The Year of the Dragon has been one of the most celebrated years in the Tibetan Buddhist calendar, at least as far as I can remember. In addition to the four major events commemorating Gautama Buddha's birth, enlightenment, first teaching, and passing, our Guru's long-life ceremonial prayer offerings have reverberated across the world, reaching even the heavens.

Here are some notable figures and their significant activities that I am acquainted with and deeply care about:

His Holiness the Dalai Lama, who resides in Dharamsala, India, recently celebrated his 89th birthday in New York, in the presence of millions of followers worldwide. He continues to spread the teachings of Buddha and graciously receives guests from all corners of the globe. His Holiness remains in excellent health, spirit, and mind.

His Holiness the 41st and 42nd turning of the Wheel of Lamdre took place in Kathmandu, Nepal, while the esteemed Father Sakya Trichen celebrated his 80th birthday with his devotees around the world.

His Holiness the 43rd Sakya Trizin is visiting Sakya centers globally, introducing the Dharma, welcoming new Buddhists, and providing exceptional empowerments such as those of Vajrakilaya.

His Holiness the Drukpa Chetsang Rinpoche, who resides in Dehradun, is offering teachings from the Dhamngag Zöd in Kathmandu.

His Eminence Sangye Nyenpa Rinpoche is turning the pages of Buddha's teachings for thousands of non-sectarian( gelug, kagyud, nyingma and Sakya)  Tibetan Buddhist nuns, Bikshus and Novice  followers in Swayambhu, Kathmandu.

Kyabje Ramjam  Rinpoche, the grandson of HH Dilgo Khyentse Rinpoche, is also imparting the Vajrayana teachings in Bhutan.

The King of Bhutan has been warmly received by his fellow citizens during his visit to Australia, where he arrived on a Bhutan Airlines flight and spent time with over eighty thousand Bhutanese people in various cities.

These activities and events are a testament to the vibrant and active spiritual community thriving within Tibetan Buddhism today.