Puja Ceremony

Today, I received yet another blessing for safety at the Puja Ceremony.  The Sherpa refuse to go any higher on the mountain until this is completed.  They asked us to also bring anything else we wanted to have blessed.  I noticed others bringing some of their climbing gear, so I grabbed my crampons and ice axe and placed them against the altar.  I noticed some of the Sherpa placing such things as Coca-Cola, beer, and other food items on the altar, as well, so I surmised anything goes!

I listened to the four designated Sherpa chanting their Buddhist prayers of safe passage on the mountain for over an hour. When more than one do it at a time it becomes quite whimsical and mesmerizing.  Even the weather cooperated, with clear skies, a slight breeze, and mild temperatures.  After the prayers, they invited each of us to come up for our individual blessings, and a red string was placed around my neck. Now I have a second one to pair with the one I received from Lama Geshi.  Though I’m not superstitious in the least, I am somewhat sentimental, and plan on wearing both long after the expedition to remind me of these beautiful people and mountains!  Many of the climbers and Sherpa remained long after the official ceremony, dancing and singing and enjoying the moment.