Many people know Professor Lin as His Holiness Grandmaster Professor Lin Yun Rinpoche. The name Lin Yun was given to him by his father. He also had the given name of Lin Shi. We can see the wisdom of Professor’s father as we translate both “shi” and “yun.”

“Shi” means rock, and it is common knowledge that a rock will sink to the bottom of the ocean. It is also true that a rock can be a powerful mountain. With the name “Shi,” Professor could grow to become a man whose actions could cause him to sink to the depths, or cause him to become strong and influential. It seems that his father allowed his son the choice with the balance of yin and yang in a little boy’s name.

“Yun” means cloud. Now, think. What is the only thing that can obscure the sun? Imagine a cloudy sky. The rays of the sun have gone dark. In Chinese folklore, this means that the leaders of a country may be facing dark times. As a “cloud,” it means that one can powerfully influence the most powerful. Again, Professor’s father gave his son a choice – to use his influence to create light or darkness.

Being both a “rock” and a “cloud,” Professor’s actions would determine his fate. He could rise or sink, accordingly. But, there is more to the story.

Today, even after his death, Professor’s pen name is Yun Shi, or Cloud Rock. I think I understand, in some small way, his choice for himself. It represents what we are faced with every day – establishing and following a course of action that will raise us to the heavens or sink us to the depths. Making good choices, we can do great things. Making bad choices, we can destroy all that is good. It can be a very fine line, and Professor walked it with grace.

Professor was blessed with a father who gave him, from the beginning, the gift of choice. Professor chose well, and his name and his spirit have become our foundation of compassion, strength, diligence and wisdom.

With immense gratitude . . .