Path to Buddhahood through Meditative Concentration

5th of March, it was a splendid morning under the scorching sun, students of Children Dharma Class kick-started their day with the fourth lesson of Term 1. After joining the usual Sunday Dharma Function at the Main Shrine, students were led back to the classrooms by their class monitors, Faye and Tanush. At 10.15am sharp, the chanting of Chinese Heart Sutra began. A few of the students such as Emmeline, Tanush and Lucas, mastered the mantra of the Heart Sutra remarkably. 

For a change in the usual routine, all students of the Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced class came together for meditation. It was pleasing to see Anthan and Carter taking the initiative to lead the class through the meditations, strengthening their leadership skills while learning along with their peers. With walking meditation, students paced through the Lumbini garden after settling their minds, they focused on their breathing and felt the serene yet peaceful atmosphere of the temple as students strode past rows of cherry blossom trees. During sitting meditation, Teacher Thomas prompted the students to feel the breeze of the wind, listen to the sounds of water flowing, and left them pondering on the question of do we ever listen to the sounds of our hearts? Meditative concentration was achieved as calmness flowed through the body, mind and seeping into the soul. It kept students focused throughout the day and feeling reenergized for the rest of the activities. Wish felt especially calmed after the meditation while Teacher Gwen added that, “meditation here made me feel connected to both the inner and outer world.” 

Thereafter, morning tea carried on in the Dining Hall as children munched on their snacks, fruits and biscuits, while keeping good table manners and dining etiquettes in mind. After the rejuvenating break, the class was then continued with the introduction of some Buddhism terminologies to the students of Beginner class. They worked through a complimentary worksheet eagerly under the guidance of Teacher Mei and Carter, whilst questions were raised and a class discussion arose. Liam did exceptionally well despite his first lesson, as the class worked together under a harmonious yet kind environment. A sharing session was then continued as students reflected, “Meditation made us feel calmed and relaxed,” concluded the class. Meanwhile in the Intermediate class, a mindful craft session of Mindful Mandala Hand took place. Under the guidance of Teacher Wendy, Thomas and Anthan, various amazing art pieces were produced. Students brought their attention to their breathing, thoughts and sensations as they completed the artworks. With colour pencils, vivids and markers at hand, little artists in the classroom shone brightly with confidence as they presented their art pieces upon completion. Students were able to express their creativity freely while incorporating mindfulness practices to maintain meditative concentration. Feelings and emotions were expressed across art pieces and portrayed through their drawings beautifully. While in the Advanced class conducted by Teacher Gwen, students discussed about causes, conditions and effects and how these can be applied to the daily life. Raymond shared his understanding of the topic by concluding that kindness is the key to every action taken. While Zoey mentioned, “When we do good deeds, we will have good outcomes.” It was a delightful day concluded with contentment, smiles and laughter.