Fo Guang Shan’s 2013 “Three Good” Children’s Happy Camp

Under the sizzling summer heat, 55 5-12 year old children were dropped off at Fo Guang Shan by their parents on the morning of 11th January, to participate in the temple’s 2 day “Three Good” Children’s Happy Camp, organise by YAD. 25 youths from YAD led other young students to form 4 working teams, which are named Faith, Hope, Joy, and Convenience. These titles not only emphasis the theme of the event, it also reminds the team to remember the content of “3 goodness and 4 giving”, thus understanding their meanings and put into action.

First the children were lead through fun games and exercises to break the ice and establish new friendships. Then inside the Main Shrine, Venerable Miaoyu taught basic Buddhist teachings and etiquette to the group, to which the children listened quietly and attentively. Many accompanying parents were awed by the incomprehensible Dharma, which allowed their children to behave in such fine concentration. Afterwards a wide variety of fun activities were held, including both quiet and active events; such as preparing for the closing ceremony’s dance performance “Together forever”, touch rugby, Earth game competition, and decorating the afternoon tea. Children who performed well during each activity will receive points and ultimately win a prize, from which they will learn about team work, respecting others, and knowing to be grateful. The youths especially organised a tour to explain the symbolism behind temple structures, the courtyard, the Pagoda, the bell, and the drum, thus allowing all the children to obtain better knowledge in Buddhism. Then a fun quiz is held to give everyone a chance to add more points to their team. A tremendous and abundantly varied day thus passed all too quickly. All the children can’t wait to return for tomorrow’s event.

For the “Three Good” Children’s happy camp to be lively and fun requires experience and skills. All YAD members meticulously planned the event’s contents, shared the work load, and rehearsed all the day’s programs. Their effort certainly deserves many praises. The youth expressed that this event will be continued and passed down for the future. Big hands shall lead little hands to enable the prosperity of Buddhism.