A Journey to the West
A Journey to the West L59 The Stages of Dzogchen: Preliminaries, Trekchö, and Tögal
In this continuation of *A Journey to the West*, Khenpo Sodargye explores the profound components of the Manjushri Dzogchen practice, unpacking its preliminaries, actual practice (Trekchö), and concluding phase (Tögal). He emphasizes the absolute necessity of step-by-step training; practitioners cannot bypass foundational practices expecting sudden profound realization. Furthermore, Khenpo elucidates the critical concept of transmission of direct experience (having personally witnessed the master's teachings) and recounts how His Holiness actively bestowed his blessing, entrustment, and seal to safeguard the lineage for future generations. The session warmly transitions to an interview with an American disciple, Lama Jaime, who shares his touching 30-year steadfast devotion to the Peaceful Manjushri practice, illustrating the enduring impact of His Holiness's unadorned, natural teaching style. It concludes with a light-hearted recollection of the Tibetan entourage nervously watching His Holiness take flight in a patron's private jet amidst strong winds in 1993.