What a beautiful account (and wonderful writers and people he has to convey this story so beautifully). More than ever, this confirms what I thought for a long time already:
A few years ago, when e-sangha was at its height, I remember there being endless discussion about whether Tsem Tulku Rinpoche practised DS or not. There were people who so aggressively against him and spoke very, very badly against him because they thought he practised; others, very kindly and courageously stood up and spoke positively for him. I didn't get involved with those discussions, being quite new to the scene at the time and because I didn't know much about the DS issues then.
I did however, go to check out his websites and read a little about the work he was doing. I remember thinking then (as I have done for other great lamas such as Gangchen Rinpoche, Dagom Rinpoche etc), that if they were doing such incredible work that reached out to so many, then there really cannot be anything wrong in what they are doing, whatever this protector issue was about (since I didn't know much at the time).
My Lama has advised us over and over - it doesn't matter if you "like" or "dislike" what the Lama does personally but look at how his actions are touching people or helping people. Do his teachings help to transform the lives of others? reduce their suffering? bring them relief and peace? This is what matters. Tsem Tulku Rinpoche is definitely doing this, as can be seen in this biography alone. I thank you thaimonk for sharing this account. It is always heartening to read about the inspiring work and lives of these lamas and what they are doing for the world - this, to me, is the heart of all that DS, Tsongkhapa and the Lamrim brings us to.
