BLIA Auckland YAD Online Check-in – Connecting Hearts; Spreading Warmth
On 1st April 2022, BLIA Auckland YAD organised the first session of FGC/YAD Check-in. Venerable Neng Chien, Venerable Neng Chang and 13 YAD members participated in the event via Zoom. Due to the widespread COVID-19 pandemic, the majority of the YAD members have been unable to return to the Temple weekly to recharge themselves by giving back to the Temple. To foster relationships between YAD members, FGC/YAD Check-in is scheduled to be held once a month for the members to receive warmth and care from the Temple and enhance the connection between the Temple and YAD.
The event started with an interesting ice-breaking game hosted by the Past President of Fo Guang Club, Edwin. After being assigned a random scenario, the participants got to know each other better once the selected person shared their way of managing the chosen scenario. The joyful and relaxing vibe in the beginning set the tone for the rest of the evening. Subsequently, Edwin shared some photos of recent events held by the Temple, such as the New Year Pilgrimage, Chinese New Year Celebration, Baguette Breakfast, Apple Picking and most importantly, the distribution of RAT kits to over 100 local schools. The act of kindness touched the YAD members from the Temple for distributing 15,000 RAT kits unconditionally to the community, especially during challenging times like this.
Up next, the youth members were brought closer to Venerable Master Hsing Yun by watching his sharing on The Expectations on Youths. Venerable Master mentioned that enduring hardships is the source of nutrition for further self-development. There is always a solution for difficulties when we apply wisdom and compassion, as these can turn a hindrance into a stepping stone. The President of YAD Subdivision 2, Thomas, said, “Venerable Master Hsing Yun has reminded me to be brave in facing every adverse moment in life. I have to endure every rain and storm to be a better person.”
Venerable Neng Chang reminded the youths to feel fortunate as part of the YAD family since Venerable Master Hsing Yun, Abbess Manshin and Venerables always share their wisdom to transform our worries into bodhi. For example, the Temple had been creative by converting raw potatoes into a myriad of delicious food and snacks, such as chips and cheese balls. The youths should always interact with their dharma friends and remind each other to improve on their shortcomings while making positive developments to benefit themselves and others.
Venerable Neng Chien shared that the valuable value of unity has been demonstrated while facing tough moments together. This is evident when the Temple and local police stations collaborated to distribute 15,000 RAT kits donated by BLIA World Headquarters within one week, which benefited the primary and secondary schools in Auckland and Christchurch. The staff of Air New Zealand also contributed to the successful distribution. “Having the right team and good teamwork is crucial for every accomplishment. A kind thought can help attain good affinities, so we must learn to be our mentor,” said Venerable Neng Chien.
As a closing remark, Edwin emphasised that the Temple will always be the guardian of the youths. Whenever we face challenges, we must constantly remind ourselves of Venerable Master’s saying Play your role well and act like it. Edwin invited all participants to visit the Temple frequently to cultivate merits and wisdom. The long-awaited online gathering ended with warmth. The youths were excited to revisit the Temple during Buddha’s birthday on 10th April to experience the joy of learning and offering service to others.