Class Opening of FGS Buddhist Temple NZ Youth Buddhism College Semester 2 – Chan Practice in Life
On the night of 11th Sept 2021, 14 YAD participated in the openings of Buddhism College. The class was started with an ice-breaking session for everyone to catch up with each other. "I missed the Temple and the food so much," Muyang said. On the other hand, Yao Chang expressed that she also loves the food prepared by the Temple as it was made heartfully by every member in the Temple with guidance from Abbess and venerables.
The class was carried on with a heart-to-heart conversation with Abbess Manshin. Abbess Manshin mentioned that she felt joy when the Temple's food is served generously to the public and she emphasised on the importance of Chan and mindfulness in daily lives. In fact, we all need mindfulness to be more efficient and productive in everything we do. "Prepping food is only the media. We are not only cooking but shaping ourselves and learning to do stuff using our pure hearts. A practitioner would not tell you that he loves you, but they will prove it by action, such as cooking great food", Abbess added. Thus, it can be concluded that the Temple is a good platform for the YAD to upgrade themselves to become a part of the journey of Buddhahood.
The Minister in Charge, Venerable Rulian, also mentioned that the lock down trains herself to be more innovative and start doing things better, such as using the potatoes to create more delicious dishes. She also welcomed everyone to come back after the lockdown and mentioned that the Temple is always the home of everyone. One of the active YAD members, Muyang said: "the habit of coming to the Temple are not just from this lifetime, it was accumulated from our previous lives before. The form of affinities with the Triple Gem began numerous lifetimes before. Thus, we need to try our best to improve ourselves and follow the path of Buddhism."
In conclusion, the YAD also learned that it is crucial to follow a right team to strive higher in life. She added that one can go fast with just oneself but can go a long way with a team. Lucy Shi, one of the members from Fo Guang Club, added that it was very precious to stay with everyone as she learned good values and habits from Abbess and venerables when participating in various Temple events.