Some days stay with you for a lifetime. Saturday, 18 April was one of those days.

On Saturday, 18 April, Rinchen Dolkar and I travelled from Ladakh to Dharamshala via Delhi for the extraordinary privilege of meeting His Holiness the Dalai Lama and receiving his blessing. It was a day of humility, gratitude and inspiration that will remain in our hearts forever.

We arrived early at His Holiness’s residence, where security checks were carried out in a calm and gentle manner before waiting quietly amongst the beautiful gardens. As our turn drew nearer, I found myself wondering what I would say when the moment finally arrived.

When I reached His Holiness, I bowed my head and greeted him with “Tashi Delek.” Looking up, I was met with the warmest smile and the kindest face, inviting me to speak.

I told His Holiness about Himalayan Children Charity, explaining how we support children throughout Ladakh and our ongoing commitment to Jamyang School in Leh, founded by His Holiness himself.

He listened with genuine interest, smiled warmly and gave a reassuring thumbs up.

“I felt as though I was walking on air. It was a moment that exceeded anything I could ever have imagined.”

 

Then came a moment I will treasure forever.

With extraordinary gentleness, His Holiness touched my face in blessing. It was such a simple gesture, yet one filled with compassion and kindness. It is a memory that I shall carry with me always.

 

Leaving the residence, I felt deeply humbled, grateful and incredibly blessed. It was an unforgettable experience, not only personally, but also for Himalayan Children Charity, whose work His Holiness was pleased to hear about.

Sharing this remarkable day with my dear friend, Rinchen Dolkar, made the occasion even more special. Watching her receive her own blessing reminded us both why the work of Himalayan Children is so important.

As we left His Holiness’s residence, we carried with us an overwhelming sense of gratitude and inspiration. It was a day of friendship, hope and blessing—one that will continue to inspire the work of Himalayan Children for years to come.

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