by Keith Gilbert
Volunteer position: Personal Tutor and Conversation Class Assistant

Recently I returned from India where I spent almost 5 weeks volunteering with Lha Charitable Trust. I had met up with a long-time friend from Australia who introduced me to Lha, convincing me to come and volunteer with her. Possibly the best decision I have made in my entire life. I had gone with the mindset that I’d be giving and they’d be receiving.
Nothing could have been further from the truth. I learned so much thanks to my Tibetan students – or should I say teachers!
Following two days of travel from my home country Canada, I finally reached beautiful McLeod Ganj at the foothills of the Himalayas. That very first day I arrived I had soon found myself surrounded by eager Tibetans discussing a topic in English during the daily conversation class. It was magical! I was hooked! It took only a few moments to comprehend the appreciativeness and sincerity of the Tibetans; many of whom were monks. I can honestly say I have never met a more gentle, thoughtful and respectful people. Many wonderful friendships quickly developed over the 5 weeks I volunteered at Lha.
I rarely missed a Conversation Class and for five days I covered the English Class for absent teachers. In addition, I did daily personal tutoring. And although I was the one giving English lessons I received far more in lessons of humility, humbleness and compassion. I had much to learn!
All the staff at Lha were so friendly, generous and supportive; I felt most appreciated and welcomed.
A few days I shared a little about my family and Canada and spoke of my life experiences. Sometimes the monks told me of incredible hardships while they fled Tibet and of the challenges endured — like being separated from family members. It was so matter of fact; but it was never complaining or feeling sorry for themselves. These stories still resonate deep within me weeks later. I reflect on how I am so fortunate, and I am in awe and humbled by the positivity and optimistic nature of the Tibetan monks. More life lessons for me!
I explored as much as I could with my friend. The spectacular location of Lha means there’s no shortage of hikes to nearby waterfalls, temples, monasteries and breath taking mountain views. I also met and worked with a number of other wonderful volunteers from various countries. More friendships formed as we did the almost daily evening Kora – circumambulation or walking around the monastery; we wandered the streets and paths nearby, and we shared stories and had countless discussions over meals.
And on almost every outing we’d encounter one or more of our students who would greet us like we were family. I felt part of the community.
This volunteer experience was like “the gift that keeps on giving.” For all involved! Even though I have been back in Canada for over three weeks now, I am still corresponding with a few monks and I continue assisting my private student with his English. He is a young monk from a southern monastery that I had met while he attended conversation classes at Lha. This truly was a most rewarding and fulfilling experience for me.
My heart is full!
I highly recommend and encourage you to seriously consider volunteering with Lha Charitable Trust. I can assure you it will be an incredible experience that you will never forget!
Thank you again to all at Lha