Dharma Drum Mountain (Ontario) Buddhist Association is holding a 3-day Meditation Retreat on August 29 to September 1, 2008.
For more details, please go to their website:
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Thursday, July 31, 2008
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Tranquility in Northern Ontario
Stephen recently took a camping trip to Nortnern Ontario and sent me some of his beautiful shots.
With his permission, I am sharing the tranquility with you...
Through these photos, I feel the joy and peacefulness in Stephen's mind.
When I look at a shot, three things catch my attention the most, the mind of the photographer while taking the shot, the photo shot itself and the message that comes through the shot.
Very happy for Eileen and Stephen.
(July 30, 2008)
With his permission, I am sharing the tranquility with you...
Through these photos, I feel the joy and peacefulness in Stephen's mind.
When I look at a shot, three things catch my attention the most, the mind of the photographer while taking the shot, the photo shot itself and the message that comes through the shot.
Very happy for Eileen and Stephen.
(July 30, 2008)
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
Updates from my pharmacist sister
My sister just came back from a 10-day Mediterranean Cruise with my mom, she wrote to us:
"Dear sis & bros,
Glad that everything went well during the trip with mom. The strength I noticed from mom has amazed me but I must say that I may have overworked her on someday
I did learn to see a lot from a different perspective.
Actually, travelling with mom, I received a lot of compliment from a wide range of people I came across in the trip
I got to know mom a little better & I really appreciate how Lung Zhi has been so patient & accommodating with mom & dad all these years.
So far looks like the new pharmacy store will be ready mid or late September. Right now my contractor is working on the electrical stuff.
There are a lot of buying & decision makings to be done in August.
Surprisingly, I am getting a lot of fantastic support from my staff, customers, friends, and of course my family.”
My reply:
All best of wishes to your new adventure.
Knowing you well enough, I am sure that you will turn the business into a success.
You get all these fantastic supports because you deserve so; you have been giving a lot of great support to many people- like the Huayen Quarterly Journals, for one example.
We will always be there for you, just like you will always be here for us!
July 29, 2008
Monday, July 28, 2008
Missing
Yesterday, Chris and my daughter went out of town for a few days.
On their way out, Chris said to me: “Mrs. T., I am going to miss you.” “I am not a Buddhist, so I can miss you, right?” How sweet!
I replied: “Sure, you could miss me even if you were a Buddhist.”
He asked: “You never miss anyone, so I assume Buddhist is not supposed to be attached to or to miss anyone?”
I said: “For a true Buddhist you CAN do anything. The key is HOW you do it, the motivation or aspiration, the know-how and the consequence.”
Yes, I hardly miss anyone physically, but I will miss their “inner-spirits or essence”. Last week, I missed Steven’s love for Huayen. His passion, enthusiasm and perseverance for Huayen are very hard to come by. Too bad that passion is temporarily missing!
(July 28, 2008)
On their way out, Chris said to me: “Mrs. T., I am going to miss you.” “I am not a Buddhist, so I can miss you, right?” How sweet!
I replied: “Sure, you could miss me even if you were a Buddhist.”
He asked: “You never miss anyone, so I assume Buddhist is not supposed to be attached to or to miss anyone?”
I said: “For a true Buddhist you CAN do anything. The key is HOW you do it, the motivation or aspiration, the know-how and the consequence.”
Yes, I hardly miss anyone physically, but I will miss their “inner-spirits or essence”. Last week, I missed Steven’s love for Huayen. His passion, enthusiasm and perseverance for Huayen are very hard to come by. Too bad that passion is temporarily missing!
(July 28, 2008)
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Letting nature takes care of its course
For the past few months, I have been trying to follow Ven. Haiyun HeShang’s teaching of “letting nature takes care of its course.”
I try to avoid having any detail planning or expectation on daily routines. Thus every day I allow life/nature to give me surprises. So far all the surprises are very pleasant or favorable.
When I told my sister about this principle, she said it would never work for her. She likes things to be well organized and in order. Yes, it is true that the principle will not work for her, as she is not a practitioner.
For the principle to work there is a prequisite, you have to devote one hundred percent of yourself into cultivation, then the dharma protectors will take care of the rest.
(July 26, 2008)
I try to avoid having any detail planning or expectation on daily routines. Thus every day I allow life/nature to give me surprises. So far all the surprises are very pleasant or favorable.
When I told my sister about this principle, she said it would never work for her. She likes things to be well organized and in order. Yes, it is true that the principle will not work for her, as she is not a practitioner.
For the principle to work there is a prequisite, you have to devote one hundred percent of yourself into cultivation, then the dharma protectors will take care of the rest.
(July 26, 2008)
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Fortune or Misfortune
Last week my car would not start due to a dead battery. I went through quite a bit of trouble to install a new battery. It went through my mind that this incident was a small misfortune on my recently rather grateful days.
Later on, when I talked to my friend about this episode, she remarked that I was very fortunate to have the car fixed up, as I would be driving the car for a long trip out of town. It is much more desirable to have the car broken down then instead of during the trip. So my misfortune turned out to be a fortune instead!
We, human beings, tend to be shortsighted and have a very limited scope of viewpoint on happenings of life. We can hardly tell if certain events occur for better or for worse. Events can be good in the short run and bad in the long run or vice versa, good for some people and bad for others, good in one era and bad in another era. Moreover, good or bad is judgmental and depends on perception.
If we go down to the bottom (essence) of all phenomena, everything is governed by the principle of causes and effects （因緣法）or dependant originations（緣起法）. And among the millions of factors that lead to certain effects, our mind is one of the dominant factors.
For most non-practitioners, their minds are operated under or influenced by the law of “karma”. Whereas for the true practitioners, they understand how the mind operates and how karma works; they can work around the internal and external attributes (causes), and in turns alternate the effects as well as take charge of their own destiny.
Whether we are blessed or condemned is determined by how well we can understand or work around the minds, the law of karma and the dependent originations. That explains why sometimes a practitioner acts rather unreasonably or unexpectedly, as he or she can perceive phenomena on a higher plateau.
(July 23, 2008)
Later on, when I talked to my friend about this episode, she remarked that I was very fortunate to have the car fixed up, as I would be driving the car for a long trip out of town. It is much more desirable to have the car broken down then instead of during the trip. So my misfortune turned out to be a fortune instead!
We, human beings, tend to be shortsighted and have a very limited scope of viewpoint on happenings of life. We can hardly tell if certain events occur for better or for worse. Events can be good in the short run and bad in the long run or vice versa, good for some people and bad for others, good in one era and bad in another era. Moreover, good or bad is judgmental and depends on perception.
If we go down to the bottom (essence) of all phenomena, everything is governed by the principle of causes and effects （因緣法）or dependant originations（緣起法）. And among the millions of factors that lead to certain effects, our mind is one of the dominant factors.
For most non-practitioners, their minds are operated under or influenced by the law of “karma”. Whereas for the true practitioners, they understand how the mind operates and how karma works; they can work around the internal and external attributes (causes), and in turns alternate the effects as well as take charge of their own destiny.
Whether we are blessed or condemned is determined by how well we can understand or work around the minds, the law of karma and the dependent originations. That explains why sometimes a practitioner acts rather unreasonably or unexpectedly, as he or she can perceive phenomena on a higher plateau.
(July 23, 2008)
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Erin and I
I have known Erin for more or less three years. We have a common bondage, our love for Huayen.
We both benefit from the Huayen Dharma very much that we are willing to practice Huayen assiduously and enthusiastically. Moreover we like to share the gain we derived from the Huayen learning to other people by spreading the Huayen Dharma.
First and foremost we have to be a good practitioner ourselves- that is what we believe deep down inside. Then we need to conglomerate a group of colleagues with the same vision. The building of a solid foundation with good people and infrastructure is very important. We are both working in that direction gradually and in our own pace. The progress is painfully slow and full of obstructions. Maybe this is the fun part too…
What tied us especially close together is our frank and straightforward character.
Erin, thank you for acting as my big sister when I am feeble, for holding onto our dreams together and for offering your house as my inn.
(July, 22, 2008)
We both benefit from the Huayen Dharma very much that we are willing to practice Huayen assiduously and enthusiastically. Moreover we like to share the gain we derived from the Huayen learning to other people by spreading the Huayen Dharma.
First and foremost we have to be a good practitioner ourselves- that is what we believe deep down inside. Then we need to conglomerate a group of colleagues with the same vision. The building of a solid foundation with good people and infrastructure is very important. We are both working in that direction gradually and in our own pace. The progress is painfully slow and full of obstructions. Maybe this is the fun part too…
What tied us especially close together is our frank and straightforward character.
Erin, thank you for acting as my big sister when I am feeble, for holding onto our dreams together and for offering your house as my inn.
(July, 22, 2008)
Monday, July 21, 2008
Sharing of happiness
In response to my article "Out of Town" posted yesterday, my friend wrote me the following:
"I cannot wait to let you know, I want to write you this note right away. As I read your article, I feel your joy, I feel the warmth in your family, I could hear the laughter and sounds of the children, and above all I feel happy. Happiness has entered my blood, giving me a peaceful and serene sensation.
I do not know what this is, and how this has happened. But, I’m not going to use my brain on this phenomenon…. all I want is to feel and observe it with my heart.
Thanks for sharing your happiness … enjoy !"
My reply:
I am so glad that my friend can share my happiness.
In Chan, we named the sharing as "the transmission between two minds." （以心叩心）
My friend shared my happiness, this reaction in turns brought me joy as well. In Buddhist term, this is how the transfer/expansion of merits (dedication) works.
I wish there are more of us who can pass around joy and merits, thus the Land of Ulmost Joy can be realized sooner.
Lung Zhi
"I cannot wait to let you know, I want to write you this note right away. As I read your article, I feel your joy, I feel the warmth in your family, I could hear the laughter and sounds of the children, and above all I feel happy. Happiness has entered my blood, giving me a peaceful and serene sensation.
I do not know what this is, and how this has happened. But, I’m not going to use my brain on this phenomenon…. all I want is to feel and observe it with my heart.
Thanks for sharing your happiness … enjoy !"
My reply:
I am so glad that my friend can share my happiness.
In Chan, we named the sharing as "the transmission between two minds." （以心叩心）
My friend shared my happiness, this reaction in turns brought me joy as well. In Buddhist term, this is how the transfer/expansion of merits (dedication) works.
I wish there are more of us who can pass around joy and merits, thus the Land of Ulmost Joy can be realized sooner.
Lung Zhi
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Out of town
I am out of town staying at my sister's house for the week end. It is a nice break from my not so routine life in Toronto.
My sister and I played badmanton in her backyard, we had such a good laugh as I had not played this game for decades. The kids are having fun in the swimming pool and hot tub. At night, my brother-in-law set up a huge bon fire and we toasted marshmellows. It is nice to have large family where everyone is close.
Memories of our childhood keep flashing back. The great variety of opportunities that lie in our future keep popping up. Yet we are very much enjoying the present.
Why am I writing this blog at this moment? To share with you our happiness before we go out for an exciting day in town.
Having fun...
My sister and I played badmanton in her backyard, we had such a good laugh as I had not played this game for decades. The kids are having fun in the swimming pool and hot tub. At night, my brother-in-law set up a huge bon fire and we toasted marshmellows. It is nice to have large family where everyone is close.
Memories of our childhood keep flashing back. The great variety of opportunities that lie in our future keep popping up. Yet we are very much enjoying the present.
Why am I writing this blog at this moment? To share with you our happiness before we go out for an exciting day in town.
Having fun...
Thursday, July 17, 2008
My meditation colleagues
For the past two months, two of my friends and I practice meditation and sutra recitation together once every week. We recite three chapters of the Huayen Sutra, meditate, exercise, meditate more and end with a yoga session.We have known each other for more than seven years but we are not close until very recently. With our cultivation every week, we are having a great time together, which is totally unexpected. We go out for lunch and shopping afterwards, it is a nice break for us.
The three of us share the same enthusiasm and devotion on meditation. We feel sorry that there are so few of us who appreciate the benefits of this practice.
The three of us share the same enthusiasm and devotion on meditation. We feel sorry that there are so few of us who appreciate the benefits of this practice.
We have the followings in common:
(1) We are mentally and physically healthier than average – we seldom get sick, look much younger than our actual age and are basically very happy with our lives;
(2) We are content with the materialistic aspect of our lives and willing to put efforts into enhancing the spiritual aspect;
(3) And we have the time and resources to invest into meditation, which we know will harvest enormous profit.
(1) We are mentally and physically healthier than average – we seldom get sick, look much younger than our actual age and are basically very happy with our lives;
(2) We are content with the materialistic aspect of our lives and willing to put efforts into enhancing the spiritual aspect;
(3) And we have the time and resources to invest into meditation, which we know will harvest enormous profit.
Yes, LIFE can be so good. All you need to do is too have the Right View, Right Thought, Right Speech, Right Actions, Right Living, Right Persistence, Right Mindfulness and Right Concentration- in short the Eightfold Noble Path.
(July 17, 2008)
(July 17, 2008)
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Giving you incentive
While I am writing this blog, my mind is so focus that I can treat writing as an amusingly good way of cultivation.
I need a clear and undisturbed mind to put my thoughts into words. At times, I am so devoted and absorbed into my writing that I require a transitional period for me to awake myself from the writing realm to the mundane realm.
Since I start writing, I am conscious about the use of vocabulary, grammar, spelling, sentence structure etc. When I hear or see a new phrase or word, I will contemplate in my mind – what does it mean, how to express the term correctly, is there a better way of using that phrase?
My attention level and point of focus shift along the way. I become more aware of the external attributes, my internal thoughts and emotions, and the interactions between the two. When I encounter a situation, I notice how my mind and body react, how my reactions in turn affect the situation. How can I capture the external and internal happenings and put them into words? How my writings can express myself or bring out a point so that it can benefit the readers? How can I share my fortune or merits with others through the articles?
So far, I find this line of work rather rewarding. I am not imposing anything on anyone. If the readers enjoy my articles, they will visit the blog. If someone dislikes my writings or ideas, they choose not to come back or write me a comment. I see this as a win-win situation.
Seeing a novice like me has the courage to write, you should have the incentive to do the same or even better!
(July 16, 2008)
I need a clear and undisturbed mind to put my thoughts into words. At times, I am so devoted and absorbed into my writing that I require a transitional period for me to awake myself from the writing realm to the mundane realm.
Since I start writing, I am conscious about the use of vocabulary, grammar, spelling, sentence structure etc. When I hear or see a new phrase or word, I will contemplate in my mind – what does it mean, how to express the term correctly, is there a better way of using that phrase?
My attention level and point of focus shift along the way. I become more aware of the external attributes, my internal thoughts and emotions, and the interactions between the two. When I encounter a situation, I notice how my mind and body react, how my reactions in turn affect the situation. How can I capture the external and internal happenings and put them into words? How my writings can express myself or bring out a point so that it can benefit the readers? How can I share my fortune or merits with others through the articles?
So far, I find this line of work rather rewarding. I am not imposing anything on anyone. If the readers enjoy my articles, they will visit the blog. If someone dislikes my writings or ideas, they choose not to come back or write me a comment. I see this as a win-win situation.
Seeing a novice like me has the courage to write, you should have the incentive to do the same or even better!
(July 16, 2008)
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Meditation in the Park - Mississauga, Aug 9 (Sat), 08
Annoucement from Westend Buddhist Centre:
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MEDITATION IN-THE-PARK
(Fourth Successive Year)
Fine-tuning Awareness with Buddhist Monk and Meditation Master
(Fourth Successive Year)
Fine-tuning Awareness with Buddhist Monk and Meditation Master
Bhante Saranapala
A soothing break from your busy life!
In the serenity of Mississauga’s Richard Memorial Lakefront Park on
Saturday August 9th 2008
From 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
A soothing break from your busy life!
In the serenity of Mississauga’s Richard Memorial Lakefront Park on
Saturday August 9th 2008
From 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Delve into unexplored regions of the mind with Bhante’s help
Theme:
Take the High Road Avoiding Pitfalls: Five Practical Ways to
Freedom from Suffering and Problems
ALL ARE WELCOME!
Bring your own lunch ~ Refreshments provided
PLEASE REGISTER BY AUGUST 8th
FOR INFO CALL @ 905-274-7421 OR 905-891-8412 OR E-MAIL: bsaranapala@gmail.com
For Registration Call Peter Bowen
@ 416-604-9011 OR E-MAIL: buddhist7@gmail.com
For map click the following link:
http://ca.maps.yahoo.com/maps_result?ed=SY20Jep_0ToJ0VjROPUeX9HNBr.26MINRGu4sc.tvCQ-&csz=Mississauga,+ON&country=ca
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Note:
Please bring your own cushion or stool or pillow for meditation and sun umbrella
Please bring your own cushion or stool or pillow for meditation and sun umbrella
Saturday, July 12, 2008
The feminine aspects of our nature...womanhood
I received the following email from Betty, it makes me realized that “Sisters” is not restraint to the female gender, it represents the gentle, empathetic, sustainable, tolerate aspects of human characters.
In Tantric Buddhism, the Dharma instrument of the “Bell” symbolizes the feminine, and the “Vajra” symbolizes the masculine side of human nature. It is the feminine characteristics in our nature that allow us to bear the unbearable, and the masculine characteristics that allow us to breakthrough the unbreakable…
Betty’s email:
“A young wife sat on a sofa on a hot humid day, drinking iced tea and visiting with her Mother. Asthey talked about life, about marriage, about the responsibilities of life and the obligations ofadulthood, the mother clinked the ice cubes in her glass thoughtfully and turned a clear, sober glance upon her daughter
'Don't forget your Sisters,' she advised, swirling the tea leaves to the bottom of her glass. 'They'll be more important as you get older. No matter how much you love your husband, no matter how much you love the children you may have, you are still going to need Sisters. Remember to go places with them now and then; do things with them.'
‘Remember that 'Sisters' means ALL the women...your girlfriends, your daughters, and all your other women relatives too. 'You'll need other women. Women always do.'
'What a funny piece of advice!' the young woman thought. Haven't I just gotten married? Haven’t I just joined the couple-world? I'm now a married woman, for goodness sake! A grownup! Surely my husband and the family we may start will be all I need to make my life worthwhile!'
But she listened to her Mother. She kept contact with her Sisters and made more women friends each year. As the years tumbled by, one after another, she gradually came to understand that her Mom really knew what she was talking about. As time and nature work their changes and their mysteries upon a woman, Sisters are the mainstays of her life.
After more than 50 years of living in this world, here is what I've learned:
THIS SAYS IT ALL:
Time passes.
Life happens.
Distance separates.
Children grow up.
Jobs come and go.
Love waxes and wanes.
Men don't do what they're supposed to do.
Hearts break.
Parents die.
Colleagues forget favors.
Careers end.
BUT........ Sisters are there, no matter how much time and how many miles are between you.
A girl friend is never farther away than needing her can reach.
When you have to walk that lonesome valley and you have to walk it by yourself, the women in your life will be on the valley's rim, cheering you on, praying for you, pulling for you, intervening on your behalf, and waiting with open arms at the valley's end. Sometimes, they will even break the rules and walk beside you...Or come in and carry you out.
Girlfriends, daughters, granddaughters, daughters-in-law, sisters, sisters-in-law, Mothers, Grandmothers, aunties, nieces, cousins, and extended family, all bless our life!
The world wouldn't be the same without women, and neither would I. When we began this adventure called womanhood, we had no idea of the incredible joys or sorrows that lay ahead. Nor did we know how much we would need each other.
Every day, we need each other still.
Pass this onto all the women who help make your life meaningful. I just did.
Short and very sweet:
There are more than twenty angels in this world. Ten are peacefully sleeping on clouds. Nine are playing. And one is reading her email at this moment. Send this message to ten of your friends including me.
If you get 5 replies, someone you love will surprise you.
Happy days!
Don't break this; it's working.”
In Tantric Buddhism, the Dharma instrument of the “Bell” symbolizes the feminine, and the “Vajra” symbolizes the masculine side of human nature. It is the feminine characteristics in our nature that allow us to bear the unbearable, and the masculine characteristics that allow us to breakthrough the unbreakable…
Betty’s email:
“A young wife sat on a sofa on a hot humid day, drinking iced tea and visiting with her Mother. Asthey talked about life, about marriage, about the responsibilities of life and the obligations ofadulthood, the mother clinked the ice cubes in her glass thoughtfully and turned a clear, sober glance upon her daughter
'Don't forget your Sisters,' she advised, swirling the tea leaves to the bottom of her glass. 'They'll be more important as you get older. No matter how much you love your husband, no matter how much you love the children you may have, you are still going to need Sisters. Remember to go places with them now and then; do things with them.'
‘Remember that 'Sisters' means ALL the women...your girlfriends, your daughters, and all your other women relatives too. 'You'll need other women. Women always do.'
'What a funny piece of advice!' the young woman thought. Haven't I just gotten married? Haven’t I just joined the couple-world? I'm now a married woman, for goodness sake! A grownup! Surely my husband and the family we may start will be all I need to make my life worthwhile!'
But she listened to her Mother. She kept contact with her Sisters and made more women friends each year. As the years tumbled by, one after another, she gradually came to understand that her Mom really knew what she was talking about. As time and nature work their changes and their mysteries upon a woman, Sisters are the mainstays of her life.
After more than 50 years of living in this world, here is what I've learned:
THIS SAYS IT ALL:
Time passes.
Life happens.
Distance separates.
Children grow up.
Jobs come and go.
Love waxes and wanes.
Men don't do what they're supposed to do.
Hearts break.
Parents die.
Colleagues forget favors.
Careers end.
BUT........ Sisters are there, no matter how much time and how many miles are between you.
A girl friend is never farther away than needing her can reach.
When you have to walk that lonesome valley and you have to walk it by yourself, the women in your life will be on the valley's rim, cheering you on, praying for you, pulling for you, intervening on your behalf, and waiting with open arms at the valley's end. Sometimes, they will even break the rules and walk beside you...Or come in and carry you out.
Girlfriends, daughters, granddaughters, daughters-in-law, sisters, sisters-in-law, Mothers, Grandmothers, aunties, nieces, cousins, and extended family, all bless our life!
The world wouldn't be the same without women, and neither would I. When we began this adventure called womanhood, we had no idea of the incredible joys or sorrows that lay ahead. Nor did we know how much we would need each other.
Every day, we need each other still.
Pass this onto all the women who help make your life meaningful. I just did.
Short and very sweet:
There are more than twenty angels in this world. Ten are peacefully sleeping on clouds. Nine are playing. And one is reading her email at this moment. Send this message to ten of your friends including me.
If you get 5 replies, someone you love will surprise you.
Happy days!
Don't break this; it's working.”
Friday, July 11, 2008
Mississauga Chinese Festival (July 26 & 27)
Hi All,
The Mississauga Chinese Festival has excellent programs and vendors, great summer event for family and friends. Please refer to the poster- July 26/27. (From 11:00 am to 7:00pm).
Events held outdoors are at the Liberty Squares located at 300 City Squares Drive, Mississauga, Ontario, Canada. Free admission.
It is put on by the Mississauga Board of Chinese Professionals and Businesses.
Please share this with your friends.
Hope to see you there.
Scarlette
Thursday, July 10, 2008
Why am I writing this blog?
I am writing this blog to fulfill a dream of mine – to make this world a better place for everyone to live in… What I can contribute to the world or to this era of history maybe be too trivial to mention but I believe if everyone puts in his utmost efforts, together we could make a difference.
Back in March of this year, I bought a book in Taiwan by Amy Cheung Siu Han (Zhang Xiao Xian). She is a rather famous Chinese author of love stories and short articles. I have not read any love stories for the past twenty years so it was a refreshing reading for me. I lost that book on the airplane while I traveled to Hong Kong. After reading that book, a thought came to my mind – if Amy can write love stories I can write about human nature too, after all Buddhism and life are in relation to human nature.
My setback is that I am not much of a writer; I have no talent or training on literature or journalism. I believe in learning, so I am writing this blog to train myself such that some day in the future I may be good enough to be a writer. This is one of the apparent reasons I write this blog.
The other reason is my love of Huayen or Life. Personally, I have benefited a great deal from the study of the Huayen Sutra and from the teaching of Venerable Haiyun Jimeng. Since the launching of this blog, I have to put in extra efforts on understanding and practicing Huayen, which in turns deepen my learning.
Mingte Shi Xiong wrote to me that he was impressed with the advancement on my insights and my progression was a big encouragement to him on his Bodhi Path. Betty found my blog inspiring. Through this blog, I get to know Jason Shi Xiong. As time progress, I wish more of us with the same vision and love of life can be connected together to bring out the best in each of us.
Thirdly, I am treating his blog as my cultivation means, to record and witness my small realization on the Bodhi Path.
Thank you all who drop by to read this blog when you have time. For those of you who gave me comments and feedbacks, you are my beloved benevolent Dharma friends. Any suggestions or ideas to improve this blog or my understanding of Buddhism are very much appreciated.
With unfathomable gratitude
Lung Zhi
(July 10, 2008)
Back in March of this year, I bought a book in Taiwan by Amy Cheung Siu Han (Zhang Xiao Xian). She is a rather famous Chinese author of love stories and short articles. I have not read any love stories for the past twenty years so it was a refreshing reading for me. I lost that book on the airplane while I traveled to Hong Kong. After reading that book, a thought came to my mind – if Amy can write love stories I can write about human nature too, after all Buddhism and life are in relation to human nature.
My setback is that I am not much of a writer; I have no talent or training on literature or journalism. I believe in learning, so I am writing this blog to train myself such that some day in the future I may be good enough to be a writer. This is one of the apparent reasons I write this blog.
The other reason is my love of Huayen or Life. Personally, I have benefited a great deal from the study of the Huayen Sutra and from the teaching of Venerable Haiyun Jimeng. Since the launching of this blog, I have to put in extra efforts on understanding and practicing Huayen, which in turns deepen my learning.
Mingte Shi Xiong wrote to me that he was impressed with the advancement on my insights and my progression was a big encouragement to him on his Bodhi Path. Betty found my blog inspiring. Through this blog, I get to know Jason Shi Xiong. As time progress, I wish more of us with the same vision and love of life can be connected together to bring out the best in each of us.
Thirdly, I am treating his blog as my cultivation means, to record and witness my small realization on the Bodhi Path.
Thank you all who drop by to read this blog when you have time. For those of you who gave me comments and feedbacks, you are my beloved benevolent Dharma friends. Any suggestions or ideas to improve this blog or my understanding of Buddhism are very much appreciated.
With unfathomable gratitude
Lung Zhi
(July 10, 2008)
Wednesday, July 9, 2008
Sharing of experience
I received the following email from my dharma friend:
"I would like to share my experience with you.
Last week, I started to check your write-up on Chapter 48 of the Huayen Sutra as soon as I finished reciting the chapter, and it took me a good half hour to locate your quote. Obviously, that part didn't leave a slight mark in my mind. Amazing how true it is.... everything is out there, do you see it? Are you aware of its existence? ... (Well, I can also blame my level of sutra understanding and interpretation.)
Today, I recited Chapter 49. Again, I checked your comment afterward. In fact, as I came to reciting the phrase “the millions of obstacles that were encountered” (所得的百萬障門), it rang a little bell. But, when I checked your blog, it was the one which Jason Shi Xiong had commented on.... now I remember. The second time around reading it (especially after reciting the chapter itself), makes a difference. Now that I know the topic better through the reciting, I can better relate to your feeling (感受), and your learning (心得) becomes more beneficial to me. As I was reciting, I was impressed with each and every obstacle (障門)... even the slightest thing you do not think of can be a hindrance. As HeShang said that one must process a wholesome character (人格一定要健全), which is a pre-requisite for becoming a Buddhist.
Also, I have to confess that today I have made up my mind to be persistent (精進) ....wish this state of mind will be maintained consistently. If this slips off, please give me a kick.
Although my appreciation is beyond words, please accept 'thanks' from the bottom of my heart for your blog, for being so inspiring, and for being you. "
(July 9, 2008)
Original Posting: 華嚴心分享—百萬障門生
http://anuttara-huayen.blogspot.com/2008/06/blog-post_20.html#links
"I would like to share my experience with you.
Last week, I started to check your write-up on Chapter 48 of the Huayen Sutra as soon as I finished reciting the chapter, and it took me a good half hour to locate your quote. Obviously, that part didn't leave a slight mark in my mind. Amazing how true it is.... everything is out there, do you see it? Are you aware of its existence? ... (Well, I can also blame my level of sutra understanding and interpretation.)
Today, I recited Chapter 49. Again, I checked your comment afterward. In fact, as I came to reciting the phrase “the millions of obstacles that were encountered” (所得的百萬障門), it rang a little bell. But, when I checked your blog, it was the one which Jason Shi Xiong had commented on.... now I remember. The second time around reading it (especially after reciting the chapter itself), makes a difference. Now that I know the topic better through the reciting, I can better relate to your feeling (感受), and your learning (心得) becomes more beneficial to me. As I was reciting, I was impressed with each and every obstacle (障門)... even the slightest thing you do not think of can be a hindrance. As HeShang said that one must process a wholesome character (人格一定要健全), which is a pre-requisite for becoming a Buddhist.
Also, I have to confess that today I have made up my mind to be persistent (精進) ....wish this state of mind will be maintained consistently. If this slips off, please give me a kick.
Although my appreciation is beyond words, please accept 'thanks' from the bottom of my heart for your blog, for being so inspiring, and for being you. "
(July 9, 2008)
Original Posting: 華嚴心分享—百萬障門生
http://anuttara-huayen.blogspot.com/2008/06/blog-post_20.html#links
Tuesday, July 8, 2008
Heart Sutra Empowerment
Last weekend my friend and I went to a two-day “Heart Sutra Empowerment”- Tibetan tradition. I totally enjoyed this event.
The best part of the Empowerment was the chanting in Tibetan. There were seven Tibetan monks with two of them being Rinpoches. During the chanting, there was extensive use of Tibetan musical instruments like drums, trumpets, horns and the like. I loved the chanting. The whole experience was divine. I was all charged up and refreshed. When my other friends meditated with me the next day, they were stunned by my energy level and wondered what I had done on the weekend.
I did not know about the empowerment until three days beforehand. However I had turned down two other appointments for that weekend weeks before, as I was very behind with my paper works. The empowerment came along as a very pleasant surprise.
Venerable Haiyun Jimeng always taught us the following principle: “All a practitioner needs to do is to be completely devoted to the cultivation and the Dharma Protectors (Life’s incidents/happenings) will take care of the rest for him or her.” That is exactly what I am trying to comply or try out. So far so good.
I am having a very good life right now. Do not know how long that will last. But how long it will last is my least worry as I am enjoying every moment of it…
(July 8, 2008)
The best part of the Empowerment was the chanting in Tibetan. There were seven Tibetan monks with two of them being Rinpoches. During the chanting, there was extensive use of Tibetan musical instruments like drums, trumpets, horns and the like. I loved the chanting. The whole experience was divine. I was all charged up and refreshed. When my other friends meditated with me the next day, they were stunned by my energy level and wondered what I had done on the weekend.
I did not know about the empowerment until three days beforehand. However I had turned down two other appointments for that weekend weeks before, as I was very behind with my paper works. The empowerment came along as a very pleasant surprise.
Venerable Haiyun Jimeng always taught us the following principle: “All a practitioner needs to do is to be completely devoted to the cultivation and the Dharma Protectors (Life’s incidents/happenings) will take care of the rest for him or her.” That is exactly what I am trying to comply or try out. So far so good.
I am having a very good life right now. Do not know how long that will last. But how long it will last is my least worry as I am enjoying every moment of it…
(July 8, 2008)
Friday, July 4, 2008
MEDITATION RETREAT AT TORONTO MAHAVIHARA
I received the following notice from Mahinda of Toronto Mahavihara, I am posting the information on the blog in case someone is interested in attending.
MEDITATION RETREAT AT TORONTO MAHAVIHARA
Based on the PATTICCASAMUPADA and ANAPANASATI SUTTA
Further to the 10-day meditation retreat held from June 17-26/08
Based on the PATTICCASAMUPADA and ANAPANASATI SUTTA
Further to the 10-day meditation retreat held from June 17-26/08
at the Toronto Mahavihara
***TWO MORE DAYS OF MEDITATION WILL BE HELD***
on FRIDAY, JULY 4, 2008 from 8.00 a.m. till 6.00 p.m.;
(Being Conducted in Sinhala & English)
and on
SATURDAY, the 5th of July, 2008,from 8.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m.
***TWO MORE DAYS OF MEDITATION WILL BE HELD***
on FRIDAY, JULY 4, 2008 from 8.00 a.m. till 6.00 p.m.;
(Being Conducted in Sinhala & English)
and on
SATURDAY, the 5th of July, 2008,from 8.00 a.m. to 3.00 p.m.
(Being conducted entirely in ENGLISH) .
ALL ARE WELCOME
The retreat will be conducted by the present head of the
NISSARANA VANAYA MEDITATION CENTRE IN MITIRIGALA,
SRI LANKA
Ven. Uda Iriyagama Dhammajeeva Thero.
For further information please contact
Mallika Karunaratne - (905) 508 3666
Latha Mendis - (905) 814 9588
Indra Gunapalan - (416) 443 3334
Asoka Pinnaduwage- (416) 633 6200x3881 cell 416-270 5874
Ven. Uda Iriyagama Dhammajeeva Thero.
For further information please contact
Mallika Karunaratne - (905) 508 3666
Latha Mendis - (905) 814 9588
Indra Gunapalan - (416) 443 3334
Asoka Pinnaduwage- (416) 633 6200x3881 cell 416-270 5874
Please visit Toronto Mahavihara Website http://lankanstyle.com/mahavihara/
for more updated information from time to time.
The location of the Toronto Mahavihara and how to get there, is available at this website.
NOTE:
All retreatants will be provided with a vegetarian meal at lunch time.
Please arrive at the Mahavihara atleast by 7.45am and gather in the hall, maintaining noble silence.
Voluntary Donations towards the travel expenses of the Teacher and use of the Mahavihara will be most welcome.
All retreatants will be provided with a vegetarian meal at lunch time.
Please arrive at the Mahavihara atleast by 7.45am and gather in the hall, maintaining noble silence.
Voluntary Donations towards the travel expenses of the Teacher and use of the Mahavihara will be most welcome.
On the 4th of July, 2008, the Bhikku has advised that the session could extended to around 8.00 p.m., by starting the Question and Answer segment of the program at 6.00 p.m. to enable those wanting to attend after work may do so.
Ven. Uda Iriyagama Dhammajiva Thero, a student of the late Ven. Matara Nanarama Mahathera and Ven. Sayadaw U Pandita of Burma. He is the current head of the Nissarana Hermitage, a monastery in the strict forest tradition following strict standards of discipline. This is a very rare opportunity for the residents of GTA Buddhist Community to participate in a meditation retreat under the guidance of a renowned Meditation Master. Please do not miss it.
For information about Ven. Uda Iriyagama Dhammajiva Thero and Nissarana Vanaya, please visit: http://nissaranavanaya.blogspot.com/2008/03/ven-uda-iriyagama-dhammajiva-swamin.html
With Metta.
Toronto Mahavihara
4698 Kingston Road,
Scarborough, ON
1st July 2008
Toronto Mahavihara
4698 Kingston Road,
Scarborough, ON
1st July 2008
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