It's a New Year

White Tara, Alys Muckart's yidam

om tare tuttare ture soha

Two weeks ago today my friend Alys Muckart died. As I mentioned before, Alys worked very hard at the Civic Hospital in Ottawa until her retirement last year, and gave generously of her time to all things Tibetan, notably as president of the Ottawa chapter of the Canada Tibet Committee. I will remember her dearly for her irreplaceable organizational skill and her steadfast devotion to the humanitarian cause.

Only days after Alys' diagnosis of brain cancer, I found a lump in my breast. A month ago, my doctor named it a fibroid and asked me to keep a close eye on it. Naturally, I was a bit scared. With its progression, she decided to send me for ultrasound testing soon, but in accordance with our respective studies since last month, neither she nor I are any longer worried that it may be cancer. It is most likely a plugged milk duct, which, while incurable, is comparatively inoffensive.

The diagnosis and rapid progression of the tumour found in Alys' brain were a staggering reminder of impermanence, and they have left Alys' family and friends reeling in shock. May we take this slap in the face as an opportunity to come to grips with our own ephemeral nature. May we realize that anything can happen, anywhere and any time, and thus live fully in every moment with clear awareness and joy.

Alys, may you be free.