Auckland Councillors Visits FGS Auckland Gaining Insight from Venerable Master's Teachings

On 17 November 2023, Auckland Councillor and Former Cabinet Minister Maurice Williamson visited the Fo Guang Shan Auckland, accompanied by Councillor Sharon Stewart. The Abbess of FGS NZ Venerable Manshin, President Ku of the BLIA North Island Chapter and Advisor Sally Wong warmly received the guests and guided them around the Temple’s facilities. In addition to offering flowers at the Main Shrine, the guests also visited the One Stroke Calligraphy Exhibition to offer light in remembrance of the Founding Master of Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Order, Venerable Master Hsing Yun. They expressed gratitude for Venerable Master's contributions to New Zealand society.

Councillor Williamson raised many questions about life and death throughout the visit, which the Abbess thoughtfully addressed. The discussions on Buddhist perspectives of the cycle of life filled him with a strong interest in learning more about the theory. Abbess specially gifted him a book The Biography of Sakyamuni Buddha by the Venerable Master to further his understanding.

Councillor Williamson strongly agreed with the Venerable Master’s teaching that Praising people behind their backs makes them happy. Criticizing people to their faces avoids gossip. He noted that this is especially crucial for politicians, who should be responsible for their words.