UOA Fo Guang Club Welcoming Day Sem 2

On 29th of July 2023, Fo Guang Club of the University of Auckland held a Welcoming Day for new members as a new Semester approaches. University students from a range of diverse backgrounds throughout the world attended this event.

Under the harmonious teamwork of YAD committees led by FGC President SinJun Chong, a range of interesting activities were carried out such as ice-breaking games, Temple tour, meditation and a sharing session with Venerable. Throughout the activities, new members learnt that the Temple is a platform to help youths discover, shape and polish their inner potentials through serving. They gained an understanding of taking the initiative to polish the diamonds within, seek to constantly broaden knowledge and continue to build good habits. In addition, the youths were also reminded the importance of having perseverance and diligence, working hard towards achieving goals but also getting rid of bad habits along the way.

Thereafter, President of BLIA YAD Subdivision 2 Thomas Lai, led the group for a mindfulness meditation session to practice meditative concentration. New members shared that they felt the serenity and peace of the Temple, settling their minds and focusing on their breaths helped them to feel soothed and calmed.

During the session with Minister in Charge of FGS Auckland Venerable Rulian, a discussion on ‘Giving’ was explored. As Venerable Rulian shared that the Temple is an opportunity for youths to practice giving back to the community and even the smallest actions can make a big difference, to constantly strive for improvements and to step out of comfort zones. Committee member Edwin shared that juggling with different tasks and difficult situations will enable us to push through boundaries and thereby improve ourselves. The process of giving and serving others is not just providing what we have, but also receiving the knowledge and gaining lessons for ourselves too.

Welcoming Day was a success as new members shared that it was an enjoyable yet meaningful day. They appreciated the activities and were inspired by Venerable’s teachings. The university students looked forward to the next coming event and was excited for the return to the temple again, for further developments, valuable lessons and givings.