Blazing Gloriously Like A Mountain of Gold:
Seating the Lotus Garden Buddha (con't)
Placing the Buddha
Once the mantras were affixed, Mark Good and the Lotus Garden karma team moved into position to strap the Buddha for his ascent. This was a fairly long process because the utmost care had to be taken so that the straps did not damage the Buddha's body.
©2009 Mindrolling International
Gary Good, the crane operator, had been standing by as the mantras were placed. He confessed he had hardly slept the night before because he was so worried about the safety of the precious object which lay in his hands. Now it was his turn to take center stage and, assisted by the karma team, he impressed everyone as he raised the Buddha and skillfully maneuvered it into position above the throne.
©2009 Mindrolling International
©2009 Mindrolling International
©2009 Mindrolling International
©2009 Mindrolling International
Everyone held their breath as they watched the Buddha be lifted up and up and then lowered gently into the waiting arms of the karma team members guiding it from atop the pedestal.
©2009 Mindrolling International
It was the exhilarating moment which had been anticipated for so long. Applause, cheering and anjali erupted spontaneously. Rinpoche herself looked from every possible angle demanding adjustments until the statue was completely straight.
©2009 Mindrolling International