BLIA Study Group - Created the Joy of Life
Buddha’s Light International Association (BLIA) South Island New Zealand West One Sub Division organized the first “2012 Diligence Study Group” on 10th June at 10 in the morning. There were 11 BLIA members participating. BLIA South Island New Zealand president See-Shen Lee lead the study group and Fo Guang Shan (FGS) South Island New Zealand Supervisor Venerable Jue Xi provided guidance. This week, Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s “In Between Ignorance and Enlightenment” book series article - “The Best Choice” was selected as the reading article. President Lee lead members in reading the article and asking three question which are: Before approaching the Buddhism, which lifestyle should we pursue? Does the Buddha’s dharma have influence or changing our mindset? What method and attitude should we have to choose or practice the lifestyle we have chosen? The BLIA members shared their experiences and views on how they are making decisions based on before and after experiencing the dharma, which lead the member to understand and learn. Venerable Jue Xi gave advise that the study group can let everyone understand Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s Humanistic Buddhism blue print, and also encourage everyone to use the dharma to solve problems which they face. Besides, in this study group everyone can learn to become a leader in the study group, and it will let everyone understand deeper about the article and to sharing views.
On 17th June 10 in the morning, BLIA South Island New Zealand West One Sub Division organized the second session of “2012 Diligent Study Group.” 12 BLIA members were lead by West One Sub Chapter president Susan Wu, guided by FGS South Island Venerable Jue Xi.
The second article that was chosen is based on Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s article “Destructiveness of Hatred.” After reading the article, everyone shared their own views and personal experience on “Why anger arises.” When hatred arises, how do we control and manage it? How do we use the Dharma wisdom to cease hatred? All their experiences made the study group more fun and enjoyable. Members also shared the stories with structure and the culture differences during the session.
Susan Wu also asked two question regarding the article which are: When our hatred arises, do we feel regret about our actions and feelings? How do we resolve our hatred? Venerable Jue Xi also gave a dharma speech that we must be the one not to hate, and not to be the one who makes others have hatred. And by improving our level, try to make other people feel joyful. In conclusion, the members are grateful towards the temple for giving them a meaningful weekend.