Report on the “Year of Compassion” Program Series
Tibetan American Community of Connecticut, Inc.(TACC)
In honor of the auspicious occasion of His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama’s 90th birthday, the Tibetan American Community of Connecticut, Inc., comprising over 300 members, has initiated a heartfelt and meaningful series of compassionate actions under the banner of the “Year of Compassion.” These initiatives reflect our deep gratitude, devotion, and unwavering prayers for His Holiness’ long life, continued health, and his rightful return to the Potala Palace.
1. Commitment to Vegetarianism
As a collective expression of compassion and nonviolence, approximately 100 individuals from our community have pledged to abstain from the consumption of meat in various ways:
• Group A has made a lifelong commitment to vegetarianism.
• Group B has pledged to abstain from eating meat for one full year.
• Group C has committed to abstaining from meat every Wednesday throughout the Year of Compassion.
This spiritual practice of renunciation is inspired by the teachings of His Holiness and represents a significant step toward minimizing harm to sentient beings.
2. Life Release Ceremony
In accordance with the profound Buddhist practice of life release, we collected donations and purchased 500 kilograms of live fish that were destined for slaughter in India. These fish were released into the sacred River Ganges. The ceremony was conducted with prayers and rituals by three esteemed Geshes, who invoked blessings for the liberation and well-being of the freed beings. This act of kindness was dedicated to accumulating merit for His Holiness’ longevity and peace in the world.
3. Support for Stray Animals in Mundgod
With the generous contributions of our members, we donated $535.00 to Dorjee-la and his wife in Mundgod, who have been selflessly caring for over 300 stray dogs. This support helps provide food, shelter, and medical care for the animals, aligning perfectly with the compassionate values we uphold.
4. Animal Liberation in Ladakh
We have also planned the purchase and liberation of goats and sheep in Ladakh that are at risk of being sold for slaughter. These animals will be entrusted to local Tibetan families, who will care for them with love and respect for the remainder of their lives. This ensures both their safety and a sustainable way to uphold compassion within the community.
5. Forthcoming Acts of Compassion
Looking ahead, we are organizing additional charitable efforts to:
• Provide food and clothing to homeless individuals within our state.
• Visit and assist residents in nursing homes, offering companionship, entertainment, and assistance to the elderly.
These initiatives are deeply rooted in the core values of our Tibetan Buddhist heritage and are carried out in heartfelt dedication to our beloved leader, His Holiness the Dalai Lama.
Dedication of Merit
All the merit generated through these acts of compassion and life-saving efforts are respectfully and lovingly dedicated to His Holiness the 14th Dalai Lama—our Guru, protector, and spiritual beacon. We pray fervently for his continued health, long life, and swift return to his rightful throne in the Potala Palace. May peace and compassion flourish in the hearts of all beings.
Submitted by the 17th Term Executive Members of Tibetan-American Community of Connecticut, Inc.
We also do business as Tibetan Association of Connecticut.
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