Joint Birthday Celebration for BLIA South Island Members
On 27th October 2019, Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) South Island First Subchapter hosted a joint birthday celebration for BLIA South Island members at Fo Guang Shan (FGS) Temple. The celebration was meant for 15 BLIA members whose birthdays fall on the months of October, November and December. About 30 BLIA members attended the celebration. FGS South Island Minister-in-charge Venerable Jue Xi was there to bless the occasion and a birthday cake was presented by her. Later in his speech, BLIA South Island President Bernie thanked FGS South Island for giving him the opportunity to get acquainted with Humanistic Buddhism, and to be involved with the local community through its various activities. Bernie hoped that BLIA members will support and participate in the activities organised by FGS so as to establish a closer link with the public.
Apart from enjoying the scrumptious delicacies, participants were involved in a sharing session on Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s book ‘366 Days with Wisdom’. For discussion purpose, Yang chose the 27th October chapter, with the message The best gift is to give Truthful and Sincere Advice, the best self-cultivation is to practice Forgiveness. Bestowing Joy and Respectfulness are also the best gifts to others. While on the topics covered by the message, members openly and actively gave their views. Member Annie Chiang told the assembly that, while on duty as a volunteer at the Buddha Hall, she is often approached by the visitors who seek her advices on some of the problems encountered by them in their daily lives. As a reply, she always introduces to them Buddha and his teachings, as she believes that this is the best way to help them, and will be the best gift to them.
The participating BLIA members were full of joy, and were grateful that the birthday party allowed them to reconnect with old friends. In the end, the party ended beautifully in a joyous mood.