How can we transform the fragrance and beauty of lavender into a lovely gift while making an offering at the same time?
This project was initiated by Jigme Rinpoche about ten years ago.
Today, five people are actively involved. It is a small group, but we are motivated and enthusiastic. It is very important for us to stay connected with the Sharminub sangha and, through this connection, with the Dharma of the Buddha.
There are three seamstresses: Cécile B., Geneviève B., and Kathleen. In addition, Mireille P. offers fabrics, and I, Detchen Tsomo (Dhagpo Kundreul Ling), organize and coordinate the project. Over the year, our commitment has resulted in various creations displayed at the Sharminub Knowledge Rising booth during Jigme Rinpoche’s teachings at Dhagpo Kagyu Ling (Dordogne, France).
Other volunteers, such as Ruth, help us by harvesting lavender from Jigme Rinpoche’s garden. Another group of Dharma practitioners in the south of France—the Dantin family—also gathers and offers lavender from their garden in the Pyrenees.
Over time, we have refined our methods by establishing visual and aesthetic standards, both in the choice of fabrics and in the making of the sachets. We give priority to Asian-style fabrics, selecting mainly pieces inspired by Japanese designs.
We have developed a specific style to ensure harmony across the different creations. This not only makes booth management easier, but also—so I believe—the more beautiful the sachets are, the more one feels inspired to offer them to someone.
This is the spirit in which we work, and we are all delighted to be contributing together to this wonderful project.
Your friends in the sangha
Testimonials
Sewing for Sharminub accompanies me in my practice as a reminder and an encouragement to bring awareness to my daily actions. It reminds me of the importance of enthusiasm when things feel difficult in samsara. And above all, when I sew, I remember the children of Sharminub and their joy.
— Cécile B.
For me, this is a beautiful story of friendship: after retiring, I needed to find an enjoyable activity without pressure. I had tried several things, but nothing truly fulfilled me until the day I accompanied my friend Béatrice to Dhagpo Kundreul Ling (Auvergne). She introduced me to Detchen, and a wonderful bond formed between us instantly. She briefly spoke to me about the children of Sharminub, and I was deeply moved. I was immediately drawn to the idea of contributing to the creation of these charming sachets, whose sale could help improve these young people’s living conditions.
Not only did I find an enjoyable activity, but it is also meaningful and beneficial to others. It gives real purpose to my life—I am thrilled and deeply touched.
Thank you for everything, Detchen, and thank you for our beautiful friendship. I am truly happy to have met you.
— Geneviève B.
I want to express the great joy I feel in allowing so many others to join this movement of generosity.
Thank you!
— Mireille
I am grateful to have taken part in this beautiful project. I always enjoy sewing for Sharminub! I focus on the final result, and I often take the opportunity to recite mantras or listen to teachings.
— Kathleen
With our deepest gratitude,
The Sharminub Knowledge Rising team
