'Christopher Hansard'

Christopher Hansard-A Summary

2009-04-15T17:38:00.000-07:00

Welcome to the blog. I value being able to share my researches about Mr. Christopher Hansard, an individual who formerly achieved a moderate standing within the world of alternative therapy. Possessed it seems with some charm and persuasiveness, Chris claimed to be an adept, of what he asserted to be an ancient Tibetan healing system, which he called ‘Dur Bon’. According to his account, he was invested with special abilities, that were supposedly recognized (presumably through some sort of Lobsang Rampa-style telepathy) by Tibetans inside Tibet. Who we were asked to believe, during a period of bloody suppression and the wholesale destruction of their culture by communist China, were seemingly so moved by the discovery of Christopher, faced torture and prison by dispatching, (exactly how, and what, travel documents were secured from communist Chinese troops remains another curiosity) a teacher to New Zealand. Where the four-year old Chris was then supposedly steeped in the complicated, and extensive mysteries of Tibetan medicine.

It was an alluring and exotic tale, sufficiently mysterious to attract the interest of a number of clients, seeking 'enlightenment', healing, or self-development. On the back of this clientele, and assisted by a rigorous and determined campaign of self-promotion by Chris, it was not long before publishers, newspapers and journalists realized the commercial potential of such a story. A ‘medical’ center was established in London’s fashionable Chelsea district, and a number of books emerged, one of which later resulted in him being charged by a publishing house with plagiarism. The first cracks had it seems appeared, in what was to be revealed as an edifice of deception.

Here are the central points that demolished Hansard's claims.

1) Dur-Bon is an archaic traditional practice which does not involve medicine or healing whatsoever.

2) There, is amongst the traditional and authentic Tibean Bon tradition no recognition or practise of 'Dur-Bon'

3) Written and spoken Tibetan is required to learn, and achieve a full understanding of genuine Tibetan medicine, Hansard is fluent in neither.

4) The so-called 'Tibetan Bon Community', which Hansard claimed predicted his birth, is completely unknown to the actual Tibetan Bon Community.

5) The teacher Hansard claimed came from the remote wilds of Amdo would be most unlikely to have learned sufficient English, to tutor a four-year old New Zealand boy in the complex mysteries of Tibetan medicine.

6) Based upon a reasonable estimation of Hansard's age, his supposed Tibetan 'teacher' would have been required to obtain travel authorization from the Communist Chinese Regime, during a period when Tibet was sealed-off from the outside world, and religious persecution and cultural destruction was being visited upon Tibetans. This is highly unlikely.

7) The 'tribe' Hansard claims his 'teacher' came from, the so-called Ngam, is completely unknown to Tibetan Bon scholars and does not appear as a clan name on authentic Tibetan Bon texts.

8) The name Hansard gives as his 'teacher', 'Urgyen' is not a Tibetan-Bon name, its is a Tibetan Buddhist name, closely linked to the Nyingmapa tradition.

9) There is no correspondence of "twelve teachings", which Hansard describes, within the traditional and genuine native religion of Tibetan Bon.

10) The so-called 'Northern Treasure School' Hansard claims as his 'lineage' is in fact not a school at all, but is based upon texts found in the Northern part of Tibet.

11) Not a single individual has been able to provide objctive and verifiable information to corroborate any aspect of Hansard's claims. Moreover a number of 'reviewers' of his books have proved to be Hansard's fictitious creations, as demonstrated by the singular lack of proof concerning their claimed identity, career, and location.

12) Hansard's claims to be Physician of Tibetan medicine were exposed (in an affidavit) as completely misleading and baseless, by Doctor Barry Clark an internationally respected and qualified Doctor of Tibetan medicine .

There are many other inconsistencies and troubling questions concerning Hansard's bizarre account, these were publicly challenged by Jeff Bowe, whose research thoroughly exposed the claims and background of Christopher Hansard, as being a cynical and self-serving invention. His misrepresentation and exploitation, of the Tibetan Bon tradition, has been explored in depth elsewhere, details of which may be found in the previous postings on this Blog.

Apart from such a parasitic and systematic distortion, darker concerns were to surface, these centred around his practice, at the thankfully now defunct, ‘Eden Medical Center’. Former clients made allegations of physical, emotional, and sexual abuse, these disturbing reports were eventually submitted to London’s Metropolitan Police and the organization Witness Against Abuse.

Following such exposure, public examination via the Internet, and with the concerned attention of authorities, such as London’s Westminster Trading Standards Office, it was perhaps inevitable to note the sudden closure of his former center. The self-styled ‘Master Physician’ had run to ground it seemed. Not quite. An ambitious attempt to resurrect his reputation, and one imagines lucrative career, was attempted from less glamorous premises in London’s Victoria district, much to the alarm of local traders, who had it seems been notified of the questions surrounding their new neighbor. Despite several visits by a number of officials Chris’s door remained firmly closed, and calls answered with silence.

Reinvention however seems second nature to this former actor, as he has resurfaced with a new Blog, offering somewhat clichéd, new-age insights to enhance daily living. His sights have it would seem turned overseas to seek new territory to exploit. Yet the questions, concerns and allegations continue to cast a dark cloud indeed, until such time as his activities have been meaningfully brought to an end, by an appropriate legal challenge, those who have reported abuse at the hands of Christopher Hansard, will find his virtual resurrection, nauseating in the extreme.

Further Exposure

2008-09-26T04:01:00.001-07:00

Recently there has been renewed interest, and a revealing examination of Christopher Hansard's troubling activities, on the Rick Ross forum. There would appear to be a determined effort by former clients and associates to ensure that the serious questions and reported abuses are given the fullest public exposure, with the objective, one supposes, of realising an effective legal challenge. One hopes that those individuals who have experienced the 'care' offered by Mr.Hansard will be able, through a unity of purpose, to support each other, and prevent any continuance of what remain very troubling actions by the 'Master of Dur-Con'.

Unwelcome Exposure?

2008-05-26T16:22:00.001-07:00

In light of the public statement that formerly featured (a copy of which has been saved to file) on Hansard's website there would seem to be an association between Christopher Hansard and Tibetan Way, through the apparent involvement of former Eden Medical (sic) Center associates and marketing of so-called medical products 'formulated' by the ex-'thunder being' and his un-seeing, un-aware and un-critical colleagues?

That being the case, as Hansard's claims to being a Physician of Tibetan medicine have been shown to be completely bogus, any assertion or promotion by Tibetan Way to be preparing and selling authentic Tibetan Medicine must now be questionned as seriously misleading and inaccurate?

There is of course also the possibility that Mr.Hansard's recent statement (which was curiously, removed on 2nd June) was designed to deflect attention away from his own involvement, anything is of course possible with the Master of Dur-Con.

Matters may now be taken to the appropriate authorities, who no doubt will be rather interested to note the trading activities and claims made by Tibetan Way?

Another Hansard Scam?

2008-05-24T04:07:00.000-07:00

There is some concern that arch dur-con-man, Christopher Hansard may have launched another fraudulent effort to make money by again exploiting Tibetan culture. This time it would appear to be through the marketing of supposedly Tibetan medicines, as is now widely known Hansard has no recognised qualifications, or authorised and legitimate training in Tibetan medicine whatsoever.

The website is called Tibetan Way and is designed to suggest an association with the Tibetan cause, complete with the use of the Tibetan national flag. One wonders if Hansard is concealing his more odious activities behind the suffering and tragedy endured by the Tibetan people, in a cynical commercial enterprise? Whatever the facts, efforts have begun to investigate this development, nothing will surprise anyone who has experienced this fraudster.

For more information and future actions and news please visit:

http://tibetan-way.blogspot.com/

Still At Large

2008-05-13T08:00:00.000-07:00

No amount of new-age musing or recycled fortune-cookie aphorisms will ever conceal Christopher Hansard's cynical exploitation and misrepresentation of Tibet and its native Bon culture.

Nor expunge from memory the charges of abuse which were made. I can only imagine the nauseous reaction his comments on trust and love must evoke for former clients who reportedly suffered abuse at the hands of the Master of Dur-Con.

Unfortunately such indecent hypocrisy has not thus far served to prompt any sorely needed legal challenge, it would appear Hansard's 'victims' prefer the cold comfort of silent resentment.

Somebody surely has the ethical conviction, personal integrity and courage to take action?

All Too Human

2008-05-03T13:23:00.000-07:00

Following a re-kindling of the Christopher Hansard discussion on the Rick Ross site, I am at a loss to understand, what appears to be a requirement of thinking, that seeks to explain Hansard's odious activities as having some form of 'esoteric' origin, his ability to manipulate, deceive, and exploit are all too human traits. Such consideration merely adds another layer of fabrication and myth upon a very flawed and self-obsessed individual.

Caution! Con-Man At Work

2008-04-28T08:54:00.000-07:00

May I please request anyone who shares the considerable public concerns about the claims and activities of Mr.Christopher Hansard, to kindly contemplate spreading-the-word about this blog to friends, colleagues, institutes, complimentary health practitioners, relevant magazines, or new-age and alternative-lifestyle forums.

I have made some progress, however despite my best efforts there is only so much that can be achieved individually, any help to promote the blog would be extremely welcome, and a positive contribution towards ensuring that others are informed about Hansard's troubling record. Thank you in anticipation.

Yungdrung

2008-04-18T14:38:00.000-07:00

Forgive me for going off-track, however I would like to express my sadness at the recent death of a genuine Tibetan Bonpo, Kusho Yungdrung, who I first met in Sikkim some years ago. He was a truly remarkable individual whose open-hearted kindness and gentility were inspirational. Anyone who had the pleasure and honour of knowing Yungdrung will recall his sincere and knowledgeable dedication to the Bon tradition, which he served with tireless energy and committment. My deepest sympathies and thoughts are with his relatives and friends. He will always be remembered with great affection.

Shameless Self-Promotion?

2008-04-10T14:35:00.000-07:00

So bogus 'medicine' man, Christoper Hansard has it seems found himself possessed of prophetic visions, is there no end to the Master-of-Dur-Con's 'powers'? His recent blog outpourings reads like some amateur rewrite of the 'Prophecies of Merlin' by Geoffrey of Monmouth, complete with drums, peeling thunder and blood. All very dramatic and wonderfully vague, one wonders though if this posture of seership will provide a thick enough veneer to gloss-over the more odious aspects of his past activities?

Hansard has not jettisoned though his willingness to use anyone to assist his self-promotion, remember folks this was the same person who claimed that the Dalai Lama had recognized his 'tradition' and 'healing abilities '. Why, he even quoted in a communication to me, what His Holiness had said, unfortunately Hansard had failed to inform that the words, he insisted were those of the Tibetan leader, were actually 'borrowed' from a German author, Doctor Egbert Asshauer, who threatened Hansard with legal action over the incident. Did not Hansard also 'borrow' some writing from Ms. Oriah Mountaindreamer, and claimed in his book that the words were part of a Bon invocation? More legal threats I recall forced Christopher Hansard to issue what could be loosely described as an apology.

Meanwhile, take a look at the tags featured on Hansard's blog. They include:

"Acceptance, Ancient Tibetan Lifestyle, Art of Living, Beauty, Breathing, Britney Spears, Buddha, Credit Crunch, Daiai Lama, Dalai Lama, disatisfaction-artof-prayer-and-meditation,Do Not Gossip, Evolution, Forgiveness, Gentleness, Google, Healing, Hotmail, Jesus, Kindness, Life, Love, Madeline McCann, Money"

(Extract from Hansard's Blog 10th April 2008)

Are we observing, here in words, a picture of cynical self-publicity and a crude attempt to raise a profile, anything to get the Hansard brand back on the shelf? Is there no sensitivity or ethical -awareness operating within Hansard's mind? Considering those tags it would appear not so. Many people will be very troubled indeed to note the name of Madeline McCann, and puzzled as to why this unfortunate child's name is featured? Other elements of this list force one to speculate if Hansard has demonstrated a crass and breathtaking callousness in his scramble to attract attention? If this is the case, it is yet another shameful action by Christopher Hansard and a graphic reminder of the importance of why, those who have the evidence and direct experience, must surely come forward to legally challenge this individual.

Until such time let me assure Mr.Hansard that the equiry into his actions and claims shall, along with further public exposure, continue.

Look Behind the Spiritual Mask

2008-03-27T08:25:00.001-07:00

What lies behind the emotional 'comfort' and 'spiritual' advice offered by Christopher Hansard's blog? Ask some of his previous 'clients' and former colleagues, from the so-called Eden Medical Centre, who report that Hansard sexually, emotionally, and psychologically abused those around him. Take a close look at his fraudulent claims to being a physician of Tibetan medicine, and his bogus account that he was trained within a genuine Tibetan tradition; which he has been singularly unable to corroboate with any independent or verifyable evidence, and has been exposed as his cynical fiction.

It is essential that any exploitation is stopped, that is why those who have direct experience, of his reportedly odious actions should step forward and instigate some legal charge. A number of accounts were apparently provided to the London Metropolitan Police, and the organisation Witness Against Abuse, unfortunately no developments have emerged from those submissions. Until formalized charges are made and detailed testimony actioned upon by the appropriate authorities, Hansard remains at large, currently he is re-branding his image. How long will it be before he is able to build up another client-base? Will we observe again reports of abuse?

There is a considerable burden of ethical responsibility upon the shoulders of those who were aware, or have experience of abuse at the hands of Christopher Hansard, concealing the facts, avoiding the unpleasantness, or consigning any troubling incidents to history only contributes to his continued freedom to practice, with the very troubling prospect of history repeating itself.

There are many women, and men, who upon visiting his blog may well be deceived into approaching Hansard, lacking the traumatizing experiences claimed by some of his former clients, with an open heart, generosity, and a willingness to believe they could entrust their emotional and physical welfare into the hands of Christopher Hansard.

Surely former associates and clients of Hansard would not, in their silence and in-action, wish to be complicit in any possible future abuses?

Shame on You Hansard!

2008-03-18T15:22:00.000-07:00

Christopher Hansard your blog's snake-words of sympathy for Tibet and its culture are beyond disgust, a heartless continuation of your perverse practice of exploiting Tibet for self-promotional purposes. Shame on you for seeking to gain some personal advantage, at the expense of the suffering inflicted upon the Tibetan people for opposing China's illegal occupation of their nation.

It is your continuing shameless abuse of Tibet and its culture which ensure that efforts to expose your claims and activties shall continue.

Heartless Exploitation

2008-03-16T12:40:00.001-07:00

So once again the Tibetan people have raised the snow-lion flag to challenge the oppressive rule of Communist China, facing bullets, prison, and torture, their desire for cultural, civil and political freedom remains undaunted. Such momentous events of course will not trouble the conscience of Christopher Hansard, who parasitically exploited Tibet's Bon culture with a beathtaking cynicism and callous indifference.

Links for 2008-03-13 [del.icio.us]

2008-03-14T00:00:00-07:00

Misplaced Devotion

2008-03-12T16:26:00.001-07:00

Louise Brookes it seems recently signed Christopher Hansard's petition, although the name is mistyped. She claims to have been an apprentice and client of the self-appointed 'Thunder-Being' , and certainly appears to retain an unswerving loyalty towards her former 'tutor' and his 'system'. Perhaps this attachment is due to her belief that the Master of Dur Con seemingly assisted her recovery from chronic fatigue syndrome, asthma and eczema.

Such a claim is of course an individual perception, based upon a subjective process, whilst the mental and emotional dynamic involved with 'healing', does not constitute objective proof that Hansard's Dur-Con 'medicine', and his supposed training, were anything but bogus. Apparently Ms Brookes does not wish to be bothered by that fact, as evidenced by the following comments on her blog:

"In comparing the Bon tradition and what I have learned with Christopher as well as my connections with Rigpa and Samye Ling Buddhist traditions, it is clear that the teachings of Christopher are in my eyes, authentic".

Perhaps Louise Brookes has not read the affidavit of Doctor Barry Clarke, a highly respected and qualified physician of Tibetan medicine.

Dr Barry Clark
Auckland
New Zealand

TO WHOM IT MAY CONCERN

I have been requested to provide a statement about the status of Christopher Hansard. I, Doctor Barry Clark, trained in Tibetan Medicine for almost twenty years in the Indian Himalayas, under two of His Holiness The Dalai Lama's personal physicians. I have published, in two languages, a translation of the Root and Explanatory Tantras of Tibetan Medicine and released a DVD, and numerous articles and papers on Tibetan Medicine.

I have a justifiable claim to be the foremost western teacher, physician, translator, researcher and expert in the field of Tibetan Medicine. To reach this status over many years I not only had to train in the 156 chapters of the 'Four Tantras', but also become fluent in written and spoken forms of both modern and classical Tibetan, so as to translate both the classical texts and oral teachings thereon.

In my thirty-one years of endeavours in this system I have come to the conclusion that no such practice as ‘Dur-Bon’ exists in the Tibetan Tradition. In my limited contact with Christopher Hansard I gained the impression that he had almost no formal knowledge of the Tibetan Medical system. He appears to have almost none of the requisite knowledge of Tibetan language, nor any textual knowledge of the classical Tantras, which are the syllabus for all students and practitioners of Tibetan Medicine

I conclude that Mr Hansard's claims to proficiency in the Tibetan medical system cannot be substantiated and that by no stretch of the imagination could he be regarded as a qualified practitioner of Tibetan Medicine.

Sincerely,
Dr. Barry Clark

Whatever experience of 'healing' this person may have claimed, Christopher Hansard was not qualified in Tibetan medicine (Bon or otherwise) nor did he receive any authentic or traditional training in Tibetan Bon medicine. Whilst Ms Brookes may have considered her ailments were improved by Hansard, that is no credible corroboration of his claims, furthermore, the claimed success of her 'treatment', does not address the fact that he cynically misprepresented and exploited Tibet's genuine Bon tradition.

According to a number of allegations and reports, it's claimed that Christopher Hansard was abusing, both clients and colleagues for a considerable number of years. One wonders if Louise Brookes is willing to extend support and concern for those who may have been abused by Hansard?

It would appear, from other forums on this subject, that some staff at his centre were well aware of such abuses, was Ms Brookes? The alleged abuses, we are informed, continued year-upon-year, and apparently not one apprentice was willing to stand-up and challenge such actions. Nor it would seem would anyone dare disclose information that would condemn Christopher Hansard. Clearly, there has been a well established record of individual and collective silence, which tolerates alleged abuses, and protects Hansard from any legal challenge.

As a self-professed apprentice of Hansard, for some four years, was Ms Brookes complicit in such a process? Whatever the facts, those who worked alongside Christoper Hansard must surely ask themselves if they contributed to such a troubling collaboration, and why the reported abuses were allowed to go on for so long without any effective opposition?

Cogito Ergo Sum

2008-03-10T02:54:00.000-07:00

We received a 'confirmation' from someone claiming to be a 'Ms.Lucinda Pearce', a signatory of Christopher Hansard's petition, who is keen to affirm a 'legal right' to have 'her' name withdrawn from this blog, a curious request really, given that 'she' previously volunteered her name to a publicly available internet petition. Please note I am happy to discuss any concerns this person may have, but would require detailed information to convincingly establish 'her' actual identity. I trust 'Ms.Pearce' will have no difficulty in being able to confirm who 'she' claims to be.

Interestingly this 'individual' has chosen to decline the invitation to furnish material information/evidence that would corroborate Hansard's claims. Well we await the provision of such information which seemingly provided you with "good reason to believe" Hansard's 'Dur-Con' fantasy.

Deliver the Goods Mr.Hansard!

2008-03-09T07:20:00.000-07:00

Plagiarism, deception, and fraudulent invention form a common thread which outline Christoper Hansard's claims, regarding his supposed training and so-called 'Dur-Bon'. Given the nature and extent of his cynical creativity one cannot utterly discount the probability, that driven by some form of messianic complex, he has no difficulty in inventing a whole series of 'personalities' to support his account. Take for example the mysterious 'Tibetan Lamas' (that remain completely unknown to the Tibetan Community in Dharamsala, India) who all, on the same day, decided to post, on Amazon, glowing reviews of Hansard's books!

Curious too are those signatories who endorsed Hansard's petitition (http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/please-help-defend-christopher-hansard.html) who state that:

"We, the undersigned, have good reason to believe that Christopher Hansard’s story of his training is true."

Who are these people, another imaginative product of Hansard's self-serving promotion? As they appear so supportive, and seemingly possessed of 'good reason' to accept Hansard's Dur-Con fiction, perhaps they would care to disclose exactly what objective and verifiable information they have, or are aware of, which has convinced them of the validity of Christopher Hansard's exotic claims.

I am more than willing to post on this blog any material which can demonstrably corroborate those elements of Hansard's account, relating to his so-called training and system. Would therefore, the following 'individuals', whose 'names' apear on the aforementioned petition, kindly make available material evidence as to why 'you' believe Hansard's account.

'Frederick Roussel Penny Stokes Ms Margaret Brooks Mr. Emil Pavlas Nový Bor Mr Stephen Stokes Henri Matisse Yodih Williamson Ms Annie Cosalan Ms Sue Atkins Fred Stratford Mr Alan Williams Sigtuna Eneby Miss Cherry Jarrett Bromley D Hudson Deborah Stratford Miss Katherine Laynes Rada Debra Crocker Mr Tom Povey Mr Terry Newman Mr Mark Adams Mrs Lene Newman Margaret Apostolou Ms Atlanta Rascher KA Hochriter Ms K Hawkrider Ms Kalama Hochreiter Siw Jakobsen Steve Lawson Mrs. Suzanne Hare-Lawson Stephen Hubner Mrs Lisa Wood Ms Lucinda Pearce Steve Hubbner Mrs Lizie Gardin'

If there exist, convincing and examinable reasons, that verify Hansard's assertions then surely there is an obligation upon 'you' to make such evidence publicly available. However, please note I am not requesting 'your' opinions, feelings or beliefs concerning the Master of Dur-Con, rather credible, objective, and independent information, or evidence, which can be rigorously examined.

Of course if these 'people' are indeed yet another bogus creation of Hansard's we can expect a distinct lack of response.

Do You Feel Special?

2008-03-03T09:08:00.000-08:00

Now that Christopher Hansard's claims to being a physician of Tibetan (Bon or otherwise) medicine have been reduced-to-ashes, and his account of selection and training, in some supposedly ancient Tibetan tradition, revealed to be a complete fabrication, some people will be rightly asking, why he continues to appoint himself as the bestower of 'cosmic insights'. Those with an interest in psychological pathology may be better informed to address such a question, as Mr.Hansard seems convinced (by some form of delusional conviction perhaps) that his earthly purpose is to enlighten mankind, with a mixture of fortune-cookie aphorisms and re-digested new-age musings.

Weaver At Work

2008-02-25T14:02:00.000-08:00

A favourite theme adopted by Christopher Hansard involves the imagery of weaving, given his background in fabrication and invention, an interesting reflection.

Part of his 'Dur-Con' deception, featured a 'teaching', claimed to be the words of Tonpa Shenrab, 'The Great Teacher' of Tibet's Genuine Bon tradition. In reality the so-called 'Flowering Light Tantra' was another exotic sleight-of-hand, a cassoulet of parables and new-age sentimentality, in which the central character is worshipped by an adoring, and constantly awestruck set of followers. One imagines Hansard is familar with Jung's theory on 'projection'?.

In this account, a figure sits, listening to the 'wisdom' of 'Tonpa Shenrab', who bestows a name:

"..but I shall give you the name Tapistra, which means 'he who weaves...."

'Tapistra' (from the Latin of course, yes I know Tonpa Shenrab was from Olmo Lungring a mythical, magical Central Asian realm, but he was aware of Latin, which naturally explains why he chose that name, right??? Well, Hansard's ability to weave a tale reveals the reason, for the presence of this absurd curiosity.

His Dur-Con invention, and supposed Tibetan medical training having been roundly exposed, Christopher Hansard is now it would appear turning to the 'divine' for his inspiration. Gone are the tortuous complexities of Tibetan philosophy, of which he knew none, to be replaced by a superficial form of Gnosticism, where the 'divine' finds expression in all things. Can it be? Has the prodigal thunder- being wandered back from those high deserts of Tibet, into the loving arms of his central creator being?

The weaver, and his weaving continue...there is also of course, a finger-sized, camouflaged fish, called a Weaver, which buries itself in the inter-tidal sands. It has a number of very poisonous spines on its back......

None So Blind As Those Who Follow Christopher Hansard

2008-02-21T04:28:00.001-08:00

A few supporters of Christopher Hansard, are under the erroneous impression, that I was associated with the self-styled 'Thunder Being'. This is not the case. Clearly unable to accept, that my motivations for exposing and challenging his bogus and cynical claims, are based upon my genuine respect for Tibet, expressed throughout twenty-years of actively writing, researching and supporting Tibetan culture, they sought to dismiss my deconstruction of Hansard's Dur-Con, by painting me as some sort of disgruntled former associate, bent on a destructive path of revenge, Very colorful, but not true. Unlike those pouring forth such nonsense, I have from the beginning, not cloaked myself in anonymity, my efforts have been transparent and public, both on the Internet and to those authorties seeking to question Hansard. My first offering on the issue, was in the form of a direct letter to Christopher Hansard, which I repost below, I trust the contents, to those whose vision is not obscured by a prism of emotional attachment to Hansard, will reflect the sincere nature of my efforts.

19th May 2006
A Letter to Mr. Christopher Hansard

Dear Sir,

I am writing to you in the hope that you may be able to resolve a matter of some curiosity, related to information which appears on your website, and its claims concerning the Bon religion of Tibet. May I firstly however offer a brief personal background, which explains my interest in this matter.

I have, since 1987, been actively researching, campaigning and writing on Tibet, and hold a particular appreciation and respect for its rich and ancient culture, expressed most vividly and profoundly by Bon. During the years it has been a pleasure and privilege to develop a number of friendships and working relations with a range of eminent historians, anthropologists and writers who share my specialism. I have, since a visit in 1995, formed close relations with Menri Monastery in Dolanji, India, and with HH the 33rd Menri Trizin, Lungtok Tenpai Nyima. A remarkable man, who I hold in the highest regard, both as a spiritual practitioner, and as a Tibetan; who single-handedly has achieved so much to ensure the survival and growth of the Bon tradition.

For some years I have been a consultant to Independent Tibet Network, a network of individuals dedicated to promoting justice, freedom and human rights for Tibet and its people. As you will know Tibet has been under a merciless and erosive assault since the Communist Chinese invasion of 1950, the situation remains grim. It is therefore vital that any efforts to conserve and promote Tibet’s culture should receive the respect and cooperation of any who truly value, what was described by Tibetologist, Professor. G. Tucci, as, the "…last great ancient civilization to survive intact into the 20th Century".

As you may be aware the 'concept' of Tibet, its history, geography, and cultural identity are the target of particular attention from the communist Chinese authorities, one only has to examine any contemporary atlas to see Tibetan place names being erased from the map! Under such circumstances I am confident you can agree how it is vital, for anyone possessed of integrity and a sense of justice, to challenge any distortion or exploitaton of an already beleaguered culture. There are other forces which do not share those values, these generate confusion and misunderstanding.

Their origins lie in a number of crystallized and warped perceptions, which continue to colour and sensationalize the notion of Tibet, these can be traced back to the writings of such 'visionaries' as Madame Blavatsky, Alice Bailey, and Nicholas Roerich. Much of that literature encouraged a distorted and fantastic stereotype of Tibet. Characterized by fabulous tales of 'Shambhala', hidden masters, subterranean realms, or superhuman feats of magic, such writing was marked by a singular absence of critical evaluation or objectivity. It was from such sources that James Hilton drew inspiration for his book The Lost Horizon (1933) which, more than any other work cemented, within the public imagination, the notion of Tibet as the mysterious 'Shangri-la'. Such invention obscures any genuine appreciation, of what is an immensely profound and complex tradition, and as the last century demonstrated, can manifest into a more sinister expression. A particularly chilling and odious example being the proto-Nazi Thule Society. Their influence was to lead to the 'master-race' insanity of the Third Reich and the Nazi 'anthroplogical' expedition to Tibet in the 1938, which sought 'evidence' of so-called Aryan origins. It is with some irony that one recalls the chilling words of Joesph Goebbels "Tell a lie big enough and people will believe it!", nowhere has that been applied with such creativte energy and cynical exploitation than to Tibet!

It is my belief that Tibet is disadvantaged by such a deeply flawed literary heritage, one which, sadly, is given the widest possible exposure via the relentless march of the Internet. The result is the reinforcement of sterotypes that mystify and complicate, consequently there is a considerable body of publicly available material related to Tibet which is spurious, exaggerated and fact-free. Other information suffers from a heavy veneer of the aforementioned mystification. This invites, from those with a genuine interest and concern in Tibet, a responsibility to address such misconceptions. That said there are some who would carve a career for themselves upon the corpse of Tibet, I myself have met such individuals, often they appear driven by a merciless self-promotion, aided by a cold-hearted ability to shunt any unpleasant ethical considerations about Tibet into some dark and distant siding, far away from any interfering conscience. There is of course, within the so-called developed world, a potentially lucrative and interested market that exposes Tibetan culture to exploitation, this ranges from the anthropologist seeking to advance their academic status, the aspiring author or documentary film-maker, or tour operators promising to transport their clients to so-called 'Shangri-la'.

Anyone engaged in such activity soon realises that 'Tibet' carries with it a certain caché, to those lacking any sense of justness or empathy, this can be manipulated for personal gain. It was perhaps such material considerations which determined the career of Cyril Henry Hoskins, a plumber's son from Devon in England, who gained fame while posing as a Tibetan Lama. Despite being exposed as a fraud, a market still existed for self-styled 'Tuesday Lobsang Rampa's' exotic humbug, evidently a few people were willing to believe his bizarre claims about Tibet and his mystical 'third-eye'.

Such fakery has a long and ignominious history. In the late 17th Century a self-named George Psalmanazar wandered around Europe, pretending to be a cannibal prince from the Orient, he created an alphabet and lectured widely about the pagan practices and exotic wildlife of his 'land', even teaching at Oxford on the subject. In 1704 he compiled these observations into the book "An Historical and Geographical Description of Formosa.". His life was revealed to have been one long work of improvisational dramatic fiction. At least the 'culture' he exploited was imaginary, other fraudsters have preyed upon indigenous cultures such as Tibetan and Native American.

Forrest Carter's book, Education of the Little Tree, which entered the New York times best-seller list in 1991 relates his childhood growing up in the Appalachian wildnerness under the protective guidance of his Cherokee grandparents. Its pages are filled with calls for harmony, the importance of family life, and living in balance with nature, it sold hundreds of thousands of copies and received some favourable endorsement from American scholars. Yet, it seems he was not an American Indian, nor was his book a genuine memoir, in reality it appears Forrest Carter was one Asa Carter, a white supremacist and former speech writer for George Wallace, infamous Governor of Alabama in the 1960's.One of the most common forms of exploitation involves 'white' writers who don't pretend to be Native Americans themselves but who claim special insights into ethnic spirituality.

In 1968, Carlos Castaneda, a UCLA graduate student in anthropology, published The Teachings of Don Juan, allegedly based on his clandestine visits with a Yaqui shaman in the Sonoran desert. The book purports to describe the mystical secrets of an ancient tribal tradition, which happened to involve the consumption of hallucinogenic drugs. His book became an international bestseller. Castaneda spent the next three decades refusing interviews and issuing sequels based on his supposed encounters, with a man nobody else ever met!

According to John J Miller of the National Review (March-2005), the latest faker to be unmasked is Ward Churchill, the University of Colorado professor, according to Miller "....he is a tenured "ethnic studies" specialist, but he does not hold a doctorate in anything, and his scholarship, if it can be called that, is riddled with errors and left-wing posturing. Churchill can get away with so few credentials and such a heap of sloppiness because he claims to speak on behalf of a disenfranchised minority".

This claim is justified on the foundation of Churchill's ancestry, which he has reportedly described as three-sixteenths Cherokee and one-sixteenth Cree. Significantly, it would seem he has failed to provide any documentary evidence on his background, which native Americans commonly do, as evidence of their tribal status. As noted by Vernon Bellecourt (American Indian Movement) "It's an epidemic......These people are culture vultures, and their motive is to make money."

I feel a sense of regret and disappointment upon learning that a threatened culture is being exploited in such a crass and materialistic fashion, I recall one man (whose activities I helped to expose) posing as a Native American, no-less than a Chief of the Blackfoot Nation! He was making a good living too, seemingly unmoved by the harrowing reality of despair, suicide, unemployment and drug-abuse, which has arisen as a consequence of existence on the 'reservation'. I gather you have had contact with Native Americans? If so you will be aware of the considerable social problems they endure and share my sense of concern that anyone could so cynically exploit that people's tradition to their own ends. Initially, I considered this individual was operating innocently, perhaps unwaware of the true situation or misinformed, sadly that was not the case. Perhaps you would share my observation that the world seems overly supplied with its share of lifesyle consulants, gurus, mediums and shamen, many of whom not only have feet of clay, but are 'blessed' with large bank-balances as a result of their 'operations'?

I digress by way of introduction really, permit me to return to my immediate enquiry. Recently your website (http://www.bonmedicine.com) was brought to my attention, a natural communication given its prominent Tibetan content. On closer examination I was stuck by the claims made concerning your background and lineage, both of which drew heavily upon Tibet, and Bon in particular. It is a fascinating account and one I sensed required further scrutiny. It would appear, superficially at least, that the foundation of your work/chosen path as a healer/ spiritual practitioner is defined (and seemingly 'authenticated') by reference to your Tibetan 'lineage', 'discovery' and 'training'? The combination of which 'qualifies' you, according to your site, as a "Master Physician of Tibetan Dür Bön Medicine".

In combination with your two books; both of which feature 'Tibet' in the title, it would not be too uneasonable to speculate that your 'success' and reputation owes much to Tibetan culture? Would you also agree that there is an issue of trust and credibility operating here? In the sense that those who are willing to call upon, and pay, for your guidance, skills and expertise, do so in good faith, persuaded and/or convinced by the claims you make concerning your background? I hope therefore, as this embraces such ethical considerations, you will understand why I feel it essential to have a vigorous examination of these claims, if only to verify your account? I have extended my expertise, knowledge and time to that end, not least of all to satisfy my own sense of curiosity, and what is presented below is offered in a spirit of constructive and independent enquiry, motivated by my sense of devotion and respect towards the Bon tradition of Tibet. My observations have been gathered from a variety of sources, and I have consulted with leading academic authorities on Bon, when required to do so. I would like to respond to your claims on a point-by-point basis by examining a nmber of key aspects which define and 'legitimize' your account.

The Mystery of 'Dur-Bon'

It is claimed, although curiously your website presents your 'biographical background' in the third party (why is that?) that you are a trained practitioner of 'Dur-Bon' Tibetan Medicine. This phrase is rather interesting, if only in that is is not known, nor indeed practised within the actual Tibetan Bon Community, I find this rather puzzling as surely Tibetans themselves would be aware of such a seemingly precious and important tradition? Yet your site asserts this as a traditional Tibetan system of medicine and healing, in interviews you have given you expand upon that theme, weaving an exotic impression of an ancient and transformative practice stretching far back into Tibetan history. I have devoted some time in reseaching the term 'Dur Bon', not least because it forms such a defining role in your account and appears to be the foundation of your activities.

As far as my researches can demonstrate, the phrase does not feature within the authentic teachings and practice of Yungdrung Bon, and none of the Tibetan Bon teachers I have approached recognise it within their tradition, thus it would seem any assocation of this term, with the genuine Bon religion of Tibet, is at best misleading and could even be considered to be disengenuous. Yet, even a casual reading of your account establishes such a connection and one wonders why it is you make such claims of so-called 'Dur-Bon', when Bonpos themselves are baffled and unaware of this intriguing term. After much searching and a number of consultations I have now tracked down the origins of this phrase and interestingly it has nothing whatsoever to do with medicine or healing, while it is an archaic phrase describing an ancient Tibetan practice, it is a universe away from the claims you make.

My findings having been confirmed by a leading Tibetan scholar, and an emiment Bon writer and academic. It is therefore extremely difficult to understand why your writings and websites give such prominence to this phrase, and why you link it so closely to the authentic Bon Tradition of Tibet. Furthermore, in light of this 'tradition' not being followed or known to the Tibetan Bon Community, even the most accomodating mind is forced to question the credibility of the assertions made in respect to 'Dur-Bon'. Many would be wondering why you did not approach authentic Tibetan Bon teachers to establish the facts, before announcing to the world your 'credentials' as a "Physician of Tibetan Bon Medicine", and the nineteen years of specialized medical study, which is claimed on your website.

Of course the obvious question is, how could you study a Tibetan Bon medical system, which is neither recognized or taught by the Tibetan Bonpos themselves? Furthermore, an essential discipline required of all Tibetan medical practice is an ability, not only to be fluent in spoken Tibetan, but to be able to read and write Tibetan; as the traditional knowledge-base concerning medicines, identification, preparation, treatments, diagnosis, anatomy and astrology is in Tibetan. Are you able to read and write Tibetan?

A Strange 'Discovery'

According to your website (and presented still in the third party) it is asserted that you were 'selected' ".....by the Tibetan Dür Bön cultural community..... The Bön Community predicted Christopher’s birth and when he was 4 years old his teacher, Ürgyen Nam Chuk, found him in New Zealand". As I have already explained, according to credible and eminent authorities on the subject, the term Dur-Bon relates to an archaic Tibetan tradition, unrelated to healing or medicine, thus it's rather difficult to recognize how such a community can in fact exist, particularly as it is completely unknown to Tibetan Bonpos. An immediate question thus arises. If this 'community' and 'tradition' does not exist, how does one now view your 'biographical' account, and claims made concerning your 'lineage' and 'discovery'?

Which brings me to the matter of your 'teacher' Ürgyen Nam Chuk, who it is claimed was a member of the so-called Nam (another curious name) tribe in Amdo, Tibet's North-Eastern region. Your 'biography' suggests that this Tibetan, having apparently found you on a beach in New Zealand as a four-year-old child, then trained you in "...the pre-Buddhist and Bön spiritual teachings of Tibet". In order to lay aside a sceptical and incredulous response, we have to accept certain presumptions such as; this person must have been fluent in English, or alternatively as an infant you were already speaking perfect Tibetan, or was there perhaps a more esoteric method which enabled your 'studies' ?

I am not sure of your age, but would imagine, on the basis of your photographs, you are at least forty years old, probably older, which means this Tibetan would have been inside Chinese occupied Tibet during the 1950s/60/70s, a period which witnessed major bloodshed, uprisings against the Chinese invasion, and later, the brutalities of the so-called Cultural Revolution. During this time Tibet experienced several catastrophic famines, as result of insane agricultural policies imposed by China, these were dark and harrowing decades for Tibet, and its people. Monasteries, including Bon centres, were being ransacked and destroyed, yet somehow this Tibetan not only managed to travel to New Zealand, but, in the remote and empty grasslands and deserts of Amdo, had somehow learned to speak English, to such a standard, as to tutor a four year-old boy in the profound complexities of a dubiously named Tibetan medical tradition! Equally puzzling is that, given the totalitarian nature of the Communist Chinese regime, how did this man obtain the required paperwork to leave Tibet, at a time when China had sealed-off Tibet from the outside world? Perhaps such an amazing claim can be partly supported by reference to the records held by the New Zealand authorities of his arrival into the country, clearly this Tibetan resided somewhere, are you are able and willing to provide further details?

To my knowledge the first Tibetan who came to New Zealand arrived in 1967, but he was not from Tibet, and certainly not a member of the so-called gNam Tribe. Yet there are other questions concerning the Tibetan, who you assert was your teacher, which undermine the credibility of your claims. You state that Ürgyen Nam Chuk came from what you describe as "the Bon Community" within a tribe "noted for their mystics, physicians, adepts and shamans".

Accepting these claims (for the purposes of further examination), how do you explain the fact that Urgyen is not a traditional Bon name, but is actually a Tibetan Buddhist name, closely associated with the Nyingmapa tradition? Considering the background you describe for Ürgyen Nam Chuk one would have reasonably thought he would have a non-Buddhist name, more in keeping with his supposed Bon surroundings? The mystery surrounding the existence of this 'teacher' deepens when we examine, more closely, his 'homeland' and supposed traditions. It is asserted on your website that this Tibetan is a member of the so-called "gNam Tribe" in Amdo, Tibet.

Having spoken with a number of Amdo-Tibetans and respected Bon Scholars this 'tribe' and its name remains unknown, which is rather strange given the iconic importance you attach, neither, as far as I have been able to determine, does it appear in any of the authentic Tibetan Bon texts. There are many clan names in Amdo and the only one that comes remotely close is Nampa Dong, but then neither you or your 'teacher' mentioned that tribe.

It is also claimed that the mysterious 'Ürgyen' of the equally curious 'Nam Tribe', "....taught Christopher Hansard the twelve teachings of Bön".According to the numerous conversations I have had with Bonpo Monks and Geshes, and based upon my own researches, these so-called "twelve teachings" have no correspondence whatsoever with traditional Tibetan Bon religion. Nor do we find any clarity in your claim that they belong to "The gNam tradition of the Jangter Bön" (the spurious gNam appearing again) when you link so-called Jangter Bon, with what you state is the "Northern Treasure School" According to a highly resected Bon scholar:

"The Bon tradition does have so-called the Northern treasure which was not a school though. It is a name given to a certain number of texts believed to have been unearthed in Zangzang in the northern Tibet in the 13th century, hence the word changter, 'treasure from the north' ".

Once again we find your remarkable account displaying serious inconsistences and facual inaccuracies.There are others, and if I may return to the subect of your 'teacher's' name, in particular its meaning, which you (again presented in the third party) state as;

" The word "gNam" means "sky", and Christopher Hansard's teacher, Ürgyen gNam Chuk, came from the Chuk branch of the gNam clan. His last name means "Sky Metal". So the gNam clan was the "Sky People".

Actually in Tibetan namchag literally means 'iron from the sky' (not namchuk). It is a term used to describe a meteorite, were nam means sky, but as mentioned previously in Bon texts this does not appear as a clan name.It would appear your understanding of Tibetan is not as fluent as would be required to receive and understand Tibetan medicine.

Perhaps, before I continue, it is time to review the current position:

1) Dur-Bon is an archaic traditional practice which does not (as you claim) involve medicine or healing whatsoever.

2) There, is amongst the traditional and authentic Tibean Bon tradition no recognition or practise of 'Dur-Bon'

3) Written and spoken Tibetan is required to learn, and achieve a full understanding of, genuine Tibetan medicine, yet it appears you are fluent in neither.

4) The so-called 'Tibetan Bon Community', which you claim predicted your birth, is completely unknown to Tibetan Bonpos I have consulted.

5) The teacher you claimed came from the remote wilds of Amdo would be most unlikely to have learned sufficient English, to tutor a four-year old New Zealand boy in the complex mysteries of Tibetan medicine, given the wild and empty nature of a region, populated mostly by nomads.

6) Based upon a reasonable estimation of your age, 'your' Tibetan teacher would have been required to obtain travel authorization from the Communist Chinese Regime, during a period when Tibet was sealed off from the outside and world, and religious persecution and cultural destruction was being visited upon Tibetans. This is highly unlikely.

7) The 'tribe' you state your 'teacher' came from, the so-called Nam, is completely unknown to Tibetan Bon scholars and does not appear as a clan name on authentic Tibetan Bon texts

8) The name you give your 'teacher', 'Urgyen' is not a Tibetan-Bon name, its is a Tibetan Buddhist name, closely linked to the Nyingmapa tradition.

9) There is no correspondence of "twelve teachings", which you describe, within the traditional and genuine native religion of Tibetan Bon.

10) The so-called 'Northern Treasure School' you claim as your 'lineage' is in fact not a school at all, but is based upon texts found in the Northern part of Tibet.

11) The name Ürgyen gNam Chuk, does not as you state mean 'sky metal', that should be 'namchag'.

A Question of Credibilty

Other claims you make cast a cloud of doubt over the authenticity and reliability of your account. Take for example your site's reference to the Tibetan Bon sage, Sangwa Dupa. It states:

" Therefore, in the Northern Treasure School (sic), there is believed to be a special spiritual inheritance from Sangwa Dupa...."

It is agreed amongst Tibetan Bon scholars that Sangwa Dupa was indeed an ancient sage, who upheld Tantric teachings within the Bon tradition, however he had nothing whatsoever to do with Changter (the Treasure from the North) let alone the mysterious 'Northern Teasure School'. What are we to make of the claim concerning the supposed lineage, of what is described on your site as your "Bon Medicine teachings":

"Urgyen gNam Chuk taught Christopher Hansard the twelve teachings of Bön (sic), training Christopher to become both a Physician of Tibetan Bön medicine and a Ngagpa with special studies in Dur Bön (sic) and the lineage of dMu Thang (sic) teachings".

While, within the authentic Bon tradition, there is indeed a lineage known as dMu, which is specifically linked to to the Bon 'deity' Shenrab Miwo, the lineage you claim, dMu thang, does not feature. Although your more general comments on Bon and Yungdrung Bon appear to be largely correct, again on fundamental points of knowledge your site appears to be short on fact and misleading.

What is one to make of all this? More importantly what would Tibetan Bonpos think of their native traditions being represented in such an erroneous fashion, by a 'westerner' who claims to have been recognized and taught ancient Tibetan medicine and undergone 'spiritual' training by a supposed member of the Bon Community? Are we in the presence of another fake guru, who mercilessly exploits a native tradition for selfish ends?

Take the following comments you made during an 2003 interview, which appeared on Global Voices Radio, when talking about a venue which was hosting your workshop on Vancover Island, Canada. The questioner asks if there is something special about the Comox Valley and Vancouver Island which brought you there:

" ..It is a very unique place and is mentioned in very old Tibetan Bon teachings, as is Vancouver Island...." .

What particular Bon texts would they be? How do you explain how ancient Tibetans would be specifically aware of these particular locations, thousands of kilometres away, in a stange and different continent? Did you discover this 'fact' by reading Tibetan Bon texts?

While the factual errors, distortions and inconsistencies which characterise your claims raise serious questions, not all however entertain doubts, particularly those endorsing your books:

"I have read the Tibetan Art of Living; it is a rare treasure, a distillation by the author who has real understanding and spiritual achievement. It is a book shown to me by a professor at an American university and it is the real thing, I will encourage all students of differing types of Tibetan wisdom to learn from the new and emerging spiritual master.".
Tsevegar Rimpoche, Dharamsala.

"Christopher Hansard has obviously been taught by learned people and his spiritual realization is obvious. The west is fortunate to have such a treasure; I look closely to what the future may bring for him and his work." Dorjong Rimpoche, Tajit Bon Retreat, The Kingdom of Mustang.

I chose these, not for their fine words and unquestioning endorsement, but because I am most curious about the identity of the 'authors' (it is also interesting to note the shared enthusiasm of both reviewers for the word 'treasure'). Yet who are these people? Having many contacts in Dharamsala I have thus far been singularly unable to identify 'Tsevegar Rimpoche', a strange disappointment, not least because of the small size of that Tibetan settlement and given all Rimpoches are known by the community. Furthermore, the name itself is rather curious, unlike any Tibetan name I have come across, more like Mongolian or Kazakh! Equally puzzling is the name of the second reviewer, 'Dorjong', another strange variation. What of the phrase 'Tajit'? This appears to have Turkic origins, yet its supposedly based in Mustang, a remote ethnically Tibetan region of Western Nepal that borders Tibet. How a Tibetan Bon monastery has acquired such a title is extremely puzzling. Of course I presume you will be willing to clear any doubts by providing contact details of these individuals?

Nothwithstanding the worrying uncertainties which surround your activities, and the remarkable claims featured on your website, it would appear quite a business has emerged from the mysterious origins of 'Dur Bon', establishing you as a prominent and respected alternative practitioner. I gather, apart from your workshops and books, you have also dispensed 'medical' advice through a national newspaper in Scotland? It also seems you are ably assisted by your 'partner', Ms Charlotte Pulver, who I understand operates Pulver Promotions, the body to which payments are made for your services? One is naturally driven to speculate if all this could have been achieved without reference to Tibetan culture and the Bon Tradition, which as I outlined previously continues to exert a fascinating influence over the popular imagination.

Yet beyond the dreams, projections and illusions of those willing to accept your claims, we are faced with stark questions, are you deliberately misleading people, by capitalizing upon a general ignorance of the Tibetan Bon tradition? Have you cynically fashioned an exotic and mystifying background to add 'plausibilty' to your claims? Are you guilty of cultural exploitation by contemptuously distorting and misappropriating the authentic Tibetan Bon tradition?

Of course you know the 'truth', whereas I must rely upon an examination of the claims you have made, on that basis I am forced to conclude that there are disturbing inconsistencies, factual errors and deformities which, taken collectively, grossly undermine your claims concerning Tibet, its culture and specifically the Tibetan Bon tradition. Anyone possessed of the facts, and equipped with reasonabe intelligence, and an enquiring mind, would consider this to be little more than a spurious medical and spiritual concoction for one purpose, financial gain. It's difficult not to share what is a painful conclusion? This invention appears to be a confusion, between Bon and the shamanistic practices of Siberia or the Himalayan regions (which are often regarded, presented or claimed to be Bon teachings by shaman themselves). What differentiates the Tibetan Bon tradition, however, from such practices is that the shamanism lacks a written tradition, whether it is in Mongolia, Siberia or the Himalayas, each practitoner 'invents' his procedure. Whereas the Bon Tradition in Tibet has a vast literature and a codified 'universal' system, and scholars are only now scratching the surface. I am confident that many will find such deception to be highly offensive and rightly condemn the material and parasitic exploitation of cultures which are already suffering tremendously.

I remain puzzled by your claims and after careful scrutiny doubtful as to their credibility, There are just too many questions and mystery surrounding such fallacious assertions, and I do not believe you have received authentic teachings from a Tibetan Bonpo, nor do I consider you to have been trained in Tibetan Bon Medicine. What is resoundingly clear is that you seemingly have no objection to misusing the name and culture of Tibetan Bon to advance your interests. Not only is this morally wrong, in terms of a trampling over another culture for profit, but it is also violates the bond of trust and honesty which surely is required between yourself and those who attend your clinics and workshops.

As someone who has dedicated many years to supporting and promoting Tibet and its culture I find this all extremely saddening, yet I remain hopeful that a positive resolution may arise from this corresondence, that integrity and honesty will prevail by removing from your websites (and those linked to them) the current 'biographical' 'medical' and 'lineage' information, whilst making it clear that your system, has nothing to do with either Tibet or Tibetan Bon.

I sincerely hope you will agree to what is a reasonable and just request and that this matter may be resolved between us, in a spirit of understanding and in support of the Tibetan Bon tradition. I trust you appreciate the time and thought invested in this correspondence and that you may extend me the courtesy of a detailed reply to the questions and concerns raised. Meanwhile please be assured I reserve the right, and remain determined to take further action, should that be required.

Yours faithfully,

Jeffrey Bowe

Social Conscience or Self-Interest?

2008-02-19T05:19:00.000-08:00

As I compose this entry someone in the world is witnessing some form of abuse being inflicted upon a fellow human being, or observing an injustice, misrepresentation or deception. Being aware of such behaviour challenges our sense of social responsibility or compassion, do we intervene, speakout against such actions, or explain it away as an unfortunate aspect of life, over which we appear powerless. Do we dare venture beyond our own self-interest?

Such questions must surely have announced their presence to the conscience of former associates of Christopher Hansard, some of whom it would seem, were very much aware of reported abuses against clients. Indeed, a number have claimed, that they too were subjects of Hansard's more odious advances. Without having that traumatizing experience, it is difficult to imagine the depth and nature of the emotional and psychological pain, such behaviour, no doubt imprints. There is obvious sympathy and understanding for anyone who suffered such abuse.

Clearly, such troubling circumstances are highly sensitised, does this mean that we have to avoid difficult, yet necessary questions? For me, if they serve a positive and greater objective, that can bring genuine benefit to others, then such enquiry is justifiable.

Is there not some sense of ethical and social obligation, to ensure that such violations are not permitted to go unchallenged, and that a certain responsibility rests upon those who were aware of such behaviour by Christopher Hansard, to come forward and present a legal challenge. If that individual has indeed a history of abusing those around him, then in all likelyhood such abuses may be again committed. In maintaining a silence, and refraining from pressing charges, under such circumstances it would be extremely difficult not to consider such a position as being a form of complicity.

Promoting a new banner, as spiritual adviser, healer and writer, Christopher Hansard is seeking to restore his credibility and position, he is aided by uncritical publishers, who appear concerned only with securing profits from further editions of his 'books' and aided by internet service providers and blog hosts, seemingly indifferent to the unsettling questions and activities regarding their client. Futhermore, the appetite for new-age product, of the form Hansard peddles, remains undiminished, as does the number of those who would happily abandon any critical faculty, at the enticing prospect of some exotic 'truth' being on offer.

Christopher Hansard remains at large, unchallenged, while those who witnessed, or were aware of his behavior towards clients, maintain an uneasy silence, it is a very supportive alliance, which appears callously indifferent to those who may have suffered abuse.

Motivation

2008-02-17T04:21:00.000-08:00

So, why have I invested time and effort into exposing Christopher Hansard? Simple, I care about Tibet and its people.

I happen to believe that Bon, the native religion of Tibet, is worthy of my concern, and that it's simply wrong for anyone to abuse, exloit, distort, or misrepresent what is a highly profound and ancient tradition.

I like to consider that my motivation for such action, is based upon principles of respect and understanding, values which have informed my wider work, in support of Tibet, since 1988. Since then I have actively campaigned against human rights abuses, and written widely on the issue of Tibet, challenging a range of injustices, which are forced upon the Tibetan people.

Bod Rangzen Tsangma Yin!

Complicity

2008-02-17T02:47:00.000-08:00

So we witness an assault, worse still we suffer some abuse ourselves, we know the person who is responsible, we tolerate it, ignore the obvious violation of our rights, convince ourselves that the invasion is just an aberration, we excuse by claiming that, though subject to such odious behaviour, we are in the presence of an advanced being, a master, who may confer some inner 'truth'. In keeping silent we accept the abuse, we condone the bullying, we honour the manipulation. We deceive ourselves, transfer our responbility, bury deeply any sense critical faculty, we tell ourselves the dream is real, we are somehow special, to be in the presence of such an individual. We hide, conceal ourselves from the painful reality of complicty, we avert our gaze, we discount the reports, we, of course, are not accountable We seek to persuade that time has moved on, that healing has begun, we are not vindictive, we are compassionate, it is no longer our concern. Our hands, unlike our involvement, are clean.

Dedicated to the former associates, and some 'clients', of Christopher Hansard

Links for 2008-02-15 [del.icio.us]

2008-02-16T00:00:00-08:00

Always Read The Label

2008-02-09T02:32:00.000-08:00

Christopher Hansard, has it seems cast aside his 'Dur-Bon' fantasies, and remerged as some sort of 'new age adviser', of course the wrapping may well have changed, but the contents remain very much the same. Remember, always read the label before getting involved.

More Bogus-Bon

2008-02-04T15:15:00.000-08:00

See: A Critical Enquiry of 'Padma Gonpo'

http://dagpabon.blog.com/

Christopher Hansard in the News

2008-01-29T04:48:00.000-08:00

Click On Image to Enlarge

Hiding Behind the Law?

2007-10-15T02:32:00.000-07:00

It appears that Christopher Hansard has, under increasing scrutiny and pressure, instructed a solicitor to represent or defend his interests. Shall we see at last his 'activities' and claims exposed under the full and searching glare of the court?