What was it like when you became the Karmapa?

In my case, when I was a child, before I turned seven, I was just like any other child. I spent my life as a very ordinary child, not different from anyone else.

At the age of seven, I was recognized as the reincarnation of the Karmapa. When I was given the name of Karmapa, I did not suddenly become something different, as if I was given an injection, or some kind of special drink. It was not like that. I had to study a lot and work very hard to build up the qualities of being the Karmapa.

First when I got name of Karmapa, was like play of child, nothing very special. But then slowly, I understood there are responsibilities and duties attached to this name of Karmapa.

And then, since I became the Karmapa, many people with lots of devotion and strong relationship with previous Karmapa, they have great aspirations and expectations, and trust in me.

HH, 17^th Karmapa
Ogyen Trinley Dorje

From Kamashila
Short-Ngon-dro teaching
Germany, 2014