being prepared: www.MindTrip.org