|
The Supreme Master Ching
Hai
eNews Magazine No. 144 | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
|||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
======= Contents ======= uElevation of the Soul uSpiritual Information Desk mAphorisms uMaster Tells Stories uLove in Action uLetters of Appreciation
uMaster's Words uSupreme Art A Little
Message: News No. 144
Elevation of the SoulSupreme Master Ching Hai’s Latest DVDs737 <In Chinese, without subtitles>To Practice with Ease
739 <In Chinese, without subtitles>Master’s Transformation Body
741 <In Chinese and English, without subtitles>The Millennium Eve Performance
Supreme Master Ching Hai's Latest CDsCD-EG146 <In English>The Virtues of a Good Neighbor (1 & 2)
CD-CG02 <In Chinese>The Power of Positive Thinking (1 & 2)
CD-CG04 <In Chinese>The Lesson of Sharing
CD-CL01 <In Chinese>True Happiness Is Recognizing Our True Nature (1 & 2)
Supreme Master Ching Hai's Latest Publications<Aulacese Edition>The Aulacese edition of The Key of Immediate Enlightenment, Volume 15 has been officially released! Th is great news for our Aulacese friends who are earnestly seeking the Truth. The book is a compilation of Supreme Master Ching Hai's discourses in Formosa in 1988. Its 23 chapters address a wide range of spiritual topics, and are brilliant, enlightening and worthy of thoughtful reading and attention. <Mongolian Edition>The Key of Immediate Enlightenment <Spanish Edition>The Key of Immediate Enlightenment
To order Master's publications, please contact:
Please visit our bookshop's website to download our catalogue and summaries of the contents of Master's latest publications: http://www.smchbooks.com/ (in English and Chinese)
Panorama of EventsReport from Hawaii, USAThe International Emperor Shun Culture University Installs Supreme Master Ching Hai as Honorary Dean[Honolulu] From May 14-16, 2003, nearly six hundred members of the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association from around the world gathered in group meditation sessions to pray for world peace, and later attended a banquet to launch the Hawaii Overseas Chinese Association and the International Emperor Shun Culture University. The purpose in establishing the University was to carry traditional Chinese moral values and culture into the twenty-first century. Upon arrival, the initiates were greeted by artistically arranged displays of Master's paintings, posters, books, audio and video tapes, DVDs, Longevity Lamps, Celestial Jewelry and Happi Yogi Clothes. The meditation hall contained a beautiful stage erected and decorated by initiates with an oval portrait of Master, potted plants, bouquets of tropical flowers and a sky blue background bearing the words "Pray for World Peace." During the meditation sessions, initiates practiced with sincerity and high spirits as the atmosphere remained peaceful and elevated due to Master's blessing energy. Most participants said that it was a great honor to be able to attend the event and felt tremendous blessing from the recent elevation of the world's consciousness through Master's grace during Her recent personal retreat. After the last meditation session on May 16, the initiates dressed beautifully and then were transported to the New Empress Restaurant in the Chinatown Culture Plaza in downtown Honolulu. There they joined distinguished members of the local Chinese community in a celebration and banquet founding the above-mentioned institutions, and honoring Supreme Master Ching Hai for Her compassion and contributions to humankind through worldwide humanitarian work and teaching of the Quan Yin Method, whose principles are identical to those of traditional Chinese ethics. The grand evening commenced with an opening speech delivered by Dr. Hung Kwang Chen, the University's founder and president, who stated the school's key principles. During the subsequent ceremonies, Dr. Chen unveiled bronze statues of Emperor Shun and Supreme Master Ching Hai, who was installed as Honorary Dean. Afterwards a traditional dragon and lion dance ritual was performed for the success and prosperity of the new institutions. In Master's place, a representative gave a speech and accepted a certificate recognizing Her new title. Master Ching Hai was also presented with the Emperor Shun Award and the Golden Emperor Shun Trophy, which were accepted by a Quan Yin messenger on Her behalf as She was still in retreat for the purpose of elevating the world's consciousness. The banquet consisted of an elegant and delicious dinner accompanied by several performances, including traditional Hawaiian dance and nose flute presentations, a beautiful Korean folk dance, a Chinese tribal dance, a classical violin solo and others, providing guests with a wonderfully satisfying evening. Sp16-1-144.jpg , Sp16-2-144.jpg , Sp16-3-144.jpgDr. Hung Kwang Chen unveils bronze statues of Emperor Shun and Supreme
Master Ching Hai, and presents the Golden Emperor Shun Trophy and a medal
of Emperor Shun Award to Master Ching Hai.
| |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
|
Description |
Expenditures |
Receipt
No. |
|
Food for
victims in the Pali district |
884,940 |
B1 |
|
Food for
victims in the Jodhpur and Barmer districts |
1,671,250 |
B2 |
|
Food for
victims in the Jaisalmer district |
1,317,750 |
B3 |
|
Transportation
fees |
92,505 |
B4 |
|
Miscellaneous
(Banner construction: fabric, plastic tape, etc.) |
40,504 |
B5 |
|
Underground
water tanks |
1,041,500 |
B6 |
|
Well-consolidation
costs |
337,500 |
B6 |
|
Transportation
allowance for the Red Cross, Jaisalmer |
25,000 |
Nil |
|
Telecommunications
fee |
3,745 |
Nil |
|
Total |
Rupee5,414,694 |
|
Joi Cafe: (also sells veggie frozen food)
14 Percy Street (off Tottenham Court Road), London w1, U.K.
Tel: 020-7323-0981
Thai Veg
13 Islington High Street, London N1 (Agel Tbe stn ), U.K.
Tel:020-7837-7767
Thai Veg
271 Muswell Hill Broadway, London N10, U.K.
Tel: 020-8442-0558
CTV (also sells veggie frozen food)
22 Golders Green Road, London NW11 8LL, U.K.
Tel: 020-8201-8001
Tai
10 Greek Street Soho W1, U.K.
Tel: 020-7287-3730
Wai
32 Goodge Street, London W1, U.K.
VegVeg
6 Kentish Town Road, London NW1, U.K.
Tai Veg
81 Kentish Town Road, London NW1, U.K.
Please visit the following website for other information
about worldwide vegetarian houses (restaurants):
http://www.godsdirectcontact.com/vegetarian/veg.html
Sister Yang Shih-Jui, Dean of Studies at the renowned Taipei Municipal First Girls’ Senior High School, and an educator with twenty-one years of counseling experience, has come to realize the true meaning of her career and family life through her spiritual pursuits and practice. On Teachers’ Day 2002, sister Yang received the Taipei Excellent Teacher Award in Guidance and Special Education. One might ask: How does this exemplary educator of the country’s finest educational institute find the source of power to balance spiritual practice and mundane life? To answer this question, the Supreme Master Ching Hai News conducted an exclusive interview with sister Yang, who is more than happy to share her experiences with readers.
"There are several ways to teach people: Some seize the best opportunity to educate like a timely rain; some transform students according to their individual personalities so as to perfect their moral integrity." These famous teaching ideals espoused by sister Yang are contained in The Mencius (a foundational text of Confucianism). Her untiring and persistent teaching, counseling and guidance, which are based on her students’ needs and aptitudes, won her the Excellent Teacher Award and high praise from Taipei Mayor Ma Ying-jeou (see photo). About this special honor, Dean Yang said humbly, "For me, being a teacher is the greatest honor and pleasure. I consider receiving an award based on my work to be an ‘extra prize.’ It is my greatest happiness to be able to help teenagers and excel along with them!"
The teacher-student rapport and trust that Dean Yang has developed over the years arise from her profound understanding and consideration of the needs of others. "Dean Yang was the instructor for our career guidance course and we learned a lot from her! She always wears an amiable smile," said a second-year student at the High School. "Whenever we see her, we want to run over and greet her loudly: ‘Hi, Dean Yang!’ I think it’s probably because she always puts herself in our shoes and makes us feel she really understands us!" Such sincerity and closeness between teacher and students are further fruits of Dean Yang’s spiritual cultivation as she applies her spiritual insights to make her counseling work more successful.
Since childhood, Dean Young has longed for the Truth. "I often wondered if God heard my prayers," she said. "Were the stories in the Bible true? Why did I still feel empty deep in my heart? I had always hoped someone could give me the answer to these questions." She also recalled, "Being raised in a Christian environment, I enjoyed going to Sunday school and singing hymns. I had a very happy childhood there. When I grew up, however, I found that it didn’t satisfy me. Deep in my heart I was still filled with emptiness and perplexity. In senior high school, as I studied history, I became interested in Buddhist and Zen stories. But then another query perplexed me: Why can’t Buddhism be compatible with Christianity? Once, when I had already been a student advisor for a few years, I listened to one of Supreme Master Ching Hai’s lectures, during which I was greatly enlightened and realized that many different religions share the same origins! Besides, at the same time I was deeply touched by Supreme Master Ching Hai’s infinite love. I started my spiritual practice from that time, and now, fourteen years has past."
For a teacher who views education as her lifelong aspiration, Dean Yang has an unusually deep understanding of and admiration for Supreme Master Ching Hai’s selfless devotion and supreme benevolence. On this topic, Dean Yang says, "I remember Master once saying that She has had no Saturdays or Sundays since She became a Master. Because Her disciples are more diverse and numerous than those of ordinary teachers, She has to totally sacrifice Herself in order to satisfy their needs. So She not only gives public lectures, offering tangible teachings for us to understand and absorb intellectually, but also instructs by example and practice, giving Her care and love according to each disciple’s demands. And this is something that other teachers cannot do. She offers us words of wisdom and meticulous concern that no other teacher is capable of! She treats all disciples with the greatest love. Her teachings, either in terms of verbal inspiration or spiritual revelation, are all the best. Master’s spirit of altruistic sacrifice and devotion is truly amazing!"
"I still remember once after finishing a lecture, Master sincerely said to the audience, "I’m leaving. If you’re a Buddhist, continue to be a happy Buddhist. If you’re a Christian, be a happy Christian." I was moved to tears by these words! Master’s broad-mindedness was extraordinary. I could feel deeply that She was sincerely blessing each of us, and was profoundly touched by Her love!"
Dean Yang has broadened her vision of education through spiritual practice, and has also applied her spiritual contentment and love to her work. When mentioning the changes she has experienced since starting to meditate, Dean Yang insisted, "Before beginning my spiritual practice, I was just an ordinary teacher making use of my professional knowledge and psychological training in my counseling work. But after starting to practice with Master Ching Hai, I gained a more profound realization of psychology, and since then I’ve been more able to apply this knowledge and utilize it appropriately in my job. Only with the greater love and patience that I gained through practice was I able to bring my academic training into full play!"
How has Dean Yang relied on her experiences in spiritual cultivation to overcome challenges in her work after being initiated by Supreme Master Ching Hai? In response to this question she said, "Master once told us that from the day of our initiation we’re connected with God. I thus put each day in the hands of Master, go to work with the attitude of learning from my job, and see what I’ll experience that day. I majored in psychology and counseling so my work is usually associated with people who are troubled, and their moods often affect me. However, since being initiated and beginning to practice the Quan Yin Method, I’ve been able to face the unpredictable nature of my work and meet daily challenges with a happy mood. My attitude has become increasingly positive, and I look at life in a more natural way. As for my counseling work, which is contingent on my clients’ frame of mind, the most common situation is to see an unhappy student come to ask for help, which often requires putting down a project or interrupting a meal or break to give assistance. Of course, at such times I might struggle a bit in my heart, but I then remember Master, compare my work with Her sacrifices for us, and realize that the slight inconveniences I experience on my job are nothing."
"Everyone has times of fatigue and low spirits. So we can’t always be sure that we’re doing the best teaching for our students through our speech and actions." Dean Yang, who meditates daily, sincerely faces the challenges of her career and realizes that endless love and wisdom from within are the best guidance for both her students and herself.
On this topic she says, "It’s very dangerous to live without spiritual practice! We don’t know what kinds of people, events or challenges we may encounter each day. As an advisor, I feel strongly about this as we are unlike other teachers who have routine courses and face the same students day after day. Although our students are required to make appointments before they come to talk with us, we have no idea which part of their psychic experience they will reveal. With some students, you never know why they suddenly appear on a given day. Under the circumstances, if you don’t maintain enough love and wisdom, how can you have good interactions with others? Looking back over the ages of twenty to thirty in my life, it was really a great risk! But now I feel very safe as I clearly experience my inner power by each day contacting God, contacting nature, which gives me the feeling that I’m continuously walking in the Tao. No matter what you do, you’ll feel this great power — ‘Hes’ is supporting you, accompanying you, ‘Hes’ is giving you the best guidance."
The confusion of values in contemporary society has a deep impact on our youth as many wonder what course in life to follow. However Dean Yang points out a specific direction: "During adolescence, a student basically doesn’t have much confidence in himself and is still searching for self-identity. Particularly in modern society, people are confused about social values so it’s not easy for a student to find his or her own self or be certain about a direction in life! But we do hope our students or adolescents will gain self-confidence and easily discover their self-identity. I often encourage them to read positive books and see good films so as not to let their hearts become filled with too much sorrow, worry and violent or negative thoughts during this period of their lives; for these influences can affect their entire way of thinking. If students have their own religious beliefs due to family background or other circumstances, and understand that in nature there is a better and higher power to guide them and let them feel they are in the Tao at all times, I believe it will be easier for them to be more positive about themselves."
A successful career woman often has a happy family life. In our visit with Dean Yang’s family, we felt the support and respect between her and her husband, and the inspiration and educational rapport between them and their children. As Dean Yang said, "My husband and I have always loved each other; however, since we began our spiritual quest, our love has grown deeper. There’s nothing that we can’t share. We’re more than friends. I feel very lucky to have such a good spiritual partner and to know that we can encourage and help each other on the spiritual path. We’ve learned to respect and love each other more since our initiation; so I’m able to treat our children with more flexibility, unlike many parents who care too much about their children’s school work and worry too much about their future, thus affecting the parent-child relationship."
How does this "teacher mom’s" teenage son, who has been a vegetarian and spiritual practitioner along with his parents since early childhood, feel about his mother? In response to this question, he said, "What I like best is that Mom treats me like a friend. We can open our hearts to reveal our innermost thoughts. Our relations are not only like those between mother and son, but like that between friends who always know what’s in the other’s mind." When asked about the aspect of his family that makes him happiest, the young man said without hesitation, "I have a Mom who’s more ‘fashionable’ than anyone else’s!"
Sister Yang has gained much wisdom from the perfect example set by Supreme Master Ching Hai, and has applied it both in education and in her family life. For years, she has felt a deep sense of gratitude toward Master, whom she has not seen for a long time. As she states, "I miss Her very much and hope that we can have more chances to see Her and listen to Her words as we did before. But Master takes care of us down to the very last detail as She is with us at all times, and so I feel Her love constantly." Sister Yang’s total faith in Master makes her feel stronger and more at ease than she was earlier in her life; the wisdom and love developed through her meditation practice are the sources of her motivation, enabling her to face the challenges of teaching and counseling in a more balanced way.
This interview was aired on Sun TV in serial # 34 and 35 of the A
Journey through Aesthetic Realms TV program:
http://www.Godsdirectcontact.org.tw/eng/hichannel/index.htm (In Chinese,
with English subtitles)
"Mountain folks — God’s folks" is the term of endearment given to members of Formosa’s indigenous ethnic groups by Supreme Master Ching Hai. To a question by a Zulu guest during Her 1999 South African lecture tour about the wide variety of races in the world, Master replied, "Since God is colorful and talented, just like Hes created different kinds of flowers to please us, Hes also created peoples with different skin colors, and we should feel pleased about this."
From May 3 to 28, 2003, the first Formosa Indigenous Wedding Exhibition was held at the Chiang Kai-shek Gallery of the National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall in Taipei. The Taipei Center of the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association participated in the event, where Master’s artistic creations and more than sixty pure, colorful paintings by children from the island’s indigenous cultures were displayed.
On May 2, at a press conference before the Exhibition’s opening ceremony, one guest said that she could hear the sound of soft, beautiful singing reverberating in the venue. On learning that no music was being played at the time, she felt that what she had heard was Supreme Master Ching Hai's singing since she had heard Master’s voice on earlier occasions. Fellow initiates believed that it had been our compassionate Master’s spiritual manifestation form coming to bless everyone.
During the Exhibition, an art teacher said that after appreciating Master’s paintings, he noted that they were natural without signs of deliberate polishing, and that their mood and meaning were presented in a pure, simple way. He added that since he had previously known of Master only through media reports and thus had had inadequate information about Her, it was an honor for him to get to know Her better by viewing Her work firsthand. Another visitor, Ms. Tan, an overseas Chinese, came especially to learn about Master’s teachings, for she deeply admired Master’s love, which made no discrimination among people of various races, skin colors or religions. After a thorough discussion with the sister acting as receptionist, the guest very much agreed with Master’s teachings and requested many pamphlets before leaving.
This year, May 24 happened to fall on a weekend and on that date an indigenous costume show and awards presentation ceremony were held at the venue. The show was very refreshing because of the sophisticated design and exquisite tailoring of the costumes worn by the models and the harmonious singing of three aboriginal performers. In addition, scholarships and grants were presented to indigenous schoolchildren, while workers who had long been involved in aboriginal cultural activities and arts received awards.
The Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association not only participated in the Exhibition, but also provided many services such as decorating the venue, sponsoring research in indigenous arts, funding scholarships for outstanding indigenous children, and providing audio facilities and delicious vegetarian snacks. These efforts received a warm response from visitors to the Chiang Kai-shek Gallery, which radiated a loving light due to the social concern and support for indigenous people expressed at the event, which dispelled the gloom of the SARS epidemic in Taipei.
Ms. Wang Guangyu, executive director of a local community college, could hardly contain her tears as she gazed in appreciation at Master’s Longevity Lamp "Fire Extinguishing Fan." And when she walked toward the lamp "Protection Power," tears gushed from her eyes all the more. Ms. Wang, who is from a well-known Formosan family, has had a satisfying career and happy family life, but she had never experienced such a profound vibration in her soul as she did at the Exhibition. After an explanation by fellow initiates at the venue, she realized that the experience was the result of the supreme blessings derived from Master’s creations.
Ms. Wang made many comments as she appreciated Master’s artistic works one by one. For example, she said that the subjects of the painting "Heavenly Flowers" were real, virtuous and beautiful flora that revealed to her the most beautiful side of life and that the work’s awesome power was beyond her comprehension. Also, "The Flowers in the Heart Will Not Wither" expressed the highest possible state of ecstasy. Similarly, "Longing" evoked a sense of spiritual elevation as if Master were guiding her to the highest realm of life, along with a deep inner experience that transcended words. "Stone Cave" revealed to Ms. Wang the window of the soul that clears up human blindness and confusion. In addition, Master’s bamboo lamp "Elixir Vase" was a very original masterpiece suggesting that Mother Earth gave birth to all creatures, and giving her a feeling of the spiritual beauty and unity of all things.
Ms. Wang expressed her gratitude to Master for Her love in enlightening and elevating her soul in these brief encounters about the significance of Her creative works. A friend who came with her said that as a soul who refused to be polluted by the world, Ms. Wang had always been sincere and warmhearted, and it was therefore easy for her to be in tune with Master and feel Her love and powerful magnetic field.
For the past thirteen years, many Aulacese people have resided in Philippine refugee camps, and throughout this time our lives have been smooth and peaceful through Master’s blessings despite turbulence and pressure. In the year 2002, the president of Aulac met with the president of the Philippines to discuss sending the Aulacese refugees back to Au Lac. The meeting was reported on the daily newspapers, and upon learning this news, I became very concerned. In my anxiety, I remembered an event that occurred eleven years ago.
The first time Master visited the Philippine refugee camp, She spent a great deal of time showing Her love to hospital patients and gave them comfort when they needed it most. One of the patients was a woman who had had longstanding heart problems and could have died at any time. She had to go to the hospital almost every day and was sad and worried for her young children who would have no one to care for them if she were gone. At this time, Master came to her bed, touched her on the head and said, "You’ll be fine!"
Three years later, the woman’s illness flared up again and she had to be transferred to Manila for treatment. She felt that her body was dead from her heart down to her feet and called to Master for help. Then suddenly she saw a circle of light surrounding her body with extreme intensity for two to three minutes, and felt an electric current from above running very quickly down to her feet.
A few days later, the woman’s health was restored and she was discharged from the hospital. Since then, every time she has run into trouble, she says, "Master, please help me! I have young children with no one to care for them, Master!" She then hears Master’s voice talking to her. Each time she thinks of Master, remembers Her and prays to Her, she sees Master appear with very clear and intense light. Even her three-year-old daughter also sees Master appear and calls out upon seeing Her spiritual manifestation form. But except for the mother and daughter, the whole household can not see anything. Since these experiences began, the woman has had a very good life.
Recalling this story, I felt confident that Master’s power protects everyone, not just Her disciples and thought about my own case. I was Master’s disciple so of course She knew about my situation so why did I worry too much? I then decided to let Master arrange everything, felt a heavy burden falling from my shoulders and became relaxed. Whatever would come tomorrow did not worry me anymore.
The refugee problem in the Philippines is still not resolved and on the surface we are not yet settled. But now I just let it be and understand that I cannot do anything for myself, but Master does everything for me. Each time I think of Master, I always feel peaceful and comfortable and try very diligently to practice spirituality as a way to repay the love She has given me. Finally, I want to express my highest love and respect for Master and say I miss Her very much.
Once a disciple went to visit an initiate-to-be and on the way back got a ride from a friend who was not a disciple. Since it was a long way to his home, they had to drive overnight. They were traveling at high speed on a highway when everyone in the car was sleeping and the driver was also falling asleep. Suddenly there was a loud noise, and everyone in the car was shocked as it felt as though they were being tossed into the air. The car had run into an electric post and become completely crushed. The disciple crawled out from under the car and noticed that there was not a single cut on his body. He then helped pull the initiate-to-be and the driver out of the car. The initiate-to-be only had small scratches on one of his arms and the driver remained unconscious for fifteen minutes, then woke up with just a slight headache.
When the chief of transportation and the police came to the scene of the accident, they were very surprised to see that the three men were fine even though the car had been totally demolished. The chief of transportation then embraced the disciple, and said that God had protected everyone in the car. He added that no words could express his feelings about the miracle, the likes of which he had never seen in his entire career in transportation. When the insurance company representative came, he saw that the car was beyond repair and decided to give the owner a new one.
Earlier, when the disciple had come to visit the initiate-to-be, he saw that a pendant with Master’s picture had been left in a corner. He then put it around his neck, and when the accident occurred, he felt that there was a very strong energy protecting him. He knew that Master had been watching over him every moment during the accident and had saved the lives of everyone in the car.
The disciple then felt ashamed since he believed that his practice was still weak and his behavior careless. He was very grateful for Master’s love and care during his recent trauma, and decided to practice harder. Everyone else was also very grateful to Master for protecting their lives, and for giving them the opportunity to continue practicing for liberation and enlightenment so that they will not have to come back to another life of impermanence and suffering.
My wife and I had always been a happy couple from the time we were young. We were a family that all our relatives and neighbors admired. But several years ago, my wife received the book, The Key of Immediate Enlightenment, from a sister initiate and our lives began to change. After reading the book, she decided to follow Master Ching Hai on the spiritual path and hoped that I would do the same. Although I could accept part of Master’s teachings, I did not believe in God and the concept of a soul and could not accept spiritual practice or a vegetarian diet because I was a materialist. I could not renounce this world and felt that being a vegan would prevent me from having normal relationships with friends and relatives. This was a matter of principle. Thus, the greatest disharmony that my wife and I had ever experienced arose in our married life.
I thought of many ways to prevent my wife from getting initiated. I even spent tens of thousands of RMB (Chinese currency) on sightseeing tours around the country, hoping that she would give up the idea of spiritual practice. But this method proved useless. Eventually we made a compromise and agreed that she could practice the Convenient Method, which resulted in her missing an opportunity for initiation. I did not suspect then that she would become dissatisfied with the Convenient Method and increasingly anxious for initiation. As she became more and more earnest about her wish to be initiated, the conflict between us grew more serious as well. During that time, I experienced an anguish that I had never before felt in my life. I thought about divorce, but was afraid to hurt my wife and lose her because I loved her so much. The more I hindered her spiritual practice, the more she suffered, and the more hatred filled my heart. I hated her attachment to the Quan Yin Method, and I hated the sister who had given her the book, blaming her for bringing discord into our lives.
Although I used every way I could to prevent her from doing so, my wife still received initiation in Korea without my knowledge. When I recall my behavior during that time, I find myself to have been absolutely ridiculous: an ordinary man wanting to fight God’s power. It was like an insect trying to stop a car. After my wife returned from Korea, I felt calmer and more at peace. I began to introspect on my behavior and, without questioning, followed her in maintaining a pure vegetarian diet, and renounced alcohol as well. Of course, all this must be attributed to Master’s immense love. However, I still could not join my wife on the spiritual path.
Then in June, 2002, my wife bought two paintings by Master—"The Stone Cave" and "Hope." And within a week of her purchases, on consecutive nights I unexpectedly dreamt of Master taking me to beautiful realms. The most unforgettable memory was of Master taking me to a majestic hall, where there were only pillars but no roof. Brilliant golden light shone everywhere, and it was difficult to describe how splendid it was. Master talked to me like an old friend, saying that I should be open-minded and detached. She said that everything in life is our own choice and that we should live the way we want. On hearing this, I became very happy, thinking that Master understood me and was granting me freedom.
A few days later, I dreamed of Master taking me through a black hole in the universe where countless shining stars flew past us. I felt that we were moving many times faster than the stars. When passing through the middle of the black hole, I saw a light like that in the painting "The Stone Cave," followed by dazzlingly white light. My feelings at the time cannot be expressed in human language.
After that, I started to study Master’s teachings very carefully and understood deeply that everything Master says is true! Then I began to practice the Convenient Method and have had great experiences during meditation. Master often takes me to various beautiful realms and I now understand what real happiness is. My hatred toward my wife has changed into love, and we can find things to discuss about Master’s teachings every day. I am truly grateful to Master for giving me a happier family.
Master conveyed power and wisdom through Her paintings, changing my beliefs completely so that I realize the omnipresence of the Master power! I am now eager to receive Master’s initiation as soon as possible.
A teacher asked his student, "Charles, why is it so difficult for you to learn how to spell?" And Charles said, "Because you keep changing the words all the time."
A motorist was driving his motorcycle in Texas and accidentally hit a young cow and killed it. So the driver went to the farmer who owned the cow and tried to make it up to him, explaining that it was just an accident and that he was willing to pay whatever price the cow was worth. The farmer said, "It’s worth a hundred dollars now, but in six years’ time, it will be worth eight hundred dollars. So I want eight hundred dollars, all right?" Then the motorist wrote a check for eight hundred dollars and gave it to the farmer, saying, "Here’s eight hundred dollars. I post-dated the check for six years from now."
There was a man who was walking to a train station with two friends at his sides. Because the train was delayed, the three of them sat down for a cup of coffee. And then they also drank some alcohol. After a while they forgot all about the train. So they drank and talked, and talked and drank. But then they heard the final announcement that the train was leaving so the three got up and ran. And the man who was walking between his two friends had drunk too much and fell a little behind and couldn’t catch up. The other two caught the caboose and went away with the train. Then the man, the one who had been between his two friends, stopped there and laughed and laughed again. Everyone around the man began to look at him and said, "What are you laughing at? You missed the train, you know?" And the man said, "Yeah, Yeah, I know I missed the train, but I’m laughing at my two friends because they had supposedly just come to see me off!"
I am a nurse at a major public hospital in Hong Kong. One month after I was initiated on February 9, 2003, Hong Kong experienced one of the gravest crises in its history — the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) epidemic. This outbreak increased my understanding of my vocation as a nurse and of the value of human life, and also taught me lessons about gratitude. Most of all, I experienced Master’s blessing and witnessed Her immense power.
When the epidemic broke out, I was deeply saddened to see my colleagues infected by SARS one after another. In my twenty years as a nurse, I had never thought that my work would expose me to the risk of death, but in this case the only thing I could do was take the best possible care of my patients and soothe their hearts, hoping that they would recover soon. When the epidemic was at its worst, the medical staff drew lots to determine who should work in SARS wards to replace those who had fallen in the struggle or were too worn out to continue. Despite the strenuous fight I was engaged in against SARS, there was no trace of fear in my heart. I knew that I would be all right, being protected by Master’s love. I am truly thankful to God for blessing me with my nursing profession so that I can serve sentient beings. Through my work, I am able to send Hiers love and mercy to my fellow human beings at times of their greatest need for care and concern.
When many medical workers had been infected by SARS and my colleagues were in low spirits, I prayed to Master to give us a place where we could all relax and soothe our minds. I am really thankful to Master for in early April the hospital set up a "heart nurturing room" for medical workers. Inside there is an abundance of spiritual books and music. The room also contains a place for meditation called "the quiet pavilion." It is really unbelievable that inside a hospital in the bustling city of Hong Kong, this small piece of "pure land" exists for the purpose of nourishing our hearts and spirits!
In addition, knowing the benefits of keeping a vegetarian diet, I prayed to Master that the medical staff could have a chance to eat vegetarian. For this purpose I wrote a long letter asking the management committee of the hospital’s cafeteria to add vegetarian dishes to its menu. Thanks to Master’s grace, the authorities consented and immediately offered a vegetarian menu for all three meals each day. Master’s mercy also shone on my twelve-year-old daughter, who had previously been opposed to my vegetarian diet. About two weeks ago, she suddenly said, "Mum, I’m going to be a vegetarian from today onward. Is it okay?" I was really moved. I am thankful for Master’s compassion and love!
With Master’s care and protection, Hong Kong has finally come through its battle against SARS. Those medical workers who heroically lost their lives did not die in vain. They completed their assignments from God and returned to Heaven to experience eternal peace. In the three months since my initiation, with Master’s blessing, my life has undergone many changes, and I feel extremely thankful! Hereby I share with everyone my experiences and Master’s love!
"If you should be so lucky as to be quarantined, I will certainly bring you food. Don’t worry!" Who would have expected that such a remark made as a joke would actually come true due to the outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) in Formosa? On receiving news that fellow practitioners working at a hospital had been quarantined due to the SARS epidemic, many fellow initiates voluntarily offered as much support as possible. Thanks to Master’s blessings, they were able to deliver some practical and useful materials, blessed food and drinking water to the nursing staff. All this was done quietly until people began to inquire repeatedly, "Which spiritual group do you belong to, that you are courageous enough to enter here?" When they learned that we were disciples of Supreme Master Ching Hai, they were very touched and expressed their gratitude to Master! It was indeed a coincidence that the materials sent to the hospital were just the right amount needed by the nursing staff. Master’s loving blessing is always just right to suit the occasion!
Fellow practitioners love to joke among themselves while facing adverse or difficult situations with the greatest optimism. Thus, when such circumstances arose recently due to the SARS outbreak, Formosan initiates felt honored to have the opportunity to render assistance and encouragement to their brothers and sisters in "retreat" at the hospital. Spiritual practitioners do see things differently than others! Thus they can regard a quarantine as a retreat for spiritual practice. During such a retreat, no one would ever dare to disturb you, while you are also not allowed to go out as you like. During the whole process, the united, selfless, silent and loving sacrifice of the initiates was obvious and truly touching. Although such behavior is natural for spiritual practitioners, we initiates still remember what Master has often told us: "Helping others is helping ourselves." Thank You, Mama, for Your grace and for giving us the opportunity to learn another lesson in love.
Before my recent trip to India to assist in Master’s drought relief project, I was often troubled by mundane affairs and aspired to live a free and easy lifestyle in which I could take care of my living expenses, minimize outside activities and thus help myself in my spiritual practice. However, being unable to distinguish between "needs" and "wants" in my life, I could never make ends meet. To my surprise, this seemingly difficult problem was easily solved after I returned to Formosa from India.
While in India, our work team stayed mainly in the state of Rajasthan, which was plagued for several years by a severe drought that reached crisis proportions in the spring of 2003. Many parts of the state had suffered from inadequate rainfall for seven of the past ten years, and several areas had not seen any rain for four or five consecutive years.
The local people thus lived a hard, simple life. Amazingly, however, the unbearable heat gave one a pure sense of existence. Here, there seemed to be no difference between "you" and "me"; social status and career success seemed of little importance (everyone’s status and position were more or less the same anyway). The greatest enjoyment for the people was to quietly wait until the scorching sun and heat departed at nightfall, and good friends could get together in small groups to leisurely drink warm milk tea or soft drinks and share the coolness of the night.
My greatest pleasure during this period was to return to my living quarters after work and have a bowl of simple soup made of mineral water, noodles, vegetables and a pinch of monosodium glutamate (MSG). The concoction tasted just marvelous and I felt as if I were in Heaven every time I ate it. I even began to feel thankful for the MSG although I formerly used to shun it for health reasons.
After several days of this "survival" training, I learned to be grateful for "the pure sense of existence" I was experiencing in India. In order to carry on, I learned to change some of my ideas and came to understand what was "essential" for survival and what was "surplus." In the past, the ability to make such a distinction was something that could only come by coincidence for me. So I had not expected it to naturally and miraculously emerge after returning to Formosa. Now, no matter what difficulties I encounter, my memories of life in India make them all easy to solve, and I can quickly make decisions about what to accept and what to reject in daily affairs.
Thank God, a passage to India opened my wisdom eye about the nature of life and forever erased my anxieties. It was truly a rebirth!
For a long time before my initiation I had longed to know God. And when I saw all kinds of strange phenomena occurring in the world, my longing became more intense. Since meeting Master, I have had an indescribable and even stronger yearning for Master’s infinite love and a desire to understand God better.
On the disaster-relief trip, we initiates went to India theoretically to serve and to "give" to others, but in reality, we were the ones at the receiving end.
During the five-day 2002 Christmas retreat in Florida, Master patiently answered my question about such loving service. She said that when She serves children or takes care of animals, She feels a double sense of happiness: One is from within Herself, and the other is transferred from those She serves. Through Master’s loving answer, I came to realize that for most of my life I had been doing things with my mind, and so I became easily exhausted over the "endless" work I had to accomplish. Although I then discovered where the problem was, I still felt some regrets because I did not know all about the services offered by my local center and had little chance to experience the direct and simple opportunities for spiritual growth available there. Amazingly, this subtle feeling and wish in my heart, which I had not even perceived myself, was taken care of by Master and realized one year later while I was in India.
Throughout the 40-day disaster-relief project in Rajasthan, the initiate volunteers rushed back and forth, overcoming countless difficulties before we finally delivered the food supplies purchased by the Supreme Master Ching Hai relief team to the starving drought victims. Also, we witnessed the completion of a reservoir and several wells, and the initiation of some local people by a Quan Yin messenger. During this process, I came to truly understand how God meticulously cares for Hiers children, and was overwhelmed by the vastness of divine love. Even though this activity was but a mere particle in the span of universal history, I sincerely believe that the seeds of love were planted deep in the souls of the Indian people through Master’s compassionate concern.
Finally, I wish to offer my most profound gratitude to Master with these lines:
Without You, I would not have known of the existence of God;
The mysterious God reveals Hiers presence because of You;
Your love benefits everything and reaches all beings;
Thanks to You, I know that God really exists!
Knowing that over the past few months, a number of disasters have occurred around the world, causing many people to live in fear and apprehension, Supreme Master Ching Hai immediately instructed members of the Association to conduct urgent relief activities. Amid these events, many individuals have transcended national boundaries and ethnicity to show true love and concern for humankind by helping others and bringing them infinite light and hope for the future.
Related news coverage and Master’s enlightening discourse are available
for online viewing on Sun TV Program serial No. 38, 41, 42 and 43 of A
Journey through Aesthetic Realms. Please visit:
http://www.Godsdirectcontact.org.tw/eng/hichannel/index.htm (In Chinese,
with English subtitles)
Over the past few years, northwestern India has suffered from an ongoing drought, but the situation deteriorated this year as crops failed and people suffered from severe water and food shortages. On learning of the situation, Supreme Master Ching Hai directed fellow practitioners to carry out relief work in the villages near the four major cities of Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Pali and Barmer in the state of Rajasthan.
Toward the end of April, 2003, approximately 40 fellow initiates from the U.K., Singapore and Formosa arrived in India and quickly purchased large amounts of staple foods for delivery to drought victims. The volunteers worked in three groups to coordinate distribution of the provisions with local governments and related organizations. When the first group of initiates arrived in Jaisalmer to discuss the relief work with local officials, they were overjoyed at the torrential downpours that fell for one whole hour in the city, which had not seen rain for a long time! At the end of the visit, the officials happily posed for a photo holding one of Master’s books.
During the first week of May, with the help of the cities’ mayors and local organizations such as the Red Cross and MMBA (Mahila Mandal Barmer Agor), the volunteers worked in scorching temperatures reaching 54 degrees Celsius to distribute the provisions to 10,500 families, thus temporarily resolving the local food shortage. The mayor of Jodhpur, Mr. Rajath Kumar Mishra, observed that it was the first time in many years that the region had received help and concern from a non-profit international organization. Before the relief team set out on its mission, he made special arrangements to hold a flag presentation ceremony to thank Supreme Master Ching Hai for Her help. In addition, on learning about Master’s loving instructions to render aid to his people, Pali mayor Mr. Arun Purohit immediately arranged for local residents to help the initiates and thus speed up the operation. Mr Purohit also expressed his encouragement by personally seeing the relief workers off on their journey.
When the relief work was completed at Barmer, the initiates learned that the local government had insufficient funds to build more underground water storage tanks and consolidate wells for the local communities. So the relief team immediately subsidized the purchase of materials to build 50 water tanks and consolidate 21 wells with the help of the MMBA. The water storage tanks in the community are designed to receive water from water vehicles in times of drought, and to store rainwater during the wet season. In order for local residents to be ready before the next rainy season, the construction work was stepped up so that it could be completed by mid-June, 2003. When finished, the project will benefit more than seven thousand people. The villagers were very thankful to Master for delivering them from the misery of having to walk more than ten kilometers daily across the desert to get water.
As discussed above, fellow practitioners recently conducted relief operations in the state of Rajasthan, which means "Land of the Kings" in the local dialect. There ancient palaces and castles built in fine, classical style continue to stand tall, and one can tell from such architecture that the region is a place of high spirituality.
When the practitioners arrived in Delhi, several young drivers from the area drove them to Jodhpur. On the way, one happily exchanged spiritual views with the initiates. During the three-week journey of relief work conducted by the group, the drivers were moved by Master’s love, and of their own accord donned the Association’s green vests worn by the fellow practitioners and pitched in to help with the relief operation. In the end, three of the drivers learned the Convenient Method while two received initiation and joined the QuanYin Family.
In addition to distributing relief materials, the fellow initiates brought along spiritual nectar — Master’s sample booklets. Some people who received the booklets immediately placed them against their wisdom eyes, and some began discussing them at once while others displayed them behind the windshields of their taxis. Children crowded in to obtain Master’s photo, and Master’s videos, originally broadcast indoors for the children, also attracted the attention of adults who were only too happy to stand and watch. Though life is hard for the people of Rajasthan, their longing for spiritual elevation is nonetheless intense.
During the journey, the relief workers were scheduled to stay in a farmhouse known as the Raman Guest House, and the host’s brother-in-law was at the entrance to receive them when they arrived. He told the initiates that he had dreamed daily of Master in different forms and appearances, and also saw the fellow practitioners. So by the time they arrived, he was already looking forward to meeting these "old friends."
It’s worth noting that many members of the MMBA, after working with the initiates for nearly a month, accepted Master’s teachings, realizing that the development of wisdom and love is beneficial to their charity work. Eight members of the group received initiation and voluntarily began translating Master’s teachings in hopes of sharing the message of Truth in India.
During the relief operation in Rajasthan, the workers travelled more than a thousand kilometers, more than fifty local residents learned the Convenient Method, over twenty received initiation into the Quan Yin Method and innumerable souls were elevated by hearing Master’s name. During the Convenient Method session, many saw the inner Light of God, and some experienced the Light form of Master’s manifestation. Everyone had happy experiences, looking contented and swinging their heads vigorously back and forth to tell fellow practitioners, "I have seen God!" (Most Indians swing their heads sideways when they mean to express agreement.)
Expenditures
for
Supported by Supreme Master Ching Hai
(Unit: Rupe)
|
Description |
Expenditures |
Receipt |
|
Food for victims in the Pali district |
884,940 |
B1 |
|
Food for victims in the |
1,671,250 |
B2 |
|
Food for victims in the Jaisalmer district |
1,317,750 |
B3 |
|
Transportation fees |
92,505 |
B4 |
|
Miscellaneous (Banner construction:
fabric, plastic tape, etc.) |
40,504 |
B5 |
|
Underground water tanks |
1,041,500 |
B6 |
|
Well-consolidation costs |
337,500 |
B6 |
|
Transportation allowance for the
Red Cross, Jaisalmer |
25,000 |
Nil |
|
Telecommunications fee |
3,745 |
Nil |
|
Total |
Rupee5,414,694 =US$116,294.97 |
|
At the end of April, 2003, one of the worst floods in over 500 years struck the province of Santa Fe, Argentina. The inhabitants of the region, which is flanked by the Salado River on the left and the Parana River on the right, are usually prepared to face the frequent flooding of the Parana. However, on this occasion, as a result of continued heavy rain that lashed the northwest of Santa Fe, the Salado River also burst its banks in a matter of hours, inundating entire townships and flooding a third of the province’s capital city, also named Santa Fe, where whole neighborhoods were submerged under two meters of water.
Completely caught by surprise, many local inhabitants could do nothing but take their children and escape from the swiftly and inexorably advancing river. Others only managed to climb onto the roofs of their houses, from which they were later rescued by other Santa Fe residents in boats. Most of the people of Santa Fe lost everything, even their loved ones. Apart from those who left on their own, more than 80,000 were evacuated and lodged in schools. The risk of epidemic and infection increased with the stagnant water caused by the flooding. But soon the solidarity of the Argentine people and international relief groups would manifest.
On learning about the disaster, Master quickly proceeded to offer relief. First, two initiates from Brazil traveled to Argentina’s capital Buenos Aires, with precise instructions from Master to assess the situation in Santa Fe. After comprehending the urgent needs of Santa Fe’s people, Master instructed that 3000 blankets, towels and bags of candy for the children be delivered to those most in need. In a related effort, the staff of a local medical laboratory had raised money and bought mattresses, blankets and food for the flood victims, but did not know how they would dispatch the goods. Perceiving Master’s divine love, they decided to entrust our association with distributing the supplies, which we willingly agreed to do.
Then, imbued with a deep feeling of brotherhood and unity, ten initiates from Buenos Aires and two from Brazil arrived in Santa Fe. After days of intense effort, everything was arranged and the work proceeded smoothly, even in difficult to reach areas. With trucks full of Master’s sample booklets, blankets, towels and candies, initiates made their way over muddy roads into the province’s poorest neighborhoods, including San Lorenzo, Centenario, Fonavi and Las Lomas, which were dangerous to navigate due to the high waters. The initiates also visited the extremely needy Mocovies Indian communities.
On receiving the sample booklets, blankets and candies, the inhabitants overflowed with signs of affection for Master, nodding as they learned who Master was and thanking the initiates with hugs and kisses. The people were moved because they knew that they were receiving not only material help, but also Master’s love and immense spiritual power. Adults and children alike asked for Master’s address in order to send Her letters of appreciation as they wanted to return to Her all the love She had bestowed on them. Parents showed their children Master’s photo and some youngsters spontaneously told us, "Send a kiss to the Lady from us." In one neighborhood, when a man carrying his little daughter received a blanket, he left the girl on the ground and, deeply moved, gave us his most precious treasure right off his back — the jersey of his favorite soccer team.
After we have finished our work, many people began to phone us to thank Master, explaining that they had spent a warm night because of the blankets they received. Others offered to work as volunteers to help us with the delivery and some had already read the sample booklet and wanted to join the Quan Yin Family.
For all the initiates involved in the Santa Fe relief project, it was an unforgettable and wonderful experience to see Master’s Love in action, and an invaluable opportunity to work together as one in helping both our brothers and sisters in need and also ourselves. Through Master’s Love, hope and joy returned to the flood-ravaged community of Santa Fe.
Expenditures for Argentine Flood Relief and Aid
by Supreme Master Ching Hai
(in pesos)
|
Descripti |
Expenses |
Receipt# |
|
Blankets |
38,655.00 |
A~D |
|
Towels |
22,714.00 |
E~G |
|
Sweets,
Biscuits, etc. |
4,573.00 |
H |
|
Packing Fee |
280.00 |
I |
|
Stationery |
103.70 |
J |
|
Printing
Cost |
1,285.00 |
K |
|
Lighters |
126.75 |
L |
|
Transportation
Fee |
2,089.00 |
M~N |
|
Store Room
Rental |
200.00 |
O |
|
Total |
70,026.45 |
|
On May 6, 2003, representatives of the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association, including initiates from the Taipei Center, the Light and Sound Association of National Taiwan University and the Body and Mind Development Society of National Taiwan Normal University, presented over forty sets of gifts to the heroes of the Taipei Fire Department who have been fighting SARS on the front line. The gifts included immunity-strengthening drinks, cards carrying loving wishes, encouraging posters and Master’s News magazines and sample booklets. Fire Department Director Syong Guang-hua received the gifts on behalf of the over forty squads under his command. The Taipei initiates paid special visits to the Zhong-xiao and Fu-xing squads to present them with flowers and gifts and express their encouragement. The initiates also conveyed Master’s love to these groups of anonymous heroes silently serving in the struggle against SARS!
As the SARS epidemic continues to affect the country, everyone is responsible for resisting SARS. The Hsihu Center has taken action in this regard by suspending guest visits. Besides, before entering the Center, all initiates are required to don mouth masks, fill out survey forms, have temperature checks and complete disinfection procedures as protective measures against the spread of SARS.
On May 12, 2003, International Nurse Day, fellow initiates visited various departments at the Taipei City Hall (photo 1) to extend their support and encouragement and give gifts to city employees. Section Chief Chen Qing-an accepted the gifts (photo 2) on behalf of his colleagues, and thanked the initiates for offering the emotional support that the workers so desperately needed. The initiates then proceeded to the Health Department, where Chief Secretary Xiao Dong-ming received their offering of flowers, morale-boosting posters and Master’s sample booklets and News magazines (photo 3). Mr. Xiao said that the positive encouragement provided by the initiates was precisely what his staff needed at this challenging time, and that all Formosans should strive with one-mindedness to prevent the spread of SARS and overcome the epidemic with love. Fellow initiates later visited the Social Affairs Department, where Secretary Huang Wen-feng accepted their gifts on behalf of her colleagues (photo 4). Ms. Huang said that all the logistical units of the Social Affairs Department were ready to be mobilized to fight SARS in coordination with the city government.
Then, to express their gratitude for the wise, benevolent and courageous performance of local medical and rescue personnel, who at such critical times have forgotten the heavy risks involved to devote themselves to patients unfortunately infected by SARS, fellow initiates proceeded to the Songshan Military Hospital with gifts, flower baskets and cards of salutation (photo 5). Later, at the Armed Forces General Hospital, Deputy Director Xu Shan-shan of the Hospital’s Nursing Department thanked the initiates for their timely support and encouragement, and promised that its medical staff would be allowed on the "battlefield" only when they were perfectly equipped. Ms. Xu also hoped that the staff’s family members would understand and support them, and society would give them greater encouragement (photo 6).
As the people of Formosa worked together for anti-SARS, Formosan members of the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association, with help from their brothers and sisters in the United States, purchased 63,000 surgical masks and N95 mouth masks for local medical workers (photo 7). When the first batch of masks from the other side of the Pacific cleared customs at Chiang Kai-shek International Airport, Association volunteers promptly delivered 12,640 of the mouth masks and 33,000 of the surgical masks to the Department of Health under the government’s central administration. The supplies were received by Specialist Yao Chan-song of the Secretariat of the National Health Insurance Bureau (photo 8). As the Bureau was responsible for allocating anti-SARS resources, Mr. Yao assured the initiates that the masks would soon be delivered to major hospitals and medical centers in Formosa to better protect medical workers dealing directly with SARS patients. The last batch of mouth masks arrived in Taipei in early June and all were donated to medical centers, as local initiates expressed their ongoing concern for the medical workers on the front.
On May 21, 2003, a strong earthquake measuring 6.7 on the Richter scale devastated the city of Boumerdes 55 miles east of Algiers, the capital of Algeria. The severe damage caused by the initial quake was intensified by a series of aftershocks, making the situation even worse. Supreme Master Ching Hai gave special instructions to members of the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association to help the quake victims overcome their ordeal by speedily conveying emergency supplies to the region.
So fellow initiates in Formosa immediately purchased a huge stock of the most needed relief materials, including 3,571 family tents, 10,000 blankets and 194 heavy warm jackets. Then volunteers came from all parts of the island to the Association’s Taoyuan Center, where they worked through the night, sorting and packing the items into crates. On May 30, the materials were delivered to the Chiang Kai-shek International Airport, and airlifted to Paris with help from the Formosa Foreign Ministry and China Airlines. Next, through the concerted efforts of fellow practitioners in Europe, the International Red Cross and Mr. Said Abdiche, the Algerian Consul General in France, the supplies reached the affected areas on June 3.
Many buildings had collapsed in Boumerdes, the epicenter of the earthquake, and residents slept in the streets for fear of aftershocks. Mr. Abdiche observed that the relief materials contributed by the SMCH Association were precisely what the victims needed and added that he was deeply touched by the letter from the Association, from which he learned that Supreme Master Ching Hai had lost sleep upon learning about the quake disaster in Algeria.
Mr. Abdiche placed the death toll at over 3,000, a much higher figure than that reported by the media, and also noted that countless people had been injured. Nearly every structure in the area had to be rebuilt, especially hospitals and schools, as well as victims’ homes. Such a large project would require considerable assistance from the international humanitarian community, and Mr. Abdiche said that it was wonderful to receive love and assistance from groups such as the Association, adding that our act of concern gave him much comfort and confidence.
At the Paris Airport, a native Algerian truck driver from Luxembourg who helped transport the provisions was so touched by Master’s loving concern that he asked to keep as a souvenir the little flag that relief team members had placed on his truck. Those who participated in the work that day could deeply feel Master’s compassion permeating their hearts and making them feel that "we are all truly one."
On June 6, the SMCH Association held a ceremony in Taipei to thank the organizations who supported the "Hand in Hand, Send Love to Algeria"project, and conveyed the good news that all the relief materials contributed by the Association had been safely delivered into the hands of Algerian quake victims. The Initiates thus invited distinguished guests from the groups that had contributed to the success of the operation, including the ROC Foreign Ministry, China Airlines and Morrison Express Corp. Limited, to share the delight of the effort and to witness how sharing kindness and helping others can bring true love and hope to humankind.
Ambassador Lu Ching-lung was extremely impressed by the great efficiency shown by the Association in gathering the relief materials and delivering them to the quake victims in one week. Since Algeria has no official diplomatic relationship with Formosa, delivering, transporting, and gaining customs clearance for the materials posed great difficulties. Fortunately, however, the wholehearted assistance of European fellow initiates, the International Red Cross, and Consul General Abdiche made it possible for this transoceanic relief operation to be speedily accomplished. Ambassador Lu also praised the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association, China Airlines and Morrison Express Corp. Limited for participating in the operation and for conducting "people-to-people" diplomacy for the pride and glory of Formosa.
For almost a decade, Los Angeles Music Week has been honoring musicians who have made significant contributions to the City of Los Angeles through their artistic talents. In December 2002, Ms. Margie Evans, president and founder of Los Angeles Music Week, recognized Supreme Master Ching Hai as an artist and humanitarian and honored Her during the Los Angeles Music Week Awards Reception at the Wilshire Grand Hotel, where Master was presented with a crystal plaque and Certificate of Commendation signed by James Hahn, the Mayor of Los Angeles. The City further honored Supreme Master Ching Hai with a Certificate of Commendation, presented by City Council Member Wendy Greuel at the Los Angeles Music Week Presentations and Proclamations Ceremony held at the Los Angeles City Hall.
Another of LA Music Week’s goals is to share with children the importance of music and educate them about various musical cultures. Ms. Evans not only recognized the artistic talents of Supreme Master Ching Hai, but also Her great love for humanity as a whole and especially for children by saying, "It was real when I saw Supreme Master Ching Hai (in the Walk the Way of Love video) somewhere in Africa, when I saw Her touching those kids who needed hope and the only hope they have is through Jesus. She was there sharing with them. Some of them had contagious diseases, but She didn’t mind touching them. Most people today walk away from touching and helping the less fortunate. Well, I think Her work is necessary. I think Her work is appreciated. I think those bodies that She has helped heal appreciate being well again. Her work is necessary, not only as a humanitarian but as a spiritual leader."
Supreme Master Ching Hai has always been attentive to the special needs of children, and has also encouraged children’s education in the arts. In the past, for example, She contributed to the Pasadena Boys Choir Scholarship Fund, providing countless young people with the opportunity to attend music camp. Also, during her visit to Armenia in 1999, Supreme Master Ching Hai generously contributed to the country’s Hayer Cultural Foundation, an organization founded by Nadezdha Sarkisian, an Armenian congresswoman and acclaimed singer. The Foundation used Supreme Master Ching Hai’s gift in programs that provide children with music lessons and instruments to further develop their musical talents. In gratitude for the generosity and love shown by Supreme Master Ching Hai to Armenian children, the Supreme Master Ching Hai High School was named after her.
Another event through which Supreme Master Ching Hai demonstrated Her care and compassion for young people was the "One World – of peace through music" benefit concert, which raised funds for two children’s charities, St. Jude’s Research Hospital and the Starlight Children’s Foundation. In these cases, Supreme Master Ching Hai’s generosity helped to provide care for critically and terminally ill children.
Following the awards ceremonies conducted by LA Music Week and the City of Los Angeles, Children’s Day was held for local music students. On this occasion, Supreme Master Ching Hai’s love was extended to the City’s children through the contribution of a hundred "One World – of peace through music" music books.
Thereafter, Supreme Master Ching Hai also contributed $4,000.00 for music lessons and instruments for needy students with musical aspirations. Please refer to the following letter of appreciation from Ms. Margie Evans expressing her gratitude to Supreme Master Ching Hai for Her gift, in which Ms. Evans warmly extends an open invitation to Master to visit the students.
On February 18, 2003, a devastating fire took place in a subway in Daegu, South Korea, causing over 200 deaths, along with many injuries and missing persons cases. The disaster occurred in the morning when students were being transported to school and office women were going to work so many women and children were among the victims. A number of firefighters were also lost in the blaze. The disaster was so great that the city has still not yet fully recovered, and so the Korean people continue to donate money to help in the relief efforts.
Thus, following Master’s compassionate example, the centers in South Korea collected relief funds for a period of one month to assist the victims. In March 30, 2003, Korean initiates contributed 3,108,070 Won (approx. USD 2600) to the victims via the Joong Ang Ilbo, a major local newspaper.
Amounts in Tables 1 and 2 totaled NT$723,465 [Approx. US$20,819.14]
|
Place |
Date |
Description |
Amount |
Receipts |
|
Changhua |
2003.01.01 |
Holding an environmental protection seminar
and a vegetarian food sampling in the Shanjiao Village Community, |
4,500 |
A |
|
Hsinchu |
2003.01.18 |
Expressing warm concern in winter and presenting
Lunar New Year funds to disadvantaged households in |
10,000 |
B |
|
Pingtung |
2003.01.19 |
Expressing warm concern in winter and presenting
Lunar New Year funds to disadvantaged elderly in |
8,910 |
C |
|
|
2003.01.19 |
Expressing warm concern in winter and presenting
Lunar New Year funds and gifts to disadvantaged households in |
87,700 |
D |
|
|
2003.01.20 |
Holding a spiritual video seminar, holding a cultural-recreational activity and teaching meditation at the |
0 |
|
|
|
2003.01.21 |
Visiting
and holding a cultural-recreational activity at the |
0 |
|
|
|
2003.01.22 |
Visiting
and holding a cultural-recreational activity at the Tainan
Prison (supported by fellow practitioners) |
0 |
|
|
|
2003.01.22 |
Visiting
and holding a cultural-recreational activity at the Mingte
Labor Prison (supported by fellow practitioners) |
0 |
|
|
Changhua |
2003.01.23 |
Expressing warm concern in winter and presenting
Lunar New Year funds and gift money to children at the Catholic
Chu Ai Mercy
Hospice for the Disabled |
37,000 |
E |
|
Miaoli |
2003.01.24 |
Cleaning the |
0 |
|
|
Changhua |
2003.02.05 |
Visiting
and holding a cultural-recreational activity and teaching meditation at the
|
0 |
|
|
Pingtung |
2003.02.09 |
Cleaning the popular
diving site |
11,395 |
F |
|
|
2003.02.26 |
Visiting
and holding a spiritual seminar and teaching meditation at the Mingte Labor Prison (supported by fellow practitioners) |
0 |
|
|
|
2003.02.27 |
Visiting
and holding a medical seminar and teaching meditation at the Tainan Prison (supported by fellow practitioners) |
0 |
|
|
Pingtung |
2003.03.07 |
Holding
a spiritual seminar and teaching meditation at the invitation of
the Taiwan Power Company¡¦s Third
Nuclear Power Station |
3,000 |
G |
|
|
2003.03.26 |
Visiting
and holding a cultural-recreational activity at the Mingte
Labor Prison (supported by fellow practitioners) |
0 |
|
|
|
2003.03.27 |
Visiting
and holding a medical seminar and teaching meditation at the Tainan Prison (supported by fellow practitioners) |
0 |
|
|
Hsinchu |
2003.04.17 |
Expressing warm concern and presenting school funds to |
100,000 |
H |
|
Miaoli |
2003.04.20 |
Cleaning the |
7,960 |
I |
|
|
2003.04.24 |
Visiting
and holding a cultural-recreational activity at the Mingte
Labor Prison (supported
by fellow practitioners) |
0 |
|
|
Total NT$270,465 |
||||
|
|
January
2003 |
February
2003 |
March
2003 |
April
2003 |
|
||||
|
Place |
No.
of Households |
Amount |
No.
of Households |
Amount |
No.
of Households |
Amount |
No.
of Households |
Amount |
Annex |
|
Keelung |
1 |
2,000 |
1 |
2,000 |
1 |
2,000 |
1 |
2,000 |
1 |
|
Taipei |
6 |
16,000 |
6 |
16,000 |
6 |
16,000 |
6 |
16,000 |
2 |
|
Taoyuan |
1 |
2,000 |
1 |
2,000 |
1 |
2,000 |
1 |
2,000 |
3 |
|
Hsinchu |
1 |
3,000 |
1 |
3,000 |
2 |
6,000 |
2 |
6,000 |
4 |
|
Taichung |
6 |
20,000 |
6 |
20,000 |
6 |
20,000 |
6 |
20,000 |
5 |
|
Nantou |
7 |
26,000 |
7 |
26,000 |
7 |
26,000 |
7 |
26,000 |
6 |
|
Chiayi |
3 |
8,000 |
2 |
5,000 |
2 |
5,000 |
2 |
5,000 |
7 |
|
Tainan |
1 |
4,000 |
1 |
4,000 |
1 |
4,000 |
1 |
4,000 |
8 |
|
Kaohsiung |
3 |
10,000 |
3 |
10,000 |
3 |
10,000 |
3 |
10,000 |
9 |
|
Pingtung |
3 |
10,000 |
3 |
10,000 |
3 |
10,000 |
3 |
10,000 |
10 |
|
Taitung |
2 |
8,000 |
2 |
8,000 |
2 |
8,000 |
2 |
8,000 |
11 |
|
Penghu |
2 |
5,000 |
2 |
5,000 |
2 |
5,000 |
2 |
5,000 |
12 |
|
Subtotal |
36 |
$
114,000 |
35 |
$
111,000 |
36 |
$114,000 |
36 |
$114,000 |
|
|
Total
NT$453,000 |
|||||||||
Democratic People’s Republic of Algeria
Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Algerian Embassy, Paris
The Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association
Taiwan / Paris
Paris, June 5, 2003
Dear Master,
On June 4, 2003, I sent a letter expressing our deepest gratitude
to You for Your significant aid in donating 3571 family tents, 10 000
blankets and 194 jackets to benefit the victims of the disaster in Boumerdes
and Alger.
These items were an enormous comfort to those who benefited from them, considering that your aid was urgently sent to Alger on Monday June 2 and Tuesday June 3, and by June 3 it had already arrived and been distributed to the victims.
Now that the distribution of these precious items has been completed, on behalf of our people, I am sending You this second letter to extend once again our deepest gratitude.
We would also like to express through You our gratitude to the administrative organizations, the airlines and all those who contributed physically and morally to this humanitarian work so that your donations could arrive quickly to assist in the emergency in Alger.
Once again, Master, please accept our deepest feelings of respect and gratitude and highest regards, and express our sincerest appreciation to the other groups mentioned above
With fondest regards,
General Consul
Said Abdiche
Expenditures
for Algeria Earthquake Relief and
|
Description |
Amount |
Receipt
No. |
|
Blankets |
NT$1,102,500 |
A1 |
|
Family
Tents |
2,214,660 |
A2 |
|
Packing
Cost |
12,923 |
A3~A4 |
|
Stationery
and Printing Fee |
9,075 |
A5~A7 |
|
Local
Transportation |
39,900 |
A8~A9 |
|
Air Freight
and Customs Broker’s Fees |
1,952,204 |
A10 |
|
Total |
NT$5,331,262 |
|
Only the inner Light and Sound can help us in any kind of situation in this world. So for us, in dealing with any kind of karma, any kind of burden from the past, present or future, there’s nothing else in this world that we can rely on. The Light and Sound, are the only methods, the only equipment that God bestowed on us when we descended into this world so that we can protect ourselves, so that we can remember the Kingdom of God, so that we can resolve any difficulties and obstructions on our way to finding the Kingdom of God. Any troubles in this world — be they in your business, in your family circle or in personal love relationships — are there actually just to make trouble for you, just to sidetrack you from the journey back to the Kingdom of God. And God knows that beforehand so we’re given this equipment, the Light and Sound, so that we can slash them all asunder and then advance further. Without the Light and Sound, we can never make it back Home ... never, ever. Just like without an airplane, you can not make it here to Cambodia so fast and trouble-free.
So any time you have a problem, be it with yourself, with any of your loved ones, with any kind of employment or businesses, or with anything, just sit down and meditate. Then the problem will become clearer to you and you’ll know how to solve it, or the problem will just disappear by itself in time. Sometimes we panic, really because the world seems to press upon us for certain things, or at a certain time and certain demand. We panic and say, "Oh, my God! I can’t make it. I have only one more day or half a day and I just don’t want to do something else. I want to do this thing right now and other things just come making demands on me." But then after we meditate for a while, the world withdraws its demand on us, or the problem just goes somewhere else and then we find we panicked for nothing. So, just keep cool. C-O-O-L. (Laughter) Keep cool, baby (Master and audience laugh), and everything will be all right.
Listen to your intuition inside. Sometimes it’s difficult. You have to see which is the strongest voice and remain steadfast on that strongest intuition because sometimes you feel like you should do this, continue to do this job, but some other people come and demand that you do another job, and the other people come to tell you that this is is better and it’s no use now — "It’s going to be no use. You’d better run fast in the other direction and do this, that and that." But then you feel inside that you should do this, but it makes you feel like you’re in a struggle and torn apart from different directions. Then you need to sit down and meditate and listen to your own Buddha voice, the intuitive voice inside, the silent voice that tells you what to do. Or at least stay calm and you can see clearly for yourself which direction is better for you.
I tell you all these things from experience. I’m not telling them to you from a book. Books don’t teach us this kind of thing, not too many. And it always works because where else can we run and what else can we use to deal with the world as it is? There’s so much overwhelming suffering, so much nonsense, so much pressure on us small creatures, and sometimes we really don’t know what to do and it makes us feel very anxious, very restless. Meditating on the Light and on the Sound are the only things we can do in such times of necessity.
The fabric allows the skin to breathe freely, and its cozy, carefree feel brings comfort to both body and soul. This collection uses linen uniquely knitted to enhance crease-resistance. Blended of linen and smooth viscose rayon, the fabric possesses a soft, delicate and romantic touch.
Produced from the natural fiber flax and emitting a delicate scent, linen is a durable fabric noted for being highly absorptive, heat dispersing, anticorrosive and resistant to insects, bacteria, alkalis and acids. These qualities have earned linen a reputation as the "queen of woven fabrics."
A Journey through Aesthetic Realms TV Program
Videotapes
E-mail: art&spirituality@Godsdirectcontact.org
Fax
: 1-413-751-0848 (USA)
News Group:
E-mail: lovenews@Godsdirectcontact.org
Fax: 1-801-7409196 or 886-946-728475
Book Department:
E-mail: divine@Godsdirectcontact.org
Fax: 1-240-352-5613 or 886-943-802829
(You are welcome to join us
in translating
Master's books into other languages.)
Spiritual Information Desk:
E-mail: lovewish@Godsdirectcontact.org
Fax: 886-946-730699
S.M. Celestial Co., Ltd.
E-mail: smcj@ms34.hinet.net
Tel:
886-2-87910860 \ Fax: 886-2-87911226
The Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association
Publishing Co., Ltd. Taipei, Formosa.
E-mail: smchbooks@Godsdirectcontact.org
Tel: 886-2-87873935 \ Fax: 886-2-87870873
LA Center Bookstore
E-mail: mailto:la_bookstore@yahoo.com
Fax:
1-909-738-9992
For the latest information of our liaison practitioners
worldwide, please visit:
http://www.godsdirectcontact.org.tw/eng/cp/index.htm
The contents of Quan Yin WWW sites list may be changed frequently; for the latest information, please visit the following URLs:
http://www.godsdirectcontact.org.tw/eng/links/links.htm (English)
24-hour Internet TV station:
http://www.Godsdirectcontact.org.tw/eng/hichannel/index.htm
(Formosa; in English, Chinese)
http://www.godsdirectcontact.org.tw/ (Formosa; in traditional & simplified Chinese, English)
http://www.smchbooks.com/ (Formosa; in Chinese and English, SMCH Book Store)
http://www.godsimmediatecontact.com/ (Singapore; in English)
http://www.godsimmediatecontact.or.kr/ (Korea; in Korean)
http://www.godsdirectcontact.or.kr/ (Korea; in Korean)
http://www.qyitv.com/
(Korea; in Korean)
http://www.godsimmediatecontact.org/ (Japan; in Japanese)
http://www.godsdirectcontact.or.id/ (Indonesia; in Indonesian)
http://www.godsdirectcontact-thai.com/ (Thailand; in Thai)
http://www.godsdirectcontact.net/ (U.S.A.; in simplified & traditional Chinese, English)
http://www.godsdirectcontact.com/ (U.S.A.; in Spanish, French, English, simplified & traditional Chinese)
http://www.Godsdirectcontact.com/aulac/ (USA, in Aulacese)
http://www.Godsimmediatecontact.net/ (USA; in English)
http://www.godsimmediatecontact.net/aulac (USA; in Aulacese)
http://www.Godsimmediatecontact.org/video/ (USA with
Windows Media Video & Real Video; in Multi-languages)
http://www.godsdirectcontact.org/radio/aulac/ (Canada,
RealAudio and MP3; Unicode in Aulacese)
http://www.godsimmediatecontact.tripod.com/ (U.S.A.; in English)
http://www.contactdirectavecdieu.org/ (France; in French)
http://www.contactodirectocondios.org/ (USA; in Spanish)
http://godsdirectcontact.rma.cz/ (Czech Republic; in Czech)
http://www.godsdirectcontact.org/ (Canada with Real Audio service; in English, Aulacese)
http://www.godsdirectcontact.de/ (Germany; in German)
http://www.direkter-kontakt-mit-gott.org/ (Austria; in German)
http://www.extra.hu/kozvetlen_kapcsolat_Istennel (Hungary; in Hungarian)
http://quanyin.narod.ru/ (Russia; in Russian)
http://www.geocities.com/godsdirectcontact_2000 (Poland;
in English, Aulacese)
http://contatodiretocomdeus.com.br/(Brazil; in Portuguese)
http://www.khoda.fsnet.co.uk/godsdirectcontact (UK; in
Persian)
http://www.Godsdirectcontact.com/IhavecometotakeyouHome (in English)
(Book order—I Have Come to Take You Home)
To subscribe to the E-mail version, so that it can to be sent to your personal e-mail account, please sign up at one of the following sites:
http://www.Godsdirectcontact.org.tw/ch/service/service.htm (Chinese)
http://www.Godsdirectcontact.org.tw/eng/service/service.htm (English)
http://www.Godsdirectcontact.org/au/service/service.htm (Aulacese)
http://www.Godsdirectcontact.com/english/service.htm (English)
http://www.Godsdirectcontact.com/spanish/service.htm (Spanish)
http://www.Godsdirectcontact.com/chinese/fan/service.htm (Chinese, traditional)
http://www.Godsdirectcontact.com/chinese/jian/service.htm (Chinese, simplified)
URLs for The Supreme Master Ching Hai News magazine:
Traditional
Chinese:
http://www.Godsdirectcontact.org.tw/ch/news/144/index.htm
(Formosa)
http://www.Godsdirectcontact.com/eNews/chinese/144 (U.S.A.)
http://www.Godsdirectcontact.net/ch/news/144/index.htm (U.S.A.)
Simplified
Chinese:
http://Godsdirectcontact.net/gb/news/144/index.htm
(U.S.A.)
http://www.Godsdirectcontact.com/eNews/chinese/144/index_gb.htm (U.S.A.)
http://www.Godsdirectcontact.org.tw/gb/news/144/index.htm (Formosa)
English:
http://www.Godsdirectcontact.com/eNews/english/144
(U.S.A.)
http://www.Godsdirectcontact.org/eng/news/144/ (U.S.A.)
http://godsimmediatecontact.net/news/news144/ (U.S.A.)
http://www.Godsdirectcontact.net/eng/news/144/index.htm (U.S.A.)
http://www.Godsdirectcontact.org.tw/eng/news/144/index.htm (Formosa)
Aulacese:
http://www.godsdirectcontact.org/aulac/news/ (U.S.A.;
VNI,VPS,VISCII and VNU fonts)
http://godsimmediatecontact.net/aulac/n144/ (U.S.A; VNI font)
Spanish: http://www.Godsdirectcontact.com/eNews/spanish/ (U.S.A.)
Korean: http://www.godsimmediatecontact.or.kr/ (Korea)
Japanese: http://www.Godsimmediatecontact.org/kannon/news/newsindex.htm (U.S.A.)
Indonesian: http://www.godsdirectcontact.or.id/news/ (Indonesia)
French: http://www.contactdirectavecdieu.org/News/index.html (France)
German: http://www.godsdirectcontact.de/ (Germany)
Thai: http://www.godsdirectcontact-thai.com/ (Thailand)
Websites for downloading the free sample booklet The Key of Immediate Enlightenment (in 50 plus Languages)
http://www.godsdirectcontact.org.tw/eng/publication/sample/sample.htm
http://www.direkter-kontakt-mit-gott.org/download/index.htm
http://www.godsdirectcontact.org/sample/