What one can achieve in a lifetime is rather limited, but the presence of a monastery endures beyond one's earthly life and can exert a lasting and profound influence on generations to come. The construction of the monastery over a period of twenty years has been an arduous task. Looking back, it has been a collective endeavor rather than a personal enterprise. It has required good merits and wills of many for whom I have simply led the way.

     Visitors to Karma Kagyu Monastery cannot help but admire the exquisite sublime of its sculptures and colorful drawings. Both Buddha's teachings and artistries are imbued into the architecture of the monastery. Rather than simply viewing the splendid externals of the monastery, can you also contemplate on the connotations behind its grandeur? What sort of inspiration might it bring to people?

     In the chaotic times of today, people have become restless and agitated. Our environment is marked by rampant violence and continual conflicts, and people are longing to be soothed. Even a piece of artwork may still their minds. That is why we have so earnestly endeavored, both in heart and mind, to collectively create a sense of Buddhist artistry in the Karma Kagyu Monastery. It is my hope that we inspire people and keep them from being lost in seduction. This is also why I have devoted twenty years to establishing and continuously developing Karma Kagyu Monastery.

     Tibetan Buddhism is not a mystifying religion. It seems mysterious mainly because it is not easy to understand. Tibetan Buddhism offers the dharma that unveils the secrets of the mind and this may be considered a shortcut to attaining buddhahood. The most important essence of Vajrayana Buddhism is the Dharma of Dharma -- the Tantra. It is not a mystery but a way to pursue the key to the secrets of the mind.

      In recent years, Tibetan Buddhism has had a significant influence on the Buddhist community in Taiwan. However, I would like to advise those who are interested in learning Tibetan Buddhism: your motivation is crucially important! There is only one kind of Buddhism. However, various dharmas were taught by the Buddha for people with different karmas and characteristics. Let it never be said that one Buddhist school is better than another − never! A dharma is wonderful for you as long as it suits and benefits you. What could be the benefits? When you sense a reduction in desires, an increase in patience and ability to forgive, and when compassion flows naturally and effortlessly out of your heart – these, I believe, are the greatest benefits of practicing Buddhism for all human beings.

Lopon Tenzin Rinpoche