Children Dharma Class Term 3: Preparation for Sangha Day to Show Gratitude towards the Temple
Children Dharma Class started Term 3 after two weeks of rejuvenating break on 31st of July. The first week began with the learning of dance moves in preparation for the performance on Sangha Day. Step by step, children were taught the dance for Happy Vesak Day and Connecting Hearts. With great persistence and determination, teachers and children went over the dance moves over and over again, until it was close to perfection. Tired legs, sore muscles and dripping sweat turned into beautiful presentations of dance moves. The children learnt to push themselves and to always try their best, but most importantly, they learnt to not give up; striving for better, brighter and greater futures.
On 7th of August, students completed their class tests covering the contents learnt over the past term. Knowledge of basic Buddhist etiquettes, key values and core concepts in Buddhism, the 3 Goodness and 4 Givings were tested. The classrooms turned into a piece of silence while students focused on their writing. It was pleasing to see them trying their best and giving it at their most when attempting questions. Under the guidance of teachers, the test was soon completed, as relieved smiles slowly appeared on children’s faces. With additional time to spare, practice for Happy Vesak Day and Connecting Hearts commenced. Zoey commented, “What I learnt was modern dances in this traditional event, thanking the Venerables and Abbess for their hard work all year.” As the day went by, students revised more of the dance moves, making the best use of every minute that ticked by with full concentration and dedication.
On the 14th of August, the big day which all children, teachers and parents anticipated, had finally come upon arrival. Children dressed in modern and traditional clothings, stood at their respective arrangements and presented their biggest smiles. When the music started playing, children surprised the audience with their talented performance of Happy Vesak Day, amazed the crowds with their brilliant dance moves and joyful souls. The children shone brighter than the stars and smiled even more dazzlingly than the beams of sunlight. Thunderous applause rang across the shrine, leaving the place full of delightment, laughter and joy.
Thereafter, Zoey, Wish, Skylar, Haoran, Zhihan, Raymond, Anthan and Carter continued with the performance of Connecting Hearts. Beautiful dance moves in perfect coordination; transitioning to each step as practiced. As they perfected their moves and danced confidently while Wish introduced police officer Anson to join the performance. Waves of laughter and claps were brought to the faces of the audience, creating a joyous yet interactive environment.
Sangha Day is an excellent opportunity for everyone to show gratitude towards Abbess and Venerable for their hard work, their constant care and guidance. Nevertheless, it is also a day where everyone can enjoy and immerse themselves with the celebration. The children watched the performances intently as they burst into peals of laughter and joy. Emmeline added, “Me and Faye watched the romance dancing in Sangha Day, we started laughing at the Swan dance because boys were dancing as swans, their feet paddled in and out.” While Raymond mentioned that it was fun to perform on Sangha Day, it was also a great way to support and show the gratitude for others that’s always helping and taking care of the temple. Thomas shared, “The children learned to give their best (performance and smile) to the Abbess and Venerable and each of them took a big step to get this done collaboratively. Looking forward for more exciting performances and journey to come.” Sangha Day concluded on a great note; a wonderful day filled with teamwork, appreciation and joy.