Tsadra Foundation Advanced Contemplative Scholarships - User contributions [en]

20250521190517-Mariel-Torres-Submission

2025-07-20T21:18:33Z

Mariel.Torres: User:Mariel.Torres

{{SavedApplication
|status=Submitted
|Submissiondate=2025-05-29
|Submissionyear=2025
|username=Mariel.Torres
|page=20250521190517-Mariel-Torres-Submission
|firstname=Mariel
|lastname=Hespanhol Torres
|birthdate=1993-10-17
|birthcountry=Brazil
|nationality=Brazil
|street=Rua Belizário Pena, 60
|street2=Centro
|city=Barbacena
|stateprov=Minas Gerais
|postalcode=36200012
|country=Brazil
|email=mariel.hespanhol@gmail.com
|telephone=+5531998099926
|retreattype=Three-year retreat
|center=Gomde Pyrénées
|centerstreet=Mas Can Pere Courreu
|centerstreet2=Route Departementale 13
|centercity=La Bastide
|centerstateprov=Pyrénées-Orientales
|centerpostalcode=66110
|centercountry=France
|startdate=2026-06-01
|enddate=2029-12-31
|retreatmaster=Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Drupön Lama Tenzin Sangpo
|retreatadministrator=Mikk Tamme
|retreatadministratoremail=mikk@gomde.fr
|retreatliaison=Mikk Tamme
|retreatliaisonemail=three_year_retreat@gomde.fr
|cvedu=Graduated in Medicine from Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Brazil, 2020
|cvwork=I worked as a general practitioner for:
- Primary Health Care in Ouro Preto and Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from March 1st 2020 to December 31st 2024;
- Hospital Monumento às Mães in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from April 3rd 2024 to June 30th 2024;
- Centro de Atenção Psicossocial (Mental Health Care Center) in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, from July 1st 2024 to December 31st 2024.
|studiedtibetan=Yes
|spokentibcomprehension=None
|writtentibcomprehension=Basic reading comprehension
|tibetanrequiredforretreat=Not required
|tibetanretreatparts=Instructions will be given in Tibetan but there will be a translator.
The texts and teaching materials are translated to English.
Group practice (twice a month) will be chanted in Tibetan.
Individual practice can be chanted in Tibetan or in English.
|otherlanguage1=Portuguese
|otherlanguage1Prof=Native command
|otherlanguage2=English
|otherlanguage2Prof=Excellent command
|otherlanguage3=Spanish
|otherlanguage3Prof=Basic communication skills
|introbuddhism=I started my study of Mahayana Buddhism in 2014, participating in an informal group called "Grupo de Estudos Budistas Bodhisattva" with an instructor from Lama Padma Samten's sangha in Brazil. The study group focused on the Four Noble Truths, Twelve Links of Dependent Origination, Mind Training, Four Immeasurable Qualities, and Six Paramitas. In 2019, I started studying Buddhism more committedly with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche and his senior students through Siddhartha's Intent, and one year later, through Ngondro Gar.
|refugehistory=I took refuge formally for the first time with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 7, 2020 (online), and later with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 21, 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 11, 2022 (in person).
|formalvows=Yes
|formalvowsdetails=I took lay precepts (refraining from killing, stealing, and sexual misconduct, plus refraining from getting heavily intoxicated) along with refuge and bodhisattva vows for the first time with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 7, 2020 (online). They were renewed many times in person, as well as tantric vows taken in empowerments, the first being with Lama Tsering Everest in May 21, 2022 at Chagdud Gonpa Odsal Ling.
|ngondrocomplete=Yes
|ngondro1=Longchen Nyingtik Ngöndro
|ngondro1begin=2020-05-20
|ngondro1end=2024-01-03
|ngondronotes=I've completed the Longchen Nyingtik ngöndro through Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche's program called Ngondro Gar; there, Rinpoche asks us to count hours instead of numbers. Yet, with the Vajra Guru mantra, I kept accumulating recitations beyond the time commitment until 1,200,000.
Since May 2025, I've been doing the Tara ngondro from Zabtik Drolma terma through the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, under the guidance of Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin. I'm still accumulating prostrations for refuge.
|previousretreatscomplete=Yes
|previousretreatsdetails=Longchen Nyingtik ngondro 1-month individual retreat in November 2023, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Dzogchen 1-month group retreats guided by Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in January 2024 and also in January 2025, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Sphere of Refined Gold 3-month group retreat guided by Lama Tenzin Sangpo from February to May 2025, at Gomde Pyrénées.
|ynadvstudiesprogs=Yes
|advstudiesprogsdetails=Tara’s Triple Excellence Program since November 2021, Bodhisattva Project (with Do Tulku Rinpoche, from Arya Tara's Net) from 2020 to 2024, and Mipham Project (with John Pettit, Arne Schelling, and Lama Sherab Drolma from Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling) in 2024.
|ynofferedservices=Yes
|offeredservicesdetails=I worked as a volunteer subtitle-maker for Do Tulku Rinpoche from 2021 to 2024 (for the Bodhisattva Project), and for Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche for a short while in 2023 (for one of his teachings on the website dharmasun.org). During the first week of February 2025, I worked at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling as a volunteer cleaner, concierge and kitchen helper.
From August to November 2025, I'll work as a volunteer at Gomde Pyrénées, mainly cleaning and giving support to people who will come for the seminar and for the two retreats that will follow it.
|othercommunitywork=I offered community work multiple times when I was a medical student in Viçosa/MG, Brazil: advocacy for public health policies, support groups for mental health, health fairs, educational materials and events.
|retreatduration=43
|StartFunding=2026-06-01
|EndFunding=2029-12-31
|costestimateCurrency=EUR
|costestimate=32,250
|requestedamountCurrency=EUR
|requestedamount=19,350
|othermoney=My current income is an apartment rental of approximately €200 per month. My personal savings will serve as proof of funds for the visa and will cover the costs of the visa, health insurance and other personal expenses (shrine items, airplane tickets, trips required for visa renewals, hygiene items etc). The account yield, along with the apartment rental, will cover about 40% of the monthly costs of the retreat—that is why I'm asking for 60%. I am also applying for the Khyentse Foundation Individual Practice Grant. I do not have other sponsors.
|letterofmotivation=Since 2021, I've been guided by Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin in the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, based on a terma from Chokling lineage. Their clarity, wisdom and loving way of teaching have left a deep impression on me. In 2024, I finally met Rinpoche in person at Gomde Pyrénées and regarded him as my root guru. Following his instructions, I attended the 3-month Sphere of Refined Gold retreat at Gomde Pyrénées this year, and was truly amazed by Lama Tenzin as retreat master. For me, trying to fulfill Rinpoche's aspiration that his students undertake the 3-year retreat is not a tough commitment, but a willing and joyful offering. I don't have many opportunities to meet Rinpoche, since I live in Brazil, and it is my deepest wish to be exposed to my guru's presence, instructions, and corrections—without them, I could easily come to the end of this life with mere aspirations and many regrets. Rinpoche will teach the retreatants approximately twice a year, and Lama Tenzin will guide us throughout the 43 months. So, it is a unique opportunity to deepen my practice and generate the twofold benefit with their support. When Rinpoche says that nothing would bring more benefit for oneself and others, I fully trust him and feel confident in following his wish.
The main purpose of doing this is to let go of the delusion of and attachment to a self, and naturally open up to wisdom and compassion—that's the aspiration that I will carry throughout the retreat and beyond. I plan to apply the experience of the retreat to my daily situations by becoming more carefree and selfless. As a physician who has been working and studying mainly in the field of mental health, I aspire especially to be more aware of others' needs and feelings, as well as more skilfull and wiser as I provide counselling and care to my patients, family, and friends. I believe that, if that aspiration is fulfilled at least to some extent, I may be able to benefit even those with whom I don't have a close relationship, by simply establishing a silent connection with them to the blessings of the lineage.
In terms of upholding the lineage, I'd like to accomplish anything Rinpoche wishes me to, anything that would support the survival of these teachings and practices for future generations. Regarding the curriculum, I'm committed to doing 3 months of Vajrasattva practice and accumulation, 1-2 months of Vajrakilaya, 14 months of Kunzang Tuktig ngöndro, 2 months of Trinley Nyingpo, 8 months of Kunzang Tuktig sadhana, 1 month of Sangwa Yeshe, 1 month of Korwa Dongtruk, and 1 year of Dzogchen practice, including the special preliminaries.
To make this possible, I've organized my finances and simplified my life. I'm not comfortable fundraising from my close sangha, as many are experiencing their own financial constraints, but I have applied for Khyentse Foundation scholarship. Given their non-Buddhist background and reservations about a long retreat, I haven't sought financial contributions from my relatives, but I've been preparing them emotionally.
For these reasons, I am requesting your support to partially cover the retreat fees. Thank you for your consideration.
|FileHaveAcceptLetterUpld=2025-07-20_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Acceptance_Letter.pdf
|AcceptLetterAuthorFirst=Lama Tenzin
|AcceptLetterAuthorLast=Sangpo
|AcceptLetterEmail=lamatenzinsangpo@gmail.com
|AcceptLetterPhone=+33767782906
|FileHaveRetreatBudgCostUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Retreat_Costs.pdf
|CostLetterAuthorFirst=Mikk
|CostLetterAuthorLast=Tamme
|CostLetterEmail=mikk@gomde.fr
|CostLetterPhone=+3725531133
|FileHaveEligibilityDocsUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Eligibility_Requirements.pdf
|FileHaveCVUpld=2025-07-19_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_CV_Resume.pdf
|FileHaveDharmaCVUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Dharma_Resume.pdf
|FileHavePhotoUpld=2025-07-20_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Photo.jpg
|FileHaveDescriptFinSitUpld=2025-07-19_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Financial_Situation.pdf
|recom1NameFirst=Chagdud
|recom1NameLast=Khadro
|recom1Email=chagdudkhadro@gmail.com
|recom1Relate=Lama
|recom2NameFirst=Gustavo
|recom2NameLast=Santhiago
|recom2Email=guto.santhiago@hotmail.com
|recom2Relate=Friend
}}

20250521190517-Mariel-Torres-Submission

2025-07-20T21:18:33Z

Mariel.Torres: User:Mariel.Torres

{{SavedApplication
|status=Complete
|Submissiondate=2025-05-29
|Submissionyear=2025
|username=Mariel.Torres
|page=20250521190517-Mariel-Torres-Submission
|firstname=Mariel
|lastname=Hespanhol Torres
|birthdate=1993-10-17
|birthcountry=Brazil
|nationality=Brazil
|street=Rua Belizário Pena, 60
|street2=Centro
|city=Barbacena
|stateprov=Minas Gerais
|postalcode=36200012
|country=Brazil
|email=mariel.hespanhol@gmail.com
|telephone=+5531998099926
|retreattype=Three-year retreat
|center=Gomde Pyrénées
|centerstreet=Mas Can Pere Courreu
|centerstreet2=Route Departementale 13
|centercity=La Bastide
|centerstateprov=Pyrénées-Orientales
|centerpostalcode=66110
|centercountry=France
|startdate=2026-06-01
|enddate=2029-12-31
|retreatmaster=Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Drupön Lama Tenzin Sangpo
|retreatadministrator=Mikk Tamme
|retreatadministratoremail=mikk@gomde.fr
|retreatliaison=Mikk Tamme
|retreatliaisonemail=three_year_retreat@gomde.fr
|cvedu=Graduated in Medicine from Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Brazil, 2020
|cvwork=I worked as a general practitioner for:
- Primary Health Care in Ouro Preto and Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from March 1st 2020 to December 31st 2024;
- Hospital Monumento às Mães in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from April 3rd 2024 to June 30th 2024;
- Centro de Atenção Psicossocial (Mental Health Care Center) in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, from July 1st 2024 to December 31st 2024.
|studiedtibetan=Yes
|spokentibcomprehension=None
|writtentibcomprehension=Basic reading comprehension
|tibetanrequiredforretreat=Not required
|tibetanretreatparts=Instructions will be given in Tibetan but there will be a translator.
The texts and teaching materials are translated to English.
Group practice (twice a month) will be chanted in Tibetan.
Individual practice can be chanted in Tibetan or in English.
|otherlanguage1=Portuguese
|otherlanguage1Prof=Native command
|otherlanguage2=English
|otherlanguage2Prof=Excellent command
|otherlanguage3=Spanish
|otherlanguage3Prof=Basic communication skills
|introbuddhism=I started my study of Mahayana Buddhism in 2014, participating in an informal group called "Grupo de Estudos Budistas Bodhisattva" with an instructor from Lama Padma Samten's sangha in Brazil. The study group focused on the Four Noble Truths, Twelve Links of Dependent Origination, Mind Training, Four Immeasurable Qualities, and Six Paramitas. In 2019, I started studying Buddhism more committedly with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche and his senior students through Siddhartha's Intent, and one year later, through Ngondro Gar.
|refugehistory=I took refuge formally for the first time with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 7, 2020 (online), and later with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 21, 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 11, 2022 (in person).
|formalvows=Yes
|formalvowsdetails=I took lay precepts (refraining from killing, stealing, and sexual misconduct, plus refraining from getting heavily intoxicated) along with refuge and bodhisattva vows for the first time with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 7, 2020 (online). They were renewed many times in person, as well as tantric vows taken in empowerments, the first being with Lama Tsering Everest in May 21, 2022 at Chagdud Gonpa Odsal Ling.
|ngondrocomplete=Yes
|ngondro1=Longchen Nyingtik Ngöndro
|ngondro1begin=2020-05-20
|ngondro1end=2024-01-03
|ngondronotes=I've completed the Longchen Nyingtik ngöndro through Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche's program called Ngondro Gar; there, Rinpoche asks us to count hours instead of numbers. Yet, with the Vajra Guru mantra, I kept accumulating recitations beyond the time commitment until 1,200,000.
Since May 2025, I've been doing the Tara ngondro from Zabtik Drolma terma through the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, under the guidance of Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin. I'm still accumulating prostrations for refuge.
|previousretreatscomplete=Yes
|previousretreatsdetails=Longchen Nyingtik ngondro 1-month individual retreat in November 2023, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Dzogchen 1-month group retreats guided by Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in January 2024 and also in January 2025, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Sphere of Refined Gold 3-month group retreat guided by Lama Tenzin Sangpo from February to May 2025, at Gomde Pyrénées.
|ynadvstudiesprogs=Yes
|advstudiesprogsdetails=Tara’s Triple Excellence Program since November 2021, Bodhisattva Project (with Do Tulku Rinpoche, from Arya Tara's Net) from 2020 to 2024, and Mipham Project (with John Pettit, Arne Schelling, and Lama Sherab Drolma from Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling) in 2024.
|ynofferedservices=Yes
|offeredservicesdetails=I worked as a volunteer subtitle-maker for Do Tulku Rinpoche from 2021 to 2024 (for the Bodhisattva Project), and for Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche for a short while in 2023 (for one of his teachings on the website dharmasun.org). During the first week of February 2025, I worked at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling as a volunteer cleaner, concierge and kitchen helper.
From August to November 2025, I'll work as a volunteer at Gomde Pyrénées, mainly cleaning and giving support to people who will come for the seminar and for the two retreats that will follow it.
|othercommunitywork=I offered community work multiple times when I was a medical student in Viçosa/MG, Brazil: advocacy for public health policies, support groups for mental health, health fairs, educational materials and events.
|retreatduration=43
|StartFunding=2026-06-01
|EndFunding=2029-12-31
|costestimateCurrency=EUR
|costestimate=32,250
|requestedamountCurrency=EUR
|requestedamount=19,350
|othermoney=My current income is an apartment rental of approximately €200 per month. My personal savings will serve as proof of funds for the visa and will cover the costs of the visa, health insurance and other personal expenses (shrine items, airplane tickets, trips required for visa renewals, hygiene items etc). The account yield, along with the apartment rental, will cover about 40% of the monthly costs of the retreat—that is why I'm asking for 60%. I am also applying for the Khyentse Foundation Individual Practice Grant. I do not have other sponsors.
|letterofmotivation=Since 2021, I've been guided by Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin in the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, based on a terma from Chokling lineage. Their clarity, wisdom and loving way of teaching have left a deep impression on me. In 2024, I finally met Rinpoche in person at Gomde Pyrénées and regarded him as my root guru. Following his instructions, I attended the 3-month Sphere of Refined Gold retreat at Gomde Pyrénées this year, and was truly amazed by Lama Tenzin as retreat master. For me, trying to fulfill Rinpoche's aspiration that his students undertake the 3-year retreat is not a tough commitment, but a willing and joyful offering. I don't have many opportunities to meet Rinpoche, since I live in Brazil, and it is my deepest wish to be exposed to my guru's presence, instructions, and corrections—without them, I could easily come to the end of this life with mere aspirations and many regrets. Rinpoche will teach the retreatants approximately twice a year, and Lama Tenzin will guide us throughout the 43 months. So, it is a unique opportunity to deepen my practice and generate the twofold benefit with their support. When Rinpoche says that nothing would bring more benefit for oneself and others, I fully trust him and feel confident in following his wish.
The main purpose of doing this is to let go of the delusion of and attachment to a self, and naturally open up to wisdom and compassion—that's the aspiration that I will carry throughout the retreat and beyond. I plan to apply the experience of the retreat to my daily situations by becoming more carefree and selfless. As a physician who has been working and studying mainly in the field of mental health, I aspire especially to be more aware of others' needs and feelings, as well as more skilfull and wiser as I provide counselling and care to my patients, family, and friends. I believe that, if that aspiration is fulfilled at least to some extent, I may be able to benefit even those with whom I don't have a close relationship, by simply establishing a silent connection with them to the blessings of the lineage.
In terms of upholding the lineage, I'd like to accomplish anything Rinpoche wishes me to, anything that would support the survival of these teachings and practices for future generations. Regarding the curriculum, I'm committed to doing 3 months of Vajrasattva practice and accumulation, 1-2 months of Vajrakilaya, 14 months of Kunzang Tuktig ngöndro, 2 months of Trinley Nyingpo, 8 months of Kunzang Tuktig sadhana, 1 month of Sangwa Yeshe, 1 month of Korwa Dongtruk, and 1 year of Dzogchen practice, including the special preliminaries.
To make this possible, I've organized my finances and simplified my life. I'm not comfortable fundraising from my close sangha, as many are experiencing their own financial constraints, but I have applied for Khyentse Foundation scholarship. Given their non-Buddhist background and reservations about a long retreat, I haven't sought financial contributions from my relatives, but I've been preparing them emotionally.
For these reasons, I am requesting your support to partially cover the retreat fees. Thank you for your consideration.
|FileHaveAcceptLetterUpld=2025-07-20_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Acceptance_Letter.pdf
|AcceptLetterAuthorFirst=Lama Tenzin
|AcceptLetterAuthorLast=Sangpo
|AcceptLetterEmail=lamatenzinsangpo@gmail.com
|AcceptLetterPhone=+33767782906
|FileHaveRetreatBudgCostUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Retreat_Costs.pdf
|CostLetterAuthorFirst=Mikk
|CostLetterAuthorLast=Tamme
|CostLetterEmail=mikk@gomde.fr
|CostLetterPhone=+3725531133
|FileHaveEligibilityDocsUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Eligibility_Requirements.pdf
|FileHaveCVUpld=2025-07-19_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_CV_Resume.pdf
|FileHaveDharmaCVUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Dharma_Resume.pdf
|FileHavePhotoUpld=2025-07-20_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Photo.jpg
|FileHaveDescriptFinSitUpld=2025-07-19_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Financial_Situation.pdf
|recom1NameFirst=Chagdud
|recom1NameLast=Khadro
|recom1Email=chagdudkhadro@gmail.com
|recom1Relate=Lama
|recom2NameFirst=Gustavo
|recom2NameLast=Santhiago
|recom2Email=guto.santhiago@hotmail.com
|recom2Relate=Friend
}}

20250521190517-Mariel-Torres-Submission

2025-07-20T21:15:05Z

Mariel.Torres: User:Mariel.Torres

{{SavedApplication
|status=Complete
|Submissiondate=2025-05-29
|Submissionyear=2025
|username=Mariel.Torres
|firstname=Mariel
|lastname=Hespanhol Torres
|birthdate=1993-10-17
|birthcountry=Brazil
|nationality=Brazil
|street=Rua Belizário Pena, 60
|street2=Centro
|city=Barbacena
|stateprov=Minas Gerais
|postalcode=36200012
|country=Brazil
|email=mariel.hespanhol@gmail.com
|telephone=+5531998099926
|retreattype=Three-year retreat
|center=Gomde Pyrénées
|centerstreet=Mas Can Pere Courreu
|centerstreet2=Route Departementale 13
|centercity=La Bastide
|centerstateprov=Pyrénées-Orientales
|centerpostalcode=66110
|centercountry=France
|startdate=2026-06-01
|enddate=2029-12-31
|retreatmaster=Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Drupön Lama Tenzin Sangpo
|retreatadministrator=Mikk Tamme
|retreatadministratoremail=mikk@gomde.fr
|retreatliaison=Mikk Tamme
|retreatliaisonemail=three_year_retreat@gomde.fr
|cvedu=Graduated in Medicine from Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Brazil, 2020
|cvwork=I worked as a general practitioner for:
- Primary Health Care in Ouro Preto and Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from March 1st 2020 to December 31st 2024;
- Hospital Monumento às Mães in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from April 3rd 2024 to June 30th 2024;
- Centro de Atenção Psicossocial (Mental Health Care Center) in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, from July 1st 2024 to December 31st 2024.
|studiedtibetan=Yes
|spokentibcomprehension=None
|writtentibcomprehension=Basic reading comprehension
|tibetanrequiredforretreat=Not required
|tibetanretreatparts=Instructions will be given in Tibetan but there will be a translator.
The texts and teaching materials are translated to English.
Group practice (twice a month) will be chanted in Tibetan.
Individual practice can be chanted in Tibetan or in English.
|otherlanguage1=Portuguese
|otherlanguage1Prof=Native command
|otherlanguage2=English
|otherlanguage2Prof=Excellent command
|otherlanguage3=Spanish
|otherlanguage3Prof=Basic communication skills
|introbuddhism=I started my study of Mahayana Buddhism in 2014, participating in an informal group called "Grupo de Estudos Budistas Bodhisattva" with an instructor from Lama Padma Samten's sangha in Brazil. The study group focused on the Four Noble Truths, Twelve Links of Dependent Origination, Mind Training, Four Immeasurable Qualities, and Six Paramitas. In 2019, I started studying Buddhism more committedly with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche and his senior students through Siddhartha's Intent, and one year later, through Ngondro Gar.
|refugehistory=I took refuge formally for the first time with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 7, 2020 (online), and later with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 21, 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 11, 2022 (in person).
|formalvows=Yes
|formalvowsdetails=I took lay precepts (refraining from killing, stealing, and sexual misconduct, plus refraining from getting heavily intoxicated) along with refuge and bodhisattva vows for the first time with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 7, 2020 (online). They were renewed many times in person, as well as tantric vows taken in empowerments, the first being with Lama Tsering Everest in May 21, 2022 at Chagdud Gonpa Odsal Ling.
|ngondrocomplete=Yes
|ngondro1=Longchen Nyingtik Ngöndro
|ngondro1begin=2020-05-20
|ngondro1end=2024-01-03
|ngondronotes=I've completed the Longchen Nyingtik ngöndro through Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche's program called Ngondro Gar; there, Rinpoche asks us to count hours instead of numbers. Yet, with the Vajra Guru mantra, I kept accumulating recitations beyond the time commitment until 1,200,000.
Since May 2025, I've been doing the Tara ngondro from Zabtik Drolma terma through the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, under the guidance of Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin. I'm still accumulating prostrations for refuge.
|previousretreatscomplete=Yes
|previousretreatsdetails=Longchen Nyingtik ngondro 1-month individual retreat in November 2023, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Dzogchen 1-month group retreats guided by Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in January 2024 and also in January 2025, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Sphere of Refined Gold 3-month group retreat guided by Lama Tenzin Sangpo from February to May 2025, at Gomde Pyrénées.
|ynadvstudiesprogs=Yes
|advstudiesprogsdetails=Tara’s Triple Excellence Program since November 2021, Bodhisattva Project (with Do Tulku Rinpoche, from Arya Tara's Net) from 2020 to 2024, and Mipham Project (with John Pettit, Arne Schelling, and Lama Sherab Drolma from Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling) in 2024.
|ynofferedservices=Yes
|offeredservicesdetails=I worked as a volunteer subtitle-maker for Do Tulku Rinpoche from 2021 to 2024 (for the Bodhisattva Project), and for Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche for a short while in 2023 (for one of his teachings on the website dharmasun.org). During the first week of February 2025, I worked at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling as a volunteer cleaner, concierge and kitchen helper.
From August to November 2025, I'll work as a volunteer at Gomde Pyrénées, mainly cleaning and giving support to people who will come for the seminar and for the two retreats that will follow it.
|othercommunitywork=I offered community work multiple times when I was a medical student in Viçosa/MG, Brazil: advocacy for public health policies, support groups for mental health, health fairs, educational materials and events.
|retreatduration=43
|StartFunding=2026-06-01
|EndFunding=2029-12-31
|costestimateCurrency=EUR
|costestimate=32,250
|requestedamountCurrency=EUR
|requestedamount=19,350
|othermoney=My current income is an apartment rental of approximately €200 per month. My personal savings will serve as proof of funds for the visa and will cover the costs of the visa, health insurance and other personal expenses (shrine items, airplane tickets, trips required for visa renewals, hygiene items etc). The account yield, along with the apartment rental, will cover about 40% of the monthly costs of the retreat—that is why I'm asking for 60%. I am also applying for the Khyentse Foundation Individual Practice Grant. I do not have other sponsors.
|letterofmotivation=Since 2021, I've been guided by Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin in the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, based on a terma from Chokling lineage. Their clarity, wisdom and loving way of teaching have left a deep impression on me. In 2024, I finally met Rinpoche in person at Gomde Pyrénées and regarded him as my root guru. Following his instructions, I attended the 3-month Sphere of Refined Gold retreat at Gomde Pyrénées this year, and was truly amazed by Lama Tenzin as retreat master. For me, trying to fulfill Rinpoche's aspiration that his students undertake the 3-year retreat is not a tough commitment, but a willing and joyful offering. I don't have many opportunities to meet Rinpoche, since I live in Brazil, and it is my deepest wish to be exposed to my guru's presence, instructions, and corrections—without them, I could easily come to the end of this life with mere aspirations and many regrets. Rinpoche will teach the retreatants approximately twice a year, and Lama Tenzin will guide us throughout the 43 months. So, it is a unique opportunity to deepen my practice and generate the twofold benefit with their support. When Rinpoche says that nothing would bring more benefit for oneself and others, I fully trust him and feel confident in following his wish.
The main purpose of doing this is to let go of the delusion of and attachment to a self, and naturally open up to wisdom and compassion—that's the aspiration that I will carry throughout the retreat and beyond. I plan to apply the experience of the retreat to my daily situations by becoming more carefree and selfless. As a physician who has been working and studying mainly in the field of mental health, I aspire especially to be more aware of others' needs and feelings, as well as more skilfull and wiser as I provide counselling and care to my patients, family, and friends. I believe that, if that aspiration is fulfilled at least to some extent, I may be able to benefit even those with whom I don't have a close relationship, by simply establishing a silent connection with them to the blessings of the lineage.
In terms of upholding the lineage, I'd like to accomplish anything Rinpoche wishes me to, anything that would support the survival of these teachings and practices for future generations. Regarding the curriculum, I'm committed to doing 3 months of Vajrasattva practice and accumulation, 1-2 months of Vajrakilaya, 14 months of Kunzang Tuktig ngöndro, 2 months of Trinley Nyingpo, 8 months of Kunzang Tuktig sadhana, 1 month of Sangwa Yeshe, 1 month of Korwa Dongtruk, and 1 year of Dzogchen practice, including the special preliminaries.
To make this possible, I've thoroughly organized my finances and simplified my life. Given their non-Buddhist background and reservations about a long retreat, I haven't sought financial contributions from my relatives, but I've been preparing them emotionally. Moreover, I'm not comfortable fundraising from my close sangha, as many are experiencing their own financial constraints.
For these reasons, I am requesting your support to partially cover the retreat fees. Thank you for your consideration.
|FileHaveAcceptLetterUpld=2025-07-20_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Acceptance_Letter.pdf
|AcceptLetterAuthorFirst=Lama Tenzin
|AcceptLetterAuthorLast=Sangpo
|AcceptLetterEmail=lamatenzinsangpo@gmail.com
|AcceptLetterPhone=+33767782906
|FileHaveRetreatBudgCostUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Retreat_Costs.pdf
|CostLetterAuthorFirst=Mikk
|CostLetterAuthorLast=Tamme
|CostLetterEmail=mikk@gomde.fr
|CostLetterPhone=+3725531133
|FileHaveEligibilityDocsUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Eligibility_Requirements.pdf
|FileHaveCVUpld=2025-07-19_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_CV_Resume.pdf
|FileHaveDharmaCVUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Dharma_Resume.pdf
|FileHavePhotoUpld=2025-07-20_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Photo.jpg
|FileHaveDescriptFinSitUpld=2025-07-19_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Financial_Situation.pdf
|recom1NameFirst=Chagdud
|recom1NameLast=Khadro
|recom1Email=chagdudkhadro@gmail.com
|recom1Relate=Lama
|recom2NameFirst=Gustavo
|recom2NameLast=Santhiago
|recom2Email=guto.santhiago@hotmail.com
|recom2Relate=Friend
}}

20250521190517-Mariel-Torres-Submission

2025-07-20T20:33:43Z

Mariel.Torres: User:Mariel.Torres

{{SavedApplication
|status=Saved
|Submissiondate=2025-05-29
|Submissionyear=2025
|username=Mariel.Torres
|firstname=Mariel
|lastname=Hespanhol Torres
|birthdate=1993-10-17
|birthcountry=Brazil
|nationality=Brazil
|street=Rua Belizário Pena, 60
|street2=Centro
|city=Barbacena
|stateprov=Minas Gerais
|postalcode=36200012
|country=Brazil
|email=mariel.hespanhol@gmail.com
|telephone=+5531998099926
|retreattype=Three-year retreat
|center=Gomde Pyrénées
|centerstreet=Mas Can Pere Courreu
|centerstreet2=Route Departementale 13
|centercity=La Bastide
|centerstateprov=Pyrénées-Orientales
|centerpostalcode=66110
|centercountry=France
|startdate=2026-06-01
|enddate=2029-12-31
|retreatmaster=Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Drupön Lama Tenzin Sangpo
|retreatadministrator=Mikk Tamme
|retreatadministratoremail=mikk@gomde.fr
|retreatliaison=Mikk Tamme
|retreatliaisonemail=three_year_retreat@gomde.fr
|cvedu=Graduated in Medicine from Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Brazil, 2020
|cvwork=I worked as a general practitioner for:
- Primary Health Care in Ouro Preto and Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from March 1st 2020 to December 31st 2024;
- Hospital Monumento às Mães in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from April 3rd 2024 to June 30th 2024;
- Centro de Atenção Psicossocial (Mental Health Care Center) in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, from July 1st 2024 to December 31st 2024.
|studiedtibetan=Yes
|spokentibcomprehension=None
|writtentibcomprehension=Basic reading comprehension
|tibetanrequiredforretreat=Not required
|tibetanretreatparts=Instructions will be given in Tibetan but there will be a translator.
The texts and teaching materials are translated to English.
Group practice (twice a month) will be chanted in Tibetan.
Individual practice can be chanted in Tibetan or in English.
|otherlanguage1=Portuguese
|otherlanguage1Prof=Native command
|otherlanguage2=English
|otherlanguage2Prof=Excellent command
|otherlanguage3=Spanish
|otherlanguage3Prof=Basic communication skills
|introbuddhism=I started my study of Mahayana Buddhism in 2014, participating in an informal group called "Grupo de Estudos Budistas Bodhisattva" with an instructor from Lama Padma Samten's sangha in Brazil. The study group focused on the Four Noble Truths, Twelve Links of Dependent Origination, Mind Training, Four Immeasurable Qualities, and Six Paramitas. In 2019, I started studying Buddhism more committedly with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche and his senior students through Siddhartha's Intent, and one year later, through Ngondro Gar.
|refugehistory=I took refuge formally for the first time with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 7, 2020 (online), and later with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 21, 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 11, 2022 (in person).
|formalvows=Yes
|formalvowsdetails=I took lay precepts (refraining from killing, stealing, and sexual misconduct, plus refraining from getting heavily intoxicated) along with refuge and bodhisattva vows for the first time with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 7, 2020 (online). They were renewed many times in person, as well as tantric vows taken in empowerments, the first being with Lama Tsering Everest in May 21, 2022 at Chagdud Gonpa Odsal Ling.
|ngondrocomplete=Yes
|ngondro1=Longchen Nyingtik Ngöndro
|ngondro1begin=2020-05-20
|ngondro1end=2024-01-03
|ngondronotes=I've completed the Longchen Nyingtik ngöndro through Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche's program called Ngondro Gar; there, Rinpoche asks us to count hours instead of numbers. Yet, with the Vajra Guru mantra, I kept accumulating recitations beyond the time commitment until 1,200,000.
Since May 2025, I've been doing the Tara ngondro from Zabtik Drolma terma through the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, under the guidance of Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin. I'm still accumulating prostrations for refuge.
|previousretreatscomplete=Yes
|previousretreatsdetails=Longchen Nyingtik ngondro 1-month individual retreat in November 2023, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Dzogchen 1-month group retreats guided by Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in January 2024 and also in January 2025, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Sphere of Refined Gold 3-month group retreat guided by Lama Tenzin Sangpo from February to May 2025, at Gomde Pyrénées.
|ynadvstudiesprogs=Yes
|advstudiesprogsdetails=Tara’s Triple Excellence Program since November 2021, Bodhisattva Project (with Do Tulku Rinpoche, from Arya Tara's Net) from 2020 to 2024, and Mipham Project (with John Pettit, Arne Schelling, and Lama Sherab Drolma from Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling) in 2024.
|ynofferedservices=Yes
|offeredservicesdetails=I worked as a volunteer subtitle-maker for Do Tulku Rinpoche from 2021 to 2024 (for the Bodhisattva Project), and for Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche for a short while in 2023 (for one of his teachings on the website dharmasun.org). During the first week of February 2025, I worked at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling as a volunteer cleaner, concierge and kitchen helper.
From August to November 2025, I'll work as a volunteer at Gomde Pyrénées, mainly cleaning and giving support to people who will come for the seminar and for the two retreats that will follow it.
|othercommunitywork=I offered community work multiple times when I was a medical student in Viçosa/MG, Brazil: advocacy for public health policies, support groups for mental health, health fairs, educational materials and events.
|retreatduration=43
|StartFunding=2026-06-01
|EndFunding=2029-12-31
|costestimateCurrency=EUR
|costestimate=32,250
|requestedamountCurrency=EUR
|requestedamount=19,350
|othermoney=My current income is an apartment rental of approximately €200 per month. My personal savings will serve as proof of funds for the visa and will cover the costs of the visa, health insurance and other personal expenses (shrine items, airplane tickets, trips required for visa renewals, hygiene items etc). The account yield, along with the apartment rental, will cover about 40% of the monthly costs of the retreat—that is why I'm asking for 60%. I am also applying for the Khyentse Foundation Individual Practice Grant. I do not have other sponsors.
|letterofmotivation=Since 2021, I've been guided by Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin in the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, based on the Zabtik Drolma terma from Chokling lineage. Their clarity, wisdom and loving way of teaching have left a deep impression on me. In 2024, I finally met Rinpoche in person at Gomde Pyrénées and regarded him as my root guru. Following his instructions, I attended the 3-month Sphere of Refined Gold retreat at Gomde Pyrénées this year, and was truly amazed by Lama Tenzin as retreat master. For me, trying to fulfill Rinpoche's aspiration that his students do the 3-year retreat is not a tough commitment but a willing and joyful offering. I don't have many opportunities to meet him, since I live in Brazil, and it is my deepest wish to be more exposed to my guru's presence, instructions, and corrections. This seems to be the only option for improving my practice for the sake of all beings; without exposing my faults to the outer guru and receiving his close orientation, I could easily come to the end of this life with mere aspirations and many regrets. Rinpoche will teach the retreatants approximately twice a year, and Lama Tenzin will guide us throughout the 43 months. So, it is a unique opportunity to deepen my practice and generate the twofold benefit with their support. When Rinpoche says that nothing would bring more benefit for oneself and others, I fully trust it and feel confident to follow his wish.
The main purpose of doing this is to let go of the delusion of and attachment to a self, and naturally open up to wisdom and compassion—that's the aspiration that I will carry throughout the retreat and beyond. I plan to apply the experience of the retreat to my work, family and any daily situations by becoming more carefree and selfless. As a physician who has been working mainly in the field of mental health, I aspire especially to be more aware of others' needs and feelings, as well as more skilful and wiser as I provide counselling and care to my patients, family, and friends. I believe that, if that aspiration is fulfilled at least to some extent, I may be able to benefit many beings, even those with whom I don't have a close relationship, by simply establishing a silent connection with them to the blessings of the lineage.
In terms of upholding the lineage, I'd like to accomplish anything Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche wishes me to, anything that would support the survival of these teachings and practices for future generations. Regarding the curriculum, I'm committed to doing 3 months of Vajrasattva with 111,000 accumulation, 1-2 months of Vajrakilaya, 14 months of Kunzang Tuktig ngöndro, 2 months of Trinley Nyingpo, 8 months of Kunzang Tuktig sadhana, 1 month of Sangwa Yeshe, 1 month of Korwa Dongtruk, and 1 year of Dzogchen practice including the special preliminaries.
I have organised my financial situation and simplified my life, and I am preparing my family emotionally—fortunately, none of my relatives depend on me for health care or financial support.
|AcceptLetterAuthorFirst=Lama Tenzin
|AcceptLetterAuthorLast=Sangpo
|AcceptLetterEmail=lamatenzinsangpo@gmail.com
|AcceptLetterPhone=+33767782906
|FileHaveRetreatBudgCostUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Retreat_Costs.pdf
|CostLetterAuthorFirst=Mikk
|CostLetterAuthorLast=Tamme
|CostLetterEmail=mikk@gomde.fr
|CostLetterPhone=+3725531133
|FileHaveEligibilityDocsUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Eligibility_Requirements.pdf
|FileHaveCVUpld=2025-07-19_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_CV_Resume.pdf
|FileHaveDharmaCVUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Dharma_Resume.pdf
|FileHaveDescriptFinSitUpld=2025-07-19_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Financial_Situation.pdf
|recom1NameFirst=Chagdud
|recom1NameLast=Khadro
|recom1Email=chagdudkhadro@gmail.com
|recom1Relate=Lama
|recom2NameFirst=Gustavo
|recom2NameLast=Santhiago
|recom2Email=guto.santhiago@hotmail.com
|recom2Relate=Friend
|FFUploadedFile-UploadName-FileHaveAcceptLetter=2025.07.20 - Letter of Acceptance - Mariel.pdf
|FFUploadedFile-UploadBase-FileHaveAcceptLetter=2025-07-20-letter-of-acceptance-mariel
|FFUploadedFile-NewName-FileHaveAcceptLetter=2025-07-20_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Acceptance_Letter.pdf
|FFUploadedFile-UploadName-FileHavePhoto=Photo.jpg
|FFUploadedFile-UploadBase-FileHavePhoto=photo
|FFUploadedFile-NewName-FileHavePhoto=2025-07-20_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Photo.jpg
}}

20250521190517-Mariel-Torres-Submission

2025-07-19T15:41:24Z

Mariel.Torres: User:Mariel.Torres

{{SavedApplication
|status=Saved
|Submissiondate=2025-05-29
|Submissionyear=2025
|username=Mariel.Torres
|firstname=Mariel
|lastname=Hespanhol Torres
|birthdate=1993-10-17
|birthcountry=Brazil
|nationality=Brazil
|street=Rua Belizário Pena, 60
|street2=Centro
|city=Barbacena
|stateprov=Minas Gerais
|postalcode=36200012
|country=Brazil
|email=mariel.hespanhol@gmail.com
|telephone=+5531998099926
|retreattype=Three-year retreat
|center=Gomde Pyrénées
|centerstreet=Mas Can Pere Courreu
|centerstreet2=Route Departementale 13
|centercity=La Bastide
|centerstateprov=Pyrénées-Orientales
|centerpostalcode=66110
|centercountry=France
|startdate=2026-06-01
|enddate=2029-12-31
|retreatmaster=Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Drupön Lama Tenzin Sangpo
|retreatadministrator=Mikk Tamme
|retreatadministratoremail=mikk@gomde.fr
|retreatliaison=Mikk Tamme
|retreatliaisonemail=three_year_retreat@gomde.fr
|cvedu=Graduated in Medicine from Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Brazil, 2020
|cvwork=I worked as a general practitioner for:
- Primary Health Care in Ouro Preto and Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from March 1st 2020 to December 31st 2024;
- Hospital Monumento às Mães in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from April 3rd 2024 to June 30th 2024;
- Centro de Atenção Psicossocial (Mental Health Care Center) in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, from July 1st 2024 to December 31st 2024.
|studiedtibetan=Yes
|spokentibcomprehension=None
|writtentibcomprehension=Basic reading comprehension
|tibetanrequiredforretreat=Not required
|tibetanretreatparts=Instructions will be given in Tibetan but there will be a translator.
The texts and teaching materials are translated to English.
Group practice (twice a month) will be chanted in Tibetan.
Individual practice can be chanted in Tibetan or in English.
|otherlanguage1=Portuguese
|otherlanguage1Prof=Native command
|otherlanguage2=English
|otherlanguage2Prof=Excellent command
|otherlanguage3=Spanish
|otherlanguage3Prof=Basic communication skills
|introbuddhism=I started my study of Mahayana Buddhism in 2014, participating in an informal group called "Grupo de Estudos Budistas Bodhisattva" with an instructor from Lama Padma Samten's sangha in Brazil. The study group focused on the Four Noble Truths, Twelve Links of Dependent Origination, Mind Training, Four Immeasurable Qualities, and Six Paramitas. In 2019, I started studying Buddhism more committedly with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche and his senior students through Siddhartha's Intent, and one year later, through Ngondro Gar.
|refugehistory=I took refuge formally with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 7, 2020 (online); with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 21, 2021 (online); and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 11, 2022 (in person).
|formalvows=Yes
|formalvowsdetails=I took lay precepts (refraining from killing, stealing, and sexual misconduct, plus refraining from getting heavily intoxicated) along with refuge and bodhisattva vows with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 7, 2020 (online), with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 21, 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 11, 2022 (in person).
|ngondrocomplete=Yes
|ngondro1=Longchen Nyingtik Ngöndro
|ngondro1begin=2020-05-20
|ngondro1end=2024-01-03
|ngondronotes=I've completed the Longchen Nyingtik ngöndro through Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche's program called Ngondro Gar; there, Rinpoche asks us to count hours instead of numbers. Yet, with the Vajra Guru mantra, I kept accumulating recitations beyond the time commitment until 1,200,000.
Since May 2025, I've been doing the Tara ngondro from Zabtik Drolma terma through the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, under the guidance of Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin. I'm still accumulating prostrations for refuge.
|previousretreatscomplete=Yes
|previousretreatsdetails=Longchen Nyingtik ngondro 1-month individual retreat in November 2023, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Dzogchen 1-month group retreats guided by Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in January 2024 and also in January 2025, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Sphere of Refined Gold 3-month group retreat guided by Lama Tenzin Sangpo from February to May 2025, at Gomde Pyrénées.
|ynadvstudiesprogs=Yes
|advstudiesprogsdetails=Tara’s Triple Excellence Program since November 2021, Bodhisattva Project (with Do Tulku Rinpoche, from Arya Tara's Net) from 2020 to 2024, and Mipham Project (with John Pettit, Arne Schelling, and Lama Sherab Drolma from Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling) in 2024.
|ynofferedservices=Yes
|offeredservicesdetails=I worked as a volunteer subtitle-maker for Do Tulku Rinpoche from 2021 to 2024 (for the Bodhisattva Project), and for Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche for a short while in 2023 (for one of his teachings on the website dharmasun.org). During the first week of February 2025, I worked at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling as a volunteer cleaner, concierge and kitchen helper.
From August to November 2025, I'll work as a volunteer at Gomde Pyrénées, mainly cleaning and giving support to people who will come for the seminar and for the two retreats that will follow it.
|othercommunitywork=I offered community work several times when I was a medical student in Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
|retreatduration=43
|StartFunding=2026-06-01
|EndFunding=2029-12-31
|costestimateCurrency=EUR
|costestimate=32,250
|requestedamountCurrency=EUR
|requestedamount=19,350
|othermoney=My current income is an apartment rental of approximately €200 per month. My personal savings will serve as proof of funds for the visa and will cover the costs of the visa, health insurance and other personal expenses (shrine items, airplane tickets, trips required for visa renewals, hygiene items etc). The account yield, along with the apartment rental, will cover about 40% of the monthly costs of the retreat—that is why I'm asking for 60%. I am also applying for the Khyentse Foundation Individual Practice Grant. I do not have other sponsors.
|letterofmotivation=Since 2021, I've been guided by Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin in the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, based on the Zabtik Drolma terma from Chokling lineage. Their clarity, wisdom and loving way of teaching have left a deep impression on me. In 2024, I finally met Rinpoche in person at Gomde Pyrénées and regarded him as my root guru. Following his instructions, I attended the 3-month Sphere of Refined Gold retreat at Gomde Pyrénées this year, and was truly amazed by Lama Tenzin as retreat master. For me, trying to fulfill Rinpoche's aspiration that his students do the 3-year retreat is not a tough commitment but a willing and joyful offering. I don't have many opportunities to meet him, since I live in Brazil, and it is my deepest wish to be more exposed to my guru's presence, instructions, and corrections. This seems to be the only option for improving my practice for the sake of all beings; without exposing my faults to the outer guru and receiving his close orientation, I could easily come to the end of this life with mere aspirations and many regrets. Rinpoche will teach the retreatants approximately twice a year, and Lama Tenzin will guide us throughout the 43 months. So, it is a unique opportunity to deepen my practice and generate the twofold benefit with their support. When Rinpoche says that nothing would bring more benefit for oneself and others, I fully trust it and feel confident to follow his wish.
The main purpose of doing this is to let go of the delusion of and attachment to a self, and naturally open up to wisdom and compassion—that's the aspiration that I will carry throughout the retreat and beyond. I plan to apply the experience of the retreat to my work, family and any daily situations by becoming more carefree and selfless. As a physician who has been working mainly in the field of mental health, I aspire especially to be more aware of others' needs and feelings, as well as more skilful and wiser as I provide counselling and care to my patients, family, and friends. I believe that, if that aspiration is fulfilled at least to some extent, I may be able to benefit many beings, even those with whom I don't have a close relationship, by simply establishing a silent connection with them to the blessings of the lineage.
In terms of upholding the lineage, I'd like to accomplish anything Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche wishes me to, anything that would support the survival of these teachings and practices for future generations. Regarding the curriculum, I'm committed to doing 3 months of Vajrasattva with 111,000 accumulation, 1-2 months of Vajrakilaya, 14 months of Kunzang Tuktig ngöndro, 2 months of Trinley Nyingpo, 8 months of Kunzang Tuktig sadhana, 1 month of Sangwa Yeshe, 1 month of Korwa Dongtruk, and 1 year of Dzogchen practice including the special preliminaries.
I have organised my financial situation and simplified my life, and I am preparing my family emotionally—fortunately, none of my relatives depend on me for health care or financial support.
|FileHaveRetreatBudgCostUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Retreat_Costs.pdf
|CostLetterAuthorFirst=Mikk
|CostLetterAuthorLast=Tamme
|CostLetterEmail=mikk@gomde.fr
|CostLetterPhone=+3725531133
|FileHaveEligibilityDocsUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Eligibility_Requirements.pdf
|FileHaveCVUpld=2025-07-19_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_CV_Resume.pdf
|FileHaveDharmaCVUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Dharma_Resume.pdf
|recom1NameFirst=Chagdud
|recom1NameLast=Khadro
|recom1Email=chagdudkhadro@gmail.com
|recom1Relate=Lama
|recom2NameFirst=Gustavo
|recom2NameLast=Santhiago
|recom2Email=guto.santhiago@hotmail.com
|recom2Relate=Friend
|FFUploadedFile-UploadName-FileHaveDescriptFinSit=Financial situation.pdf
|FFUploadedFile-UploadBase-FileHaveDescriptFinSit=financial-situation
|FFUploadedFile-NewName-FileHaveDescriptFinSit=2025-07-19_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Financial_Situation.pdf
}}

20250521190517-Mariel-Torres-Submission

2025-07-19T15:13:04Z

Mariel.Torres: User:Mariel.Torres

{{SavedApplication
|status=Saved
|Submissiondate=2025-05-29
|Submissionyear=2025
|username=Mariel.Torres
|firstname=Mariel
|lastname=Hespanhol Torres
|birthdate=1993-10-17
|birthcountry=Brazil
|nationality=Brazil
|street=Rua Belizário Pena, 60
|street2=Centro
|city=Barbacena
|stateprov=Minas Gerais
|postalcode=36200012
|country=Brazil
|email=mariel.hespanhol@gmail.com
|telephone=+5531998099926
|retreattype=Three-year retreat
|center=Gomde Pyrénées
|centerstreet=Mas Can Pere Courreu
|centerstreet2=Route Departementale 13
|centercity=La Bastide
|centerstateprov=Pyrénées-Orientales
|centerpostalcode=66110
|centercountry=France
|startdate=2026-06-01
|enddate=2029-12-31
|retreatmaster=Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Drupön Lama Tenzin Sangpo
|retreatadministrator=Mikk Tamme
|retreatadministratoremail=mikk@gomde.fr
|retreatliaison=Mikk Tamme
|retreatliaisonemail=three_year_retreat@gomde.fr
|cvedu=Graduated in Medicine from Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Brazil, 2020
|cvwork=I worked as a general practitioner for:
- Primary Health Care in Ouro Preto and Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from March 1st 2020 to December 31st 2024;
- Hospital Monumento às Mães in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from April 3rd 2024 to June 30th 2024;
- Centro de Atenção Psicossocial (Mental Health Care Center) in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, from July 1st 2024 to December 31st 2024.
|studiedtibetan=Yes
|spokentibcomprehension=None
|writtentibcomprehension=Basic reading comprehension
|tibetanrequiredforretreat=Not required
|tibetanretreatparts=Instructions will be given in Tibetan but there will be a translator.
The texts and teaching materials are translated to English.
Group practice (twice a month) will be chanted in Tibetan.
Individual practice can be chanted in Tibetan or in English.
|otherlanguage1=Portuguese
|otherlanguage1Prof=Native command
|otherlanguage2=English
|otherlanguage2Prof=Excellent command
|otherlanguage3=Spanish
|otherlanguage3Prof=Basic communication skills
|introbuddhism=I started my study of Mahayana Buddhism in 2014, participating in an informal group called "Grupo de Estudos Budistas Bodhisattva" with an instructor from Lama Padma Samten's sangha in Brazil. The study group focused on the Four Noble Truths, Twelve Links of Dependent Origination, Mind Training, Four Immeasurable Qualities, and Six Paramitas. In 2019, I started studying Buddhism more committedly with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche and his senior students through Siddhartha's Intent, and one year later, through Ngondro Gar.
|refugehistory=I took refuge formally with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 7, 2020 (online); with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 21, 2021 (online); and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 11, 2022 (in person).
|formalvows=Yes
|formalvowsdetails=I took lay precepts (refraining from killing, stealing, and sexual misconduct, plus refraining from getting heavily intoxicated) along with refuge and bodhisattva vows with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 7, 2020 (online), with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 21, 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 11, 2022 (in person).
|ngondrocomplete=Yes
|ngondro1=Longchen Nyingtik Ngöndro
|ngondro1begin=2020-05-20
|ngondro1end=2024-01-03
|ngondronotes=I've completed the Longchen Nyingtik ngöndro through Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche's program called Ngondro Gar; there, Rinpoche asks us to count hours instead of numbers. Yet, with the Vajra Guru mantra, I kept accumulating recitations beyond the time commitment until 1,200,000.
Since May 2025, I've been doing the Tara ngondro from Zabtik Drolma terma through the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, under the guidance of Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin. I'm still accumulating prostrations for refuge.
|previousretreatscomplete=Yes
|previousretreatsdetails=Longchen Nyingtik ngondro 1-month individual retreat in November 2023, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Dzogchen 1-month group retreats guided by Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in January 2024 and also in January 2025, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Sphere of Refined Gold 3-month group retreat guided by Lama Tenzin Sangpo from February to May 2025, at Gomde Pyrénées.
|ynadvstudiesprogs=Yes
|advstudiesprogsdetails=Tara’s Triple Excellence Program since November 2021, Bodhisattva Project (with Do Tulku Rinpoche, from Arya Tara's Net) from 2020 to 2024, and Mipham Project (with John Pettit, Arne Schelling, and Lama Sherab Drolma from Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling) in 2024.
|ynofferedservices=Yes
|offeredservicesdetails=I worked as a volunteer subtitle-maker for Do Tulku Rinpoche from 2021 to 2024 (for the Bodhisattva Project), and for Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche for a short while in 2023 (for one of his teachings on the website dharmasun.org). During the first week of February 2025, I worked at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling as a volunteer cleaner, concierge and kitchen helper.
From August to November 2025, I'll work as a volunteer at Gomde Pyrénées, mainly cleaning and giving support to people who will come for the seminar and for the two retreats that will follow it.
|othercommunitywork=I offered community work several times when I was a medical student in Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
|retreatduration=43
|StartFunding=2026-06-01
|EndFunding=2029-12-31
|costestimateCurrency=EUR
|costestimate=32,250
|requestedamountCurrency=EUR
|requestedamount=19,350
|othermoney=My current income is an apartment rental of approximately €200 per month. My personal savings will serve as proof of funds for the visa and will cover the costs of the visa, health insurance and other personal expenses (shrine items, airplane tickets, trips required for visa renewals, hygiene items etc). The account yield, along with the apartment rental, will cover about 40% of the monthly costs of the retreat—that is why I'm asking for 60%. I am also applying for the Khyentse Foundation Individual Practice Grant. I do not have other sponsors.
|letterofmotivation=Since 2021, I've been guided by Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin in the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, based on the Zabtik Drolma terma from Chokling lineage. Their clarity, wisdom and loving way of teaching have left a deep impression on me. In 2024, I finally met Rinpoche in person at Gomde Pyrénées and regarded him as my root guru. Following his instructions, I attended the 3-month Sphere of Refined Gold retreat at Gomde Pyrénées this year, and was truly amazed by Lama Tenzin as retreat master. For me, trying to fulfill Rinpoche's aspiration that his students do the 3-year retreat is not a tough commitment but a willing and joyful offering. I don't have many opportunities to meet him, since I live in Brazil, and it is my deepest wish to be more exposed to my guru's presence, instructions, and corrections. This seems to be the only option for improving my practice for the sake of all beings; without exposing my faults to the outer guru and receiving his close orientation, I could easily come to the end of this life with mere aspirations and many regrets. Rinpoche will teach the retreatants approximately twice a year, and Lama Tenzin will guide us throughout the 43 months. So, it is a unique opportunity to deepen my practice and generate the twofold benefit with their support. When Rinpoche says that nothing would bring more benefit for oneself and others, I fully trust it and feel confident to follow his wish.
The main purpose of doing this is to let go of the delusion of and attachment to a self, and naturally open up to wisdom and compassion—that's the aspiration that I will carry throughout the retreat and beyond. I plan to apply the experience of the retreat to my work, family and any daily situations by becoming more carefree and selfless. As a physician who has been working mainly in the field of mental health, I aspire especially to be more aware of others' needs and feelings, as well as more skilful and wiser as I provide counselling and care to my patients, family, and friends. I believe that, if that aspiration is fulfilled at least to some extent, I may be able to benefit many beings, even those with whom I don't have a close relationship, by simply establishing a silent connection with them to the blessings of the lineage.
In terms of upholding the lineage, I'd like to accomplish anything Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche wishes me to, anything that would support the survival of these teachings and practices for future generations. Regarding the curriculum, I'm committed to doing 3 months of Vajrasattva with 111,000 accumulation, 1-2 months of Vajrakilaya, 14 months of Kunzang Tuktig ngöndro, 2 months of Trinley Nyingpo, 8 months of Kunzang Tuktig sadhana, 1 month of Sangwa Yeshe, 1 month of Korwa Dongtruk, and 1 year of Dzogchen practice including the special preliminaries.
I have organised my financial situation and simplified my life, and I am preparing my family emotionally—fortunately, none of my relatives depend on me for health care or financial support.
|FileHaveRetreatBudgCostUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Retreat_Costs.pdf
|CostLetterAuthorFirst=Mikk
|CostLetterAuthorLast=Tamme
|CostLetterEmail=mikk@gomde.fr
|CostLetterPhone=+3725531133
|FileHaveEligibilityDocsUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Eligibility_Requirements.pdf
|FileHaveDharmaCVUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Dharma_Resume.pdf
|recom1NameFirst=Chagdud
|recom1NameLast=Khadro
|recom1Email=chagdudkhadro@gmail.com
|recom1Relate=Lama
|recom2NameFirst=Gustavo
|recom2NameLast=Santhiago
|recom2Email=guto.santhiago@hotmail.com
|recom2Relate=Friend
|FFUploadedFile-UploadName-FileHaveCV=Standard résumé.pdf
|FFUploadedFile-UploadBase-FileHaveCV=standard-resume
|FFUploadedFile-NewName-FileHaveCV=2025-07-19_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_CV_Resume.pdf
}}

20250521190517-Mariel-Torres-Submission

2025-07-18T18:45:51Z

Mariel.Torres: User:Mariel.Torres

{{SavedApplication
|status=Saved
|Submissiondate=2025-05-29
|Submissionyear=2025
|username=Mariel.Torres
|firstname=Mariel
|lastname=Hespanhol Torres
|birthdate=1993-10-17
|birthcountry=Brazil
|nationality=Brazil
|street=Rua Belizário Pena, 60
|street2=Centro
|city=Barbacena
|stateprov=Minas Gerais
|postalcode=36200012
|country=Brazil
|email=mariel.hespanhol@gmail.com
|telephone=+5531998099926
|retreattype=Three-year retreat
|center=Gomde Pyrénées
|centerstreet=Mas Can Pere Courreu
|centerstreet2=Route Departementale 13
|centercity=La Bastide
|centerstateprov=Pyrénées-Orientales
|centerpostalcode=66110
|centercountry=France
|startdate=2026-06-01
|enddate=2029-12-31
|retreatmaster=Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Drupön Lama Tenzin Sangpo
|retreatadministrator=Mikk Tamme
|retreatadministratoremail=mikk@gomde.fr
|retreatliaison=Mikk Tamme
|retreatliaisonemail=three_year_retreat@gomde.fr
|cvedu=Graduated in Medicine from Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Brazil, 2020
|cvwork=I worked as a general practitioner for:
- Primary Health Care in Ouro Preto and Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from March 1st 2020 to December 31st 2024;
- Hospital Monumento às Mães in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from April 3rd 2024 to June 30th 2024;
- Centro de Atenção Psicossocial (Mental Health Care Center) in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, from July 1st 2024 to December 31st 2024.
|studiedtibetan=Yes
|spokentibcomprehension=None
|writtentibcomprehension=Basic reading comprehension
|tibetanrequiredforretreat=Not required
|tibetanretreatparts=Instructions will be given in Tibetan but there will be a translator.
The texts and teaching materials are translated to English.
Group practice (twice a month) will be chanted in Tibetan.
Individual practice can be chanted in Tibetan or in English.
|otherlanguage1=Portuguese
|otherlanguage1Prof=Native command
|otherlanguage2=English
|otherlanguage2Prof=Excellent command
|otherlanguage3=Spanish
|otherlanguage3Prof=Basic communication skills
|introbuddhism=I started my study of Mahayana Buddhism in 2014, participating in an informal group called "Grupo de Estudos Budistas Bodhisattva" with an instructor from Lama Padma Samten's sangha in Brazil. The study group focused on the Four Noble Truths, Twelve Links of Dependent Origination, Mind Training, Four Immeasurable Qualities, and Six Paramitas. In 2019, I started studying Buddhism more committedly with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche and his senior students through Siddhartha's Intent, and one year later, through Ngondro Gar.
|refugehistory=I took refuge formally with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 7, 2020 (online); with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 21, 2021 (online); and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 11, 2022 (in person).
|formalvows=Yes
|formalvowsdetails=I took lay precepts (refraining from killing, stealing, and sexual misconduct, plus refraining from getting heavily intoxicated) along with refuge and bodhisattva vows with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 7, 2020 (online), with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 21, 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 11, 2022 (in person).
|ngondrocomplete=Yes
|ngondro1=Longchen Nyingtik Ngöndro
|ngondro1begin=2020-05-20
|ngondro1end=2024-01-03
|ngondronotes=I've completed the Longchen Nyingtik ngöndro through Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche's program called Ngondro Gar; there, Rinpoche asks us to count hours instead of numbers. Yet, with the Vajra Guru mantra, I kept accumulating recitations beyond the time commitment until 1,200,000.
Since May 2025, I've been doing the Tara ngondro from Zabtik Drolma terma through the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, under the guidance of Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin. I'm still accumulating prostrations for refuge.
|previousretreatscomplete=Yes
|previousretreatsdetails=Longchen Nyingtik ngondro 1-month individual retreat in November 2023, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Dzogchen 1-month group retreats guided by Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in January 2024 and also in January 2025, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Sphere of Refined Gold 3-month group retreat guided by Lama Tenzin Sangpo from February to May 2025, at Gomde Pyrénées.
|ynadvstudiesprogs=Yes
|advstudiesprogsdetails=Tara’s Triple Excellence Program since November 2021, Bodhisattva Project (with Do Tulku Rinpoche, from Arya Tara's Net) from 2020 to 2024, and Mipham Project (with John Pettit, Arne Schelling, and Lama Sherab Drolma from Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling) in 2024.
|ynofferedservices=Yes
|offeredservicesdetails=I worked as a volunteer subtitle-maker for Do Tulku Rinpoche from 2021 to 2024 (for the Bodhisattva Project), and for Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche for a short while in 2023 (for one of his teachings on the website dharmasun.org). During the first week of February 2025, I worked at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling as a volunteer cleaner, concierge and kitchen helper.
From August to November 2025, I'll work as a volunteer at Gomde Pyrénées, mainly cleaning and giving support to people who will come for the seminar and for the two retreats that will follow it.
|othercommunitywork=I offered community work several times when I was a medical student in Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
|retreatduration=43
|StartFunding=2026-06-01
|EndFunding=2029-12-31
|costestimateCurrency=EUR
|costestimate=32,250
|requestedamountCurrency=EUR
|requestedamount=19,350
|othermoney=My current income is an apartment rental of approximately €200 per month. My personal savings will serve as proof of funds for the visa, and cover the costs of the visa, health insurance and other personal expenses (shrine items, airplane tickets, trips required for visa renewals, hygiene items etc). The account income, along with the apartment rental, will cover about 40% of the monthly costs of the retreat—that is why I'm asking for 60%. I am also applying for the Khyentse Foundation Individual Practice Grant. I do not have other sponsors.
|letterofmotivation=Since 2021, I've been guided by Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin in the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, based on the Zabtik Drolma terma from Chokling lineage. Their clarity, wisdom and loving way of teaching have left a deep impression on me. In 2024, I finally met Rinpoche in person at Gomde Pyrénées and regarded him as my root guru. Following his instructions, I attended the 3-month Sphere of Refined Gold retreat at Gomde Pyrénées this year, and was truly amazed by Lama Tenzin as retreat master. For me, trying to fulfill Rinpoche's aspiration that his students do the 3-year retreat is not a tough commitment but a willing and joyful offering. I don't have many opportunities to meet him, since I live in Brazil, and it is my deepest wish to be more exposed to my guru's presence, instructions, and corrections. This seems to be the only option for improving my practice for the sake of all beings; without exposing my faults to the outer guru and receiving his close orientation, I could easily come to the end of this life with mere aspirations and many regrets. Rinpoche will teach the retreatants approximately twice a year, and Lama Tenzin will guide us throughout the 43 months. So, it is a unique opportunity to deepen my practice and generate the twofold benefit with their support. When Rinpoche says that nothing would bring more benefit for oneself and others, I fully trust it and feel confident to follow his wish.
The main purpose of doing this is to let go of the delusion of and attachment to a self, and naturally open up to wisdom and compassion—that's the aspiration that I will carry throughout the retreat and beyond. I plan to apply the experience of the retreat to my work, family and any daily situations by becoming more carefree and selfless. As a physician who has been working mainly in the field of mental health, I aspire especially to be more aware of others' needs and feelings, as well as more skilful and wiser as I provide counselling and care to my patients, family, and friends. I believe that, if that aspiration is fulfilled at least to some extent, I may be able to benefit many beings, even those with whom I don't have a close relationship, by simply establishing a silent connection with them to the blessings of the lineage.
In terms of upholding the lineage, I'd like to accomplish anything Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche wishes me to, anything that would support the survival of these teachings and practices for future generations. Regarding the curriculum, I'm committed to doing 3 months of Vajrasattva with 111,000 accumulation, 1-2 months of Vajrakilaya, 14 months of Kunzang Tuktig ngöndro, 2 months of Trinley Nyingpo, 8 months of Kunzang Tuktig sadhana, 1 month of Sangwa Yeshe, 1 month of Korwa Dongtruk, and 1 year of Dzogchen practice including the special preliminaries.
I have organised my financial situation and simplified my life, and I am preparing my family emotionally—fortunately, none of my relatives depend on me for health care or financial support.
|FileHaveRetreatBudgCostUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Retreat_Costs.pdf
|CostLetterAuthorFirst=Mikk
|CostLetterAuthorLast=Tamme
|CostLetterEmail=mikk@gomde.fr
|CostLetterPhone=+3725531133
|FileHaveEligibilityDocsUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Eligibility_Requirements.pdf
|recom1NameFirst=Chagdud
|recom1NameLast=Khadro
|recom1Email=chagdudkhadro@gmail.com
|recom1Relate=Lama
|recom2NameFirst=Gustavo
|recom2NameLast=Santhiago
|recom2Email=guto.santhiago@hotmail.com
|recom2Relate=Friend
|FFUploadedFile-UploadName-FileHaveDharmaCV=Dharma résumé.pdf
|FFUploadedFile-UploadBase-FileHaveDharmaCV=dharma-resume
|FFUploadedFile-NewName-FileHaveDharmaCV=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Dharma_Resume.pdf
}}

20250521190517-Mariel-Torres-Submission

2025-07-18T18:11:38Z

Mariel.Torres: User:Mariel.Torres

{{SavedApplication
|status=Saved
|Submissiondate=2025-05-29
|Submissionyear=2025
|username=Mariel.Torres
|firstname=Mariel
|lastname=Hespanhol Torres
|birthdate=1993-10-17
|birthcountry=Brazil
|nationality=Brazil
|street=Rua Belizário Pena, 60
|street2=Centro
|city=Barbacena
|stateprov=Minas Gerais
|postalcode=36200012
|country=Brazil
|email=mariel.hespanhol@gmail.com
|telephone=+5531998099926
|retreattype=Three-year retreat
|center=Gomde Pyrénées
|centerstreet=Mas Can Pere Courreu
|centerstreet2=Route Departementale 13
|centercity=La Bastide
|centerstateprov=Pyrénées-Orientales
|centerpostalcode=66110
|centercountry=France
|startdate=2026-06-01
|enddate=2029-12-31
|retreatmaster=Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Drupön Lama Tenzin Sangpo
|retreatadministrator=Mikk Tamme
|retreatadministratoremail=mikk@gomde.fr
|retreatliaison=Mikk Tamme
|retreatliaisonemail=three_year_retreat@gomde.fr
|cvedu=Graduated in Medicine from Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Brazil, 2020
|cvwork=I worked as a general practitioner for:
- Primary Health Care in Ouro Preto and Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from March 1st 2020 to December 31st 2024;
- Hospital Monumento às Mães in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from April 3rd 2024 to June 30th 2024;
- Centro de Atenção Psicossocial (Mental Health Care Center) in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, from July 1st 2024 to December 31st 2024.
|studiedtibetan=Yes
|spokentibcomprehension=None
|writtentibcomprehension=Basic reading comprehension
|tibetanrequiredforretreat=Not required
|tibetanretreatparts=Instructions will be given in Tibetan but there will be a translator.
The texts and teaching materials are translated to English.
Group practice (twice a month) will be chanted in Tibetan.
Individual practice can be chanted in Tibetan or in English.
|otherlanguage1=Portuguese
|otherlanguage1Prof=Native command
|otherlanguage2=English
|otherlanguage2Prof=Excellent command
|otherlanguage3=Spanish
|otherlanguage3Prof=Basic communication skills
|introbuddhism=I started my study of Mahayana Buddhism in 2014, participating in an informal group called "Grupo de Estudos Budistas Bodhisattva" with an instructor from Lama Padma Samten's sangha in Brazil. The study group focused on the Four Noble Truths, Twelve Links of Dependent Origination, Mind Training, Four Immeasurable Qualities, and Six Paramitas. In 2019, I started studying Buddhism more committedly with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche and his senior students through Siddhartha's Intent, and one year later, through Ngondro Gar.
|refugehistory=I took refuge formally with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 7, 2020 (online); with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 21, 2021 (online); and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 11, 2022 (in person).
|formalvows=Yes
|formalvowsdetails=I took lay precepts (refraining from killing, stealing, and sexual misconduct, plus refraining from getting heavily intoxicated) along with refuge and bodhisattva vows with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 7, 2020 (online), with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 21, 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 11, 2022 (in person).
|ngondrocomplete=Yes
|ngondro1=Longchen Nyingtik Ngöndro
|ngondro1begin=2020-05-20
|ngondro1end=2024-01-03
|ngondronotes=I've completed the Longchen Nyingtik ngöndro through Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche's program called Ngondro Gar; there, Rinpoche asks us to count hours instead of numbers. Yet, with the Vajra Guru mantra, I kept accumulating recitations beyond the time commitment until 1,200,000.
Since May 2025, I've been doing the Tara ngondro from Zabtik Drolma terma through the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, under the guidance of Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin. I'm still accumulating prostrations for refuge.
|previousretreatscomplete=Yes
|previousretreatsdetails=Longchen Nyingtik ngondro 1-month individual retreat in November 2023, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Dzogchen 1-month group retreats guided by Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in January 2024 and also in January 2025, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Sphere of Refined Gold 3-month group retreat guided by Lama Tenzin Sangpo from February to May 2025, at Gomde Pyrénées.
|ynadvstudiesprogs=Yes
|advstudiesprogsdetails=Tara’s Triple Excellence Program since November 2021, Bodhisattva Project (with Do Tulku Rinpoche, from Arya Tara's Net) from 2020 to 2024, and Mipham Project (with John Pettit, Arne Schelling, and Lama Sherab Drolma from Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling) in 2024.
|ynofferedservices=Yes
|offeredservicesdetails=I worked as a volunteer subtitle-maker for Do Tulku Rinpoche from 2021 to 2024 (for the Bodhisattva Project), and for Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche for a short while in 2023 (for one of his teachings on the website dharmasun.org). During the first week of February 2025, I worked at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling as a volunteer cleaner, concierge and kitchen helper.
From August to November 2025, I'll work as a volunteer at Gomde Pyrénées, mainly cleaning and giving support to people who will come for the seminar and for the two retreats that will follow it.
|othercommunitywork=I offered community work several times when I was a medical student in Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
|retreatduration=43
|StartFunding=2026-06-01
|EndFunding=2029-12-31
|costestimateCurrency=EUR
|costestimate=32,250
|requestedamountCurrency=EUR
|requestedamount=19,350
|othermoney=My current income is an apartment rental of approximately €200 per month. My personal savings will serve as proof of funds for the visa, and cover the costs of the visa, health insurance and other personal expenses (shrine items, airplane tickets, trips required for visa renewals, hygiene items etc). The account income, along with the apartment rental, will cover about 40% of the monthly costs of the retreat—that is why I'm asking for 60%. I am also applying for the Khyentse Foundation Individual Practice Grant. I do not have other sponsors.
|letterofmotivation=Since 2021, I've been guided by Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin in the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, based on the Zabtik Drolma terma from Chokling lineage. Their clarity, wisdom and loving way of teaching have left a deep impression on me. In 2024, I finally met Rinpoche in person at Gomde Pyrénées and regarded him as my root guru. Following his instructions, I attended the 3-month Sphere of Refined Gold retreat at Gomde Pyrénées this year, and was truly amazed by Lama Tenzin as retreat master. For me, trying to fulfill Rinpoche's aspiration that his students do the 3-year retreat is not a tough commitment but a willing and joyful offering. I don't have many opportunities to meet him, since I live in Brazil, and it is my deepest wish to be more exposed to my guru's presence, instructions, and corrections. This seems to be the only option for improving my practice for the sake of all beings; without exposing my faults to the outer guru and receiving his close orientation, I could easily come to the end of this life with mere aspirations and many regrets. Rinpoche will teach the retreatants approximately twice a year, and Lama Tenzin will guide us throughout the 43 months. So, it is a unique opportunity to deepen my practice and generate the twofold benefit with their support. When Rinpoche says that nothing would bring more benefit for oneself and others, I fully trust it and feel confident to follow his wish.
The main purpose of doing this is to let go of the delusion of and attachment to a self, and naturally open up to wisdom and compassion—that's the aspiration that I will carry throughout the retreat and beyond. I plan to apply the experience of the retreat to my work, family and any daily situations by becoming more carefree and selfless. As a physician who has been working mainly in the field of mental health, I aspire especially to be more aware of others' needs and feelings, as well as more skilful and wiser as I provide counselling and care to my patients, family, and friends. I believe that, if that aspiration is fulfilled at least to some extent, I may be able to benefit many beings, even those with whom I don't have a close relationship, by simply establishing a silent connection with them to the blessings of the lineage.
In terms of upholding the lineage, I'd like to accomplish anything Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche wishes me to, anything that would support the survival of these teachings and practices for future generations. Regarding the curriculum, I'm committed to doing 3 months of Vajrasattva with 111,000 accumulation, 1-2 months of Vajrakilaya, 14 months of Kunzang Tuktig ngöndro, 2 months of Trinley Nyingpo, 8 months of Kunzang Tuktig sadhana, 1 month of Sangwa Yeshe, 1 month of Korwa Dongtruk, and 1 year of Dzogchen practice including the special preliminaries.
I have organised my financial situation and simplified my life, and I am preparing my family emotionally—fortunately, none of my relatives depend on me for health care or financial support.
|FileHaveRetreatBudgCostUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Retreat_Costs.pdf
|CostLetterAuthorFirst=Mikk
|CostLetterAuthorLast=Tamme
|CostLetterEmail=mikk@gomde.fr
|CostLetterPhone=+3725531133
|FileHaveEligibilityDocsUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Eligibility_Requirements.pdf
|recom1NameFirst=Chagdud Khadro
|recom1Email=chagdudkhadro@gmail.com
|recom1Relate=Lama
|recom2NameFirst=Gustavo
|recom2NameLast=Santhiago
|recom2Email=guto.santhiago@hotmail.com
|recom2Relate=Friend
}}

20250521190517-Mariel-Torres-Submission

2025-07-18T15:21:01Z

Mariel.Torres: User:Mariel.Torres

{{SavedApplication
|status=Saved
|Submissiondate=2025-05-29
|Submissionyear=2025
|username=Mariel.Torres
|firstname=Mariel
|lastname=Hespanhol Torres
|birthdate=1993-10-17
|birthcountry=Brazil
|nationality=Brazil
|street=Rua Belizário Pena, 60
|street2=Centro
|city=Barbacena
|stateprov=Minas Gerais
|postalcode=36200012
|country=Brazil
|email=mariel.hespanhol@gmail.com
|telephone=+5531998099926
|retreattype=Three-year retreat
|center=Gomde Pyrénées
|centerstreet=Mas Can Pere Courreu
|centerstreet2=Route Departementale 13
|centercity=La Bastide
|centerstateprov=Pyrénées-Orientales
|centerpostalcode=66110
|centercountry=France
|startdate=2026-06-01
|enddate=2029-12-31
|retreatmaster=Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Drupön Lama Tenzin Sangpo
|retreatadministrator=Mikk Tamme
|retreatadministratoremail=mikk@gomde.fr
|retreatliaison=Mikk Tamme
|retreatliaisonemail=three_year_retreat@gomde.fr
|cvedu=Graduated in Medicine from Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Brazil, 2020
|cvwork=I worked as a general practitioner for:
- Primary Health Care in Ouro Preto and Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from March 1st 2020 to December 31st 2024;
- Hospital Monumento às Mães in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from April 3rd 2024 to June 30th 2024;
- Centro de Atenção Psicossocial (Mental Health Care Center) in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, from July 1st 2024 to December 31st 2024.
|studiedtibetan=Yes
|spokentibcomprehension=None
|writtentibcomprehension=Basic reading comprehension
|tibetanrequiredforretreat=Not required
|tibetanretreatparts=Instructions will be given in Tibetan but there will be a translator.
The texts and teaching materials are translated to English.
Group practice (twice a month) will be chanted in Tibetan.
Individual practice can be chanted in Tibetan or in English.
|otherlanguage1=Portuguese
|otherlanguage1Prof=Native command
|otherlanguage2=English
|otherlanguage2Prof=Excellent command
|otherlanguage3=Spanish
|otherlanguage3Prof=Basic communication skills
|introbuddhism=I started studying Mahayana Buddhism in 2014 with an instructor from Lama Padma Samten's sangha in Brazil. It was an informal study group (Grupo de Estudos Budistas Bodhisattva) focused on the 4 Noble Truths, 12 links of dependent origination, mind training, 4 Immeasurable Qualities and 6 Paramitas. By then I hadn't taken refuge yet. In 2019, I started studying Buddhism in a more traditional setting and within a clear lineage at Siddhartha's Intent.
|refugehistory=I took refuge with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 2020 (online), with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 2022 (in person).
|formalvows=Yes
|formalvowsdetails=I took lay precepts (refraining from killing, stealing, and sexual misconduct, plus refraining from getting heavily intoxicated) along with refuge and bodhisattva vows with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 2020 (online), with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 2022 (in person).
|ngondrocomplete=Yes
|ngondro1=Longchen Nyingtik Ngondro
|ngondro1begin=2020-05-20
|ngondro1end=2024-01-03
|ngondronotes=I've completed the Longchen Nyingtik ngondro through Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche's online program called Ngondro Gar; there, Rinpoche asks us to count hours instead of number accumulation. Nevertheless, for the Vajra Guru mantra, after completing the hours I kept acummulating it also in number until 1,200,000.
Since May 2025, I've been doing the Tara ngondro from Zabtik Drolma terma through the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, under the guidance of Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin. I'm still accumulating prostrations for refuge.
|previousretreatscomplete=Yes
|previousretreatsdetails=Longchen Nyingtik ngondro 1-month individual retreat in November 2023, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Dzogchen 1-month group retreats guided by Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in January 2024 and also in January 2025, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Sphere of Refined Gold 3-month group retreat guided by Lama Tenzin Sangpo from February to May 2025, at Gomde Pyrénées.
|ynadvstudiesprogs=Yes
|advstudiesprogsdetails=Tara’s Triple Excellence Program since November 2021, Bodhisattva Project (with Do Tulku Rinpoche, from Arya Tara's Net) from 2020 to 2024, and Mipham Project (with John Pettit, Arne Schelling, and Lama Sherab Drolma from Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling) in 2024.
|ynofferedservices=Yes
|offeredservicesdetails=I worked as a volunteer subtitle-maker for Do Tulku Rinpoche from 2021 to 2024 (for the Bodhisattva Project), and for Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche for a short while in 2023 (for one of his teachings on the website dharmasun.org). During the first week of February 2025, I worked at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling as a volunteer cleaner, concierge and kitchen helper.
From August to November 2025, I'll work as a volunteer at Gomde Pyrénées, mainly cleaning and giving support to people who will come for the seminar and for the two retreats that will follow it.
|othercommunitywork=I offered community work several times when I was a medical student in Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
|retreatduration=43
|StartFunding=2026-06-01
|EndFunding=2029-12-31
|costestimateCurrency=EUR
|costestimate=32,250
|requestedamountCurrency=EUR
|requestedamount=19,350
|othermoney=My current income is an apartment rental of approximately €200 per month. My personal savings will serve as proof of funds for the visa, and cover the costs of the visa, health insurance and other personal expenses (shrine items, airplane tickets, trips required for visa renewals, hygiene items etc). The account income, along with the apartment rental, will cover about 40% of the monthly costs of the retreat—that is why I'm asking for 60%. I am also applying for the Khyentse Foundation Individual Practice Grant. I do not have other sponsors.
|letterofmotivation=Since 2021, I've been guided by Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin in the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, based on the Zabtik Drolma terma from Chokling lineage. Their clarity, wisdom and loving way of teaching have left a deep impression on me. In 2024, I finally met Rinpoche in person at Gomde Pyrénées and regarded him as my root guru. Following his instructions, I attended the 3-month Sphere of Refined Gold retreat at Gomde Pyrénées this year, and was truly amazed by Lama Tenzin as retreat master. For me, trying to fulfill Rinpoche's aspiration that his students do the 3-year retreat is not a tough commitment but a willing and joyful offering. I don't have many opportunities to meet him, since I live in Brazil, and it is my deepest wish to be more exposed to my guru's presence, instructions, and corrections. This seems to be the only option for improving my practice for the sake of all beings; without exposing my faults to the outer guru and receiving his close orientation, I could easily come to the end of this life with mere aspirations and many regrets. Rinpoche will teach the retreatants approximately twice a year, and Lama Tenzin will guide us throughout the 43 months. So, it is a unique opportunity to deepen my practice and generate the twofold benefit with their support. When Rinpoche says that nothing would bring more benefit for oneself and others, I fully trust it and feel confident to follow his wish.
The main purpose of doing this is to let go of the delusion of and attachment to a self, and naturally open up to wisdom and compassion—that's the aspiration that I will carry throughout the retreat and beyond. I plan to apply the experience of the retreat to my work, family and any daily situations by becoming more carefree and selfless. As a physician who has been working mainly in the field of mental health, I aspire especially to be more aware of others' needs and feelings, as well as more skilful and wiser as I provide counselling and care to my patients, family, and friends. I believe that, if that aspiration is fulfilled at least to some extent, I may be able to benefit many beings, even those with whom I don't have a close relationship, by simply establishing a silent connection with them to the blessings of the lineage.
In terms of upholding the lineage, I'd like to accomplish anything Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche wishes me to, anything that would support the survival of these teachings and practices for future generations. Regarding the curriculum, I'm committed to doing 3 months of Vajrasattva with 111,000 accumulation, 1-2 months of Vajrakilaya, 14 months of Kunzang Tuktig ngöndro, 2 months of Trinley Nyingpo, 8 months of Kunzang Tuktig sadhana, 1 month of Sangwa Yeshe, 1 month of Korwa Dongtruk, and 1 year of Dzogchen practice including the special preliminaries.
I have organised my financial situation and simplified my life, and I am preparing my family emotionally—fortunately, none of my relatives depend on me for health care or financial support.
|FileHaveRetreatBudgCostUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Retreat_Costs.pdf
|CostLetterAuthorFirst=Mikk
|CostLetterAuthorLast=Tamme
|CostLetterEmail=mikk@gomde.fr
|CostLetterPhone=+3725531133
|FileHaveEligibilityDocsUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Eligibility_Requirements.pdf
|recom1NameFirst=Chagdud Khadro
|recom1Email=chagdudkhadro@gmail.com
|recom1Relate=Lama
|recom2NameFirst=Gustavo
|recom2NameLast=Santhiago
|recom2Email=guto.santhiago@hotmail.com
|recom2Relate=Friend
}}

20250521190517-Mariel-Torres-Submission

2025-07-18T14:58:02Z

Mariel.Torres: User:Mariel.Torres

{{SavedApplication
|status=Saved
|Submissiondate=2025-05-29
|Submissionyear=2025
|username=Mariel.Torres
|firstname=Mariel
|lastname=Hespanhol Torres
|birthdate=1993-10-17
|birthcountry=Brazil
|nationality=Brazil
|street=Rua Belizário Pena, 60
|street2=Centro
|city=Barbacena
|stateprov=Minas Gerais
|postalcode=36200012
|country=Brazil
|email=mariel.hespanhol@gmail.com
|telephone=+5531998099926
|retreattype=Three-year retreat
|center=Gomde Pyrénées
|centerstreet=Mas Can Pere Courreu
|centerstreet2=Route Departementale 13
|centercity=La Bastide
|centerstateprov=Pyrénées-Orientales
|centerpostalcode=66110
|centercountry=France
|startdate=2026-06-01
|enddate=2029-12-31
|retreatmaster=Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Drupön Lama Tenzin Sangpo
|retreatadministrator=Mikk Tamme
|retreatadministratoremail=mikk@gomde.fr
|retreatliaison=Mikk Tamme
|retreatliaisonemail=three_year_retreat@gomde.fr
|cvedu=Graduated in Medicine from Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Brazil, 2020
|cvwork=I worked as a general practitioner for:
- Primary Health Care in Ouro Preto and Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from March 1st 2020 to December 31st 2024;
- Hospital Monumento às Mães in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from April 3rd 2024 to June 30th 2024;
- Centro de Atenção Psicossocial (Mental Health Care Center) in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, from July 1st 2024 to December 31st 2024.
|studiedtibetan=Yes
|spokentibcomprehension=None
|writtentibcomprehension=Basic reading comprehension
|tibetanrequiredforretreat=Not required
|tibetanretreatparts=Instructions will be given in Tibetan but there will be a translator.
The texts and teaching materials are translated to English.
Group practice (twice a month) will be chanted in Tibetan.
Individual practice can be chanted in Tibetan or in English.
|otherlanguage1=Portuguese
|otherlanguage1Prof=Native command
|otherlanguage2=English
|otherlanguage2Prof=Excellent command
|otherlanguage3=Spanish
|otherlanguage3Prof=Basic communication skills
|introbuddhism=I started studying Mahayana Buddhism in 2014 with an instructor from Lama Padma Samten's sangha in Brazil. It was an informal study group (Grupo de Estudos Budistas Bodhisattva) focused on the 4 Noble Truths, 12 links of dependent origination, mind training, 4 Immeasurable Qualities and 6 Paramitas. By then I hadn't taken refuge yet. In 2019, I started studying Buddhism in a more traditional setting and within a clear lineage at Siddhartha's Intent.
|refugehistory=I took refuge with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 2020 (online), with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 2022 (in person).
|formalvows=Yes
|formalvowsdetails=I took lay precepts (refraining from killing, stealing, and sexual misconduct, plus refraining from getting heavily intoxicated) along with refuge and bodhisattva vows with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 2020 (online), with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 2022 (in person).
|ngondrocomplete=Yes
|ngondro1=Longchen Nyingtik Ngondro
|ngondro1begin=2020-05-20
|ngondro1end=2024-01-03
|ngondronotes=I've completed the Longchen Nyingtik ngondro through Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche's online program called Ngondro Gar; there, Rinpoche asks us to count hours instead of number accumulation. Nevertheless, for the Vajra Guru mantra, after completing the hours I kept acummulating it also in number until 1,200,000.
Since May 2025, I've been doing the Tara ngondro from Zabtik Drolma terma through the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, under the guidance of Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin. I'm still accumulating prostrations for refuge.
|previousretreatscomplete=Yes
|previousretreatsdetails=Longchen Nyingtik ngondro 1-month individual retreat in November 2023, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Dzogchen 1-month group retreats guided by Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in January 2024 and also in January 2025, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Sphere of Refined Gold 3-month group retreat guided by Lama Tenzin Sangpo from February to May 2025, at Gomde Pyrénées.
|ynadvstudiesprogs=Yes
|advstudiesprogsdetails=Tara’s Triple Excellence Program since November 2021, Bodhisattva Project (with Do Tulku Rinpoche, from Arya Tara's Net) from 2020 to 2024, and Mipham Project (with John Pettit, Arne Schelling, and Lama Sherab Drolma from Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling) in 2024.
|ynofferedservices=Yes
|offeredservicesdetails=I worked as a volunteer subtitle-maker for Do Tulku Rinpoche from 2021 to 2024 (for the Bodhisattva Project), and for Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche for a short while in 2023 (for one of his teachings on the website dharmasun.org). During the first week of February 2025, I worked at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling as a volunteer cleaner, concierge and kitchen helper.
From August to November 2025, I'll work as a volunteer at Gomde Pyrénées, mainly cleaning and giving support to people who will come for the seminar and for the two retreats that will follow it.
|othercommunitywork=I offered community work several times when I was a medical student in Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
|retreatduration=43
|StartFunding=2026-06-01
|EndFunding=2029-12-31
|costestimateCurrency=EUR
|costestimate=32,250
|requestedamountCurrency=EUR
|requestedamount=19,350
|othermoney=My current income is an apartment rental of approximately €200 per month. My personal savings will serve as proof of funds for the visa, and cover the costs of the visa, health insurance and other personal expenses (shrine items, airplane tickets, trips required for visa renewals, hygiene items etc). The account income, along with the apartment rental, will cover about 40% of the monthly costs of the retreat—that is why I'm asking for 60%. I am also applying for the Khyentse Foundation Individual Practice Grant. I do not have other sponsors.
|letterofmotivation=Since 2021, I've been guided by Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin in the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, based on the Zabtik Drolma terma from Chokling lineage. Their clarity, wisdom and loving way of teaching have left a deep impression on me. In 2024, I finally met Rinpoche in person at Gomde Pyrénées and regard him as my root guru. Following his instructions, I attended the 3-month Sphere of Refined Gold retreat at Gomde Pyrénées this year, and was truly amazed by Lama Tenzin as retreat master. For me, trying to fulfill Rinpoche's aspiration that his students do the 3-year retreat is not a tough commitment but a willing and joyful offering. I don't have many opportunities to meet him, since I live in Brazil, and it is my deepest wish to be more exposed to my guru's presence, instructions, and corrections. This seems to be the only option for improving my practice for the sake of all beings; without exposing my faults to the outer guru and receiving his close orientation, I could easily come to the end of this life with mere aspirations and many regrets. Rinpoche will teach the retreatants approximately twice a year, and Lama Tenzin will guide us throughout the 43 months. So, it is a unique opportunity to deepen my practice and generate the twofold benefit with their support. When Rinpoche says that nothing would bring more benefit for oneself and others, I fully trust it and feel confident to follow his wish.
The main purpose of doing this is to let go of the delusion of and attachment to a self, and naturally open up to wisdom and compassion—that's the aspiration that I will carry throughout the retreat and beyond. I plan to apply the experience of the retreat to my work, family and any daily situations by becoming more carefree and selfless. As a physician who has been working mainly in the field of mental health, I aspire especially to be more aware of others' needs and feelings, as well as more skilful and wiser as I provide counselling and care to my patients, family, and friends. I believe that, if that aspiration is fulfilled at least to some extent, I may be able to benefit many beings, even those with whom I don't have a close relationship, by simply establishing a silent connection with them to the blessings of the lineage.
In terms of upholding the lineage, I'd like to accomplish anything Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche wishes me to, anything that would support the survival of these teachings and practices for future generations. Regarding the curriculum, I'm committed to doing 3 months of Vajrasattva with 111,000 accumulation, 1-2 months of Vajrakilaya, 14 months of Kunzang Tuktig ngöndro, 2 months of Trinley Nyingpo, 8 months of Kunzang Tuktig sadhana, 1 month of Sangwa Yeshe, 1 month of Korwa Dongtruk, and 1 year of Dzogchen practice including the special preliminaries.
I have organised my financial situation and simplified my life, and I am preparing my family emotionally—fortunately, none of my relatives depend on me for health care or financial support.
|FileHaveRetreatBudgCostUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Retreat_Costs.pdf
|CostLetterAuthorFirst=Mikk
|CostLetterAuthorLast=Tamme
|CostLetterEmail=mikk@gomde.fr
|CostLetterPhone=+3725531133
|FileHaveEligibilityDocsUpld=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Eligibility_Requirements.pdf
|recom1NameFirst=Chagdud Khadro
|recom1Email=chagdudkhadro@gmail.com
|recom1Relate=Lama
|recom2NameFirst=Gustavo
|recom2NameLast=Santhiago
|recom2Email=guto.santhiago@hotmail.com
|recom2Relate=Friend
}}

20250521190517-Mariel-Torres-Submission

2025-07-18T00:18:22Z

Mariel.Torres: User:Mariel.Torres

{{SavedApplication
|status=Saved
|Submissiondate=2025-05-29
|Submissionyear=2025
|username=Mariel.Torres
|firstname=Mariel
|lastname=Hespanhol Torres
|birthdate=1993-10-17
|birthcountry=Brazil
|nationality=Brazil
|street=Rua Belizário Pena, 60
|street2=Centro
|city=Barbacena
|stateprov=Minas Gerais
|postalcode=36200012
|country=Brazil
|email=mariel.hespanhol@gmail.com
|telephone=+5531998099926
|retreattype=Three-year retreat
|center=Gomde Pyrénées
|centerstreet=Mas Can Pere Courreu
|centerstreet2=Route Departementale 13
|centercity=La Bastide
|centerstateprov=Pyrénées-Orientales
|centerpostalcode=66110
|centercountry=France
|startdate=2026-06-01
|enddate=2029-12-31
|retreatmaster=Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Drupön Lama Tenzin Sangpo
|retreatadministrator=Mikk Tamme
|retreatadministratoremail=mikk@gomde.fr
|retreatliaison=Mikk Tamme
|retreatliaisonemail=three_year_retreat@gomde.fr
|cvedu=Graduated in Medicine from Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Brazil, 2020
|cvwork=I worked as a general practitioner for:
- Primary Health Care in Ouro Preto and Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from March 1st 2020 to December 31st 2024;
- Hospital Monumento às Mães in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from April 3rd 2024 to June 30th 2024;
- Centro de Atenção Psicossocial (Mental Health Care Center) in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, from July 1st 2024 to December 31st 2024.
|studiedtibetan=Yes
|spokentibcomprehension=None
|writtentibcomprehension=Basic reading comprehension
|tibetanrequiredforretreat=Not required
|tibetanretreatparts=Instructions will be given in Tibetan but there will be a translator.
The texts and teaching materials are translated to English.
Group practice (twice a month) will be chanted in Tibetan.
Individual practice can be chanted in Tibetan or in English.
|otherlanguage1=Portuguese
|otherlanguage1Prof=Native command
|otherlanguage2=English
|otherlanguage2Prof=Excellent command
|otherlanguage3=Spanish
|otherlanguage3Prof=Basic communication skills
|introbuddhism=I started studying Mahayana Buddhism in 2014 with an instructor from Lama Padma Samten's sangha in Brazil. It was an informal study group (Grupo de Estudos Budistas Bodhisattva) focused on the 4 Noble Truths, 12 links of dependent origination, mind training, 4 Immeasurable Qualities and 6 Paramitas. By then I hadn't taken refuge yet. In 2019, I started studying Buddhism in a more traditional setting and within a clear lineage at Siddhartha's Intent.
|refugehistory=I took refuge with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 2020 (online), with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 2022 (in person).
|formalvows=Yes
|formalvowsdetails=I took lay precepts (refraining from killing, stealing, and sexual misconduct, plus refraining from getting heavily intoxicated) along with refuge and bodhisattva vows with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 2020 (online), with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 2022 (in person).
|ngondrocomplete=Yes
|ngondro1=Longchen Nyingtik Ngondro
|ngondro1begin=2020-05-20
|ngondro1end=2024-01-03
|ngondronotes=I've completed the Longchen Nyingtik ngondro through Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche's online program called Ngondro Gar; there, Rinpoche asks us to count hours instead of number accumulation. Nevertheless, for the Vajra Guru mantra, after completing the hours I kept acummulating it also in number until 1,200,000.
Since May 2025, I've been doing the Tara ngondro from Zabtik Drolma terma through the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, under the guidance of Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin. I'm still accumulating prostrations for refuge.
|previousretreatscomplete=Yes
|previousretreatsdetails=Longchen Nyingtik ngondro 1-month individual retreat in November 2023, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Dzogchen 1-month group retreats guided by Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in January 2024 and also in January 2025, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Sphere of Refined Gold 3-month group retreat guided by Lama Tenzin Sangpo from February to May 2025, at Gomde Pyrénées.
|ynadvstudiesprogs=Yes
|advstudiesprogsdetails=Tara’s Triple Excellence Program since November 2021, Bodhisattva Project I (with Do Tulku Rinpoche, from Arya Tara's Net) from 2021 to 2024, and Mipham Project (with John Petit, Arne Schelling, and Lama Sherab Drolma from Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling) in 2024.
|ynofferedservices=Yes
|offeredservicesdetails=I worked as a volunteer subtitle-maker for Do Tulku Rinpoche from 2021 to 2024 (for the Bodhisattva Project), and for Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche for a short while in 2023 (for one of his teachings on the website dharmasun.org). During the first week of February 2025, I worked at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling as a volunteer cleaner, concierge and kitchen helper.
From August to November 2025, I'll work as a volunteer at Gomde Pyrénées, mainly cleaning and giving support to people who will come for the seminar and for the two retreats that will follow it.
|othercommunitywork=I've offered community work several times when I was a medical student in Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
|retreatduration=43
|StartFunding=2026-06-01
|EndFunding=2029-12-31
|costestimateCurrency=EUR
|costestimate=32,250
|requestedamountCurrency=EUR
|requestedamount=19,350
|othermoney=My current income is an apartment rental of approximately €200 per month. My personal savings will serve as proof of funds for the visa, and cover the costs of the visa, health insurance and other personal expenses (shrine items, airplane tickets, trips required for visa renewals, hygiene items etc). The account income, along with the apartment rental, will cover about 40% of the monthly costs of the retreat—that is why I'm asking for 60%. I am also applying for the Khyentse Foundation Individual Practice Grant. I do not have other sponsors.
|letterofmotivation=Since 2021, I've been guided by Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin in the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, based on the Zabtik Drolma terma from Chokling lineage. Their clarity, wisdom and loving way of teaching have left a deep impression on me. In 2024, I finally met Rinpoche in person at Gomde Pyrénées and regard him as my root guru. Following his instructions, I attended the 3-month Sphere of Refined Gold retreat at Gomde Pyrénées this year, and was truly amazed by Lama Tenzin as retreat master. For me, trying to fulfill Rinpoche's aspiration that his students do the 3-year retreat is not a tough commitment but a willing and joyful offering. I don't have many opportunities to meet him, since I live in Brazil, and it is my deepest wish to be more exposed to my guru's presence, instructions, and corrections. This seems to be the only option for improving my practice for the sake of all beings; without exposing my faults to the outer guru and receiving his close orientation, I could easily come to the end of this life with mere aspirations and many regrets. Rinpoche will teach the retreatants approximately twice a year, and Lama Tenzin will guide us throughout the 43 months. So, it is a unique opportunity to deepen my practice and generate the twofold benefit with their support. When Rinpoche says that nothing would bring more benefit for oneself and others, I fully trust it and feel confident to follow his wish.
The main purpose of doing this is to let go of the delusion of and attachment to a self, and naturally open up to wisdom and compassion—that's the aspiration that I will carry throughout the retreat and beyond. I plan to apply the experience of the retreat to my work, family and any daily situations by becoming more carefree and selfless. As a physician who has been working mainly in the field of mental health, I aspire especially to be more aware of others' needs and feelings, as well as more skilful and wiser as I provide counselling and care to my patients, family, and friends. I believe that, if that aspiration is fulfilled at least to some extent, I may be able to benefit many beings, even those with whom I don't have a close relationship, by simply establishing a silent connection with them to the blessings of the lineage.
In terms of upholding the lineage, I'd like to accomplish anything Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche wishes me to, anything that would support the survival of these teachings and practices for future generations. Regarding the curriculum, I'm committed to doing 3 months of Vajrasattva with 111,000 accumulation, 1-2 months of Vajrakilaya, 14 months of Kunzang Tuktig ngöndro, 2 months of Trinley Nyingpo, 8 months of Kunzang Tuktig sadhana, 1 month of Sangwa Yeshe, 1 month of Korwa Dongtruk, and 1 year of Dzogchen practice including the special preliminaries.
I have organised my financial situation and simplified my life, and I am preparing my family emotionally—fortunately, none of my relatives depend on me for health care or financial support.
|CostLetterAuthorFirst=Mikk
|CostLetterAuthorLast=Tamme
|CostLetterEmail=mikk@gomde.fr
|CostLetterPhone=+3725531133
|recom1NameFirst=Chagdud Khadro
|recom1Email=chagdudkhadro@gmail.com
|recom1Relate=Lama
|recom2NameFirst=Gustavo
|recom2NameLast=Santhiago
|recom2Email=guto.santhiago@hotmail.com
|recom2Relate=Friend
|FFUploadedFile-UploadName-FileHaveRetreatBudgCost=Letter on Retreat Costs.pdf
|FFUploadedFile-UploadBase-FileHaveRetreatBudgCost=letter-on-retreat-costs
|FFUploadedFile-NewName-FileHaveRetreatBudgCost=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Retreat_Costs.pdf
|FFUploadedFile-UploadName-FileHaveEligibilityDocs=Outline of qualifications.pdf
|FFUploadedFile-UploadBase-FileHaveEligibilityDocs=outline-of-qualifications
|FFUploadedFile-NewName-FileHaveEligibilityDocs=2025-07-18_Mariel_Hespanhol Torres_-_Eligibility_Requirements.pdf
}}

20250521190517-Mariel-Torres-Submission

2025-07-18T00:16:44Z

Mariel.Torres: User:Mariel.Torres

{{SavedApplication
|status=Saved
|Submissiondate=2025-05-29
|Submissionyear=2025
|username=Mariel.Torres
|firstname=Mariel
|lastname=Hespanhol Torres
|birthdate=1993-10-17
|birthcountry=Brazil
|nationality=Brazil
|street=Rua Belizário Pena, 60
|street2=Centro
|city=Barbacena
|stateprov=Minas Gerais
|postalcode=36200012
|country=Brazil
|email=mariel.hespanhol@gmail.com
|telephone=+5531998099926
|retreattype=Three-year retreat
|center=Gomde Pyrénées
|centerstreet=Mas Can Pere Courreu
|centerstreet2=Route Departementale 13
|centercity=La Bastide
|centerstateprov=Pyrénées-Orientales
|centerpostalcode=66110
|centercountry=France
|startdate=2026-06-01
|enddate=2029-12-31
|retreatmaster=Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Drupön Lama Tenzin Sangpo
|retreatadministrator=Mikk Tamme
|retreatadministratoremail=mikk@gomde.fr
|retreatliaison=Mikk Tamme
|retreatliaisonemail=three_year_retreat@gomde.fr
|cvedu=Graduated in Medicine from Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Brazil, 2020
|cvwork=I worked as a general practitioner for:
- Primary Health Care in Ouro Preto and Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from March 1st 2020 to December 31st 2024;
- Hospital Monumento às Mães in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from April 3rd 2024 to June 30th 2024;
- Centro de Atenção Psicossocial (Mental Health Care Center) in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, from July 1st 2024 to December 31st 2024.
|studiedtibetan=Yes
|spokentibcomprehension=None
|writtentibcomprehension=Basic reading comprehension
|tibetanrequiredforretreat=Not required
|tibetanretreatparts=Instructions will be given in Tibetan but there will be a translator.
The texts and teaching materials are translated to English.
Group practice (twice a month) will be chanted in Tibetan.
Individual practice can be chanted in Tibetan or in English.
|otherlanguage1=Portuguese
|otherlanguage1Prof=Native command
|otherlanguage2=English
|otherlanguage2Prof=Excellent command
|otherlanguage3=Spanish
|otherlanguage3Prof=Basic communication skills
|introbuddhism=I started studying Mahayana Buddhism in 2014 with an instructor from Lama Padma Samten's sangha in Brazil. It was an informal study group (Grupo de Estudos Budistas Bodhisattva) focused on the 4 Noble Truths, 12 links of dependent origination, mind training, 4 Immeasurable Qualities and 6 Paramitas. By then I hadn't taken refuge yet. In 2019, I started studying Buddhism in a more traditional setting and within a clear lineage at Siddhartha's Intent.
|refugehistory=I took refuge with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 2020 (online), with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 2022 (in person).
|formalvows=Yes
|formalvowsdetails=I took lay precepts (refraining from killing, stealing, and sexual misconduct, plus refraining from getting heavily intoxicated) along with refuge and bodhisattva vows with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 2020 (online), with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 2022 (in person).
|ngondrocomplete=Yes
|ngondro1=Longchen Nyingtik Ngondro
|ngondro1begin=2020-05-20
|ngondro1end=2024-01-03
|ngondronotes=I've completed the Longchen Nyingtik ngondro through Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche's online program called Ngondro Gar; there, Rinpoche asks us to count hours instead of number accumulation. Nevertheless, for the Vajra Guru mantra, after completing the hours I kept acummulating it also in number until 1,200,000.
Since May 2025, I've been doing the Tara ngondro from Zabtik Drolma terma through the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, under the guidance of Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin. I'm still accumulating prostrations for refuge.
|previousretreatscomplete=Yes
|previousretreatsdetails=Longchen Nyingtik ngondro 1-month individual retreat in November 2023, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Dzogchen 1-month group retreats guided by Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in January 2024 and also in January 2025, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Sphere of Refined Gold 3-month group retreat guided by Lama Tenzin Sangpo from February to May 2025, at Gomde Pyrénées.
|ynadvstudiesprogs=Yes
|advstudiesprogsdetails=Tara’s Triple Excellence Program since November 2021, Bodhisattva Project I (with Do Tulku Rinpoche, from Arya Tara's Net) from 2021 to 2024, and Mipham Project (with John Petit, Arne Schelling, and Lama Sherab Drolma from Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling) in 2024.
|ynofferedservices=Yes
|offeredservicesdetails=I worked as a volunteer subtitle-maker for Do Tulku Rinpoche from 2021 to 2024 (for the Bodhisattva Project), and for Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche for a short while in 2023 (for one of his teachings on the website dharmasun.org). During the first week of February 2025, I worked at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling as a volunteer cleaner, concierge and kitchen helper.
From August to November 2025, I'll work as a volunteer at Gomde Pyrénées, mainly cleaning and giving support to people who will come for the seminar and for the two retreats that will follow it.
|othercommunitywork=I've offered community work several times when I was a medical student in Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
|retreatduration=43
|StartFunding=2026-06-01
|EndFunding=2029-12-31
|costestimateCurrency=EUR
|costestimate=32,250
|requestedamountCurrency=EUR
|requestedamount=19,350
|othermoney=My current income is an apartment rental of approximately €200 per month. My personal savings will serve as proof of funds for the visa, and cover the costs of the visa, health insurance and other personal expenses (shrine items, airplane tickets, trips required for visa renewals, hygiene items etc). The account income, along with the apartment rental, will cover about 40% of the monthly costs of the retreat—that is why I'm asking for 60%. I am also applying for the Khyentse Foundation Individual Practice Grant. I do not have other sponsors.
|letterofmotivation=Since 2021, I've been guided by Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin in the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, based on the Zabtik Drolma terma from Chokling lineage. Their clarity, wisdom and loving way of teaching have left a deep impression on me. In 2024, I finally met Rinpoche in person at Gomde Pyrénées and regard him as my root guru. Following his instructions, I attended the 3-month Sphere of Refined Gold retreat at Gomde Pyrénées this year, and was truly amazed by Lama Tenzin as retreat master. For me, trying to fulfill Rinpoche's aspiration that his students do the 3-year retreat is not a tough commitment but a willing and joyful offering. I don't have many opportunities to meet him, since I live in Brazil, and it is my deepest wish to be more exposed to my guru's presence, instructions, and corrections. This seems to be the only option for improving my practice for the sake of all beings; without exposing my faults to the outer guru and receiving his close orientation, I could easily come to the end of this life with mere aspirations and many regrets. Rinpoche will teach the retreatants approximately twice a year, and Lama Tenzin will guide us throughout the 43 months. So, it is a unique opportunity to deepen my practice and generate the twofold benefit with their support. When Rinpoche says that nothing would bring more benefit for oneself and others, I fully trust it and feel confident to follow his wish.
The main purpose of doing this is to let go of the delusion of and attachment to a self, and naturally open up to wisdom and compassion—that's the aspiration that I will carry throughout the retreat and beyond. I plan to apply the experience of the retreat to my work, family and any daily situations by becoming more carefree and selfless. As a physician who has been working mainly in the field of mental health, I aspire especially to be more aware of others' needs and feelings, as well as more skilful and wiser as I provide counselling and care to my patients, family, and friends. I believe that, if that aspiration is fulfilled at least to some extent, I may be able to benefit many beings, even those with whom I don't have a close relationship, by simply establishing a silent connection with them to the blessings of the lineage.
In terms of upholding the lineage, I'd like to accomplish anything Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche wishes me to, anything that would support the survival of these teachings and practices for future generations. Regarding the curriculum, I'm committed to doing 3 months of Vajrasattva with 111,000 accumulation, 1-2 months of Vajrakilaya, 14 months of Kunzang Tuktig ngöndro, 2 months of Trinley Nyingpo, 8 months of Kunzang Tuktig sadhana, 1 month of Sangwa Yeshe, 1 month of Korwa Dongtruk, and 1 year of Dzogchen practice including the special preliminaries.
I have organised my financial situation and simplified my life, and I am preparing my family emotionally—fortunately, none of my relatives depend on me for health care or financial support.
|recom1NameFirst=Chagdud Khadro
|recom1Email=chagdudkhadro@gmail.com
|recom1Relate=Lama
|recom2NameFirst=Gustavo
|recom2NameLast=Santhiago
|recom2Email=guto.santhiago@hotmail.com
|recom2Relate=Friend
}}

20250521190517-Mariel-Torres-Submission

2025-07-15T14:09:42Z

Mariel.Torres: User:Mariel.Torres

{{SavedApplication
|status=Saved
|Submissiondate=2025-05-29
|Submissionyear=2025
|username=Mariel.Torres
|firstname=Mariel
|lastname=Hespanhol Torres
|birthdate=1993-10-17
|birthcountry=Brazil
|nationality=Brazil
|street=Rua Belizário Pena, 60
|street2=Centro
|city=Barbacena
|stateprov=Minas Gerais
|postalcode=36200012
|country=Brazil
|email=mariel.hespanhol@gmail.com
|telephone=+5531998099926
|retreattype=Three-year retreat
|center=Gomde Pyrénées
|centerstreet=Mas Can Pere Courreu
|centerstreet2=Route Departementale 13
|centercity=La Bastide
|centerstateprov=Pyrénées-Orientales
|centerpostalcode=66110
|centercountry=France
|startdate=2026-06-01
|enddate=2029-12-31
|retreatmaster=Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Drupön Lama Tenzin Sangpo
|retreatadministrator=Mikk Tamme
|retreatadministratoremail=mikk@gomde.fr
|retreatliaison=Mikk Tamme
|retreatliaisonemail=three_year_retreat@gomde.fr
|cvedu=Graduated in Medicine from Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Brazil, 2020
|cvwork=I worked as a general practitioner for:
- Primary Health Care in Ouro Preto and Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from March 1st 2020 to December 31st 2024;
- Hospital Monumento às Mães in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from April 3rd 2024 to June 30th 2024;
- Centro de Atenção Psicossocial (Mental Health Care Center) in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, from July 1st 2024 to December 31st 2024.
|studiedtibetan=Yes
|spokentibcomprehension=None
|writtentibcomprehension=Basic reading comprehension
|tibetanrequiredforretreat=Not required
|tibetanretreatparts=Instructions will be given in Tibetan but there will be a translator.
The texts and teaching materials are translated to English.
Group practice (twice a month) will be chanted in Tibetan.
Individual practice can be chanted in Tibetan or in English.
|otherlanguage1=Portuguese
|otherlanguage1Prof=Native command
|otherlanguage2=English
|otherlanguage2Prof=Excellent command
|otherlanguage3=Spanish
|otherlanguage3Prof=Basic communication skills
|introbuddhism=I started studying Mahayana Buddhism in 2014 with an instructor from Lama Padma Samten's sangha in Brazil. It was an informal study group (Grupo de Estudos Budistas Bodhisattva) focused on the 4 Noble Truths, 12 links of dependent origination, mind training, 4 Immeasurable Qualities and 6 Paramitas. By then I hadn't taken refuge yet. In 2019, I started studying Buddhism in a more traditional setting and within a clear lineage at Siddhartha's Intent.
|refugehistory=I took refuge with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 2020 (online), with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 2022 (in person).
|formalvows=Yes
|formalvowsdetails=I took lay precepts (refraining from killing, stealing, and sexual misconduct, plus refraining from getting heavily intoxicated) along with refuge and bodhisattva vows with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 2020 (online), with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 2022 (in person).
|ngondrocomplete=Yes
|ngondro1=Longchen Nyingtik Ngondro
|ngondro1begin=2020-05-20
|ngondro1end=2024-01-03
|ngondronotes=I've completed the Longchen Nyingtik ngondro through Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche's online program called Ngondro Gar; there, Rinpoche asks us to count hours instead of number accumulation. Nevertheless, for the Vajra Guru mantra, after completing the hours I kept acummulating it also in number until 1,200,000.
Since May 2025, I've been doing the Tara ngondro from Zabtik Drolma terma through the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, under the guidance of Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin. I'm still accumulating prostrations for refuge.
|previousretreatscomplete=Yes
|previousretreatsdetails=Longchen Nyingtik ngondro 1-month individual retreat in November 2023, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Dzogchen 1-month group retreats guided by Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in January 2024 and also in January 2025, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Sphere of Refined Gold 3-month group retreat guided by Lama Tenzin Sangpo from February to May 2025, at Gomde Pyrénées.
|ynadvstudiesprogs=Yes
|advstudiesprogsdetails=Tara’s Triple Excellence Program since November 2021, Bodhisattva Project I (with Do Tulku Rinpoche, from Arya Tara's Net) from 2021 to 2024, and Mipham Project (with John Petit, Arne Schelling, and Lama Sherab Drolma from Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling) in 2024.
|ynofferedservices=Yes
|offeredservicesdetails=I worked as a volunteer subtitle-maker for Do Tulku Rinpoche from 2021 to 2024 (for the Bodhisattva Project), and for Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche for a short while in 2023 (for one of his teachings on the website dharmasun.org). During the first week of February 2025, I worked at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling as a volunteer cleaner, concierge and kitchen helper.
From August to November 2025, I'll work as a volunteer at Gomde Pyrénées, mainly cleaning and giving support to people who will come for the seminar and for the two retreats that will follow it.
|othercommunitywork=I've offered community work several times when I was a medical student in Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
|retreatduration=43
|StartFunding=2026-06-01
|EndFunding=2029-12-31
|costestimateCurrency=EUR
|costestimate=32,250
|requestedamountCurrency=EUR
|requestedamount=19,350
|othermoney=My current income is an apartment rental of approximately €200 per month. My personal savings will serve as proof of funds for the visa, and cover the costs of the visa, health insurance and other personal expenses. The account income in addition to the apartment rental will match about 40% of the monthly costs of the retreat—that is why I'm asking for 60%. I am also applying for the Khyentse Foundation Individual Practice Grant. I do not have other sponsors.
|letterofmotivation=Since 2021, I've been guided by Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin in the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, based on the Zabtik Drolma terma from Chokling lineage. Their clarity, wisdom and loving way of teaching have left a deep impression on me. In 2024, I finally met Rinpoche in person at Gomde Pyrénées and regard him as my root guru. Following his instructions, I attended the 3-month Sphere of Refined Gold retreat at Gomde Pyrénées this year, and was truly amazed by Lama Tenzin as retreat master. For me, trying to fulfill Rinpoche's aspiration that his students do the 3-year retreat is not a tough commitment but a willing and joyful offering. I don't have many opportunities to meet him, since I live in Brazil, and it is my deepest wish to be more exposed to my guru's presence, instructions, and corrections. This seems to be the only option for improving my practice for the sake of all beings; without exposing my faults to the outer guru and receiving his close orientation, I could easily come to the end of this life with mere aspirations and many regrets. Rinpoche will teach the retreatants approximately twice a year, and Lama Tenzin will guide us throughout the 43 months. So, it is a unique opportunity to deepen my practice and generate the twofold benefit with their support. When Rinpoche says that nothing would bring more benefit for oneself and others, I fully trust it and feel confident to follow his wish.
The main purpose of doing this is to let go of the delusion of and attachment to a self, and naturally open up to wisdom and compassion—that's the aspiration that I will carry throughout the retreat and beyond. I plan to apply the experience of the retreat to my work, family and any daily situations by becoming more carefree and selfless. As a physician who has been working mainly in the field of mental health, I aspire especially to be more aware of others' needs and feelings, as well as more skilful and wiser as I provide counselling and care to my patients, family, and friends. I believe that, if that aspiration is fulfilled at least to some extent, I may be able to benefit many beings, even those with whom I don't have a close relationship, by simply establishing a silent connection with them to the blessings of the lineage.
In terms of upholding the lineage, I'd like to accomplish anything Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche wishes me to, anything that would support the survival of these teachings and practices for future generations. Regarding the curriculum, I'm committed to doing 3 months of Vajrasattva with 111,000 accumulation, 1-2 months of Vajrakilaya, 14 months of Kunzang Tuktig ngöndro, 2 months of Trinley Nyingpo, 8 months of Kunzang Tuktig sadhana, 1 month of Sangwa Yeshe, 1 month of Korwa Dongtruk, and 1 year of Dzogchen practice including the special preliminaries.
I have organised my financial situation and simplified my life, and I am preparing my family emotionally—fortunately, none of my relatives depend on me for health care or financial support.
|recom1NameFirst=Chagdud Khadro
|recom1Email=chagdudkhadro@gmail.com
|recom1Relate=Lama
|recom2NameFirst=Gustavo
|recom2NameLast=Santhiago
|recom2Email=guto.santhiago@hotmail.com
|recom2Relate=Friend
}}

20250521190517-Mariel-Torres-Submission

2025-07-14T23:48:41Z

Mariel.Torres: User:Mariel.Torres

{{SavedApplication
|status=Saved
|Submissiondate=2025-05-29
|Submissionyear=2025
|username=Mariel.Torres
|firstname=Mariel
|lastname=Hespanhol Torres
|birthdate=1993-10-17
|birthcountry=Brazil
|nationality=Brazil
|street=Rua Belizário Pena, 60
|street2=Centro
|city=Barbacena
|stateprov=Minas Gerais
|postalcode=36200012
|country=Brazil
|email=mariel.hespanhol@gmail.com
|telephone=+5531998099926
|retreattype=Three-year retreat
|center=Gomde Pyrénées
|centerstreet=Mas Can Pere Courreu
|centerstreet2=Route Departementale 13
|centercity=La Bastide
|centerstateprov=Pyrénées-Orientales
|centerpostalcode=66110
|centercountry=France
|startdate=2026-06-01
|enddate=2029-12-31
|retreatmaster=Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Drupön Lama Tenzin Sangpo
|retreatadministrator=Mikk Tamme
|retreatadministratoremail=mikk@gomde.fr
|retreatliaison=Mikk Tamme
|retreatliaisonemail=three_year_retreat@gomde.fr
|cvedu=Graduated in Medicine from Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Brazil, 2020
|cvwork=I worked as a general practitioner for:
- Primary Health Care in Ouro Preto and Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from March 1st 2020 to December 31st 2024;
- Hospital Monumento às Mães in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from April 3rd 2024 to June 30th 2024;
- Centro de Atenção Psicossocial (Mental Health Care Center) in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, from July 1st 2024 to December 31st 2024.
|studiedtibetan=Yes
|spokentibcomprehension=None
|writtentibcomprehension=Basic reading comprehension
|tibetanrequiredforretreat=Not required
|tibetanretreatparts=Instructions will be given in Tibetan but there will be a translator.
The texts and teaching materials are translated to English.
Group practice (twice a month) will be chanted in Tibetan.
Individual practice can be chanted in Tibetan or in English.
|otherlanguage1=Portuguese
|otherlanguage1Prof=Native command
|otherlanguage2=English
|otherlanguage2Prof=Excellent command
|otherlanguage3=Spanish
|otherlanguage3Prof=Basic communication skills
|introbuddhism=I started studying Mahayana Buddhism in 2014 with an instructor from Lama Padma Samten's sangha in Brazil. It was an informal study group (Grupo de Estudos Budistas Bodhisattva) focused on the 4 Noble Truths, 12 links of dependent origination, mind training, 4 Immeasurable Qualities and 6 Paramitas. By then I hadn't taken refuge yet. In 2019, I started studying Buddhism in a more traditional setting and within a clear lineage at Siddhartha's Intent.
|refugehistory=I took refuge with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 2020 (online), with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 2022 (in person).
|formalvows=Yes
|formalvowsdetails=I took lay precepts (refraining from killing, stealing, and sexual misconduct, plus refraining from getting heavily intoxicated) along with refuge and bodhisattva vows with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 2020 (online), with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 2022 (in person).
|ngondrocomplete=Yes
|ngondro1=Longchen Nyingtik Ngondro
|ngondro1begin=2020-05-20
|ngondro1end=2024-01-03
|ngondronotes=I completed the Longchen Nyingtik ngondro through Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche's online program called Ngondro Gar; there, Rinpoche asked us to count hours instead of number accumulation. Nevertheless, for the Vajra Guru mantra, after completing the hours I kept acummulating it also in number until 1.200.000.
|previousretreatscomplete=Yes
|previousretreatsdetails=Longchen Nyingtik ngondro 1-month individual retreat in November 2023, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Dzogchen 1-month group retreats guided by Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in January 2024 and also in January 2025, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Sphere of Refined Gold 3-month group retreat guided by Lama Tenzin Sangpo from February to May 2025, at Gomde Pyrénées.
|ynadvstudiesprogs=Yes
|advstudiesprogsdetails=Tara’s Triple Excellence Program since November 2021, Bodhisattva Project I (with Do Tulku Rinpoche, from Arya Tara's Net) from 2021 to 2024, and Mipham Project (with John Petit, Arne Schelling, and Lama Sherab Drolma from Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling) in 2024.
|ynofferedservices=Yes
|offeredservicesdetails=I worked as a volunteer subtitle-maker for Do Tulku Rinpoche from 2021 to 2024 (for the Bodhisattva Project), and for Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche for a short while in 2023 (for one of his teachings on the website dharmasun.org). During the first week of February 2025, I worked at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling as a volunteer cleaner, concierge and kitchen helper.
From August to November 2025, I'll work as a volunteer at Gomde Pyrénées, mainly cleaning and giving support to people who will come for the seminar and for the two retreats that will follow it.
|othercommunitywork=I've offered community work several times when I was a medical student in Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
|retreatduration=43
|StartFunding=2026-06-01
|EndFunding=2029-12-31
|costestimateCurrency=EUR
|costestimate=32,250
|requestedamountCurrency=EUR
|requestedamount=19,350
|othermoney=My current income is an apartment rental of approximately €200 per month. My personal savings will serve as proof of funds for the visa, and cover the costs of the visa, health insurance and other personal expenses. The account income in addition to the apartment rental will match about 40% of the monthly costs of the retreat—that is why I'm asking for 60%. I am also applying for the Khyentse Foundation Individual Practice Grant. I do not have other sponsors.
|letterofmotivation=Since 2021, I've been guided by Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin in the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, based on the Zabtik Drolma terma from Chokling lineage. Their clarity, wisdom and loving way of teaching have left a deep impression on me. In 2024, I finally met Rinpoche in person at Gomde Pyrénées and regard him as my root guru. Following his instructions, I attended the 3-month Sphere of Refined Gold retreat at Gomde Pyrénées this year, and was truly amazed by Lama Tenzin as retreat master. For me, trying to fulfill Rinpoche's aspiration that his students do the 3-year retreat is not a tough commitment but a willing and joyful offering. I don't have many opportunities to meet him, since I live in Brazil, and it is my deepest wish to be more exposed to my guru's presence, instructions, and corrections. This seems to be the only option for improving my practice for the sake of all beings; without exposing my faults to the outer guru and receiving his close orientation, I could easily come to the end of this life with mere aspirations and many regrets. Rinpoche will teach the retreatants approximately twice a year, and Lama Tenzin will guide us throughout the 43 months. So, it is a unique opportunity to deepen my practice and generate the twofold benefit with their support. When Rinpoche says that nothing would bring more benefit for oneself and others, I fully trust it and feel confident to follow his wish.
The main purpose of doing this is to let go of the delusion of and attachment to a self, and naturally open up to wisdom and compassion—that's the aspiration that I will carry throughout the retreat and beyond. I plan to apply the experience of the retreat to my work, family and any daily situations by becoming more carefree and selfless. As a physician who has been working mainly in the field of mental health, I aspire especially to be more aware of others' needs and feelings, as well as more skilful and wiser as I provide counselling and care to my patients, family, and friends. I believe that, if that aspiration is fulfilled at least to some extent, I may be able to benefit many beings, even those with whom I don't have a close relationship, by simply establishing a silent connection with them to the blessings of the lineage.
In terms of upholding the lineage, I'd like to accomplish anything Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche wishes me to, anything that would support the survival of these teachings and practices for future generations. Regarding the curriculum, I'm committed to doing 3 months of Vajrasattva with 111,000 accumulation, 1-2 months of Vajrakilaya, 14 months of Kunzang Tuktig ngöndro, 2 months of Trinley Nyingpo, 8 months of Kunzang Tuktig sadhana, 1 month of Sangwa Yeshe, 1 month of Korwa Dongtruk, and 1 year of Dzogchen practice including the special preliminaries.
I have organised my financial situation and simplified my life, and I am preparing my family emotionally—fortunately, none of my relatives depend on me for health care or financial support.
|recom1NameFirst=Chagdud Khadro
|recom1Email=chagdudkhadro@gmail.com
|recom1Relate=Lama
|recom2NameFirst=Gustavo
|recom2NameLast=Santhiago
|recom2Email=guto.santhiago@hotmail.com
|recom2Relate=Friend
}}

20250521190517-Mariel-Torres-Submission

2025-07-14T23:45:46Z

Mariel.Torres: User:Mariel.Torres

{{SavedApplication
|status=Saved
|Submissiondate=2025-05-29
|Submissionyear=2025
|username=Mariel.Torres
|firstname=Mariel
|lastname=Hespanhol Torres
|birthdate=1993-10-17
|birthcountry=Brazil
|nationality=Brazil
|street=Rua Belizário Pena, 60
|street2=Centro
|city=Barbacena
|stateprov=Minas Gerais
|postalcode=36200012
|country=Brazil
|email=mariel.hespanhol@gmail.com
|telephone=+5531998099926
|retreattype=Three-year retreat
|center=Gomde Pyrénées
|centerstreet=Mas Can Pere Courreu
|centerstreet2=Route Departementale 13
|centercity=La Bastide
|centerstateprov=Pyrénées-Orientales
|centerpostalcode=66110
|centercountry=France
|startdate=2026-06-01
|enddate=2029-12-31
|retreatmaster=Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Drupön Lama Tenzin Sangpo
|retreatadministrator=Mikk Tamme
|retreatadministratoremail=mikk@gomde.fr
|retreatliaison=Mikk Tamme
|retreatliaisonemail=three_year_retreat@gomde.fr
|cvedu=Graduated in Medicine from Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Brazil, 2020
|cvwork=I worked as a general practitioner for:
- Primary Health Care in Ouro Preto and Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from March 1st 2020 to December 31st 2024;
- Hospital Monumento às Mães in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from April 3rd 2024 to June 30th 2024;
- Centro de Atenção Psicossocial (Mental Health Care Center) in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, from July 1st 2024 to December 31st 2024.
|studiedtibetan=Yes
|spokentibcomprehension=None
|writtentibcomprehension=Basic reading comprehension
|tibetanrequiredforretreat=Not required
|tibetanretreatparts=Instructions will be given in Tibetan but there will be a translator.
The texts and teaching materials are translated to English.
Group practice (twice a month) will be chanted in Tibetan.
Individual practice can be chanted in Tibetan or in English.
|otherlanguage1=Portuguese
|otherlanguage1Prof=Native command
|otherlanguage2=English
|otherlanguage2Prof=Excellent command
|otherlanguage3=Spanish
|otherlanguage3Prof=Basic communication skills
|introbuddhism=I started studying Mahayana Buddhism in 2014 with an instructor from Lama Padma Samten's sangha in Brazil. It was an informal study group (Grupo de Estudos Budistas Bodhisattva) focused on the 4 Noble Truths, 12 links of dependent origination, mind training, 4 Immeasurable Qualities and 6 Paramitas. By then I hadn't taken refuge yet. In 2019, I started studying Buddhism in a more traditional setting and within a clear lineage at Siddhartha's Intent.
|refugehistory=I took refuge with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 2020 (online), with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 2022 (in person).
|formalvows=Yes
|formalvowsdetails=I took lay precepts (refraining from killing, stealing, and sexual misconduct, plus refraining from getting heavily intoxicated) along with refuge and bodhisattva vows with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 2020 (online), with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 2022 (in person).
|ngondrocomplete=Yes
|ngondro1=Longchen Nyingtik Ngondro
|ngondro1begin=2020-05-20
|ngondro1end=2024-01-03
|ngondronotes=I completed the Longchen Nyingtik ngondro through Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche's online program called Ngondro Gar; there, Rinpoche asked us to count hours instead of number accumulation. Nevertheless, for the Vajra Guru mantra, after completing the hours I kept acummulating it also in number until 1.200.000.
|previousretreatscomplete=Yes
|previousretreatsdetails=Longchen Nyingtik ngondro 1-month individual retreat in November 2023, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Dzogchen 1-month group retreats guided by Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in January 2024 and also in January 2025, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Sphere of Refined Gold 3-month group retreat guided by Lama Tenzin Sangpo from February to May 2025, at Gomde Pyrénées.
|ynadvstudiesprogs=Yes
|advstudiesprogsdetails=Tara’s Triple Excellence Program since November 2021, Bodhisattva Project I (with Do Tulku Rinpoche, from Arya Tara's Net) from 2021 to 2024, and Mipham Project (with John Petit, Arne Schelling, and Lama Sherab Drolma from Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling) in 2024.
|ynofferedservices=Yes
|offeredservicesdetails=I worked as a volunteer subtitle-maker for Do Tulku Rinpoche from 2021 to 2024 (for the Bodhisattva Project), and for Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche for a short while in 2023 (for one of his teachings on the website dharmasun.org). During the first week of February 2025, I worked at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling as a volunteer cleaner, concierge and kitchen helper.
From August to November 2025, I'll work as a volunteer at Gomde Pyrénées, mainly cleaning and giving support to people who will come for the seminar and for the two retreats that will follow it.
|othercommunitywork=I've offered community work several times when I was a medical student in Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
|retreatduration=43
|StartFunding=2026-06-01
|EndFunding=2029-12-31
|costestimateCurrency=EUR
|costestimate=32.250
|requestedamountCurrency=EUR
|requestedamount=16.125
|othermoney=My current income is an apartment rental of approximately €200 per month. My personal savings will serve as proof of funds for the visa, and cover the costs of the visa, health insurance and other personal expenses. They yield about €150 per month, so the total (apartment rental + investment income) almost matches 50% of the monthly costs of the retreat. I am also applying for the Khyentse Foundation Individual Practice Grant. I do not have other sponsors.
|letterofmotivation=Since 2021, I've been guided by Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin in the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, based on the Zabtik Drolma terma from Chokling lineage. Their clarity, wisdom and loving way of teaching have left a deep impression on me. In 2024, I finally met Rinpoche in person at Gomde Pyrénées and regard him as my root guru. Following his instructions, I attended the 3-month Sphere of Refined Gold retreat at Gomde Pyrénées this year, and was truly amazed by Lama Tenzin as retreat master. For me, trying to fulfill Rinpoche's aspiration that his students do the 3-year retreat is not a tough commitment but a willing and joyful offering. I don't have many opportunities to meet him, since I live in Brazil, and it is my deepest wish to be more exposed to my guru's presence, instructions, and corrections. This seems to be the only option for improving my practice for the sake of all beings; without exposing my faults to the outer guru and receiving his close orientation, I could easily come to the end of this life with mere aspirations and many regrets. Rinpoche will teach the retreatants approximately twice a year, and Lama Tenzin will guide us throughout the 43 months. So, it is a unique opportunity to deepen my practice and generate the twofold benefit with their support. When Rinpoche says that nothing would bring more benefit for oneself and others, I fully trust it and feel confident to follow his wish.
The main purpose of doing this is to let go of the delusion of and attachment to a self, and naturally open up to wisdom and compassion—that's the aspiration that I will carry throughout the retreat and beyond. I plan to apply the experience of the retreat to my work, family and any daily situations by becoming more carefree and selfless. As a physician who has been working mainly in the field of mental health, I aspire especially to be more aware of others' needs and feelings, as well as more skilful and wiser as I provide counselling and care to my patients, family, and friends. I believe that, if that aspiration is fulfilled at least to some extent, I may be able to benefit many beings, even those with whom I don't have a close relationship, by simply establishing a silent connection with them to the blessings of the lineage.
In terms of upholding the lineage, I'd like to accomplish anything Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche wishes me to, anything that would support the survival of these teachings and practices for future generations. Regarding the curriculum, I'm committed to doing 3 months of Vajrasattva with 111,000 accumulation, 1-2 months of Vajrakilaya, 14 months of Kunzang Tuktig ngöndro, 2 months of Trinley Nyingpo, 8 months of Kunzang Tuktig sadhana, 1 month of Sangwa Yeshe, 1 month of Korwa Dongtruk, and 1 year of Dzogchen practice including the special preliminaries.
I have organised my financial situation and simplified my life, and I am preparing my family emotionally—fortunately, none of my relatives depend on me for health care or financial support.
|recom1NameFirst=Chagdud Khadro
|recom1Email=chagdudkhadro@gmail.com
|recom1Relate=Lama
|recom2NameFirst=Gustavo
|recom2NameLast=Santhiago
|recom2Email=guto.santhiago@hotmail.com
|recom2Relate=Friend
}}

20250521190517-Mariel-Torres-Submission

2025-07-14T23:42:47Z

Mariel.Torres: User:Mariel.Torres

{{SavedApplication
|status=Saved
|Submissiondate=2025-05-29
|Submissionyear=2025
|username=Mariel.Torres
|firstname=Mariel
|lastname=Hespanhol Torres
|birthdate=1993-10-17
|birthcountry=Brazil
|nationality=Brazil
|street=Rua Belizário Pena, 60
|street2=Centro
|city=Barbacena
|stateprov=Minas Gerais
|postalcode=36200012
|country=Brazil
|email=mariel.hespanhol@gmail.com
|telephone=+5531998099926
|retreattype=Three-year retreat
|center=Gomde Pyrénées
|centerstreet=Mas Can Pere Courreu
|centerstreet2=Route Departementale 13
|centercity=La Bastide
|centerstateprov=Pyrénées-Orientales
|centerpostalcode=66110
|centercountry=France
|startdate=2026-06-01
|enddate=2029-12-31
|retreatmaster=Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Drupön Lama Tenzin Sangpo
|retreatadministrator=Mikk Tamme
|retreatadministratoremail=mikk@gomde.fr
|retreatliaison=Mikk Tamme
|retreatliaisonemail=three_year_retreat@gomde.fr
|cvedu=Graduated in Medicine from Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Brazil, 2020
|cvwork=I worked as a general practitioner for:
- Primary Health Care in Ouro Preto and Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from March 1st 2020 to December 31st 2024;
- Hospital Monumento às Mães in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from April 3rd 2024 to June 30th 2024;
- Centro de Atenção Psicossocial (Mental Health Care Center) in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, from July 1st 2024 to December 31st 2024.
|studiedtibetan=Yes
|spokentibcomprehension=None
|writtentibcomprehension=Basic reading comprehension
|tibetanrequiredforretreat=Not required
|tibetanretreatparts=Instructions will be given in Tibetan but there will be a translator.
The texts and teaching materials are translated to English.
Group practice (twice a month) will be chanted in Tibetan.
Individual practice can be chanted in Tibetan or in English.
|otherlanguage1=Portuguese
|otherlanguage1Prof=Native command
|otherlanguage2=English
|otherlanguage2Prof=Excellent command
|otherlanguage3=Spanish
|otherlanguage3Prof=Basic communication skills
|introbuddhism=I started studying Mahayana Buddhism in 2014 with an instructor from Lama Padma Samten's sangha in Brazil. It was an informal study group (Grupo de Estudos Budistas Bodhisattva) focused on the 4 Noble Truths, 12 links of dependent origination, mind training, 4 Immeasurable Qualities and 6 Paramitas. By then I hadn't taken refuge yet. In 2019, I started studying Buddhism in a more traditional setting and within a clear lineage at Siddhartha's Intent.
|refugehistory=I took refuge with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 2020 (online), with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 2022 (in person).
|formalvows=Yes
|formalvowsdetails=Lay precepts and bodhisattva vows with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 2020 (online), with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 2022 (in person).
|ngondrocomplete=Yes
|ngondro1=Longchen Nyingtik Ngondro
|ngondro1begin=2020-05-20
|ngondro1end=2024-01-03
|ngondronotes=I completed the Longchen Nyingtik ngondro through Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche's online program called Ngondro Gar; there, Rinpoche asked us to count hours instead of number accumulation. Nevertheless, for the Vajra Guru mantra, after completing the hours I kept acummulating it also in number until 1.200.000.
|previousretreatscomplete=Yes
|previousretreatsdetails=Longchen Nyingtik ngondro 1-month individual retreat in November 2023, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Dzogchen 1-month group retreats guided by Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in January 2024 and also in January 2025, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Sphere of Refined Gold 3-month group retreat guided by Lama Tenzin Sangpo from February to May 2025, at Gomde Pyrénées.
|ynadvstudiesprogs=Yes
|advstudiesprogsdetails=Tara’s Triple Excellence Program since November 2021, Bodhisattva Project I (with Do Tulku Rinpoche, from Arya Tara's Net) from 2021 to 2024, and Mipham Project (with John Petit, Arne Schelling and Lama Sherab Drolma from Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling) in 2024.
|ynofferedservices=Yes
|offeredservicesdetails=I worked as a volunteer subtitle-maker for Do Tulku Rinpoche from 2021 to 2024, and for Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in 2023 (for his site dharmasun.org). During the first week of February 2025, I worked at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling as a volunteer cleaner, concierge and kitchen helper.
From August to November 2025, I'll work as a volunteer at Gomde Pyrénées, mainly cleaning and giving support to people who will come for the seminar and for the two retreats that will follow it.
|othercommunitywork=I've offered community work several times when I was a medical student in Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
|retreatduration=43
|StartFunding=2026-06-01
|EndFunding=2029-12-31
|costestimateCurrency=EUR
|costestimate=32.250
|requestedamountCurrency=EUR
|requestedamount=16.125
|othermoney=My current income is an apartment rental of approximately €200 per month. My personal savings will serve as proof of funds for the visa, and cover the costs of the visa, health insurance and other personal expenses. They yield about €150 per month, so the total (apartment rental + investment income) almost matches 50% of the monthly costs of the retreat. I am also applying for the Khyentse Foundation Individual Practice Grant. I do not have other sponsors.
|letterofmotivation=Since 2021, I've been guided by Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin in the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, based on the Zabtik Drolma terma from Chokling lineage. Their clarity, wisdom and loving way of teaching have left a deep impression on me. In 2024, I finally met Rinpoche in person at Gomde Pyrénées and regard him as my root guru. Following his instructions, I attended the 3-month Sphere of Refined Gold retreat at Gomde Pyrénées this year, and was truly amazed by Lama Tenzin as retreat master. For me, trying to fulfill Rinpoche's aspiration that his students do the 3-year retreat is not a tough commitment but a willing and joyful offering. I don't have many opportunities to meet him, since I live in Brazil, and it is my deepest wish to be more exposed to my guru's presence, instructions, and corrections. This seems to be the only option for improving my practice for the sake of all beings; without exposing my faults to the outer guru and receiving his close orientation, I could easily come to the end of this life with mere aspirations and many regrets. Rinpoche will teach the retreatants approximately twice a year, and Lama Tenzin will guide us throughout the 43 months. So, it is a unique opportunity to deepen my practice and generate the twofold benefit with their support. When Rinpoche says that nothing would bring more benefit for oneself and others, I fully trust it and feel confident to follow his wish.
The main purpose of doing this is to let go of the delusion of and attachment to a self, and naturally open up to wisdom and compassion—that's the aspiration that I will carry throughout the retreat and beyond. I plan to apply the experience of the retreat to my work, family and any daily situations by becoming more carefree and selfless. As a physician who has been working mainly in the field of mental health, I aspire especially to be more aware of others' needs and feelings, as well as more skilful and wiser as I provide counselling and care to my patients, family, and friends. I believe that, if that aspiration is fulfilled at least to some extent, I may be able to benefit many beings, even those with whom I don't have a close relationship, by simply establishing a silent connection with them to the blessings of the lineage.
In terms of upholding the lineage, I'd like to accomplish anything Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche wishes me to, anything that would support the survival of these teachings and practices for future generations. Regarding the curriculum, I'm committed to doing 3 months of Vajrasattva with 111,000 accumulation, 1-2 months of Vajrakilaya, 14 months of Kunzang Tuktig ngöndro, 2 months of Trinley Nyingpo, 8 months of Kunzang Tuktig sadhana, 1 month of Sangwa Yeshe, 1 month of Korwa Dongtruk, and 1 year of Dzogchen practice including the special preliminaries.
I have organised my financial situation and simplified my life, and I am preparing my family emotionally—fortunately, none of my relatives depend on me for health care or financial support.
|recom1NameFirst=Chagdud Khadro
|recom1Email=chagdudkhadro@gmail.com
|recom1Relate=Lama
|recom2NameFirst=Gustavo
|recom2NameLast=Santhiago
|recom2Email=guto.santhiago@hotmail.com
|recom2Relate=Friend
}}

20250521190517-Mariel-Torres-Submission

2025-07-14T23:39:47Z

Mariel.Torres: User:Mariel.Torres

{{SavedApplication
|status=Saved
|Submissiondate=2025-05-29
|Submissionyear=2025
|username=Mariel.Torres
|firstname=Mariel
|lastname=Hespanhol Torres
|birthdate=1993-10-17
|birthcountry=Brazil
|nationality=Brazil
|street=Rua Belizário Pena, 60
|street2=Centro
|city=Barbacena
|stateprov=Minas Gerais
|postalcode=36200012
|country=Brazil
|email=mariel.hespanhol@gmail.com
|telephone=+5531998099926
|retreattype=Three-year retreat
|center=Gomde Pyrénées
|centerstreet=Mas Can Pere Courreu
|centerstreet2=Route Departementale 13
|centercity=La Bastide
|centerstateprov=Pyrénées-Orientales
|centerpostalcode=66110
|centercountry=France
|startdate=2026-06-01
|enddate=2029-12-31
|retreatmaster=Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Drupön Lama Tenzin Sangpo
|retreatadministrator=Mikk Tamme
|retreatadministratoremail=mikk@gomde.fr
|retreatliaison=Mikk Tamme
|retreatliaisonemail=three_year_retreat@gomde.fr
|cvedu=Graduated in Medicine from Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Brazil, 2020
|cvwork=I worked as a general practitioner for:
- Primary Health Care in Ouro Preto and Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from March 1st 2020 to December 31st 2024;
- Hospital Monumento às Mães in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from April 3rd 2024 to June 30th 2024;
- Centro de Atenção Psicossocial (Mental Health Care Center) in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, from July 1st 2024 to December 31st 2024.
|studiedtibetan=Yes
|spokentibcomprehension=None
|writtentibcomprehension=Basic reading comprehension
|tibetanrequiredforretreat=Not required
|tibetanretreatparts=Instructions will be given in Tibetan but there will be a translator.
The texts and teaching materials are translated to English.
Group practice (twice a month) will be chanted in Tibetan.
Individual practice can be chanted in Tibetan or in English.
|otherlanguage1=Portuguese
|otherlanguage1Prof=Native command
|otherlanguage2=English
|otherlanguage2Prof=Excellent command
|introbuddhism=I started studying Mahayana Buddhism in 2014 with an instructor from Lama Padma Samten's sangha in Brazil. It was an informal study group (Grupo de Estudos Budistas Bodhisattva) focused on the 4 Noble Truths, 12 links of dependent origination, mind training, 4 Immeasurable Qualities and 6 Paramitas. By then I hadn't taken refuge yet. In 2019, I started studying Buddhism in a more traditional set and with a clear lineage with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche and his instructors from Siddhartha's Intent.
|refugehistory=I took refuge with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 2020 (online), with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 2022 (in person).
|formalvows=Yes
|formalvowsdetails=Lay precepts and bodhisattva vows with Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche in May 2020 (online), with Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in November 2021 (online) and with Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in September 2022 (in person).
|ngondrocomplete=Yes
|ngondro1=Longchen Nyingtik Ngondro
|ngondro1begin=2020-05-20
|ngondro1end=2024-01-03
|ngondronotes=I did the Longchen Nyingtik ngondro through Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche's online program called Ngondro Gar; there, Rinpoche asked us to count hours instead of number accumulation. Nevertheless, for the Vajra Guru mantra after completing the hours I kept acummulating also in number until 1.200.000.
|previousretreatscomplete=Yes
|previousretreatsdetails=Longchen Nyingtik ngondro 1-month individual retreat in November 2023, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Dzogchen 1-month group retreat guided by Tromge Jigme Rinpoche in January 2024 and also in January 2025, at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling; Sphere of Refined Gold 3-month group retreat guided by Lama Tenzin Sangpo from February to May 2025, at Gomde Pyrénées.
|ynadvstudiesprogs=Yes
|advstudiesprogsdetails=Tara’s Triple Excellence Program since November 2021, Bodhisattva Project I (with Do Tulku Rinpoche, from Arya Tara's Net) from 2021 to 2023, and Mipham Project (with John Petit, Arne Schelling and Lama Sherab Drolma from Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling) in 2024.
|ynofferedservices=Yes
|offeredservicesdetails=I worked as a volunteer subtitle-maker for Do Tulku Rinpoche from 2021 to 2024, and for Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche in 2023 (for his site dharmasun.org). During the first week of February 2025, I worked at Chagdud Gonpa Khadro Ling as a volunteer cleaner, concierge and kitchen helper.
From August to November 2025, I'll work as a volunteer at Gomde Pyrénées, mainly cleaning and giving support to people who will come for the seminar and for the two retreats that will follow it.
|othercommunitywork=I've offered community work several times when I was a medical student in Viçosa, Minas Gerais, Brazil. They were mostly related to health assistance and counselling.
|retreatduration=43
|StartFunding=2026-06-01
|EndFunding=2029-12-31
|costestimateCurrency=EUR
|costestimate=32.250
|requestedamountCurrency=EUR
|requestedamount=16.125
|othermoney=My current income is an apartment rental of approximately €200 per month. My personal savings will serve as proof of funds for the visa, and cover the costs of the visa, health insurance and other personal expenses. They yield about €150 per month, so the total (apartment rental + investment income) almost matches 50% of the monthly costs of the retreat. I am also applying for the Khyentse Foundation Individual Practice Grant. I do not have other sponsors.
|letterofmotivation=Since 2021, I've been guided by Rinpoche and Lama Tenzin in the Tara's Triple Excellence Program, based on the Zabtik Drolma terma from Chokling lineage. Their clarity, wisdom and loving way of teaching have left a deep impression on me. In 2024, I finally met Rinpoche in person at Gomde Pyrénées and regard him as my root guru. Following his instructions, I attended the 3-month Sphere of Refined Gold retreat at Gomde Pyrénées this year, and was truly amazed by Lama Tenzin as retreat master. For me, trying to fulfill Rinpoche's aspiration that his students do the 3-year retreat is not a tough commitment but a willing and joyful offering. I don't have many opportunities to meet him, since I live in Brazil, and it is my deepest wish to be more exposed to my guru's presence, instructions, and corrections. This seems to be the only option for improving my practice for the sake of all beings; without exposing my faults to the outer guru and receiving his close orientation, I could easily come to the end of this life with mere aspirations and many regrets. Rinpoche will teach the retreatants approximately twice a year, and Lama Tenzin will guide us throughout the 43 months. So, it is a unique opportunity to deepen my practice and generate the twofold benefit with their support. When Rinpoche says that nothing would bring more benefit for oneself and others, I fully trust it and feel confident to follow his wish.
The main purpose of doing this is to let go of the delusion of and attachment to a self, and naturally open up to wisdom and compassion—that's the aspiration that I will carry throughout the retreat and beyond. I plan to apply the experience of the retreat to my work, family and any daily situations by becoming more carefree and selfless. As a physician who has been working mainly in the field of mental health, I aspire especially to be more aware of others' needs and feelings, as well as more skilful and wiser as I provide counselling and care to my patients, family, and friends. I believe that, if that aspiration is fulfilled at least to some extent, I may be able to benefit many beings, even those with whom I don't have a close relationship, by simply establishing a silent connection with them to the blessings of the lineage.
In terms of upholding the lineage, I'd like to accomplish anything Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche wishes me to, anything that would support the survival of these teachings and practices for future generations. Regarding the curriculum, I'm committed to doing 3 months of Vajrasattva with 111,000 accumulation, 1-2 months of Vajrakilaya, 14 months of Kunzang Tuktig ngöndro, 2 months of Trinley Nyingpo, 8 months of Kunzang Tuktig sadhana, 1 month of Sangwa Yeshe, 1 month of Korwa Dongtruk, and 1 year of Dzogchen practice including the special preliminaries.
I have organised my financial situation and simplified my life, and I am preparing my family emotionally—fortunately, none of my relatives depend on me for health care or financial support.
|recom1NameFirst=Chagdud Khadro
|recom1Email=chagdudkhadro@gmail.com
|recom1Relate=Lama
|recom2NameFirst=Gustavo
|recom2NameLast=Santhiago
|recom2Email=guto.santhiago@hotmail.com
|recom2Relate=Friend
}}

20250521190517-Mariel-Torres-Submission

2025-06-16T00:19:38Z

Mariel.Torres: User:Mariel.Torres

20250521190517-Mariel-Torres-Submission

2025-06-06T00:54:27Z

Mariel.Torres: User:Mariel.Torres

20250521190517-Mariel-Torres-Submission

2025-06-03T22:10:05Z

Mariel.Torres: User:Mariel.Torres

20250521190517-Mariel-Torres-Submission

2025-06-03T22:04:15Z

Mariel.Torres: User:Mariel.Torres

20250521190517-Mariel-Torres-Submission

2025-05-29T13:44:16Z

Mariel.Torres: User:Mariel.Torres

{{SavedApplication
|status=FirstSave
|Submissiondate=2025-05-29
|Submissionyear=2025
|firstname=Mariel
|lastname=Hespanhol Torres
|birthdate=1993-10-17
|birthcountry=Brazil
|nationality=Brazil
|street=Rua Belizário Pena, 60
|street2=Centro
|city=Barbacena
|stateprov=Minas Gerais
|postalcode=36200012
|country=Brazil
|email=mariel.hespanhol@gmail.com
|telephone=+5531998099926
|retreattype=Three-year retreat
|center=Gomde Pyrénées
|centerstreet=Mas Can Pere Courreu
|centerstreet2=Route Departementale 13
|centercity=La Bastide
|centerstateprov=Pyrénées-Orientales
|centerpostalcode=66110
|centercountry=France
|startdate=2026-06-01
|enddate=2029-12-31
|retreatmaster=Chökyi Nyima Rinpoche and Drupön Lama Tenzin Sangpo
|retreatadministrator=Mikk Tamme
|retreatadministratoremail=mikk@gomde.fr
|retreatliaison=Mikk Tamme
|retreatliaisonemail=three_year_retreat@gomde.fr
|cvedu=Graduated in Medicine from Universidade Federal de Viçosa, Brazil, 2019
|cvwork=I worked as a general practitioner for:
- Primary Health Care in Ouro Preto and Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from March 1st 2020 to December 31st 2024;
- Hospital Monumento às Mães in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, Brazil, from April 3rd 2024 to June 30th 2024;
- Centro de Atenção Psicossocial (Mental Health Care Center) in Ibertioga, Minas Gerais, from July 1st 2024 to December 31st 2024.
|studiedtibetan=Yes
|spokentibcomprehension=None
|writtentibcomprehension=Basic reading comprehension
|tibetanrequiredforretreat=Not required
|tibetanretreatparts=Instructions will be given in Tibetan but there will be a translator.
The texts and teaching materials are translated to English.
Group practice (twice a month) will be chanted in Tibetan.
Individual practice can be chanted in Tibetan or in English.
|otherlanguage1=Portuguese
|otherlanguage1Prof=Native command
|otherlanguage2=English
|otherlanguage2Prof=Excellent command
}}