On Saturday, 13 September, Tergar School Kathmandu welcomed visitors from the Tergar Institute who happened to be in Nepal for their own programs. The day carried a special weight – Kathmandu was experiencing disruptions due to protests at the time, which had halted regular school operations and turned the weekend into an unusually long break for the students.
Amidst this atmosphere of pause and uncertainty, the visit became an unexpected gift. The guests stepped into the classrooms, spending time with the students, joining in activities, and exchanging stories. What might have been a quiet and uneventful day instead blossomed into one filled with laughter, curiosity, and meaningful connection.
For the students, the visit was extra special. The warmth and presence of the visitors broke through the heaviness outside, reminding them that learning is not confined to books and lessons; it is also nurtured in moments of shared humanity and joyful exchange.
It was not only the children who felt uplifted. For the caregivers and teachers, who had been steadfastly caring for the students during uncertain times, the visit offered much-needed encouragement. Their spirits were renewed, their efforts acknowledged, and their energy replenished by the simple yet profound act of community.
Moments like these remind us why our community and learning are so special. As Joseph O’Brien, a student of the Tergar Institute from the USA, shared:
“On our visit to Tergar Schools, I received precious reminders on how to properly inquire, play, laugh, and share from their creative and brilliant students. The diversity and integration of their studies and activities – from meditation, to thangka and hyper realistic drawing, to the sciences and humanities – renewed an unmatched excitement for learning in me, for which I am very grateful.”
They show how the bonds between students, teachers, caregivers, and the wider Tergar network create a space where curiosity, kindness, and care thrive, no matter what is happening outside. In these interactions, we see the essence of our community: a shared commitment to growth, understanding, and connection that turns ordinary days into memorable ones.
This encounter stood as a gentle but powerful reminder: even when the city feels unsettled, spaces of joy, connection, and inspiration can still emerge, and sometimes, they shine brightest in the midst of unrest.
