Thoughts for Sharing

BEST COMMERCIAL..

2012-01-29T18:36:00.000-08:00

IF AN OSCAR EXISTED

FOR BEST COMMERCIAL ....

THEN THIS WOULD BE IT!

http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=fER-WhFUzoA

Condolence to the Chen Family

2012-01-24T13:14:00.000-08:00

Mr. & Mrs. Chen, the parents of HeShang, just passed away couple of days ago. They died from old age in Taipei.

Our condolence to the Chen family.

May they be reborn into a realm that is full of Bodhisattvas and Dharma.

May the Triple Gems be with them always.

Boundless blessings...

---

" I " Merchandise........

2012-01-16T16:45:00.000-08:00

Sharing the following email with you...

It all began with an iPhone...

March was when our son celebrated his 17th birthday, and we got him an iPhone. He just loved it. Who wouldn't?

I celebrated my birthday in July, and my wife made me very happy when she bought me an iPad.

Our daughter's birthday was in August so we got her an iPod Touch.

My wife celebrated her birthday in September so I got her an iRon.

It was around then that the fight started...

I explained that the iRon can be integrated into the home network with the iWash, iCook and iClean. (This inevitably activates the iNag reminder service.)

I should be out of the hospital next week!!

PS: iHurt!!!

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LET THERE BE PEACE...::: Bil Clinton Singing With Liel

2012-01-14T17:09:00.000-08:00

A great video of the 40 Israeli and 40 Arabic children singing
the song IMAGINE with Bill Clinton. Click on the following link.
and listen. Enjoy.

Bill Clinton Singing(?) With Liel

http://manneli.com/movies/Israel-info/Clinton%26Liel.htm

LET THERE BE PEACE ::: Bil Clinton Singing With Liel

Writer: LENNON, JOHN

Imagine there's no heaven
It's easy if you try
No hell below us
Above us only sky
Imagine all the people living for today

Imagine there's no countries
It isn't hard to do
Nothing to kill or die for
And no religion too
Imagine all the people living life in peace

You, you may say
I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one
I hope some day you'll join us
And the world will be as one

Imagine no possessions
I wonder if you can
No need for greed or hunger
A brotherhood of man
Imagine all the people sharing all the world

You, you may say
I'm a dreamer, but I'm not the only one
I hope some day you'll join us
And the world will live as one

--

Camouflage Paintings

2011-12-28T07:42:00.000-08:00

So cool...

http://ca.news.yahoo.com/photos/camouflage-paintings-1321923033-slideshow/camouflage-paint-bookshelf-photo-1321569970.html

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Everything happens for a reason

2011-12-25T05:18:00.000-08:00

Sharing the following link with you:

http://youtu.be/zyQ5ZSMENF0

Nice video to watch if you have time.
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A to K... Have a Good Laugh

2011-12-21T13:59:00.000-08:00

Sharing the following email with you:

A to K

After being married for thirty years... a wife asked her husband to
describe her.

He looked at her slowly... then said, "You're A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H......ummmm ........I, J, K."

She asks..."What does that mean darling?"

He said, "Adorable, Beautiful, Cute, Delightful, Elegant, Fabulous, Gorgeous, Hot."

She smiled happily and said... "Oh, that's so lovely... What about I, J, K?"

He said, "I'm Just Kidding!"

His eye is still swollen.

--

Neti Pot's Death

2011-12-17T06:25:00.000-08:00

For your information:

Never use tap water to cleanse sinuses when using neti pot.

Please read on:
http://health.yahoo.net/articles/flu/neti-pot-deaths-linked-brain-eating-amoeba-tap-water

---

Just Pencils- Crayon

2011-12-16T14:18:00.000-08:00

Sharing the following email with you:

A PENCIL MAKER TOLD THE PENCIL
5 IMPORTANT LESSONS JUST BEFORE PUTTING IT IN THE BOX :

1.) EVERYTHING YOU DO WILL ALWAYS LEAVE A MARK .

2.) YOU CAN ALWAYS CORRECT THE MISTAKES YOU MAKE.

3.) WHAT IS IMPORTANT IS WHAT IS INSIDE OF YOU.

4.) IN LIFE , YOU WILL UNDERGO PAINFUL SHARPENINGS, WHICH WILL ONLY MAKE YOU BETTER.

5.) TO BE THE BEST PENCIL, YOU MUST ALLOW YOURSELF TO BE HELD AND GUIDED BY THE HAND THAT HOLDS YOU.

--

The Best Insurances for your child and grandchild

2011-12-13T12:46:00.000-08:00

Sharing the following email with you:

Humour

The husband of a pregnant wife was thinking of buying insurance for his unborn baby.

So he asked PRUDENTIAL and the agent said, "don't worry man, we'll provide insurance right FROM THE BASKET TO THE CASKET".
The man was impressed but thought that he should probably seek another opinion.

He then approached AIA and the agent replied, "Oh, we have a new insurance policy which can protect your unborn child FROM THE WOMB RIGHT UP TO THE TOMB".
The man was stunned but thought that maybe all salesmen like to bullshit and decided to see the agent from GREAT EASTERN.

He told the GREAT EASTERN agent what PRUDENTIAL and AIA had to offer.
The GREAT EASTERN agent thought for a while and then said, "Tell you something, we have one that is even better than PRUDENTIAL and AIA. We'll insure your child FROM ERECTION TO RESURRECTION.

LONG LIVE GREAT EASTERN.

--

How to Handle Criticism: 5 Helpful Steps

2011-12-10T20:32:00.000-08:00

This is a good article, sharing it with you:

http://www.positivityblog.com/index.php/2011/09/01/criticism/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ThePositivityblog-PutSomePersonalDevelopmentAndPositivityIntoYourLife+%28The+PositivityBlog+-+Put+some+personal+development+and+positivity+into+your+life%29

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Korea's Got Talent Sung-Bong Choi

2011-12-07T14:29:00.000-08:00

Sharing the following link with you:

Korea's Got Talent Sung-Bong Choi

www.youtube.com

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O0n0vSAqdL0&feature=fvwrel

The No New Gifts Holiday Challenge

2011-12-02T10:36:00.000-08:00

Something to go for:

"The No New Gifts Holiday Challenge".

http://zenhabits.net/humbug/

Are you ready to participate in the mad shopping frenzy that we partake in every year, not only on Black Friday but all holiday season long?

Peace of mind - by Ven. Ajahn Brahmavanso

2011-11-29T02:07:00.000-08:00

Sharing the following article with you:

'RIP now while you can still enjoy it'

WORDS OF WISDOM from Ven. Ajahn Brahmavanso on his 60^th Birthday

Achieving peace of mind is a lovely way of describing the meaning of life. It is something that everyone aspires to. However, peace of mind is often like the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow - it tends to be elusive for most people. I would like you to reflect on the times when you were the happiest. You would probably find that your happiest times were when you experienced a deep sense of contentment or peace of mind. But when you reflect on these experiences, you realize they didn't occur because everything around you was perfect. On the contrary, you realized that peace of mind occurred, in spite of your surroundings not being perfect, in spite of difficulties problems and imperfections of life.

That is my first important point. Don't think peace of mind only comes once you have fixed up all your problems and finished all your business. All your worrying, all your striving and struggling.., has it ever got you where you really wanted to be? You can't control the world and change it the way you would like it. Therefore, you can only find peace of mind and achieve the meaning of life by embracing the imperfections of life. How do you do that?; by knowing that imperfection is the nature of the world. So make peace with imperfection. Another thing you can't change is the past and yet lingering on the past, people worry about and feel guilty and angry about it, but since you can't change it, the only wise thing to do is to make peace with it. But how do you do that when there is so much unfinished business? You make it finished.

One of my favourite stories is about the abbot who was building the main hall for his monastery. It takes a lot of time and effort to make such a big building, and the building work was still in progress when the time came for annual rains retreat. The abbot told the builders to go home and come back in 3 months. A few days later, a visitor came to the temple and asked when the hall was going to be finished the abbot replied '' It is finished '' the visitor was quite stunned and said '' What do you mean it is finished? There is no roof are you going to leave it like that? There is no glass in the windows, there are pieces of wood and cement bags all over the floor''. To which the abbot unforgettably replied: "What is done is finished."

What a beautiful response that was. It is the only way to find peace in life. If you want all your building work to be finished before you stop to find peace, all your jobs out of the way, all your letters and emails replied to, you will never find peace of mind, because there is always more to be done. As I have often said, the only place in our modern societies where you find people resting in peace, is in the cemeteries, but then it's too late to enjoy it. So I say RIP now, while you can still enjoy it. I'm making the observation that you only find peace, when you realize that what's done, is finished. The past is gone; let it go. One of the signs of true spirituality - of whatever tradition - is forgiveness and letting go. I was once asked how many times you should forgive, and I replied, ''Always one more time," that is, forever.

Forgiveness

Forgiveness is one of the most beautiful acts that humans are capable of. In South Africa, Just after apartheid had been dismantled and Nelson Mandela had been made president, instead of seeking revenge, instead of punishing all those people who punished him, Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu established a Truth and Reconciliation Commission. Anybody who had done a crime was able to go to this commission and confess, what they'd done. As long as they were truthful, no matter how horrendous their crimes, they would be given amnesty and forgiveness. It was a brilliant way of dealing with the past. One of the moving events of that commission was a policeman recounting, in the presence of the man's widow, how he had tortured and killed her husband, a black African activist from the ANC. Can you imagine this scene? There was a woman whose husband had disappeared..., probably in the middle of the night, and she suspected what had happened, but didn't know the true story. Now she was facing a man who was confessing in detail, how he had tortured and killed her husband, the father of her children, the man she loved. Apparently this white police officer was shaking and trembling as he recounted the details of what had happened. At the end of her testimony the widow rose from her seat and went towards him. The guards were supposed to stop her but they froze. She went up to him put her big black arms around him and said "I forgive you."

Not just the two of them wept, but apparently the whole room.

This sort of beautiful act is one of true spirituality. Both the victim and the perpetrator would move on and become better people. They would learn real compassion, gain real wisdom, and find a real way of moving forward. Now if that woman could forgive the murderer of the man she loved, then each one of us - if we really put our minds to it - is capable of forgiving anything.

I was once counselling a woman who was dying of cancer. I asked her what was the worst thing she'd ever done, an act she might carry to her grave and feel terrible about. She told me she had kissed a man who was not her husband. I said " If that's the worst thing you've done, you’ve lived a pretty good life." When she saw my reaction, she realized for the first time, that it wasn't all that bad. To me it seemed like a small thing, but she had been eaten up inside. It was such a release for her to tell someone.

When you keep things to yourself, even the smallest things can become huge. When you acknowledge them, especially if you tell a good friend, you can see that they're no big deal and you can let them go. The way to forgiveness is to realize that you're worth forgiving and so is the other person. That realization is step number one. That black woman in South Africa saw something in that policeman who had killed her husband, something she could respect, something worth saving, so she forgave. Remember, there's no such thing as a murderer; no such thing as a thief; only a person who has stolen; no such thing as a cheat, only a person who has cheated. If you understand that, you understand why forgiveness is possible: there's something more to any person than the bad acts. And that's true of each of one of you. No matter what you've done, there's always something inside of you, that is worthy of forgiveness.

Worrying about the future

Another thing which stops inner peace is worrying about the future. People often think they need to worry about global warming, the credit crunch, the wars, the natural disasters, AIDS, and the cancers. But it's only worthwhile thinking about things you can do something about. If you can't do anything, why worry? In addition, you can't predict the future; It's totally uncertain.

On one occasion when I was just a school kid, my mother told me I was going to the dentist the following morning. I told my mum " Mummy don't send me to the dentist; you don't love me; you're sending me to the torturer." But try as I might, I couldn't get off it. When I went to bed that night, I was worried and didn't sleep well. The following morning my mother had to drag me to the dentist, and I was screaming and crying. But I eventually got to the surgery, my appointment had been cancelled. All that worry, all that crying for no reason. That was a very important experience for me. I learnt, there's no point worrying about the future, when you don't know what’s going to happen. Life is completely unpredictable. When you understand that, you can have peace of mind in the present moment.

You can have peace of mind, even when you're dying. Why not? No more worries about taxes, global warming or anything else, because you're soon, about to depart, The problems of the world become irrelevant. When there are no problems, you become peaceful. And because you never know how much time you've got left, you might as well be peaceful now. This was Ajahn Chah's great teaching to me, when I was sick in hospital. He came to visit me and gave me the sort of teaching you remember for the rest of your life. He told me " Brahmavamso you're either going to get better or you're going to die." That really didn't hurt at first, because it wasn't what I had expected. It wasn't the usual bedside manner of your best friend. But when I started to think about it, I realized that it meant the sickness wasn't going to last. That was such a relief. Sometimes, you meet people who have understood this; They are dying and supposedly in agony, but they still tell jokes. They're happy and peaceful.

You must also make peace with whatever you have to do in life, with your duties and responsibilities. Peace of mind is not achieved by always trying to do what you like. On the contrary, you find peace of mind, by making peace with whatever you are called to do. Whatever your role, whatever your duties, you can always have fun, enjoy it, put happiness into it and make peace with it. You can make peace and have fun with anything, anywhere. Peace of mind is not found by searching for a deep cave, in a perfect monastery; in a wonderful place high in the Himalayan Mountains. If you're looking for peace that way, you are looking for what Ajahn Chah called, a tortoise with a moustache. People look for the impossible and of course, they can't find it. There is no such thing as a tortoise with a moustache.

You find real peace of mind, by accepting your life as you have it now, even in the midst of great tragedy. What a wonderful thing that is. How do you find this peace? Let go of all the past and guilt, by forgiving, don't worry about the future, and learn to appreciate the moment. Do your duty and put fun into whatever you have to do.

Peace of mind is as free as the air: Drink it, enjoy it, and take it with you. It's always there, if only you look in the right place.

Ven. Ajahn Brahmavanso

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DDMBA Ontario December Dharma Events

2011-11-28T08:04:00.000-08:00

In case you are interested:

DDMBA Ontario December Dharma Events

DDMBA Ontario is pleased and honored to welcome Chan Teacher Venerable Guo Ming to Toronto to oversee a series of public events related to Chan practice from December 9 to 11, 2011

Dharma Instrument Training and Sharing Round Table

Friday, December 9, 7 – 9 pm
Location: 148 Fred Varley Drive, Unionville, ON, L3R 1T4 (Hwy 7 and Village PWY)
An opportunity to learn about Dharma Instruments and how they are used in various services and purposes. Open to all newcomers.
Followed by a round table sharing with Venerable Guo Ming.

One Day Meditation Retreat

· Saturday, December 10, 10am – 4:30pm

· Multifaith Centre, Main Hall (on 2nd floor), 569 Spadina Ave at Harbord St. Toronto, ON M5S 2J7 (inside Koffler House)

· Cost: $15 non-student, $10 per student (including vegetarian lunch)

· Email meditation.dharmadrum@gmail.com to register by Wed. December 7.

· The One Day Meditation Retreat includes periods of sitting meditation, exercise, walking meditation, and Dharma talks from the Venerable to encourage your practice. No prior meditation experience is required to participate in this retreat. Beginners welcome

Dharma Talk

Sunday, December 11, 10am – 12 pm (FREE, followed by vegetarian lunch, 12 – 1:30 pm)
Council Chamber of North York Civic Centre, 5100 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON, M2N 5V7
Dharma Talk in Mandarin, onsite English translation available

Great Compassion Repentance Service* and Precept Taking Ceremony

Sunday, December 11, 1:30 – 4 pm
Member’s Longue of North York Civic Centre, 5100 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON, M2N 5V7
*Please note that the chanting in Mandarin only; however, English written translations of the Great Compassionate Repentance Chanting are available for participants’ use.
To register for Precept Taking Ceremony, send email to ddmba.toronto@gmail.com.

All are welcome!

With palms joined,
DDMBA Ontario @ Toronto

--

Dec 3: 1 day mindfulness retreat at Mahavihara Temple

2011-11-28T06:25:00.000-08:00

Bhante Kovida is conducting a one-day mindfulness retreat at Mahavihara Temple, 4698 Kingston Rd...on Sat., December 3rd...9:30 am to 5:30 pm.

Bring your own lunch, tea and coffee will be provided, also bring a cushion in case there are not enough cushions. You can inform your friends. There will also be chi gong exercises for stress and emotional stress.

From 401, exit on Morningside going south, keep on your left, then turn left on Military Rd. and go to Kingston Rd...past Old Kingston Rd...turn right and go over the ravine, the temple is on the right...easy to find.

For more information about the retreat please email Bhante at buddhadipa@yahoo.ca or call Mahavihara Temple at 416-208-9276.

Buddhist Centre Toronto Mahavihara

4698 KINGSTON RD, Toronto, Ontario (416) 208-9276

Map: http://maps.google.ca/maps?q=Mahavihara+Temple,+Toronto&hl=en&sll=49.891235,-97.15369&sspn=42.975245,112.587891&vpsrc=1&hq=Mahavihara+Temple,&hnear=Toronto,+Toronto+Division,+Ontario&t=m&z=11

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Beware: Always install your 2 new tires on the rear.

2011-11-27T03:35:00.000-08:00

Sharing the following information with you:

For safety sake,

Don't install your new tires on the front.

A note from Michelin - Please watch this video :

http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=pXiWuCtE3cE

--

To Monica with Love...

2011-11-25T11:55:00.000-08:00

Monica is another long time tenant of mine.

Reluctantly I had to increase her monthly rent in the coming year. I sent her an email as notice for the the rent increase. She replied to me that the increase is okay to her as I have not done that for many years. She said she would try to maintain herself in good health so I can rely on my investment!!!

I answered back: "Yes I am very grateful that you are in good health, less for my investment sake and more because I care about you very much."

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Having tea with Bill & Charlotte yesterday...

2011-11-24T06:54:00.000-08:00

Bill and Charlotte have been my talent for 15 years, how time flies.

We usually meet once a year for 5 seconds to give me the post dated cheques. Yesterday I requested to go into their apartment to check on the broken faucet. I had 45 minutes before the start of my yoga class nearby so they invited me to have a cup of tea.

We socialized and talked about what have been happening in our lives for the past 15 years. We have a pretty good relationship and now Bill agrees to go to the condominium AGM for me. Yes, he has a better interest in the well-being of the condominium than I have.

Thank Bill & Charlotte for your tea. It is not easy to maintain a good relationship for a long time, even though, or especially, it is a landlord and tenant relationship .

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November 26: CAVALCADE OF LIGHTS

2011-11-22T10:21:00.000-08:00

In case you are interested:

CAVALCADE OF LIGHTS
flightpath Presented by Scotiabank
Saturday, November 26

This spectacular 45-year tradition features the lighting of the city of Toronto's official Christmas tree, fireworks and live musical performances. This year's show features award-winning artists Jarvis Church, Kellylee Evans, JRDN, rising star Justin Hines and singer Victoria Duffield.

Full schedule

Cavalcade of Lights is produced by the City of Toronto.

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Diana Recites Poetry on Ukraine's Got Talent

2011-11-19T19:56:00.000-08:00

Sharing the following You Tube Link with you:

The Six years old girl's recitation that made tears came out of your eyes...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=idnhApATqlg

For Chinese subtitle: http://www.tudou.com/programs/view/CtCd8JmeeaY/

Enjoy......

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It's a boy...

2011-11-18T08:41:00.001-08:00

Sharing some (actually quite a lot) of good news with you.

Tony's wife, Lulu, gave birth to a healthy baby boy last night. Both the mother and the son shared the same birthday. So happy for the Zeng family...

My good friend, Eva, will be a grand mother for the first time next Summer. Also her second daughter will be married in 2012 too, in Jamaica. I am positively jealous...

Amy, my cousin, will be married in February 2012 and moved to New Zealand. Congratulation to Ken and Amy...May you two live happily ever after...

Anthony's daughter will be married in September 2012 (if I remember the date correctly) in Toronto. I was so happy for Anthony when he told me that he had just found out this good news on her daughter's facebook; and we were travelling in China at that time.

I guess there are more good news to come, just that I have not found them out yet...

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Keep up the good work...

2011-11-15T08:17:00.000-08:00

I just went for my dental check-up today. The dentist said my gum and teeth were exceptionally in shape this time. He asked whatever I had been doing, kept it up.

I have returned from a two months trip few weeks ago. The trip inspired me to see things differently and had a better attitude towards life, which made me happier.

Also having Tony Zeng, my Chinese herbal physician, to give me Chinese Massage Therapy (推拿) on a regular basis surely helps.

With good attitude and healthy body, I received a good dental report (even though I still do not floss enough).

Everything and everyone are interrelated, when you do well, I do well too...

Karma......

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For those of us who love to keep warm and look good at the same time...

2011-11-11T16:15:00.000-08:00

Wear a scarf or wrap around you.

So many different ways: good video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W4ZHCm_Y1TY&feature=player_embedded#!

......because I cared about you.

--

--

Dhamma: The Buddha's Words

2011-11-09T20:14:00.000-08:00

Sharing the following email with you:

Words of wisdom...

On a certain day when the Blessed One
dwelt at Jetavana, the garden of Anathapindika,
a celestial deva came to him in the shape of a Brahman
and wearing clothing as white as snow.

The deva asked,
What is the sharpest sword?
What is the deadliest poison?
What is the fiercest fire?
What is the darkest night?"

The Blessed One replied,
The sharpest sword is a word spoken in wrath;
the deadliest poison is covetousness;
the fiercest fire is hatred;
the darkest night is ignorance.

The deva said,
What is the greatest gain?
What is the greatest loss?
Which armour is invulnerable?
What is the best weapon?

The Blessed One replied,
The greatest gain is to give to others;
the greatest loss is to greedily receive without gratitude;
an invulnerable armor is patience;
the best weapon is wisdom.

The deva said,
Who is the most dangerous thief?
What is the most precious treasure?
Who can capture the heavens and the earth?
Where is the securest treasure-trove?

The Blessed One replied,
The most dangerous thief is unwholesome thought;
the most precious treasure is virtue;
the heavens and the earth may be captured by the mind's eye;
surpassing rebirth locates the securest treasure-trove.

The deva asked,
What is attraction?
What is repulsion?
What is the most horrible pain?
What is the greatest enjoyment?

The Buddha replied,
Attraction is wholeness;
repulsion is unwholesomeness;
the most tormenting pain is bad conscience;
the height of bliss is redeemed awakening.

The deva asked,
What causes ruin in the world?
What breaks off friendships?
What is the most violent fever?
Who is the best physician?"

The Blessed One replied,
Ruin in the world is caused by ignorance;
friendships are broken off by envy and selfishness;
the most violent fever is hatred;
the best physician is the Buddha;

The deva continued,
Now I have only one doubt to resolve and absolve:
What is it fire cannot burn,
nor moisture corrode,
nor wind crush down,
but is able to enlighten the whole world.

The Buddha replied,
Blessing!
Neither fire, nor moisture, nor wind
can destroy the blessing of good deeds,
and blessings enlighten the whole world.

Hearing these answers,
the deva was overflowing with joy.
Then clasping hands, bowed down in respect and
disappeared suddenly from the presence of the Buddha.

--

Basic Risk Management

2011-11-06T05:13:00.000-08:00

Sharing the following email with you:

A naked and drunken woman boards a cab in London one night.

The Indian driver keeps staring and does not start the cab.

Woman: Haven't you ever seen a naked woman before???

Indian Driver: I am not staring at you lady..... just wondering where you kept money to pay me!

Moral:

That is what most of the American and European banks failed to do (i.e.)
Assessing repayment capacity before taking in the exposure!!!

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Warning on taking pics from your cell phone and posting them !

2011-11-01T03:39:00.000-07:00

Sharing the following email with you:

Your children/grandchildren can be tracked right to their bedrooms. If you didn't know this, please watch!

Please watch before deleting, and pass it on!! This is unbelievable
PLEASE PASS THIS INFO TO ANYONE YOU KNOW WHO TAKES PICTURES WITH THEIR CELL OR SMART PHONE AND POSTS THEM ON LINE.

I want everyone of you to watch this and then be sure to share with all your family and friends. Its REALLY important info, about what your posting things on your cell phones can do TO YOU!!! So much technology out there these days so beware............. PLEASE TAKE THE TIME TO WATCH THIS VIDEO, AND TAKE THE RECOMMENDED PRECAUTIONS.

If you have children or grandchildren you NEED to watch this. I had no idea this could happen from taking pictures on the blackberry or other smartphone. It's scary.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2vARzvWxwY

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Bubble Magic

2011-10-20T07:35:00.000-07:00

Sharing the following links with you:

Hi Friends,

Don't work so hard, life is short, take a few minutes for your enjoyment. Here's some thing amazing and cost you nothing. Enjoy it.

http://www.wimp.com/bubblemagic/

Joseph

Inpiration from Steve Job

2011-10-10T19:11:00.000-07:00

Steve Jobs once said: "Being kicked out by Apple was one of the best experiences in my life, it let me reflect and grow."

This statement inpires me to notice that we need to go through different aspects of life to cultivate our wisdom and compassion.

You've got to find what you love...

2011-10-09T06:54:00.000-07:00

Steve Jobs' speech

http://news.stanford.edu/news/2005/june15/jobs-061505.html

This is a prepared text of the Commencement address delivered by Steve Jobs, CEO of Apple Computer and of Pixar Animation Studios, on June 12, 2005.

Very encouraging...

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Karen Armstrong makes her TED Prize wish: the Charter for Compassion

2011-10-05T18:15:00.000-07:00

Sharing the following link with you:

You might find her speech interesting.

http://www.ted.com/talks/karen_armstrong_makes_her_ted_prize_wish_the_charter_for_compassion.html/

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My living will

2011-10-01T07:13:00.000-07:00

Sharing the following email with you:

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Youtube: Anuradha Koirala -CNN Heroes 2011

2011-09-21T17:35:00.000-07:00

Another inspirational video

Human suffering makes me think I am so lucky.

My family are so lucky to live as we do.

As a women and a mother, I admire the work these women do.

Give help to organizations such as these when you can.

Sujeevaa

click the link:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gKzDtYJR2b4&feature=related

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Living Life to its Fullness...

2011-09-10T17:22:00.000-07:00

I wrote to my friends:

"Let's all live our life to its fullness...

May our friendship shines..."

******************

AK replied: "I would live life only three quarter full. To live a full life is tiring."

Bev replied: "Ha ha ha. I thought I'm the only one who complain about being 24/7 tired!

I replied:

"Fullness can be in terms of quality as well as quantity, my dear Shi Xiong...
In Chan = when you rest (sleep), you really rest; when you eat, you really eat..."

AK replied:

"Fullness obviously means quality rather than quantity, and tiring could be emotional rather than physical.

Ch'an question: how do you live life to the fullness with 平常心？"

---

DO NOT CALL LIST

2011-08-31T00:33:00.000-07:00

Cell Phone numbers in Canada go public this month and all cell phone numbers are being released to telemarketing companies. To prevent this, go to the following web-site for Canadian Telephone Numbers: [www.lnnte-dncl.gc.ca]

It is the National DO NOT CALL list. It will only take a minute of your time. It blocks your number for five (5) years. It takes about 20 seconds. If your number is alreadly on the list you can extend that for another 5 years.

---

Youtube: Human Planet

2011-08-26T16:38:00.000-07:00

天地何其壯闊！生命何其多彩！

Life is Amazing ...

http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=2HiUMlOz4UQ&vq=large

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DDMBA Ontario 3 Day Introductory Huatou Meditation Retreat Sept 2-5 2011

2011-08-25T07:50:00.000-07:00

Event reminder:

DDMBA Ontario 3 Day Introductory Huatou Meditation Retreat

When: Friday, September 2 (8pm) – Monday, September 5 (2pm)

Where: Northumberland Heights Conference & Retreat Centre, 795 Northumberland Heights Road, Alnwick/Haldimand Township, Cobourg Ontario K9A 4J8

Cost: $185 (meals and accommodation included)

DDMBA Ontario is pleased to announce that Chan Teacher Venerable Guo Xing will be leading a 3 Day Introductory Huatou Meditation Retreat, beginning Friday, September 2 at 8pm and ending Monday, September 5 at 2pm. The retreat will be held at Northumberland Heights Retreat Centre, just one hour east of Toronto in a rich, natural setting that is conducive to the peaceful practice of Chan.

The practice focus for this retreat will be introduction to Huatou, a method unique to the Chan school which has been used widely since the 12th century. Huatou can literally be translated as the "origin of words", or that which comes before words and language. This refers to the state of mind before any words or intellection has arisen, and more precisely, that which exists before thought arises.

When we investigate a Huatou, we utilize questions, such as "What is my original face before my parents gave birth to me," or "What is wu(emptiness)?" These puzzling, oftentimes illogical questions rouse a sense of deep investigation, which is referred to as "the doubt sensation". With this sense of urgent questioning, one pushes oneself to find an answer, yet paradoxically, the answer cannot be found by using the intellect. The answer is beyond all words and concepts, and essentially is the source of all words and concepts, and is thus called Huatou.

No prior experience in practicing Huatou is necessary to attend this retreat. However, in order to receive the most benefit from this retreat, some prior experience with meditation is assumed, such as a prior introductory meditation class or regular sitting practice. This retreat is suitable for both beginners as well as experienced practitioners who would like to deepen or extend the practice of Huatou under the experience of a seasoned Chan monastic.

To register for this retreat, please go to http://www.ddmba-ontario.ca fill out the application form and submit to meditation.dharmadrum@gmail.com.

We hope to see you at the retreat, and please be sure to visit our website for upcoming events.

Peace and Harmony,

DDMBA Ontario

With Joined Palms

---

2011 Family Vacation

2011-08-22T18:11:00.000-07:00

Hi guys,

We are safely back in Sunnyvale arriving late last night.

Everything went well with the second leg of the east coast trip.

The only problem encountered was a luggage inspection due of the slack-line ratchet.

The inspector asked if I had "tools" in my luggage, and I didn't know what he was talking about.

I will be uploading pictures from the trip once I have them sorted out.

Highlights for me this year - tubing, basketball game, bocce and our (annual) obstacle course!

I have already thought of one new game to play next year.

Plus I am thinking about getting everyone a T-shirt (with custom name) because I think this year's group photo was kind of hodge-podge.

LP

----

I agree with Laurie that this yr's group photo was terrible (in terms of color scheme)...that I thought of the same that next yr, I'll buy everyone a shirt from China of the same color. but if Laurie has a better idea, I'll leave it up to him.

For me this yr, the highlight was tubing, watching everyone from the big bay windows, and catching up with everyone since we haven't seen others for a whole yr! even the cooking wasn't a problem since it's almost down to a pattern now (Haha!)

I think Margaret and Olivia did so much chores as usual...that I think the older kids gotta find a way to contribute more to the chores without being asked (one can always ask "what can I do to help?" in the kitchen...perhaps each kid say can ask that question 3 times a day, as a suggestion....:-) :-) :-) !!!

However the no waterfront is a bit of a minus for me, that I hope next yr will fix!

Max was so sad to leave Canada since he had such a good get-together with everyone that lots of tears were shed...(it was more like a tap was on)...just to show that he really misses everyone...! He is now happily back to school, but going through the start of school jitters.

For the banquet, I was really impressed that Dad was so well liked by everyone, and so much effort was put together by others for him that nite. Thanks Olivia for organizing this. It must have been so much effort and stress. You are amazing.

Nancy

---

Hello Family!

I'm glad this family trip allowed all of us to reunite once again, before spreading off. Natalie is back in Gans, Adri will be back in Montreal next week, Ching will be in London, Ruby will be in HK, the rest of the Hadleys are back in Beijing, ULP and Aunt Su are back in Cali, dad will be back in HK ... etc. I had a few favourites this trip.. I really enjoyed tubing and the family speeches (as improv as they were). I also found it very amusing when the family would watch others slackline outside, giving their encouragement, critique and applause.

Thanks to Mom and Aunt Margaret for planning such a wonderful trip. Thanks to all the Aunts and Uncles for all the hectic grocery shopping and lovely cooked meals. Thanks to Dad for surviving yet another strenuous drive, and for making the time from his busy schedule. Thanks to Uncle Laurie for the fun games, including the Annual Obstacle Course and slacklining. I really enjoyed playing the games with the adults too, even though they proved to be bigger cheaters than the kids. =) Kidding!

I missed having a waterfront too, but I really enjoyed swimming/tubing in the river. Thanks Rio for lending me your lifejacket! And thanks Jacqs for teaching me to swim without a lifejacket!

I think this year, some of us were too busy to fully figure out and plan the family photo. And I agree that the most successful photos were Maine's (white t and jeans) and North Carolina (white shirt and khakis). For next year, I think either solid coloured top (Aunt Nancy) or a tshirt with "New Hampshire 2012" or something related to the trip/year (ULP). Or if you want, I can plan some sort of t-shirt making activity, like tie-dye, t-shirt painting etc.

And as for the chores, perhaps we can come up with a better schedule next year, that not only includes the preparation and cleaning up of meals but also laundry or whatever else that needs a lending hand.

The banquet was tons of fun and very successful. Thanks Mom for putting in so much of your time and effort. And thanks Aunt Margaret for helping out and being my mom's "muse". Hahaha! If anyone wants a copy of the slideshow, perhaps I can upload it somewhere? Or shrink it so it will fit in an email?

Once again, thanks to everyone for such another amazing trip. When I tell friends about our trips, everyone is always jealous. We have such an amazing family. I love everyone!!!

Antoinette

P.S. Family photos will be sent out asap. I haven't even unpacked yet because I've been so busy with work.

---

Hello everyone. This is Rio. I really enjoyed the trip. I like having fun with my family. I like the water balloon fight.

I like the idea that Leigh Ann think of for the Kids Club. Thank you Leigh Ann and Morgan for sharing their room with me.

PS. Thank you everyone for organizing the trip.

Rio

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Rio, you'r'e so cute. I really enjoyed the walk along the river on the pebbles with you and sitting by the waterfall...I hope your dad showed you the nice picture we had with you. and I hope you bring your brother and mom with you next time.

ANP

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Dear Family,

I had an awesome time just relaxing and spending time with all of you. Since we don't always have a big family gathering due to distance, it was very memorable. I thank Aunt Su for cooking such yummy chicken and dinner, and Uncle Laurie for bringing the slack line, and planning the obstacle course. I thank Aunt Margaret and Aunt Olivia for picking out this house, and putting so much time and effort into this vacation. I also thank them and all the other aunts and uncles for cooking, cleaning and keeping everything in order. I thank Uncle Keith and Sam for barbecuing. I had a really fun time playing basketball with Uncle Sam, my parents, Uncle Laurie, and the kids -- adri, max, and Jacqs, and also when playing water polo and categories with Toni, Adri, Jacqs, Ching, Max, Ruby, Morgan, Leigh-Ann, Uncle Sam and Laurie, and Rio. Playing all those games - say anything, pictionary, boulder dash, and the game with picking out the celebrities names from a hat- created even more memories and I thank ULP and especially Toni, for being the games master. Being in the Kids Klub was interesting and I hope to do that again next year, what's the new project Leigh-Ann? 祖母 (Pops)和我有一個非常有趣的時間打乒乓球。我希望她繼續發揮這項運動，因為她與其他人打得真的很好，享受遊戲。

All in all, I can't wait till next year when we all meet up again, and hopefully Natalie, Matthew, Aunty Ai and Rio will attend.

Thanks for this wonderful trip,

Joey

---

Hello Beloved Family Members,

Thanks for the last stupendous eight and a half days in New York! Everyday was so significant to me since we were able come together, bond and share laughter, despite the distance and other struggles. However my hi-lights would be relaxing in the indoor pool, tubing, the talent show, skyping with Nanny and the obstacle course.

As for a token of appreciation to each member: Firstly thank you to all the PARENTS for your hard work since I'm sure this trip added much stress on top of everything else. And definitely to Aunt Margaret and Aunt Olivia for working so hard to find the house. Thanks for the wonderful meals each day- esp. to Aunt Sue since you taught me how to make the onion pancakes. Moreover, thank you mom for bringing us to the outlet malls and celebrating Joey's birthday with cake and a Spaghetti dinner. During the day, I was so glad to see the little kids- Leigh-Ann, Morgan, Rio and Joey working away on the coasters and bracelets for Kids Klub. I'm sure everyone loved their surprise and I surely loved my coaster and appreciated Leigh-Ann and Toni for teaching me how to make bracelets. Also thank you Adri for helping me with some math questions! And who would forget the playful game of basketball? Thanks Uncle Sam, Uncle Laurie, Adri, Max, and my Cheung's for making it so fun. Thanks for planning the 2nd edition of the cat faces photo Toni. As for the nightly entertainment, thank you to the kids and some adults- Uncle Sam, Uncle Laurie, Aunt Nancy, Uncle Keith, Aunt Margaret, my mom and even 公公 for participating. And of course thank you to the photographers-Uncle Sam, Toni and Uncle Alfred for capturing these moments, and Aunt Margaret (in advance) who will be making these memories into something that will be remembered forever.

For improvement, let's remember to plan who will buy groceries. I think the Cheung's would prefer AC next time. And I agree with planning the family photos better next time!

Thanks again! I hope you enjoy the rest of the summer! See most of you in December and hopefully more members can join the summer vacay next year!

-Jacqs<3

---

Hi everyone,

Thanks for including us to the wonderful trip we had this summer. We had lots of fun playing with the cousins and talking to adults that we haven't spoken to in a long time. Our highlights this summer would be tubing, cat faces 2nd edition, swimming in the indoor pool, being members of the kids club and swat team, playing games with our cousins and having sleepovers with rio:)

Thanks to mom and Aunt Olivia for getting us this house, everyone finally gets their own room. Thanks to the adults for doing all the work, cooking yummy meals (Aunt Fanny I'm still not convinced that you don't have a special sauce), for participating in this year's games and planning, organizing and grocery shopping. Thanks to Toni and UPL for planning awesomatastic games for us to play, we enjoyed playing Say Anything and the game with picking out the celebrities names from a hat. Thank you to the photographers who took pictures, we can't wait to see them! We also want to give a SPECIAL thank you to Joey, Jacqs and Rio for doing almost everything with us, we had lots of fun with you guys in the Kid's Klub, in the pool, in swat team and in our PJ parties.

We will never forget this trip :D

Leigh-Ann + Morgan

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Dear Family,

Just writing to say thanks for another great family vacation! These family vacations are a great way to spend a week together since we are now all living so far apart. It’s nice that we can enjoy a week doing many activities and have made it a yearly experience. I think I can say for all the kids, that every year, we look forward to these trips and getting to see all the cousins, aunts, uncles and grandparents once again. For all those who have Facebook, we start planning activities and reminisce about old trips months before the next vacation. That just goes to show how much we all anticipate and how excited we are for these family vacations.

I had lots of fun playing an intense game of basketball with The Cheungs, Max, Uncle Laurie and Sam, because when else are we going to be able to do that? I loved tubing, playing water polo, volleyball and all the water gun fights with all the cousins. I really enjoyed how all the parents participated in a lot of the games this year, which made it all the more fun! I think Master, Apprentice and the two babies, as well as the Obstacle Course have now become an annual event, or should I say competition. This year’s talent show was full of laughs and even the speeches for the grandparent’s were unforgettable.

Although there may not have been a waterfront directly nearby, AC and a few other problems here and there, I'm sure that when we all look back to the vacation, we won't be thinking of those little things. But rather, remembering all of the laughs and fun we had on this trip. How could we forget, watching all of the family's talents, reenacting a photo 15 years later or keeping your bums up when tubing?

All in all, thanks to all the aunts and uncles for planning this trip, driving 8 hours each way, cooking/barbecuing delicious meals and cleaning up after all us messy kids.

Already looking forward to next year’s trip! Castle, here we come!

Adrianna

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You'll be shocked to learn how hotel bed sheets are washed in India.

2011-08-21T16:18:00.000-07:00

My friend sent me a power-point titled "You'll be shocked to learn how hotel bed sheets are washed in India." and asked about my experience in India?

After viewing the power-point, I have the following comments:

"While I was in India, the river that we lived near by had clear water. All our clothing was washed there and iron pressed before it was returned to us. We swam at that river too as we were told a swim in that holy river would washed away many Kalpas of Karma. Why not? Who doesn't want to be purified?

I have no problem with the cleanliness, what I cannot stand is their attitude (or mode of thinking) which I am not accustom to.

Yes when we watch the DVD "The story of India" the sights are so so beautiful, in reality, there are many facades to a story. I love the movies 羅生鬥, it has "depth".

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder...

What we will encounter is determined by our KARMA...

As I said to Bev this Monday, the Dharma practice that I am undertaking now is "to culminate wholesome roots, merits and good conditions, and I leave the rest to LIFE/GOD/KARMA or the Ultimate Supreme Consciousness (whatever you like to call it).

Plan without planning... "

***************************

A.K. wrote:

As I learned more about the difference between Indian Buddhism and Chinese Buddhism, and likewise, Tibetan Buddhism, I am starting to have a deeper appreciation about the differences in these cultures. These cultures and attitudes are deeply ingrained and we still see their manifestations today. Did Buddhism exert an influence on these cultures or the other way around, that is, these cultural differences gave Buddhism their distinct flavor.

Also, we should not equate Buddhism with Indian tradition. In Vedic tradition, Buddhism is considered un-orthodox. But this is another topic.

A. K.

*******************

UT: August 27, Lecture by His Holiness the 31st Sakya Trizin

2011-08-16T07:18:00.000-07:00

In case you are interested:

His Holiness the 31st Sakya Trizin, the head of the Tibetan Buddhist Sakya tradition, will speak at the University of Toronto on Saturday, August 27, from 5-7 pm. His lecture will be entitled “How to Incorporate Buddhist Practice in Daily Life,” and the location is the Medical Sciences Building, 1 King’s College Circle.

The Seat in exile of the Sakya lineage is in Dehra Dun, India, where His Holiness has established the Sakya Centre, College, Nunnery, Institute and Academy. His network of centers spans Europe, Asia, and North America, including a local center here in Toronto. For more on his activities in Toronto this August, see http://www.sakyatoronto.com/ .

Tickets can be purchased at the following locations:

Riwoche Tibetan Buddhist Temple, 28 Heintzman Street
Shangrila Tibetan & Asian Cuisine, 1600 Queen St. West
Tibet Kitchen (queen st and dowling ave)
Tsampa cafe (queen st and dowling ave)
Tibet Emporium (queen st and jameson ave)
by phone (647) 233-5159 or (647) 892-5114

http://buddhiststudies.chass.utoronto.ca/lecture-by-hh-sakya-trizin/

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A nice saying...

2011-07-29T14:33:00.000-07:00

Sharing the following email with you:

2 GET and 2 GIVE creates 2 many problems.

But......... (just double it)

4 GET and 4 GIVE solves all the problems!!

Youtube: Canada New Polymar Bank Note

2011-07-27T13:15:00.000-07:00

Sharing the following youtube with you:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8X_hw8ze5qo

--

HOW MUCH DO YOU REMEMBER - HK 1950 ? ? ?

2011-07-25T12:19:00.000-07:00

Hi L.Z.:

I don't know if you have already seen this. If not, then you might find it interesting - I did.

Luv Monica X

https://docs.google.com/present/edit?id=0AV0aiI1yxBdPZG42NHQzal85aHF6anNoZzg&hl=en_US

Monica:

In the link, there was a cinema in Tsimshatsui which was around the corner of place where I used to live. I watched a lots of Japanese movies there. I do not even remember the name of the cinema but it brought back memories...

Love
L.Z.

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DDMBA Ontario July Special Dharma Events

2011-07-18T14:01:00.000-07:00

In case you are interested:

DDMBA Ontario July Special Dharma Events

Venerable Guo-jiann will be visiting Toronto the first time from Taiwan. Venerable Guo-jiann is Director of Department of International Relations and Development, DDM. Please join us for special dharma events from July 22 to 24, 2011.

Welcome Potluck Dinner

Friday, July 22, from 7pm to 9pm
154 Poyntz Ave, Toronto, ON, M2N 1J3 (at Sheppard and Yonge)
FREE and please bring a vegetarian dish to share with all

Dharma Talk

“Chan in Daily Life”
Saturday, July 23, from 3:30pm to 5:30pm
154 Poyntz Ave, Toronto, ON, M2N 1J3 (at Sheppard and Yonge)
Talk in Mandarin, onsite English translation available

Great Compassion Repentance Ceremony*

Sunday, July 24, from 10 am to 2 pm
154 Poyntz Ave, Toronto, ON, M2N 1J3 (at Sheppard and Yonge)
FREE and please bring a vegetarian dish to share with all
*Please note that the chanting in Mandarin only; however, English written translations of the Great Compassionate Repentance Chanting are available for participants’ use.

All are welcome!

With palms joined, DDMBA Ontario @ Toronto

http://www.ddmba-ontario.ca

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WHAT is hard to break ?

2011-07-15T13:37:00.000-07:00

Sharing the following email with you:

WHAT is hard to break ?

What is the hardest thing to break?

Diamonds are hard to find but not hard to break.

What is the hardest thing to break then?

The answer is: HABIT

If you break the H, you still have A BIT.
If you break the A, you still have BIT.
If you break the B, you still have IT!!!
Hey, after you break the T in IT, there is still the 'I'.
The person at the end of the day, is the root of all the problems. Cute???

Now, I know why HABIT is so hard to break.
Its destiny is in its name.

The word itself.

My lecturer taught me never, never, never to ASSUME .
Because it makes an 'ASS' out of 'U' and 'ME'....

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Charities That Thank You For Your Donation

2011-07-07T12:32:00.000-07:00

Sharing the following email with you:

Do not know how true the statements are...

Charities That Thank You For Your Donation

Keep these facts in mind when "donating". As you open your pockets for yet another natural disaster, keep the following facts in mind; we have listed them from the highest (worse paid offender) to the lowest (least paid offender).

The worst offender was yet again for the 11th year in a row is, UNICEF - CEO, receives $1,200,000 per year, (plus use of a Royal Royce for his exclusive use where ever he goes, and an expense account that is rumoured to be well over $150,000.) Only pennies from the actual donations goes to the UNICEF cause (less than $0.14 per dollar of income).

The second worst offender this year is Marsha J. Evans, President and CEO of the American Red Cross...for her salary for the year ending in 2009 was $651,957 plus expenses. Enjoys 6 weeks - fully paid holidays including all related expenses during the holiday trip for her and her husband and kids. including 100% fully paid health & dental plan for her and her family, for life. This means out of every dollar they bring in, about $0.39 goes to related charity causes.

The third worst offender was again for the 7th time was, Brian Gallagher, President of the United Way receives a $375,000 base salary (U.S. funds), plus so many numerous expense benefits it's hard to keep track as to what it is all worth, including a fully paid lifetime membership for 2 golf courses (1 in Canada, and 1 in the U.S.A.), 2 luxury vehicles, a yacht club membership,3 major company gold credit cards for his personal expenses...and so on. This equates to about $0.51 per dollar of income goes to charity causes.

Fourth worst offender who was also again in the fourth spot, for every year since this information has been made available from the start 1998 is amazingly yet again, World Vision President (Canada) receives $300,000 base salary, (plus supplied - a home valued in the $700,000 - $800,000 dollar value range, completely furnished, completely paid all housing expenses, including taxes, water/sewer, telephone/fax, HD/high speed cable, weekly maid service and pool/yard maintenance, fully paid private schooling for his children, upscale automobile and an $55,000 personal expense account for clothing/food, with a $125,000 business expense account). Get this, because it is a "religious based" charity, it pays, little to no taxes, can receive government assistance and does not have to declare were the money goes. Only about $0.52 of earned income per dollar is available for charity causes.

Of the sixty some odd "charities" we looked at, the lowest paid (President/C.E.O/Commissioner) was heading up a charity group right here in Canada. We found, believe it or not, it was......

Ready for this...

I think you might be surprised...

It is, none other than...

The Salvation Army's Commissioner Todd Bassett receives a salary of only $13,000 per year (plus housing) for managing this $2 Billion dollar organization. Which means about $0.93 per dollar earned, is readily available and goes back out to local charity causes...truly amazing...and well done "Sally Anne"

No further comment is necessary..."Think Twice" before you give to your charity of choice as to which one really does the best for the most - or the least for the most, for that matter.

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One of the best ads...

2011-07-06T12:11:00.000-07:00

Sharing the following email with you:

THIS IS REALLY REALLY GOOD.. STAY FOR THE END......

Warning: Don't watch this alone in the dark !...

Try and guess what this commercial is for … BEFORE it ends....…

It's one of the best ads I've ever seen

CLICK HERE

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Three idiots

2011-07-05T12:40:00.000-07:00

Here is the link of 三个白痴.3.Idiots.2009.
http://www.tudou.com/programs/view/l4b6dY8o5Jg/

Comment from A.K.:

Hi,

Thank you for sharing a good movie.

It has a bit of everything. Funny, entertaining: there are some Bollywood songs and dances-how can you make an Indian movie without them-, scenes that bring tears to your eyes, beautiful love story with gorgeous lead man and lady, and yet an attempt to tackle some serious issues facing modern society.

I had a great time watching the movie, but then a little later questions started to arise in my mind. How is it possible that a person who challenges the established order of society and its prevailing values could survive so easily, win over friends and foes, not only excel in it but also be successful both materially and spiritually, and most of all, score so well with a gorgeous babe? This is every young man's dream, and no wonder the movie is so successful.

As we grow older, we realize that stories do not always have happy endings. People who challenge the prevailing values of society are often treated with disdain, if not scorn and ostracism. The movie succeeds by giving us a fantasized version of reality-you can go your own way, assert your individuality and be highly successful in the world.

This is the spiritual path with the difficult part taken out. This might happen to a rare few who are extremely lucky（有福報）, but for most, the path is laden with hard work, pain and sacrifice. This is the realm of religion, and we must be able to tell the difference between religious practice and entertainment.

But all in all, I enjoyed the movie. It does attempt to address some central themes in modern commercial society: efficiency as a supreme value, man as an appendage to the machine, alienation of young people in the System, fierce competitiveness of society, etc. It reminds me of Charlie Chaplin movie about automation in the 30's.

The final thought is: what would Buddha say about it?

A.K.

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2011 Chan Family Camp at DDRC 7/27 - 7/31

2011-07-04T10:38:00.000-07:00

In case you are interested:

Dear DDM Friends,

I am forwarding an exciting family camp offered by DDRC from July 27 to 31. Please see camp details and registration below.

2011 Chan Family Camp at DDRC, July 27 to 31, 2011

Camp Program: http://ddmusa.org/ddmba_HQ/chinese/Download/2011_chancamp_schedule.pdf

Registration Form: http://ddmusa.org/ddmba_HQ/chinese/Download/application_family_zen_camp_2011.pdf

Camp Flyer: http://ddmusa.org/ddmba_HQ/chinese/Download/2011_chan_camp_flyer_chinese.pdf

Please help distribute to your family and friends.

Thank you.

With palms joined,

Angela Chang

DDMBA: July 10 One Day Chan Meditation Retreat

2011-07-03T09:17:00.000-07:00

In case you are interested:

DDMBA Ontario July One Day Chan Meditation Retreat

Event: One Day Chan Meditation Retreat 一日禪坐共修
Date: Sunday, July 10, 2011 7月10日星期日
Time: 9:30am to 4:30pm 上午九點半至下午四點半
Location: DDMBA Ontario, 154 Poyntz Avenue, Toronto, ON, M2N 1J4 法鼓山安省分會

This is a gentle reminder of the upcoming DDM One Day Retreat which will be taking place at our 154 Poyntz Avenue Centre on Sunday, July 10, from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm.

This form of practice is very beneficial for everyone; it gives us the chance to practice with a group over a longer period of time. Furthermore, the One Day Retreat is an excellent opportunity for deepening one's practice. Participants for the One Day Retreat should ideally have practiced meditation for a considerable length of time, preferably with some formal meditation training.

Sitting meditation periods are followed by walking meditation, gentle stretching exercises and mindful work periods. The environment of the retreat is designed to promote mindfulness in everything we do.

To receive the full benefits of this form of group practice, we encourage you attend the entire event.

Also, be sure to wear loose, warm and comfortable clothing suited to the long sitting periods. DDM provides cushions, sitting mats, towels and a light vegetarian lunch. While a conducive and relax atmosphere is maintained in the retreat, participants should understand that it is still a serious occasion dedicated for practice. In the interest of respecting your own and others’ practice, please provide advance notice should you be arriving to the retreat late or leaving early without valid reasons.

In the spirit of sharing with the community of Chan practitioners, participants of this retreat are also encouraged to contribute a vegetarian dish or snack for the retreat lunch.Please note that dishes contributed should not contain any form of onions (including green onions), any form of garlics, chimes as well as egg products. If you would like to submit a dish, please send an email tomeditation.dharmadrum@gmail.com, no later than Thursday, July 7.

Kindly RSVP meditation.dharmadrum@gmail.com by July 7 should you plan to attend the retreat and, if you plan to bring a dish, inform us about the dish that you would bring.

The event is offered free of charge while any donations to support events like this are greatly appreciated.

With Palms Joined,
DDMBA Ontario
www.ddmba-ontario.ca

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A message to young women

2011-07-02T06:38:00.000-07:00

Sharing the following email with you:

What will you do if you aren't afraid?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AdvXCKFNqTY

Share this with your daughters and young female friends. Sheryl Sandberg, Facebook - speaking to Barnard 2011 Graduates. Wish someone had talked to me like this when I was in my twenties!

S.

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21 Small Habits That Will Help You to Live a Simpler Life

2011-06-21T06:19:00.000-07:00

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21 Small Habits That Will Help You to Live a Simpler Life

1. Breathe.

2. Do one thing at a time.

3. Write it all down.

4. Do all your food shopping once a week.

5. Stop doing what you don’t like doing anymore.

6. Stop trying to please everyone.

7. Stop trying to do things perfectly.

8. Pack your bag before you go to bed.

9. Throw out the things you haven’t used in 1 year.

10. Ask yourself simplifying questions every day.

11. Keep everything in its place.

12. Cook more food than you’ll eat.

13. Write shorter emails.

14. Ask instead of guessing.

15. Use a minimalistic workspace.

16. Check everything just once a day.

17. Choose small daily acts of kindness.

18. Don’t make mountains out of molehills.

19. Spend 15 minutes each Sunday to plan the next week.

20. Cancel subscriptions for things you rarely get around to watching or reading anyway.

21. Spend more time with people that help you to keep things simple.

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Condolence to the Capawan & Lu Family

2011-06-10T08:04:00.000-07:00

Miss Kristen Capawan, the daughter of my good friend Erin passed away in Chicago yesterday.

Our deep condolence to the Capawan & Lu family.

In lieu of flowers, the family wishes donations in memory of Kristen directed to Loyola University Health System, Cardinal Bernadine Cancer Center through the Giving to Loyola tab at www.loyolamedicine.org.

Here's link to Kristen's obituary

http://legacy.suburbanchicagonews.com/obituaries/stng-napervillesun/obituary.aspx?n=kristen-capawan&pid=151724024

May Kristen be reborn into a realm that is full of Bodhisattvas and Dharma.

May the Triple Gems be with her always.

Boundless blessings...

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The Miracle Drink: Carrot, Beet Root and Apple

2011-05-06T15:20:00.000-07:00

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Drink : Carrot, Beet Root and Apple

This MIRACLE DRINK has been circulating for a long time long ago. It is worth your while to take note. There is a celebrity Mr. Seto who swears by it. He wants to make it public to draw the attention of people who have cancers. This is a drink that can protect bad cells forming in your body or it will restrain its growth! Mr. Seto had lung cancer. He was recommended to take this drink by a famous Herbalist from China. He has taken this drink diligently for 3 months and now his health is restored, and he is ready to take a pleasure trip. Thanks to this drink! It does not hurt for you to try.

It is like a Miracle Drink! It is simple:
You need one beet root, one carrot and one apple that combine together to make the JUICE !

Wash the above, cut with the skin on into pieces and put them into the juicer and immediately you drink the juice. You can add some lime or lemon for more refreshing taste.

This Miracle Drink will be effective for the following ailments:

1. Prevent cancer cells to develop. It will restrain cancer cells to grow.
2. Prevent liver, kidney, pancreas disease and it can cure ulcer as well.
3. Strengthen the lung, prevent heart attack and high blood pressure.
4. Strengthen the immune system
5. Good for the eyesight, eliminate red and tired eyes or dry eyes
6. Help to eliminate pain from physical training, muscle ache
7. Detoxify, assist bowel movement, eliminate constipation. Therefore it will make skin healthy & LOOK more radiant. It is God sent for acne problem.
8. Improve bad breath due to indigestion, throat infection,
9. Lessen menstrual pain
10. Assist Hay Fever Sufferer from Hay Fever attack.

There is absolutely no side effect. Highly nutritious and easily absorbs! Very effective if you need to loose weight. You will notice your immune system will be improved after 2 week routine. Please make sure to drink immediately from the juicer for best effect.

WHEN TO DRINK IT:

DRINK IT FIRST THING IN THE MORNING WITH THE EMPTY STOMACH! AFTER ONE HOUR YOU CAN EAT BREAKFAST. FOR FAST RESULTS DRINK 2 TIMES A DAY, IN THE MORNING AND BEFORE 5 P.M.

YOU WILL NEVER REGRET! IT DOES NOT COST YOU MUCH MONEY! PLEASE CIRCULATE TO YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS.

--

Youtube: Balancing

2011-05-03T13:27:00.000-07:00

Don't move, don't breathe....just watch.....Balance

http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=jJrzIdDUfT4&vq=medium

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Buddha's hands: Exquisite moves

2011-04-24T18:04:00.000-07:00

Simply magnificent, absolutely worth seeing...

Check this link:

http://college.chinese.cn/conference09/article/2009-12/12/content_93218.htm

Best Joke of the Year

2011-04-15T13:44:00.000-07:00

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This was nominated for best joke of the year - worth sharing.

A Somali arrives in Vancouver as a new immigrant to Canada. He stops the first person he sees walking down the street and says... 'Thank you Mr. Canadian for letting me in this country, giving me housing, money for food, free medical care, free education and no taxes!'

The passerby says, 'You are mistaken, I am Mexican.'

The man goes on and encounters another passerby. ' Thank you for having such a beautiful country here in Canada!'

The person says, 'I not Canadian, I Vietnamese.'

The new arrival walks further, and the next person he sees he stops, shakes his hand and says, 'Thank you for the wonderful Canada!'

That person puts up his hand and says, 'I am from Middle East , I am not Canadian!'

He finally sees a nice lady and asks, 'Are you a Canadian?'

She says, 'No, I am from Africa !'

Puzzled, he asks her, 'Where are all the Canadians?'

The African lady checks her watch and says...'Probably at work'

---

A beautiful coat!

2011-04-13T08:44:00.000-07:00

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I bet most people will watch this a couple times!

A beautiful coat!

YOU ARE GOING TO WATCH THIS MORE THAN ONCE ...

Take a look... I wonder how I would have reacted?

Aller voir ce lien, c'est pas mal surprenant!

http://elrellano.com/videos_online/4624/circo-roncalli.html

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UT: April 15, The Limited Reach of Religious Doctrine Lecture

2011-04-12T05:26:00.000-07:00

In case you are interested:

Reminder:

The University of Toronto/McMaster University Yehan Numata Buddhist Studies Program is pleased to announce a free, public lecture by Professor Gregory Schopen (UCLA): “The Limited Reach of Religious Doctrine: Debt, Slavery, and Who could Become a Buddhist Nun (or Monk) in Early India.”

Time and date: 5 pm, April 15, 2011

Place: Muzzo Family Alumni Hall 100, University of St. Michael’s College, St. Joseph Street, Toronto
Sponsored by the University of Toronto/McMaster University Yehan Numata Buddhist Studies Program

Professor Gregory Schopen (MA McMaster University, 1975; PhD ANU, 1979) has taught at the Universities of Michigan, Washington, Indiana, Texas, Stanford, and California. He was awarded a prestigious MacArthur “genius” fellowship (1985-1990) in recognition of his work in Buddhist Studies, which has been described as “Unquestionably the freshest, most exciting scholarship to have emerged in the field in half a century.” Professor Schopen’s numerous publications include:

• Bones, Stones and Buddhist Monks. University of Hawai’i Press, 1997.
• Buddhist Monks and Business Matters. University of Hawai’i Press, 2004.
• Figments and Fragments of Mahāyāna Buddhism in India. University of Hawai’i Press, 2005.

For more information, contact Shayne Clarke: clarsha@mcmaster.ca

http://buddhiststudies.chass.utoronto.ca/gregory-schopen/

-- The content of this message does not represent the views or opinions of the University of Toronto.--

UT: May 1, Learning Event on Buddhist Education for Youth

2011-04-08T20:24:00.000-07:00

In case you are interested:

Buddhist Education Foundation for Canada

and Buddhism & Psychology Student Union

present

Learning Event on Buddhist Education for Youth

Education for Compassion and Wisdom,

a holistic approach

Keynote address

By Professor Jack Miller

Professor, Curriculum, Teaching and Learning

The Ontario Institute for Studies in Education at the University of Toronto

Concurrent Workshops

Workshop Topics:

· Approaches to exploring Dharma with youth

· Expectation for Dharma learning in Buddhist communities in Toronto

· How are Dharma teachings relevant to the day-to-day life of children and youth in Toronto

Youth and adolescence/Parents/Teachers/Students/Educators/Community Organizers & Volunteers/Interested Members of the Buddhist communities & Public Welcome

When: Sunday, May 1, 2011, 1:30 p.m.

Where: Main Activity Hall, Multi-Faith Centre (Koffler House), University of Toronto, 569 Spadina Ave. (south of Harbord Street)

The event will commence with Artistic Performances by youth from Buddhist communities, And end with a joint discussion on possible strategies and action plans for youth education in Toronto

Further information will be posted on http://www.buddhistedufoundation.com/news.htm

Contact: Buddhist Education Foundation for Canada 416-910-4858 (Chris Ng)

Buddhism & Psychology Student Union aaron.prosser@utoronto.ca

Buddhism explains stoic reaction to disaster in Japan

2011-04-05T20:04:00.000-07:00

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Buddhism explains stoic reaction to disaster in Japan

by John Longhurst,

Winnipeg Free Press,

April 2, 2011

http://www.buddhistchannel.tv/index.php?id=44,10031,0,0,1,0

Tokyo, Japan -- In the aftermath of the terrible earthquake and tsunami in Japan, much has been written and said about how the people of that nation have coped with the disaster -- how calm, stoic, patient and tranquil they are despite thetragedy that befell them.

Where do these attitudes come from? From their history, geography and culture, of course. But it also comes from their religion.

Although Japan is a thoroughly secular country, it is infused with Buddhist and Shinto thought. More than 90 per cent of Japanese claim to be adherents of one, or both, of these ancient religions, with most identifying as Buddhists. (Only about two per cent of the country is Christian.)

When disasters occur around the world, it is common to hear people who come from the Christian tradition asking why such a thing could occur -- how could God let something like the earthquake and tsunami happen?

But that isn't a question asked by adherents of eastern religions such as Buddhism and Shinto. For them, what caused the disaster isn't the important thing. What's important is to be positive, affirming and persistent in the face of adversity.

"Natural tragedies are part of living on the planet," says Fredrich Ulrich, senseiof the Manitoba Buddhist Temple. "Its geology and geography make such recurring tragedies inevitable. There is no need to think we have been targeted by a god of some sort."

What's important, he says, is how people respond to tragedies such as the earthquake and tsunami.

"It's what we do about them, and to each other, that's important," he says. "We face death with sadness, but not with terror. We bury the dead and honour them, then get about the work of rebuilding the community."

Similar thoughts were shared by Shravasti Dhammika, a Buddhist monk from Australia.

Reflecting on the 2004 Southeast Asian tsunami, he asked: "How does Buddhism explain natural disasters like the tsunami? In a sense it does not have to explain them. It is only belief in an all-knowing, all-loving and all-powerful God that compels us to try to explain and explain away all the evidence that seems to contradict this belief."

When God is taken out of the picture, he says, "the answer is really very simple. The universe does not conform to our desires and wishes. It takes no notice of us and our aspirations."

Earthquakes, tsunamis, hurricanes, floods, drought, disease, accidents -- all these things just happen, he states.

"We live in a dynamic universe and sometimes events are to our benefit, and at other times to our detriment. That's the way the world is."

Buddhism, he adds, "is not concerned with explaining why this is so. It simply makes the common sense assertion that the universe is sometimes at odds with our dreams, our wishes and our desires."

Its goal,he goes on to say, is to teach people "to modify our desires so we are less likely to be in conflict with the way things are, and how to remain calm and content when they do conflict with the way things are."

A poem that seems to capture these sentiments is Unbeaten by Rain by Miyazawa Kenji, one of Japan's best-loved authors and poets. The poem -- which is "almost the national poem of that country," according to Ulrich -- illustrates the Japanese attitude of calm stoicism that we are observing in the face of the disaster.

Unbeaten by rain
Unbeaten by wind
Unbowed by the snow and the summer heat
Strong in body

Free from greed
Without any anger

Always serene
With a handful of brown rice a day

Miso and a small amount of vegetables suffice
Whatever happens

Consider yourself last, always put others first
Understand from your observation and experience

Never lose sight of these things
In the shadows of the pine groves in the fields
Live modestly under a thatched roof

In the East, if there is a sick child
Go there and take care of him

In the West, if there is an exhausted mother
Go there and relieve her of her burden

In the South, if there is a man near death
Go there and comfort him, tell him "Don't be afraid"

In the North, if there is an argument and a legal dispute
Go there and persuade them it's not worth it

In a drought, shed tears
In a cold summer, carry on

Even with a sense of loss
Being called a fool
Being neither praised nor a burden

Such a person I want to be
Such a person many of us would likely want to be, faced with similar
circumstances.

Courtesy: Buddhist Channel

Indian pole gymnastics

2011-04-03T15:42:00.000-07:00

For you to enjoy:

http://www.wimp.com/indiangymnastics/

--

UT: April 15, Religion and Food Public Forum

2011-03-31T19:23:00.000-07:00

In case you are interested:

Religion and Food Public Forum

This year’s RPS theme is Food and Religion, within which we will be exploring a range of topics with international and local academics, food practitioners, and policy makers.

Asking about religious and secular authority, for example, we’ll explore spiritual, environmental, ethical, and political issues that come into play when decisions are made about who eats what. Who decides what’s fit to eat? What constitutes the basis for authority in each of these areas? What happens when these areas are in conflict?

Thinking about vegetarianism and meat eating, we’ll consider the different religious perspectives on eating animals or taking the life of animals. What are the ethics of vegetarianism? How do various religious groups react to the contemporary industrial production of meat? Do particular religious or ethical concerns arise around eating or not eating animals raised and killed in this industrialized food system? What alternatives exist for those who want to eat meat in accordance with their religious traditions but prefer to bypass the industrial system?

Exploring religious responses to hunger, we’ll ask how religious organizations engage with current debates around food security in the city. How does religious diversity play into food charity? What local responses have developed amongst different religious groups to the problem of hunger? How have recent concerns about the quality and ethics of packaged and processed food changed the ways religious groups practice food donations? How do religious institutions create food policies?

Approaching the boundaries of sacred and secular, we’ll consider how various encounters with the land and with creation are shaped by religious ethics or tradition. At what point does a food practice – farming, raising animals, harvesting, cooking, giving thanks, eating – become sacred, or secular? How does our language (and our action) around food production shift, depending on whether we are speaking from a “scientific,” “policy,” or “spiritual” perspective? If we think of the earth as an expression of divine or sacred space, what is our responsibility to the land? How do religious groups respond to radical re-shaping of nature, through GMOs, pollution, climate change?

Featured Event: Public Forum, April 15, 2011 2:30-5:00 pm

Great Hall, Hart House
University of Toronto

Toronto is a hub for immigrants from all over the world, who practice a dizzying array of culinary and religious traditions. How do these food traditions intersect with the sustainable food movement and how are religious organizations responding to the ethical concerns raised by food activists? Moderated by Department of Religion Professor and RPS Founder Pamela Klassen, the RPS public forum for 2011 will bring together scholars, activists, food practitioners, and policy makers to discuss the significance of religious diversity for the burgeoning food movement.

Guest speakers are Nancy Chen, Nigel Savage, Yasir Syeed and Elbert van Donkersgoed.

Nancy N. Chen is professor of anthropology at the University of California at Santa Cruz. A medical anthropologist, she examines cultural practices of self care through eating and medicating in Asian religions. Her recent publications include Food, Medicine, and the Quest for Good Health (2008) and the co-edited volume Asian Biotech: Ethics and Communities of Fate (2010).

Nigel Savage, originally from Manchester, England, founded Hazon (Hebrew for “vision”) in 2000. Hazon is the largest environmental organization in the American Jewish community. Hazo’s vision is to create healthy and sustainable communities in the Jewish world and beyond. Before founding Hazon Nigel was a professional fund manager in the Wall Street equivalent in the UK. He has an MA in History from Georgetown, and learned at Pardes, Yakar and the Hebrew University. Hazon was recognized by the Sierra Club as one of 50 leading faith-based environmental organizations in the US. In 2008 Nigel was named a member of the Forward 50 – the annual list of the 50 most influential Jewish people in the United States. Nigel is thought to be the first English Jew to have cycled across South Dakota on a recumbent bike.

Elbert van Donkersgoed is an agricultural journalist and consultant. He is a long-time spokesperson for agriculture and the family farm. Elbert is the editor of Plumbline Locavore News, an email newsletter/blog of stories, announcements and website postings about interesting and unique activities and possibilities for re-localizing our food system. For eight years, from 1998 to 2006, he wrote a weekly farm, food and countryside commentary, Corner Post, heard on Southwestern Ontario radio stations and widely distributed on the Internet. Elbert remains actively involved in the following organizations: Member, Toronto Food Policy Council, Board Member, Ontario Farmland Trust, Board Member, Local Food Plus, Advisory Committee, Sustain Ontario—Alliance for Healthy Food and Farming, Healthy Lands Advisory Committee, Metcalf Foundation, Advisory Committee, Friends of the Greenbelt Foundation. From 2006 to 2008, Elbert served as Executive Director for the Greater Toronto Area Agricultural Action Committee, a distinctive partnership involving four GTA Federations of Agriculture and the Regional Municipalities of Halton, Peel, York and Durham, plus the City of Toronto, Ministry of Municipal Affairs and Housing, Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Toronto Food Policy Council and the food sector. For 35 years, he was the Strategic Policy Advisor of the Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario and its 4,300 member family farm entrepreneurs. During that period, he helped found the Ontario Farm Environmental Coalition and the Ontario Rural Council (now the Ontario Rural Institute).

Yasir Syeed While spending 12 years in corporate America focused on sales and marketing for enterprise software start-ups, Yasir never seemed to have fully left the woods and creeks he enjoyed in his youth. The pull of nature and desire to experience more than the stale air conditioned cubicles, along with his own passion to provide his family food that was raised with mercy and dignity and thereby nourishes body and spirit led him to go to farms and harvest his own meat. One thing led to another, and pretty soon he found himself establishing Green Zabiha, which is devoted to promoting the importance of conscious eating. But if you ask Yasir, the underlying ethos of GZ is not about meat, or halal, or even food, its all about restoring sacredness to a world that has lost much of it. And eating is a nutritional, political, economic and ultimately spiritual act, every bite we take has a profound effect internally and externally. Yasir received his undergraduate degree in Biology, and like most graduates he never worked in the field of his study. He counts his wife and four kids as his biggest inspirations as he walks through the journey of life.

See http://www.religion.utoronto.ca/religion-and-food-public-forum/

-- The content of this message does not represent the views or opinions of the University of Toronto.--

--

I wish you enough...

2011-03-30T09:54:00.000-07:00

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I wish you enough...

Recently, I overheard a mother and daughter in their last moments together at the airport. They had announced the departure.

Standing near the security gate, they hugged and the mother said, "I love you and I wish you enough".

The daughter replied, "Mom, our life together has been more than enough. Your love is all I ever needed. I wish you enough, too, Mom".

They kissed and the daughter left. The mother walked over to the window where I was seated. Standing there I could see she wanted and needed to cry. I tried not to intrude on her privacy but she welcomed me in by asking, "Did you ever say good-bye to someone knowing it would be
forever?".

Yes, I have," I replied. "Forgive me for asking, but why is this a forever good-bye?".

"I am old and she lives so far away. I have challenges ahead and the reality is - the next trip back will be for my funeral," she said.

"When you were saying good-bye, I heard you say, 'I wish you enough'. May I ask what that means?".

She began to smile. "That's a wish that has been handed down from other generations. My parents used to say it to everyone". She paused a moment and looked up as if trying to remember it in detail and she smiled even more. "When we said , 'I wish you enough', we were wanting the other
person to have a life filled with just enough good things to sustain them".

Then turning toward me, she shared the following as if she were reciting it from memory:

I wish you enough sun to keep your attitude bright no matter how gray the day may appear.

I wish you enough rain to appreciate the sun even more.

I wish you enough happiness to keep your spirit alive and everlasting.

I wish you enough pain so that even the smallest of joys in life may appear bigger.

I wish you enough gain to satisfy your wanting.

I wish you enough loss to appreciate all that you possess.

I wish you enough hellos to get you through the final good-bye.

She then began to cry and walked away.

They say it takes a minute to find a special person, an hour to appreciate them, a day to love them but then an entire life to forget them.

To all my friends and loved ones, I WISH YOU ENOUGH........

--

Food for thought

2011-03-29T14:54:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine sent me these quotes. I think they should be shared.

Anthony.

In everyone's life, at some time, our inner fire goes out. It is then burst into flame by an encounter with another human being. We should all be thankful for those people who rekindle the inner spirit.

- Albert Schweitzer, philosopher, physician, and musician -
(1875-1965)

Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did do. Explore...dream...and discover.

- Mark Twain -

The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing.

- Edmond Burke -

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UT: Public Buddhist Prayer Service for victims of earthquake and tsunami in Japan

2011-03-28T13:07:00.000-07:00

In case you are interested:

Public Buddhist Prayer Service for victims of earthquake and tsunami in Japan

-- the service will be conducted in three Buddhist traditions

Donations, in cash or cheques, will be collected for the Canadian Red Cross to support relief efforts in Japan.

Time: 2:00 pm, Saturday, April 2, 2011

Place: Main Activity Hall,

Multi-Faith Centre for Spiritual Study and Practice, University of Toronto, 569 Spadina Ave.

http://www.multifaith.utoronto.ca/Contact-Us--Book-Space.htm#Directions

Presented by: Buddhism & Psychology Student Union, U of T www.bpsu.org

DDMBA: April 10 One Day Chan Meditation Retreat

2011-03-27T16:57:00.000-07:00

In case you are interested:

Event: One Day Chan Meditation Retreat
Date: Sunday, April 10, 2011 4月10日
Time: 9:30am to 4:30pm
Location: DDMBA Ontario, 154 Poyntz Avenue, Toronto, ON, M2N 1J4

This is a gentle reminder of the upcoming DDM One Day Retreat which will be taking place at our 154 Poyntz Avenue Centre on Sunday, April 10, from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm.

This form of practice is very beneficial for everyone; it gives us the chance to practice with a group over a longer period of time. Furthermore, the One Day Retreat is an excellent opportunity for deepening one's practice. Participants for the One Day Retreat should ideally have practiced meditation for a considerable length of time, preferably with some formal meditation training.

Sitting meditation periods are followed by walking meditation, gentle stretching exercises and mindful work periods. The environment of the retreat is designed to promote mindfulness in everything we do.

To receive the full benefits of this form of group practice, we encourage you attend the entire event.

Also, be sure to wear loose, warm and comfortable clothing suited to the long sitting periods. DDM provides cushions, sitting mats, towels and a light vegetarian lunch. While a conducive and relax atmosphere is maintained in the retreat, participants should understand that it is still a serious occasion dedicated for practice. In the interest of respecting your own and others’practice, please provide advance notice should you be arriving to the retreat late or leaving early without valid reasons.

In the spirit of sharing with the community of Chan practitioners, participants of this retreat are also encouraged to contribute a vegetarian dish or snack for the retreat lunch.Please note that dishes contributed should not contain any form of onions (including green onions), any form of garlics, chimes as well as egg products. If you would like to submit a dish, please send an email to meditation.dharmadrum@gmail.com, no later than Thursday, April 7.

Kindly RSVP meditation.dharmadrum@gmail.com by April 7 should you plan to attend the retreat and, if you plan to bring a dish, inform us about the dish that you would bring.

The event is offered free of charge while any donations to support events like this are greatly appreciated.

With Palms Joined,
DDMBA Ontario
www.ddmba-ontario.ca

--

Earth Hour: March 26, 2011 8:30pm

2011-03-24T10:12:00.000-07:00

In case you are interested:

http://www.worldwildlife.org/sites/earthhour/index.html

Go Beyond the Hour

On March 26, 2011, turn off your lights at 8:30 pm for Earth Hour, a worldwide collective display of commitment to protect the one thing that unites us all - the planet. Look who is celebrating Earth Hour

Every year Earth Hour asks individuals, businesses and communities worldwide to show their commitment to the environment. This Earth Hour, we hope you will turn off your lights. But when the lights go back on, we want you to go beyond the hour and think about what you can change in your daily life that will benefit the planet. Let’s work together to create a better future. Our actions can add up.

Yoga Insight: Beware of your choice

2011-03-18T11:29:00.000-07:00

During Mary's yoga class today, she reminded us that one cannot stop thinking and not be judgmental. What is important is that we are aware of what we are thinking, the motivation behind our judgment, and willing to accept the consequence of our choices.

Let's start by increasing our awareness, through the learning of yoga or through meditation...

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UT: March 24 Female Body, State and Family Planning Lecture

2011-03-10T12:39:00.000-08:00

In case you are interested:

"Female Body, State and Family Planning: Tibetan women's experiences with China's birth control policies"

A lecture by Mona Schrempf

Thursday, March 24, 2011, 4-6 pm in Room 317, Jackman Humanities Building (170 St George St)

Mona Schrempf, coming from Humboldt University of Berlin, is an anthropologist with areas of specialty that include the anthropology of religion, medical anthropology, oral history in Tibetan societies, Tibetan medicine, Chinese public health and minority medicine, and the globalisation of traditional Asian medicine. Her current research projects focus on family planning among Tibetans in China; medicine, religion and healing in Tibetan and Tibetanized communities in China and the Himalaya; Bon lineage doctors and local healers in Tibet (TAR), and Qinghai; and ritual masked dances and the revival of Tibetan Bon religion. She is the author of numerous articles and the author or editor of several books, including the forthcoming Making the Modern Tibetan Family: Gender, Fertility, and Experiences with State Birth Control in Post-Mao China and Monastic Revival and Ritual Practice in a Tibetan Bonpo Community of Post-Mao China; and the published Medicine Between Science and Religion: Explorations on Tibetan Grounds; Studies of Medical Pluralism in Tibetan History and Society; Figurations of Modernity: Global and Local Representations in Comparative Perspective; and Soundings in Tibetan Medicine: Historical and Anthropological Perspectives. Professor Schrempf conducts field research in various Tibetan regions of China and the Himalayas.

In the winter/spring semester of 2011, Professor Schrempf is DAAD Visiting Scholar in the Department for the Study of Religion at University of Toronto, where she is teaching undergraduate courses on ritual, performance and healing traditions, and working with graduate student research projects.

See http://buddhiststudies.chass.utoronto.ca/lecture-by-mona-schrempf/

A day made of Glass...

2011-03-06T06:31:00.000-08:00

Sharing the following email with you:

It is so "wow..." FANTASTIC TECH DISPLAY

Check out this cool video.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6Cf7IL_eZ38

Share with you this wonderful technology, also please visit "Microsoft's Productivity of Future Vision", it gives you even more amazing look of the future world, it is not a dream but reality of our lives. Enjoy it!

Have a good weekend.

Joseph S.

Smooth Movement

2011-03-05T16:47:00.000-08:00

This morning yoga class was Gentle Hatha. The instructor asked us to move as slow as our breathe with mindfulness.

While I was making movements slowly, the second hand of a Rolex watch came to my mind.

My brother taught me to notice the smooth movement of the second hand of a Rolex watch. That smooth movement distinguishes a good watch from a cheap watch, it tells the differences in quality and craftsmanship.

Although in yoga we learn not to be judgmental, our movements do reflect the capability of our Gross Body, the strength of our Subtle Body and the mindfulness of our Causal Body.

--

DDMBA: March 12 2011 One Day Chan Meditation Retreat

2011-03-04T17:22:00.000-08:00

In case you are interested:

DDMBA Ontario March One Day Chan Meditation Retreat

Event: One Day Chan Meditation Retreat 一日禪坐共修
Date: Saturday, March 12, 2011 3月12日星期六
Time: 9:30am to 4:30pm 上午九點半至下午四點半
Location: DDMBA Ontario, 154 Poyntz Avenue, Toronto, ON, M2N 1J4 法鼓山安省分會

This is a gentle reminder of the upcoming DDM One Day Retreat which will be taking place at our 154 Poyntz Avenue Centre on Saturday, March 12, from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm.

This form of practice is very beneficial for everyone; it gives us the chance to practice with a group over a longer period of time. Furthermore, the One Day Retreat is an excellent opportunity for deepening one's practice. Participants for the One Day Retreat should ideally have practiced meditation for a considerable length of time, preferably with some formal meditation training.

Sitting meditation periods are followed by walking meditation, gentle stretching exercises and mindful work periods. The environment of the retreat is designed to promote mindfulness in everything we do.

To receive the full benefits of this form of group practice, we encourage you attend the entire event.

Also, be sure to wear loose, warm and comfortable clothing suited to the long sitting periods. DDM provides cushions, sitting mats, towels and a light vegetarian lunch. While a conducive and relax atmosphere is maintained in the retreat, participants should understand that it is still a serious occasion dedicated for practice. In the interest of respecting your own and others’practice, please provide advance notice should you be arriving to the retreat late or leaving early without valid reasons.

In the spirit of sharing with the community of Chan practitioners, participants of this retreat are also encouraged to contribute a vegetarian dish or snack for the retreat lunch.Please note that dishes contributed should not contain any form of onions (including green onions), any form of garlics, chimes as well as egg products. If you would like to submit a dish, please send an email to meditation.dharmadrum@gmail.com, no later than Thursday, March 10.

Kindly RSVP meditation.dharmadrum@gmail.com by March 10 should you plan to attend the retreat and, if you plan to bring a dish, inform us about the dish that you would bring.

The event is offered free of charge while any donations to support events like this are greatly appreciated.

With Palms Joined,
DDMBA Ontario
www.ddmba-ontario.ca

Life is like a coffee...

2011-03-03T12:32:00.000-08:00

Sharing the following email with you:

What an Inspiration:

http://www.flickspire.com/m/IAAW/LifeIsLikeCoffee

My comment is: the cups do enhance the coffee, just be aware not to be carried away by the cups...

--

UT: April 15 - A Public Forum on Food and Religion

2011-03-02T10:14:00.000-08:00

In case you are interested:

The University of Toronto Religion in the Public Sphere (RPS) Initiative presents:

A Public Forum on Food and Religion

April 15, 2011 2:30-5:00 pm
Great Hall, Hart House
University of Toronto

Speakers Include:

Nancy Chen - Professor of Anthropology at University of California at Santa Cruz, a medical anthropologist who examines cultural and spiritual practices of self care through eating and medicating.

Nigel Savage - Founder of Hazon, the largest Jewish environmental organization in North America, dedicated to creating healthy and sustainable communities in the Jewish world and beyond.

Yasir Syeed - Founder of Green Zabiha, a business which produces organic, halal, pastured and grass-fed meats and is devoted to promoting the importance of conscious eating.

Elbert van Donkersgoed - An agricultural journalist and consultant who served for over three decades as the Strategic Policy Advisor of the Christian Farmers Federation of Ontario.

For more information: http://rps.chass.utoronto.ca

Event poster available for download at the above link.

Organized by the Department for the Study of Religion's Religion in the Public Sphere Initiative, with co-sponsorship from the University of Toronto Centre for Jewish Studies, the University of Toronto School of Public Policy and Governance, and Greening Sacred Spaces.

UT: March 24-25 2011 Munk Graduate Student Conference

2011-03-01T13:38:00.000-08:00

In case you are interested:

RPS Partner The Munk School Presents the following Graduate Conference:

2011 Munk Graduate Student Conference
Empty Stomachs and Loaded Rifles: Food Scarcity and Global Security
March 24th – 25th Vivian and David Campbell Conference Facility

The Munk School of Global Affairs is pleased to announce the 2011 Graduate Student Conference. The Munk School of Global Affairs is a hub for scholars and practitioners at the forefront of research and debate. Accordingly, the conference will draw on multidisciplinary scholars and practitioners in the governmental, non-governmental, and private sectors.

This year’s conference, Empty Stomachs and Loaded Rifles: Food Scarcity and Global Security, promises to ignite a timely discussion of the leading issues confronting the global community in the 21st century. Specifically, the conference will explore the critical links between food shortage and conflict. Indeed, issues of food scarcity and global security are increasingly inseparable. As such, the conference will stimulate panel discussions on three leading themes, namely Control and Equity of Food Supply, Food Scarcity as a Catalyst for Political Unrest, and Weaponization of Food.

The conference will be held at the University of Toronto from March 24th – 25th at the Vivian and David Campbell Conference Facility (1 Devonshire Place, M5S 3K7). On March 24th, Jeffrey Sachs, Director of the Earth Institute at Columbia University, will deliver a special address via videoconference. This will be followed by a keynote address by Peter Gill, author of “Famine and Foreigners: Ethiopia Since Live Aid”. The three panel discussions will be held on March 25th. Among the panelists are filmmaker and journalist Alexandre Trudeau, coauthor of “Witness to Transformation: Refugee Insights into North Korea,” Stephan Haggard, former Deputy Commander of the NATO-led International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan, Lt. General Andrew Leslie, and Ambassador John Schram (Ret’d).

For the conference website and registration details, please visit: http://www.munkschool.utoronto.ca/mgc/

Student registration is $10.00 and regular registration is $15.00.

For further information, contact us at:

munk.graduateconference@utoronto.ca

Daddy, how was I born?

2011-02-28T05:52:00.000-08:00

Sharing the following email with you:

Too cute not to forward.. Enjoy

Daddy, how was I born?

A little boy goes to his father and asks
'Daddy, how was I born ?'

The father answers,
'Well, son, I guess one day you will need to find out anyway!
Your Mom and I first got together in a chat room on Yahoo.
Then I set up a date via e-mail with your Mom and we met at a cyber-cafe.
We sneaked into a secluded room, and googled each other.
There your mother agreed to a download from my hard drive.
As soon as I was ready to upload, we discovered that neither one of us had used a firewall, and since it was too late to hit the delete button , nine months later a little Pop-Up appeared that said:

Scroll down...You'll love this .......

'You got Male!'

Yoga Insight: Experiencing by Mary

2011-02-25T10:16:00.000-08:00

Last night my husband queried how come I did not write any Yoga insights recently on my blog.

Well.......

In this morning Gentle Hatha class, Mary, our yoga instructor, asked the following question:
"Why are we here?" She means why we are all here in this world, what is the propose of our existence.

Her answer is: "To experience." "To find out what it is like to feel, to sense and to experience everything. With the insights we gain from our experience, then we will be able to make a wise choice for our actions. She reminds us not to get caught by thinking too much about the past or into the future. Stay in the moment and experience the wonders of the "Whole", or in the Buddhist term, "be one with all".

That is not something easy to do, yoga helps us to get there...

And Bodhisattva Samantabhadra represents the virtue of great vows/actions through the means of experiencing....

--

DDMBA: Feb 24-27 Activities

2011-02-21T12:27:00.000-08:00

In case you are interested:

Dear Dharma Friends and Chan Practitioners,

DDMBA Ontario warmly welcomes Chan Teacher and Abbot of Dharma Drum Retreat Center, Venerable Guo Xing Fashi, to Toronto, to oversee a series of events related to Chan Buddhist practice from February 24 to 27, 2011 at the Member’s Lounge of North York Civic Centre, 5100 Yonge Street, Toronto, ON, M2N 5V7.

Great Compassion Repentance Ceremony* and Refuge Taking Ceremony

Saturday, February 26, from 10 am to 12 pm
Followed by vegetarian lunch, FREE
To register for the Great Compassion Repentance Ceremony or Refuge Taking Ceremony, please email meditation.dharmadrum@gmail.com
*Please note that this event is in Mandarin only; however, English written translations of the Great Compassion Repentance Chanting are available for participants’ use during the ceremony.

“The Buddha”- Movie Time and Dharma Talk by Venerable Guo Xing

Saturday, February 26, from 1:30 to 4pm, FREE

We will be showing “The Buddha” (dir. David Grubin), a two hour documentary film of the Buddha’s life, a journey especially relevant to our own bewildering times of violent change and spiritual confusion. Hear insights into the ancient narrative by contemporary Buddhists, including Pulitzer Prize winning poet W.S. Merwin and His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Join the conversation and learn more about meditation, the history of Buddhism, and how to incorporate the Buddha’s teachings on compassion and mindfulness into daily life.

Living Chan Meditation Workshop

Sunday, February 27, from 9:30 am to 4:30pm
FREE and limited space
To register, please email, meditation.dharmadrum@gmail.com with your name and telephone number. This workshop will be offered in Mandarin and English.

This is a one day workshop instructed by Chan master Venerable GuoXing. The goal is to take you deeper into life through meditation, by connecting daily living with meditative practice. Come and learn about how to apply meditative practices into your daily routine.

With palms joined,
DDMBA Ontario @ Toronto

http://www.ddmba-ontario.ca , http://www.ddm.org.tw , http://www.dharmadrumretreat.org/

---

UT: March 4- Yoga for Cats, Doga, Woga and others monsters in contemporary yoga practice

2011-02-13T17:33:00.000-08:00

In case you are interested:

Federico Squarcini

Yoga for Cats, Doga, Woga and others monsters in contemporary yoga practice

Date: Friday, March 4

Time: 4 - 6 PM

Place: Jackman Humanities Building (170 St George St), Room 318

Modern Yoga is a phenomenon of considerable dimensions. Daily, yoga practices attract thousand of new people and every day many millions perform one of its infinite variations. While all the different kinds of yoga are supposedly traced back to the ancient past, many are ‘true inventions’ of our days. In this presentation the economical logic of the continuous reconfiguration of yoga will be addressed and it will be related to role that contemporary Indology can play in dealing and interpreting this unique cultural phenomenon.

Federico Squarcini (PhD. in ‘Social and Historical Studies of Religions’ from the University of Bologna), currently researching on history and sociology of Southasian classical religious and legal traditions, is Assistant Professor of ‘History of Indian Religions’ at the University of Florence. He is also Lecturer in Sociology of Cultural Processes in South Asia at the Post-graduate Master Program ‘Immigrati e Rifugiati’, University of Rome ‘La Sapienza’, and Lecturer in Indology at the University of Rome ‘La Sapienza’. He is author and editor of different volumes, like Tradition, Veda and Law (Manohar 2008), Yoga. Fra storia, salute e mercato (Carocci 2008), Ex Oriente Lux, Luxus, Luxuria. Storia e sociologia delle tradizioni religiose sudasiatiche in Occidente (SEF 2006) and Boundaries, Dynamics and Construction of Traditions (Firenze University Press 2005).

U of T Buddhist Studies: http://buddhiststudies.chass.utoronto.ca/

U of T Study of Religion: http://www.religion.utoronto.ca/

--

UT: March 3- The Trouble with Tribals: Indian Esoteric Buddhism and Fantasies of the Primitive

2011-02-12T17:29:00.000-08:00

In case you are interested:

Christian Wedemeyer, Assistant Professor of the History of Religions at the University of Chicago Divinity School, will be a Numata Program visiting speaker on March 3, 2011, from 4-6 pm at the Jackman Humanities Building (170 St George St), Room 317. He will deliver a lecture entitled “The Trouble with Tribals: Indian Esoteric Buddhism and Fantasies of the Primitive.”

Prior to coming to the University of Chicago, Christian Wedemeyer was University Instructor of South Asian Studies and Director of the Tibetan Studies program at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark (Københavns Universitet). He has also taught at Columbia University, Barnard College, Antioch University and Wesleyan University. He teaches a variety of courses on Buddhism, South Asian religions and the academic study of religion(s) and does research on the history, literature and ritual practice of Indian and Tibetan Buddhist communities, ca. AD 700–1400.

U of T Buddhist Studies: http://buddhiststudies.chass.utoronto.ca/

U of T Study of Religion: http://www.religion.utoronto.ca/

--

DDMBA: Feb 12, PASS ON THE LAMP OF WISDOM - One Day Retreat

2011-02-08T13:14:00.000-08:00

In case you are interested:

PASS ON THE LAMP OF WISDOM
DDMBA Ontario February One Day Chan Meditation Retreat

Event: PASS ON THE LAMP OF WISDOM - One Day Retreat
Date: Saturday, February 12, 2011 Time: 9:15am to 5:00pm
Location: DDMBA Ontario, 154 Poyntz Avenue, Toronto M2N 1J4

You are warmly invited to a One Day Ch'an Meditation Retreat to commemorate the 2nd anniversary of Master Sheng Yen's passing on Feb 12th. This is part of a world-wide set of commemorative events held in that weekend. Please show your support by attending and by inviting friends.

Registration begins at 9:15am, and the program of the day starts at 9:30am. Both in the morning and in the afternoon, there would be showing of Master Sheng Yen's recorded discourses with English subtitles, followed by about one hour of sitting meditation with a break half way for stretching exercises. The day's program would end with a short period of reciting the Amitaba Buddha's name and the transferring of merits. From 4:30 to 5:00pm, there would be a session of optional informal association among the participants.

Sitting in this retreat is less intensive compared to the earlier ones and is suitable to participants with a broad range of meditation experience. Instead of one full day, participants are welcome to attend either only the morning or the afternoon session. Be sure to wear loose, warm and comfortable clothing suited to sitting. DDM provides cushions, sitting mats, towels, and a light vegetarian lunch.

In the spirit of sharing with the community of Ch'an practitioners, participants of this retreat are also encouraged to contribute a vegetarian dish or snack for the retreat lunch. (Dishes contributed should not contain any form of onions, including green onions, any form of garlics, chimes as well as egg products.)

Please kindly RSVP meditation@ddmba-ontario.ca the latest by February 10 should you plan to attend the retreat and, if you plan to bring a dish, inform us about the dish that you would bring.

With Palms Joined,

DDMBA Ontario
http://www.ddmba-ontario.ca

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DDMBA: Sunday Feb 6 Chinese New Year Celebration

2011-02-04T13:23:00.000-08:00

In case you are interested:

Sunday Feb 6 Meditation Cancellation/Chinese New Year Celebration Notice

Dear Friend,

This is to notify you that DDMBA Ontario will not be having its regular Sunday Sitting Meditation Session on Sunday February 6, due to the upcoming DDMBA Ontario Chinese New Year Celebration.

DDMBA Ontario's Chinese New Year Celebration will be held this Sunday, February 6, 2011 at the North York Central Library Auditorium. Please note that the official start and end time for this event has changed to 11:30 am to 3:30 pm, with sign-in and registration time beginning at 11:00 am.

Everyone is welcome to this joyful gathering to celebrate a New Year of opportunities and challenges with the DDM chapter. Scheduled events include:

Complementary potluck vegetarian meal in the company of fellow DDM members, friends and family. (Participants are encouraged to provide a vegetarian dish for this event).

Special Viewing of Master Sheng Yen's Memorial Concert DVD

Chinese New Year special activities

Presentations and sharing

Admission to this event is free for everyone and we encourage you to bring your loved ones to celebrate, as well as learn more about DDMBA Ontario's upcoming events for 2011.

We hope to see you at this event, as well as check our website for other upcoming events and regular activities, by visiting www.ddmba-ontario.ca.

What: DDMBA Ontario Chinese New Year Celebration
When: Sunday, February 6, 2011, 11:30 am - 3:30 pm (registration begins at 11 am; lunch at 11:30 am)
Where: Auditorium, North York Central Library, 5120 Yonge Street Toronto, ON M2N 5N9
Admission: Free

Happy Chinese New Year!

DDMBA Ontario
www.ddmba-ontario.ca

--

UT: Feb 18-20: Film & Workshop Series on Documentary Film in Tibet and Burma

2011-02-03T14:24:00.000-08:00

In case you are interested:

New Voices, New Visions

A Film & Workshop Series on Documentary Film in Tibet and Burma

On February 18-20, 2011, the University of Toronto's Department for the Study of Religion has organized a showcase of films by emerging Tibetan and Burmese filmmakers. Filmmakers will be in attendance to discuss their films and discuss their work with Canadian documentary filmmakers.

The film presentations will be held on two of the University of Toronto campuses and will feature ethnographic films by young Tibetans from within China and young Burmese filmmakers, a lecture and film on Buddhism in Burma, and a workshop on documentary film and development in Asia. Interesting similarities between Burmese and Tibetan cultures – both of which flourish in strongly Buddhist, intellectually rich yet economically poor communities living within difficult political boundaries – make this cross-cultural comparison especially compelling. The weekend will feature works of emerging and established Tibetan filmmakers, most of which have never been shown outside China, Burmese students participating in the Yangon (Rangoon) Film School, and established Anglo-Burman filmmaker Lindsey Merrison. Films will be followed by discussions with invited Toronto filmmakers. Discussions will also focus on the special value of participatory film projects for young people living in threatened cultural groups and on the potential of open access and open source tools and practices for these communities. The event venues will be enhanced by a stunning exhibit of images by Plateau Photographers, an open participatory photography project that trains minority students in western China.

Canadian Gemini Award winning filmmakers in attendance include Shelley Saywell, Cyrus Sundar Singh and others. Filmmaker Dorje Tsering Chenaktsang (aka Jangbu), who is considered by many to be Tibet’s greatest living poet, will be joined by Anglo-Burman director and producer Lindsey Merrison, Tibetan Studies scholar Dr. Françoise Robin, and two Tibetan student filmmakers, Dondrup Dorje and Otto Wendekar, who will present their work to Canadian audiences for the first time.

Organized by the U of T’s Department for the Study of Religion, the event series is co-sponsored by the Jackman Humanities Institute, the Dr. David Chu Distinguished Leaders Program, the UTSC Tung Lin Kok Yuen Perspectives on Buddhist Thought and Culture Program, the Asian Institute, the East Asia Group, the Centre for Southeast Asian Studies, the Cinema Studies Institute, Open Scholarship, and the Religion in the Public Sphere Initiative.

For more information, see http://www.religion.utoronto.ca/new-voices-new-visions/ or contact Frances Garret, frances.garrett@utoronto.ca

UT: Feb 17-18: Albert Welter, University of Winnipeg

2011-02-02T14:20:00.000-08:00

In case you are interested:

The University of Toronto/McMaster University Yehan Numata Program in Buddhist Studies

Presents

Professor Albert Welter, University of Winnipeg

On Thursday, February 17, 2011, 4-6 pm, Professor Welter will join the Numata Reading Group at U of T, Jackman Humanities Building, 170 St. George St., Room 318. Our guest, faculty, and students, will discuss the readings from “Strange Brew: The Fictional Background to Yulu Encounter Dialogues”. Please contact christoph.emmrich@utoronto.ca if you would like to join and receive the required materials.

On Friday, February 18, 2011, 4-6 pm, Professor Welter’s lecture, “The Buddhist School of Principle and the Intellectual Climate of the Song Dynasty China”, will be held at McMaster University, in University Hall 122.

--

UT: Feb 3-4: Anne Monius of Harvard University

2011-02-01T14:18:00.000-08:00

In case you are interested:

The University of Toronto/McMaster University Yehan Numata Program in Buddhist Studies

Presents

Professor Anne Monius, Harvard Divinity School, Harvard University

On Thursday, February 3, 2011, at 4 - 6 pm. Professor Anne Monius’ Lecture, “With No One to Bind Action and Agent: The Fate of Buddhists as Religious 'Other' in Tamil Śaiva Literature”, will be held at McMaster University, in University Hall 122.

On Friday, February 4, 2011, 4-6 pm Professor Anne Monius will join the Numata Reading Group at U of T, Jackman Humanities Building, 170 St. George St., Room 318. Our guest, faculty, and students, will discuss the readings from “The Vīracōliyam. Language, Literary Theory, and Religious Community, and Imagining Community through Commentary”. Please contact christoph.emmrich@utoronto.ca if you would like to join and receive the required materials.

---

Meeting him for the first time...

2011-01-21T19:46:00.000-08:00

At dinner tonight, I mentioned to my other kids that it was very unusual for their sister not to bring home her boyfriend whom she has been going out with for months.

Ten mintues ago, he showed up inside my house. I met him for the first time.

My daughter said "You summoned him and he got the message."

I wish that he will bring much happiness and joy into her life.

Best of wishes to you both.

--

When Mom gets sick...

2011-01-20T17:54:00.000-08:00

I have been sick for the past few days.

My daughter jokes around and says: "The world is coming to the end. Mom never gets sick. It is a sign the the end of the world is near..."

I appreciate her sense of humor. Yes I hardly get sick, even when I get sick, I recover within 24 hours. This time I am sick for 3 days already. What a luck woman I am!

I thank all the Buddhas from the ten directions for that...

---

DDMBA: Dharma Lecture by Dr. Jimmy Yu (Guo Gu)

2011-01-19T14:05:00.000-08:00

In case you are interested:

Dharma Lecture by Dr. Jimmy Yu (Guo Gu)
Chan Buddhism: Life, Intimacy, and Awakening (Jan 28 @6:30pm)

Dear Friend,

Dharma Drum Mountain (Ontario) Buddhist Association, in collaboration with University of Toronto’s Buddhism and Psychology Student Union, is proud to announce that, from Friday, January 28 to Sunday, January 30, 2011, Chan Teacher Dr. Jimmy Yu (Guo Gu) will be in Toronto to deliver a series of activities related to the fundamental practice and teachings of Chan.

Dr. Jimmy Yu is Assistant Professor of Religion at Florida State University. He received inka (affirmation of Chan experience) from the late Chan Master Sheng Yen (1930-2009) in 1995, and is one of the senior lay teachers in the Dharma Drum Chan lineage.

We hope you will take advantage of this exciting opportunity to refresh your mind, gain insights, and learn Dharma in the company of U of T’s diverse population!

Chan Buddhism: Life, Intimacy, and Awakening
Introductory Dharma lecture, followed by Q&A. Admission is free and all are welcome. Sponsored by New College.

Time: Friday, January 28, 2011 at 6:30pm
Location: Room 1130 at Bahen Centre for Information Technology
Address: 40 St. George Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 2E4 (immediately south of Russell Street)
Direction: 10 minute walk from St. George or Queen's Park subway stations Bahen Centre for Information Technology

We hope to see you at this event, and please visit our website for more information and other information regarding our regular activities visit www.ddmba-ontario.ca or email us at contact@ddmba-ontario.ca.

Peace and Harmony,

DDMBA Ontario

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Silent Illumination Weekend Retreat - Jan 29-30 2011

2011-01-18T14:03:00.000-08:00

In case you are interested:

Silent Illumination Weekend Retreat
Saturday and Sunday, January 29-30, 2011
0.5 Day Retreat or 1.5 Day Retreat

Dear Friends,

We hope you will take advantage of this exciting opportunity to refresh your mind, gain insights, and learn Dharma with Dr. Jimmy Yu and in the company of U of T’s diverse population!

Silent Illumination* Weekend Meditation Retreat

Instructor: Dr. Jimmy Yu
Time: January 29 to 30, 2011 (Sat and Sun)
Location: Main Activity Hall 208, U of T Multi-Faith Centre (located in the Koffler House)
Address: 569 Spadina Ave at Harbord St. Toronto, ON M5S 2J7

Saturday Half Day Retreat

Saturday, January 29, 1:30 to 6pm (half day)
$10 for students or $15 non-student
Light snack provided
Beginners welcome

Sat and Sun 1.5 Day Retreat

Saturday, January 29, 1:30 to 6pm (half day)
Continues on Sunday, January 30, 9am to 4pm (full day)
$20 for student or $25 non-student
Sunday vegetarian lunch provided
Beginner and advanced practitioners welcome

To Register:

Download retreat application, click here.
Email the completed application to meditation@ddmba-ontario.ca by Wednesday, January 26.
Be green: bring your own tableware.

Directions for the U of T Multi-Faith Centre

Download retreat application, click here.

Peace and Harmony,

DDDMBA Ontario

-------------------------------------------------

The best and most beautiful things in the world...

2011-01-12T13:27:00.000-08:00

The best and most beautiful things in the world
cannot be seen or even touched -
they must be felt with the heart.
- Helen Keller -

Another well said quotation. Similarly, the Diamond Sutra (Chapter 26 - translated by Red Pine) says:

"Subhuti, what do you think? Can the Tathagata be seen by means of the possession of attributes?"

Subhuti replied, "No, indeed, Bhavagan. As I understand the meaning of what Buddha says, the Tathagata cannot be seen by means of the possession of attributes."

The Buddha said, Well done, Subhuti. Well done. So it is as you claim. The Tathagata cannot be seen by means of attributes. And why not? Subhuti, if the Tathagata could be seen by means of the possession of attributes, a universal king would be a tathagata. Hence, the Tathagata cannot be seen by means of attributes."

The venerable Subhuti said to the Buddha, "As I understand the meaning of what the Buddha says, the Tathagata cannot be seen by means of attributes.

On that occasion the Buddha then spoke this gatha:

"Who looks for me in form
who seeks me in a voice
indulges in waste effort
such people see me not."
--

May I ask: Tathagata must be felt with the heart?

--

Happiness is ...

2011-01-11T20:04:00.000-08:00

Happiness is when
what you think,
what you say,
and what you do
are in harmony
- Mahatma Gandhi -

What a well said quotation.

Our vexations (or problems) lie in
we do not know what we think,
we do not mean what we say,
and we are not aware of our actions.
The end result...chaos...and sufferings...

--

Our magic marriage of convenience by K. Hadley

2011-01-10T19:49:00.000-08:00

Keith's article got published in Globe and Mail today....I'm so proud of him (and his fabrication...haha)!

/N

It's been edited slightly (including having the title changed and the synopsis removed), but here it is:

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/life/facts-and-arguments/our-magic-marriage-of-convenience/article1864102/

K.
--

Wise Cracks 21

2011-01-09T10:44:00.000-08:00

Sharing the following email with you:

Wealth

Money can't buy you happiness ... but it does bring you a more pleasant form of misery.

- Spike Milligan

<><>

I have never hated a man enough to give his diamonds back.

- Zsa Zsa Gabor

Marriage

By all means, marry.

If you get a good wife, you'll become happy; if you get a bad one, you'll become a philosopher.

- Socrates

<><>

I was married by a judge. I should have asked for a jury.

- Groucho Marx

<><>

My wife has a slight impediment in her speech. Every now and then she stops to breathe.

- Jimmy Durante

<><>
I had a rose named after me and I was very flattered. But I was not pleased to read the description in the catalogue: 'No good in a bed, but fine against a wall.'

- Eleanor Roosevelt

Children

Sometimes, when I look at my children, I say to myself, 'Lillian, you should have remained a virgin.

- Lillian Carter, mother of Jimmy Carter

<><>

Until I was thirteen, I thought my name was SHUT UP .

- Joe Namath

Aging

I don't feel old. I don't feel anything until noon. Then it's time for my nap.

- Bob Hope

<><>
Don't worry about avoiding temptation. As you grow older, it will avoid you.

- Winston Churchill

<><>

By the time a man is wise enough to watch his step, he's too old to go anywhere.

- Billy Crystal

<><>

We could certainly slow the aging process down if it had to work its way through Congress.

- Will Rogers

<><>

Maybe it's true that life begins at fifty . But everything else starts to wear out, fall out, or spread out.

- Phyllis Diller

<><>

Health

I never drink water because of the disgusting things that fish do in it.

- W. C. Fields

<><>

Only Irish coffee provides in a single glass all four essential food groups: alcohol, caffeine, sugar & fat.

- Alex Levine

<><>

Be careful about reading health books. You may die of a misprint.

- Mark Twain -

<><>

And the cardiologist's diet: If it tastes good spit it out.

Author Unkown

<><>
The secret of a good sermon is to have a good beginning and a good ending; and to have the two as close together as possible.

- George Burns

<><>

My luck is so bad that if I bought a cemetery, people would stop dying.

- Rodney Dangerfield

<><>
Last week, I stated this woman was the ugliest woman I had ever seen. I have since been visited by her sister, and now wish to withdraw that statement.

- Mark Twain

<><>

Santa Claus has the right idea. Visit people only once a year.

- Victor Borge

<><>

UT: Thur. Jan13: ‘Natural’ Disaster and National Mourning in China’s Tibet

2011-01-05T12:41:00.000-08:00

In case you are interested:

Spectacular Compassion: ‘Natural’ Disaster and National Mourning in China’s Tibet

Charlene Makley, Associate Professor of Anthropology at Reed College, will be a Numata Program visiting speaker on Thursday, January 13, 2011, at the University of Toronto, Jackman Humanities Building 317 (4-6pm). She will deliver a lecture entitled “Spectacular Compassion: ‘Natural’ Disaster and National Mourning in China’s Tibet.”

Charlene Makley’s areas of specialization include globalization, development, gender, ethnicity, nationalism, religion and ritual, feminist theory, and linguistic anthropology in Tibet and China.

For more on Buddhist Studies at the U of T, see http://buddhiststudies.chass.utoronto.ca/

------ The content of this message does not represent the views or opinions of the University of Toronto.

----

Best of wishes for 2011

2011-01-01T11:04:00.000-08:00

Sharing the following with you:

We in turn wish you the very best of health, peace and happiness in the new year and period ahead.

I would like to share this beautiful greeting which I received from a friend.

Here is another beautiful greeting for your listening pleasure, though it is full of God's love and bounty,which is intended to fill you up with praise for the almighty lord by showing you some of the beautiful scenery of Ireland presented with some delightful and touching music. (No mention is made of the precarious financial situation faced by Ireland requiring a bail out package of 85 billion Euros.)

(Click on the green link and enjoy)!!!

http://www.andiesisle.com/ThisBlessingIsForYou.html

With warm regards,

Mahinda

Amazing candle making

2010-12-30T19:10:00.000-08:00

Amazing candle making...

http://www.youtube.com/watch_popup?v=k7OjRYQAm64

Enjoy!

Good Laugh

2010-12-29T17:14:00.000-08:00

Sharing the following email with you:

Hell is
a Chinese salary,
a British Cook,
a Japanese House,
and an American Wife.

Heaven is
an American salary,
a Chinese Cook,
a British Home,
and a Japanese Wife.

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This year photo contest

2010-12-27T16:50:00.000-08:00

From my brother:

Hello Everyone,

Thanks to all those that made such a great effort in participating in this year's photo contest. Some of my friends commented that our family has such a special relationship that you just don't find with other families. How many people do you know that will spend the time and effort to dress up and take an Xmas photo for their Uncle? For that, I truly appreciated it. And now onto the results....

It was a close call:

1) Most Original - Adri - The Grinch Who Stole Fashion

(Over the summer, the Grinch grew an interest in fashion and with the holidays coming up made the perfect plan: to steal the most expensive and high-end presents. She put on her red high heel boots, got her purse and with her thousand thread-count scarf planned on looting all the gifts on Christmas Eve before the Tsang Holiday Party could begin. As she was making her final escape, she was caught by the Bee-Pee Paparazzi so she struck her most fashionable pose.)

2) Most Humorous - Toni - Gingy

(Gingy caught Santa helping himself to some milk and cookies! Oh no!
"No! Not the buttons! Not my gumdrop buttons!")

3) Best Execution - Matthew - Super Mario

Some of my comments:

I really loved the caption and the extra behind-the-scene story that some of you gave - that gives the photo an even greater depth. I think some photos were missing an Xmas element as it was suppose to be Xmas-y. Overall, I am really impressed with the creativity and quality. (I think the Tsang's house will be turning into a professional studio soon.)

As for the prizes, I have to keep it a mystery, but like Keith said, I think everyone deserves a prize, so I will see what I can do. I will likely bring them next summer when I see you guys in 2011.

Until then have a HAPPY NEW YEAR!

LP

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Youtube: Bloom Box Energy K.R. Sridhar-Part 1

2010-12-20T14:05:00.000-08:00

Sharing the following Youtube with you:

Alternative Energy: Bloom Box K.R. Sridhar-Part 1

http://www.youtube.com:80/watch?v=khK_QTWl5Nc

Bloom Box K.R. Sridhar-Part 2

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tEJhnvX36hc&feature=related

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