BLIA North Island Chapter Kick Start VEGRUN: A Stride Towards a Greener Earth

On August 19, 2023, at 10 am, 'The Second NZ VEGRUN (Veg-revival Virtual Community Run)' began at Point View Reserve Summit in Auckland. Surrounded by pristine forests, chirping birds, and the resonating gong, VEGRUN launched fervently.

Led by Venerable Rulian, Minister-in-charge of FGS Auckland, Ms Yulin Ku, President of BLIA North Island Chapter, and Mr Larry Yang, Vice-president, more than 80 participants, including BLIA members and the public, embarked on joyful and healthy steps.

In response to Venerable Master Hsing Yun's 'Environmental and Spiritual Preservation' concept and collaboration with BLIA World Headquarters and Pure Green Foundation, BLIA North Island Chapter adopted the theme "You Run, I Plant Trees'' for this year's charity run. For every 1km participant ran, $1 will be donated toward tree planting to combat carbon emissions.

Participants aged 7 to 78 completed the run on a challenging track with a 150m altitude difference, covering a total distance of 265km in an average time of 35 minutes.

Vice President Larry Yang emphasized, "Our mission should always be rooted in the wisdom of Venerable Abbess Manshin, who stated, 'Predecessors planted trees, and future generations should continue to plant trees.'

Sen Sgt Mike Schmidt from NZP also took part in the run. He praised BLIA members for promoting sustainable health and economic development, noting their remarkable spirit of cooperation and teamwork. He highlighted Fo Guang Shan's exceptional role model status in the community.

Subchapter President Anita Chu reflected, "20 years ago, Abbess Manshin led BLIA members in tree planting. Today's activity was a nostalgic journey down memory lane."

Supervisor Peggy shared, "Adjusting my breath and heart rate during the jog, I felt a profound purification of both body and mind. Practicing walking meditation with everyone was meaningful!"

BLIA member Sarah believes that promoting vegetarianism for the sake of animals' rights and the Earth's environment will touch everyone's hearts. She aspires to continue following Venerable Master Hsing Yun's path to create a better world for all.