Children Dharma Class Term 4 Class 6 - Outdoor Meditation for Meditative Concentration

On November 20, the Children's Dharma Class 6 of Term 4 commenced after the Dharma Function at the Main Shrine. The class gathered to chant the Heart Sutra in Chinese. Thomas encouraged students to focus on chanting the end of the sutra and practised many times together. With practice, the class became more confident. In addition, the students who did not learn the Chinese language learnt to pronounce the characters using pinyin.

As the students arrived at the Ksitigharba Shrine, the outdoor meditation was led by Anthan. The students meditated while they followed Anthan’s instructions. Meditation helps the children to remain calm as they focus on their breathing. To feel tranquillity and peace upon closing their eyes. Tanush commented: “I felt calmer after the meditation”, while Henil added:“My heart beat slower and I felt more relaxed.” Wish said, "it was astounding to see everything in blue when he opened his eyes after the meditation, while it took time for the eyes to slowly adjust to the surroundings." Anthan appreciated that Thomas had given lots of guidance to lead the meditation. Despite it being his first time conducting the mediation, it was well received and a new experience. “I had lots of fun teaching!” added Anthan after the meditation as he smiled".

On the way to morning tea, the children walked past rows of breathtaking cherry blossom trees. Emmeline and Faye sat by the rocks and readied their pose, while Hao Jun jumped onto the wooden platforms excitedly surrounded by spectacular cherry blossoms. Led by  Jane, the class appreciated the eye-catching cherry blossoms under the sun. After a break, the students went back to the classroom and shared their understanding of the Three Acts of Goodness with examples and explanations of how and why it is important to do good deeds, speak good words and think good thoughts. The students of the Intermediate class brainstormed ideas and shared their thoughts enthusiastically. Bosco added "we should always help others, especially the ones that are vulnerable and the ones in need."

In the Advanced class, students learnt that suffering in life is inevitable. There will be challenges and different circumstances to face, but how we choose to respond to these hardships will determine the outcome. Suffering is part of the growing process to become stronger, it allows us to move forward. If there was no suffering there would be no success. When we learn to endure hardship we can overcome difficulties, and find and appreciate happiness.