tendrel

In a nutshell, Buddhism, describes ultimate truth/reality as being empty – not meaning nothing but beyond the scope of conceptual thinking whilst this manifests in a way we generally apprehend as connecting patterns of meaning. In classical Buddhism, the negative aspect we make of this is outlined in the 12 nidanas (links of interdependent origination) – a vicious circle where we reactively create our own suffering. Many methods are taught for breaking free from this and becoming liberated. 

The Tibetan term for nidana is tendrel. On the other hand tashi tendrel was what they called auspicious coincidence, usually reserved for moments of good fortune.

It is so easy to get bogged down, struggling with the stuff of life that the idea of escape seems impossible – if only we could get rid of the messy stuff...

Typically, however, Trungpa Rinpoche emphasised that the important thing was not to struggle to eradicate the stuff but recognise the whole circle as tashi tendrel – appreciating all the interconnected, messy stuff as the perfect opportunity to wake up, here, now and delighting in the beauty of our bittersweet lives (and a sense of humour is as essential and the courage to be willing to look at what is happening rather than chasing a fantasy).

Anyhow, enough! The devil (and, perhaps, the angels too) is in the detail so intend to steer clear of philosophising, proselytizing etc. The proof of the pudding is in the eating so hope you pop by for an occasional taste...