News Magazine NO.35

   A Television Interview At The Georgetown University,       USA 
                                                    Apr. 16, 1993

Report From Finland

Cold And Misty Can Not Hinder
The Strong Aspiration

Finland is a country of the northern hemisphere, cold and misty. There are a few initiates and a few would-be initiates that live very far apart, in different parts of the city, but they try to get together for group meditation. All the initiates are longing to see Master. However, due to financial and visa difficulties, very few of them have had the opportunity to see Her. Thanks to their longing, they always remember and think of Master which helps them to progress well in their daily practice. Although, the land is cold and far away, they still receive the warmth and blessing from Master. Therefore, they all put their trust completely in Her.
The love and blessing from Master made the place more cozy and lively. Every time after group meditation, the would-be initiates and those who are seeking to learn and to know more about Master's teaching, stayed behind to enjoy a friendly vegetarian meal prepared by the initiates. They all sat in a circle, eating and enjoying in a happy atmosphere which is filled with Master's blessing. In that atmosphere, everyone feels that they all belong to one large family with the same mother. There is a girl under twelve years old who said. "I also wish to go to heaven. Please teach me how to meditate." After meditating for 10 - 15 minutes, she experienced light. There is also a small group of young people who are sincerely practising the Convenient Method and following a strict vegetarian diet, awaiting their initiation day.

Report From
Moscow Russia

Love And Happiness Notes

Before we went to the most powerful communist country (the former USSR), the Quan Yin messengers were warned that Russia was in civil strife and it was dangerous to go there. The Quan Yin messengers, based on their confidence in Master and Master's supreme power to protect them, walked on the journey with firm footsteps without fear to spread truth. It was true that they arrived safely in Moscow (the capitol city of former USSR). Local people were enthusiastic to help. They were full of peace and happiness. In just a few days, all of Master's blessed sample booklets were distributed.
Moscow city was full of snow, the temperature was below zero and the wind was very cold; the Quan Yin messenger and initiates distributed Master's sample booklets to those people that they met on the street; some people even asked for more for their friends and relatives. Everyone felt so ecstatic. Kids came hopping out of nowhere to obtain the sample booklets, then politely bowed in appreciation. Although Moscow is the capitol city, there exists an ongoing shortage of living necessities. Everything has a price associated with it; only Master's sample booklets were free. Thus, when a lot of people saw the beautiful valuable sample booklets that was freely distributed to them, they were pleasantly surprised. They were very appreciative; some people even offered to help distribute; some people were interested in the Convenient Method. In just a few days, all of Master's blessed sample booklets were gone.

Report From Spain

A Seminar On The Quan Yin Method
At Valencia

After the Quan Yin Method seminar at the Valencia Overseas Chinese Restaurant in February, another seminar was held at the end of March by the Quan Yin Messengers at the Mei How Restaurant as invited by Mr. Yu Jie, general secretary of the Chinese Spanish Cultural Communication Association. Much interested in Master's teachings at the previous seminar, many guests attended again. Some would-be initiates have started eating vegetarian, practising the Convenient Method, and getting ready for the initiation. Spanish guests were also invited to the seminar. The seminar commenced by showing the video tape of Master being honoured with the World Spiritual Leadership Award, while a fellow practitioner introduced Master's life sketch and teachings. After watching the video tape, the audience unanimously praised Master saying that She truly deserved this glory. The Spanish guests present also earnestly remarked, "Why are you so late in introducing us to such a beautiful and wise enlightened Master?" The wife of the host, Mrs. Yu Jie, then summarized the benefits she had derived from practising the Convenient Method. She is a novelist and columnist. Her articles are often published in the European Daily News and other newspapers and magazines. She said that she was deeply attracted by Master's universal wisdom after researching Master's teachings. She now feels that novels and articles should not serve only as relaxing enjoyment. More vital are the functions of "benefitting the wisdom" and "purifying the mind". Therefore, she has laid down her pen, and will only write again after she has received initiation from Master, and truly developed her wisdom. She has become a vegetarian and practised the Convenient Method for over a month, and she studies Master's teachings diligently. In Master's omnipotent teachings, she found answers to her doubts about the universe and human life. Besides, her physical condition also improved a lot. Having become a vegetarian and practised the Convenient Method, she feels like flying when she is walking, lighter and faster than anyone! The Quan Yin messenger introduced the Convenient Method and sincerely prayed with everybody for Master's blessing. Together, they meditated for ten minutes. After the meditation, many guests remarked that they felt as if charged with electricity during the meditation, body and mind feeling particularly relaxed and free! Several would-be initiates even perceived Master's manifestation body.
After the meeting, guests were eagerly purchasing scriptures. Many of them asked, "When could we invite Master to give a lecture in Spain?" Some guests who were running restaurants even expressed their wish begin to selling vegetarian food, and propagating Master's teachings. This seminar concluded with a warm response from the audience.

Blessings For The Chinese In Madrid

Invited by The Chinese Christian Democratic Union, a Quan Yin messenger held a seminar on the "Quan Yin Method" at Ming Fong Restaurant in Madrid. He explained to the local Chinese people about the transmigration of cause and effect. With Master's blessing, the seminar was quite successful and echos continued to come afterwards.
Most of the local Chinese earned their living by operating non-vegetarian restaurants. While interested in the Quan Yin Method, they were also very concerned about switching to vegetarian restaurant. They kept inquiring about the feasibility and exploring for the concrete solution. There were many vegetarian foods and ingredients which offer variations in cooking. After learning that those may be imported from Formosa, many people were willing to give it a try.

At the second Quan Yin Method seminar held in Valencia of Spain, the Convenient Method is instructed to the persons attending.

The echos of the seminar was very enthusiastic. Some people who were not able to attend the seminar that day came to visit the center the next day. Some others called wishing to offer a location for another seminar. A local Chinese Christian church also welcomed the Quan Yin messenger and the fellow initiates to come to their church to introduce the Quan Yin Method and Master's teachings to their church members. Master's teachings and divine love reached all people and joined them together.

Content of the letter:
To The International Supreme Master Ching Hai Meditation Associations

Dear Sirs:
Our Majesty the Queen charged me to thank You for Your loving kindness in sending Her the letter and detailed information about Your Association on April 14.

Most Sincerely Yours,
JOSE CABRERA GARCIA
(The Secretary of the Queen of Spain)

A seminar on the Quan Yin Method of meditation at the Min Feng Restaurant in Madrid, Spain. The truth about the transmigration, the law cause and effect is explained to the local Chinese people.

The information about the Quan Yin Method has already reached the Palace in Spain. This is the return letter from the Queen.



Steadfast in the Turmoils of the World By The Supreme Master Ching Hai in Bataan Philippine Refugee Camp. April 5, 1991(Originally In Au Lac Language)

The Au Lac Freedom Seeker

Au Lac's history goes back four thousand years, and never has there been a case where they had to leave the country to go begging for love and food from foreigners. This is the very first time, and it proves that your fleeing and quest for freedom is a legitimate one. Only those who do not have any wisdom, love or compassion would not be able to recognize that. It needs no explanation. The risk you've taken, fleeing for your lives in a tiny boat without food, water, fuel, money and security, seeking freedom should be enough to show the unbearable conditions under the communist regime. Only the deaf and blind would not understand this. In the past four thousand years of history, no one has ever had to leave the country. There were times when we encountered poverty, misery, wars, wicked rulers; not always at peace or wealthy, right? But has anyone left the country? Wars, thousands of years being overruled, a thousand years by the Chinese, a hundred years by the French, and then twenty to thirty years of Civil War, yet no one fled the country. Then why in times of peace, do we have to flee the country? That is the thing the world has to ask and answer itself. If they won't, then we have to let them know. The Au Lacese are very courageous; they risked their lives at sea, and killed themselves to glorify freedom. I'm not encouraging suicide, understand? It's a big waste. Because you've brought all of your valuables and skills with you risking your lives in order to come here, and then die. What a loss! Slow down and find a way out. Sometimes we have to pray so that the conditions will change, improve. You should console to your fellow countrymen, your relatives and friends with the things I've said. The sun will shine tomorrow. There are no endless nights, no days that shine forever. There is a constant alternating of positive and negative energy field. We must have hope in order to live. If we are dead, we won't know what is going to happen?

Diligent Practice Alters Fate

Therefore, the diligent spiritual practice of a person can alter the fate of the whole world, the universe and of themselves. The proof is that in the recent years, there are many different groups of meditators that have begun to eat vegetarian. Even the Americans, the Englishmen are vegetarian and practising meditation. Ever since I started preaching, a lot of Au Lacese have become vegetarian and have started to practice spiritually. Those refugees who have reached the free countries follow the spiritual path as well as those that are still in the camps. Even though the conditions are very unfavourable, lacking all comforts and food, they still keep the vegetarian diet.
There are so many people in the Hong Kong refugee camps that are practising my meditation method and keeping the vegetarian diet, and more than a dozen of them that have renounced and become monks. Because of spiritual practice throughout the world, the communist countries in Eastern Europe have collapsed. Gradually Au Lac and China will follow in the near future. Thus, we shouldn't lose faith. We should try to follow the spiritual path with the capabilities we have from within.
There is no way to avoid our own karma except by practising spiritually in order to change it. Therefore, Buddha didn't teach his child anything except to follow the spiritual path. Wouldn't allow his wife to do anything other than to practice spiritually. His son, barely nine year old, had already shaved his head to become a monk, his beautiful wife also became a nun. Why did he advise his son, Lahaula to become a monk instead of being a king? Because he knew that all the riches, pleasures, fame and power in society are nothing but illusion, like time passing by, like morning dew on a leaf. He knew that following the spiritual path, becoming Buddha is the only eternal way. Now, someone asks: "How can I become a Buddha by just practising. I have no hope so forget it!" That is just an excuse. You don't need to shave your head in order to do spiritual practice. You can practice at home. When Buddha was alive, there were four types of spiritual practitioners. The renounced men and women were called monks and nuns, the men and women who practised at home were called laymen, laywomen. That meant that they all practised. At anytime, there are always monks, nuns, laymen and laywomen.

Not Reborn As Refugee Again

Whatever method you follow, you should try your best to follow it until you get deep into Samadhi. That is when you attain the ultimate goal of that method. You just can't stand there commenting on which method is better. It's not necessary. Any given method is good. If you keep talking and never practice, then none of the methods are of any use. There are people who recite Buddha's name, kind of a meditation on the Buddha's name. They merge into Samadhi, merge into Buddha's land, and were able to see Amitabha Buddha. Now if you want to achieve this level, first you must follow the guidance of a true master; second, you must practice properly, must be a vegetarian, recite Buddha's name clearly. You cannot one day eat vegetarian, and the other eat meat; it would be very difficult for your practice. If you are not a complete vegetarian, becoming a Buddha is very hard, maybe only a fraction of it is gained. Some are vegetarians for only four days each month; they become Buddha for only four days and the remaining 26 days, they come back down here. Maybe you do it like taking a trip, right? For example, you live in Formosa and once a year you take a month's vacation, going to America for fun. So maybe you think it is the same, 26 days on this earth and then four days in Buddha's land. Being vegetarian for four days a month is not enough. If you want to become a citizen of Buddha's land, then you must be a vegetarian forever, you must sincerely, truly contemplate on Buddha's name, until you see Buddha, then you know you have gotten it. But seeing Buddha is not yet the highest level. At that time there's still the "I" that sees Buddha. When you become Buddha yourself, then that is a very high level. However, if I keep talking about this, you will think: "There she goes, preaching again, wanting us to become Buddhists, to practice spiritually." It's not like that, nothing like that at all! I only want to say that if you want to live a more comfortable life, not to be born as a refugee again in your next life, then you must start immediately. Don't wait until death comes, losing this precious body, then even if you want to practice, it's too late.

The Human Body Is Precious

I've tried so many methods already, have gone from heaven to hell, and have discovered that only through the human body can one practice and achieve spiritually, exactly what Buddha taught us before. Now, there is an exception. Those who practised during their lifetime and were not able to reach the Buddha's level yet, then when they die, lose their human form, they will go to different realms. There, their Master will continue to teach them and they'll still be able to reach the Buddha's level from there. But if we do not practice spiritually now, in this life, and have not met a true Master, then when we go to different realms, neither will we be able to find the way, nor will it be possible to practice spiritually. We must start from here and go up. Therefore, having a human form is a great blessing, very difficult to get a human form. So if you don't start now, it's a big waste, we will remain here in the future. From human form we can go to Buddha's land, Buddha's level. From other realms it is difficult to reach that. From human to Buddha is just like going from High School to University. But we cannot go from elementary to University, instantly.

Au Lac Is A Holy Land

You should take notice that Au Lac is a holy land; geographically speaking only. We have not yet talked about the spiritual aspect of it. Have you noticed the shape of Au Lac on map? What does it resemble? Does it resemble the letter S? Have you seen the shape of the symbol of Truth? It is a circle with an S shape in the middle dividing it in two, one side is white and the other is black. Have you seen it? It's kind of strange for a country to be shaped like that, resembling the symbol of Truth. Have you seen that picture? It's round, the symbol of Eternal Truth. A circle with an S shape down the middle, right? One side is white with a black dot and the other is black with a white dot. What do you call it? Oh, Yin Yang. The shape of Au Lac is similar, right? You see how good geography is. By just looking at its geometric shape, you can tell that Au Lac is a holy land with gifted skilled people. For these reasons, it is troubled with many trials, afflictions, to train, to discipline our spirit, our soul to be as bold, courageous, enduring and patience as the children of the "Heavenly Dragon."
From every misery hardship comes goodness, in every unfortunate circumstance there exists God's divine plan to make it better. Therefore, we now must accept our lives, away from our home, as they are. However, those living in this camp are the luckiest ones. This camp is nice, clean, seems elegant, and everything is provided for. The temple is big, the Buddha statue is grand, even the church is also very beautiful. You have everything including a courtyard to play ball. Entering this place, I feel like I'm in an model dream village in the sky, Heaven; it doesn't seem like a refugees' village. I have never seen any refugee camp that's as pretty as this. This is the most beautiful camp. The Philippine government and its people are very, very generous and good-hearted. Tears fell when I went on television thanking the Philippine government and people for their gracious attitude, their compassion towards the Au Lac people. Of course, there have been misunderstandings while working with each other, or due to the numerous people the quantity of goods is insufficient, or at times has not been pleasing for everyone. But, as a whole, the people and government of Philippines are very good-hearted, right? They've never treated the Au Lacese badly. Other camps are filthy, dirty. They don't care who you are. They overpower, rape, and do discriminating things to you. I dare not say this publicly in the world news fearing that the people from those camps might harm the Au Lac people, suppress them. I'm thankful their government has taken in the Au Lacese as refugees but I cannot forgive the irresponsible actions from the workers, the military-like-management there. We must be thankful for the good things, yet the things that are bad, we must say they're bad. Unfortunately, in this scorching time, this crisis, the more we talk about it the more it will do harm to the refugees. So in the mean time, I'll be patient, I will try to find a way to protect the ones that have been refused, see if I can reason with them so that they can stay or arrange a way for other countries to accept them. Therefore, we are forced to "sacrifice" those few that are being suppressed to save the many. Evidence of the suicides, being suppressed, I have it all. It will be used at the proper time in case of an emergency. That's our last resort, understand?

United Nations And The Refugees

I was also straightforward with the United Nations in saying: "We have proof of those bad, vicious, wrong actions. We could broadcast them. However, the reason that we haven't done it is because we want to protect your reputation and also because we are grateful for the help that you have given our people in the past ten years. These things that have happened are unfortunate and were not your intention, but because of it, the screening process was developed. And due to the slow processing of paperwork, strict rules and confining of the refugees inside the camps for too long, the people get agitated and thus an unpleasant environment is created." I suggested that they use the money to open up some kind of factory in the countries where the refugees are so that the Au Lacese will have jobs to be to able to support themselves and keep their dignity, instead of being dependent for food. No one can stand this; they all are very upset. We are not born to be a burden on society. Our principles would be damaged then and bad things would result.
I told the United Nations directly: "We know a lot of things, but we don't want to take it to any judicial system or say anything. The first reason is that we are still thankful to the United Nations and neighbouring countries for those years of assisting the many refugees in their time of need. We are very grateful and will always remember it. Secondly, it was not your intention. The third reason is that we don't want the workers in the camps putting more pressure on our people. So for now, we will keep silent. However, if you do not heed our requests, or continue to do those immoral things, then we will be forced to take action, bringing the truth to everyone."
I also want to let you know that I'm very grateful to the United Nations. Even though I argued or disagree with them on the refugee matters, I really admire the United Nations' generosity in taking charge to help the Au Lac people, the refugees, at the beginning of their hardships. I'm also touched by those countries throughout the world who went to great expense to feed and help the Au Lacese when they were destitute. Even though it's not enough, there are camps that do not have enough, life is miserable, but "a piece of bread in times of hunger is as much as a meal for the well fed." (An Au Lacese proverb). In representing the Au Lac people, I always acknowledge that fact and to not forget their good deed while debating with them. Whatever is good I'll say it's good, and whatever is bad I'll say it's bad. It's like a beautiful girl that has cancer, the cancer cannot be pretty, understand? The tumor cannot grow on the beautiful body and become nice and pretty. A beautiful person is a beautiful person, a tumor is a tumor; it must be removed! It goes something like that.

Launching A New Life

It's not that I'm neglecting or encourage you to disregard the favour from the United Nations and other neighbouring countries. We have to follow our Au Lacese tradition of being receptive to guests, friends, and always find ways to return the favour. You are one of the fortunate ones getting ready to go to a foreign countries, I have nothing more than to share the happiness with all of you. There's nothing left to say, no more tears to weep for you, the only thing left is overwhelming happiness. [Bataan is a transit center where Refugees are waiting to go to 3rd country for resettlement]
Just a reminder to you, if you want to hear, that when you're out there make the best of all of your skills, talents and time as well as your body, soul and mind to gather, study and merge in to a new life. Be a good citizen of that country to pay tribute to your second homeland, accumulate new customs that are righteous and beneficial for you and that country, and raise your children virtuously. Later on, if our country is at peace, we will return and be one of the pioneers to rebuild it, making it more heavenly and filling it with talented people. Our country has always been very prosperous and has never lacked food. The plants, trees are plentiful, the land is fertile. There are many minerals, resources all of which await your expertise, to be exploited upon returning, all await your money, assets to bring back and contribute to your homeland. You should never forget that you're Au Lacese. Even though we do not discriminate among the races, but each nationality has its own culture, responsibilities and should construct their own nation. A nation that's more civilized will affect the whole world. If every nation is self-sufficient, self-supporting and has close relations with each other, then the world will be rich, strong and peaceful, without any country invading, attacking one another for lack of food or the necessities in life. No outbreaks of war due to the stronger country taking advantage of weaker, more harmless country. Therefore, protecting your family is like defending for your country. Defending your country is like safeguarding the world. Do you understand? Freeing yourselves from the Communist regime is not enough. There are still many other duties.

Set An Example As A Good Citizen

You are the ones that God, Buddha, has arranged to be in the foreign countries to learn, study the rights and wrongs, and to increase your skills and wisdom. Later when you return, you will serve and help beautify the country, a very wondrous country, no other countries are anything like our country, Au Lac. You have to be good citizens, setting examples for others to respect, to follow, and not always remain a week citizen. If you say that you love your country, then make it better, brighter, right? It's not only important to fight and destroy communism. The second important factor, no less than the first one, is what to do once the communists are gone. Who will lead the country? What must be done to be better than the communists? Once they're chased out, the land will be empty and if no one does anything then it's fine! But, the communists will return because poverty still remains, the competitive selfishness is still there. As long as the uncivilized still exist, communist will be there. Do you understand? I'm not talking about religion at all. I'm talking about life. There is no one among you that are presently following my path so why should I talk about that! I'm just stating what your responsibilities are as a citizen. We are kind, gentle people who do not know how to fight battles, wars, kill people, therefore, we have lost to the communists' cunning schemes, sadistic tactics, but not because we are cowards. Do you understand?
You are ordinary, simple, too kind so that's why you've lost. Now, we're going to fight the war with our minds, hearts devoted with love for the country. We will use all of our skills and time to study the good things, refrain from luxuries, abstain from drinking and parties; we will not do things that are harmful to our bodies and minds, defaming our country. Our country is falling into ruins, the people are wretched. How can one sit there cheerfully toasting drink after drink, right? You must keep in mind, how can you be happy enjoying the materials of the world? I'm not forbidding you to drink. But you should think about it, how can one enjoy playing cards, doing those things, having the pleasures in life. You must uphold your mind, heart and soul, body, strength to perform good deeds, practice virtues, set a good example for those in the homeland who have not had the skill to go overseas to learn, and teach the people to better themselves. Those are the responsibilities of the people who have fled and are in the foreign countries.
It's fortunate that there is war therefore the majority of talented people get to go overseas. A long time ago, while there was still war, it was difficult for us to go to the foreign countries to improve our skills, right?

The Spiritual Practitioners
Are The Real Soldiers

Within the bad there exist the good. Just like roses have thorns, we can't always look at the thorns, we must gaze at the rose. We keep it fertilized not because we love thorns but because it will bear flowers, roses, so we ignore those thorns. We can trim the stem where the thorns are, but we leave the roses alone. Even though we keep the plant fertilized and the thorns grow bigger, we don't want to stop taking care of it because we want the thorns to be dainty. If we stop caring for it, the roses will also stop growing. That is how the good exist within the bad. This is not the time for us to sit here hating the communists or to call upon people to come and fight them. We must do something, prepare ourselves for when the communists disappear themselves. Then there's no other place for them to stand later on. So you see I'm also a fighter against communist, but in a gentle, harmonious, secure way; there's no way for the communists to influence the people that have followed me. That means the communists have lost quite a few members. In America, there are many that were with the communists. Now they all follow me, have received initiation, have become vegetarians. There are only a few that are still stubborn, that's all. It's a fight without actually fighting the communists, ending communism but without killing the people. It only changes them that's all. The ones that are practising spiritually are the real soldiers. Don't think that they don't know how to fight wars. They do, but with different tactics, more beneficial, long lasting, saving themselves at the same time as fighting.

Mentally Prepare To
Rebuild The Country

You could also do something similar. Increase your wisdom, knowledge and skills, widen your avenues of understanding in the world of freedom, so that someday when you return to Au Lac, you will be able to propagate sturdy, prominent concepts; concepts that are encouraging, progressive, enterprising for our people. Thus, there won't be any place left for the communists to stand anymore, right? Only when the people are weak, backward, without a firm belief in independence, then that's when they can be deceived and influenced by the communists. Once you're accidentally in, you can't get out. Right now, you have a crucial task. When you leave here, you must study conscientiously the advancement of technology, educate your children properly, what is right and wrong, so that it will be useful when you return. Au Lac will not always be communist. You have to mentally prepare yourselves to return and rebuild the country, understand? That's all, thank you!



Guardian Angels Protect The Car

By Fellow Initiate Hu, Mainland China

It was snowing hard that day. I went to the next town to take care of business with some would-be initiates. There was a large hill on the way. Due to the slippery road conditions, many drivers were afraid to go up or down the hill. They stopped on the sides of the road. Our car kept charging forward. I was worried that we might get stuck half way up. I started to look around. Suddenly, I saw two mighty gods walking along both sides of the car. On the right side, I also saw an elderly Daoist priest with a white beard dressed in white holding a Daoist brush. Leading the way in front of the car was the transformation body of Master. Behind the car, two gods and a young child angel were floating in the air. Ah! This was why our car was able to move uphill so smoothly! Finally, we successfully reached the top of the hill. We felt so relieved. The others never knew who was protecting us. Only I had witnessed this spectacular scene of Master's guarding.

The Mysterious Photo

By A Resident Disciple From Hsihu, Miaoli, Formosa There is a wondrous experience of a fellow practitioner in Beijing. Last winter, a large building in Beijing suddenly caught fire, and the lower level was completely burnt to ashes. After the fire fighters had put out the fire, they were shocked to find a wall with its decorations intact. They couldn't figure out why this wall was spared when everything surrounding it was totally burnt and scorched. They thought it was impossible and searched for the reason which preserved the wall and everything on it. They inspected everywhere and found nothing but a little girl's dress hanging on the wall. Inside a pocket of the dress, there was a necklace with a pendant on it. The photo of the Supreme Master Ching Hai was on the pendant. After some investigation, they concluded that there was no way to explain this incredulous phenomena other than crediting the small photo which carried a mysterious power. When the news was released, regardless of being initiated or non-initiated, everyone rushed to purchase the necklaces with the Supreme Master Ching Hai's photos. All the fellow initiates know that the power of a living enlightened Master is wondrous. This is a true modern day miracle, paralleled with those described in the Quan Yin Pui Men Ping Sutra that Master's power is indestructible by fire.

The Security Pill

By Fellow Initiate Chen From Taiwan, Formosa

Master is the living Buddha who is omnipresent and rescues all who call for help. We the disciples are faithful believers and therefore, we feel that the initiation was like having swallowed a "security pill" or having bought "all risk insurance" so that everything will be Ok!
One day, my husband, who is also an initiate, and I planned to drive by freeway to Kao Hsiung to visit a friend. We forgot to check the fuel gauge before we left, and not until we were on the highway did we discover that our fuel tank was empty. We immediately prayed to Master to help sustain us to the rest area to fill gas. But alas! The engine stalled while we were on the express lane of the highway. The situation was so hazardous that not to mention calling for help, but even just to open the door and cross the highway was impossible. All the cars raced dangerously toward the back of our car at full speed and veered away at the last moment before impact.
But both of us had taken the "security pill", and we calmed down and prayed to Master to rescue us. Within a moment, a yellow construction truck came just in time, along with several construction workers. One of them waved a large red flag to direct the traffic into a single lane, another crossed the highway and helped to push our car to the shoulder. We thanked the construction workers profusely; however, deep inside my heart I knew it was Master that saved us. Master had known and had sent help at the right moment; otherwise, just a few minutes' delay, we dumbheads would have become meat pies and may cause danger even to other's lives!
From this incident, we have more keenly felt Master's wondrous love. She is truly omnipresent; being able to believe in Her and follow Her is the most precious blessing of my life.

Sincere Prayers Will Be Answered

Related By Au Lac Fellow Initiate Phan, USA

Recorded By Oregon News Group, USA (Originally in Au Lac language)

A fellow practitioner who was initiated in Au Lac left his country for the U.S. with his family. Upon reaching America, he settled in a small city in Washington state, close to the Oregon boarder. When in Au Lac, he attended group meditation every week, so he missed this kind of atmosphere. While meditating, he often prayed to Master to let him have a chance to resume group meditation again. (He is the only initiate in his family). Everyday at the community college, he attended an English class especially for foreigners who have just come to the U.S. The last day of the class, he saw a classmate give Master's sample booklet to the teacher and say that this was his families' spiritual teacher. His classmate had also just come from Au Lac and was recently initiated in Chicago a month ago. The classmate also said that there were 11 initiates in his family, who meditated together every week and also attended the group meditation each month at the Oregon center.
At that moment, in his heart, he knew that Master had answered his prayers. He immediately asked if he could meditate with his classmate's family; but, because he did not have his initiation card, he could not prove he was Master's disciple. However, the classmate's family contacted the liaison person to help him verify that he was an initiate. The liaison contact person quickly faxed his name and initiation date to the Headquarters in Formosa, who verified his initiation. Right at the end of that week, he and the classmate's family drove over 200 miles to Portland, Oregon to participate in the group meditation. Also, they, along with the other initiates provided and served lunch for about 400 homeless people in that area. Later he confided in them that he had never gone further than 20 miles from his small town since the day he arrived in America. These words sincerely touched the family for they knew that the trip to the group meditation this time was the most peaceful and beautiful journey.
After he left the "education" camp in Au Lac, the initiate said that he earned a living by transporting people (pedalling a rickshaw). One day, a friend persuaded him to leave the country, so he got two more years in the education camp. (Sort of a jail or labour camp in the Communist Regime). Now, he had a chance to cross the state line to help the homeless in the U.S. Crossing the border this time was a very joyful experience. Along the 200 miles of the Columbia River, he told many miraculous stories such as how the Quan Yin messengers spread Master's teachings in Au Lac. He pointed at his necklace bearing Master's picture, which he wore for protection, and said that this was a most precious item which the initiates and initiates-to-be in Au Lac only dream of. He also said that the Master's arrangement for him to meet a practitioner's family in the isolated town of this country was one of his big experiences.



The Roaring Hong Kong

By Our Editor

For a very long time, for the sake of freedom, the refugees in the refugees camps protested by hunger strikes, suicides. Their tears were dried, their voices hoarse but no one has heard them. From April 28 to April 30 in Hong Kong there were thousands of friends from different countries caring for them. They peacefully prayed, meditated, and sang holy songs for the refugees. They shouted slogans in high spirits consoling and cheering up the refugees. Inside the camps, the refugees reciprocated this love from various directions with even more high spirited slogans, more optimistic banners. Both inside and outside the camps, innumerable arms kept waving to fight for liberty and democracy. At this time, the Hong Kong people slept no more, and began to roar righteously for human dignity...

Peaceful Sit-In Outside The Central Government Office

On April 28, 1994, more than one thousand people, from over twenty countries throughout the world, gathered in front of the Hong Kong Governor's Office and held a peaceful sit-in session. Apart from the International Supreme Master Ching Hai Meditation Associations, groups from different fields supported the event enthusiastically. They included service groups, such as the Lion's Club and other major religious organizations, such as the Korean Buddhist Association.
In the beginning, the crowd shouted slogans, waved banners and sang the hymn, "Hallelujah". Reporters from all the major newspapers, TV and radio stations in Hong Kong came to cover the news. First, they interviewed the spokesperson, Shiu-San Li, of the Hong Kong branch of The International Supreme Master Ching Hai Meditation Associations. Halfway through the interview, the Supreme Master Ching Hai arrived at the scene and, immediately, became the focus of attention. The Master was interviewed by the reporters from Saigon Radio from San Jose California, USA and the Chinese section of the Radio France International. Even the internationally renowned British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) made a last minute overseas telephone interview, from the United Kingdom, and immediately broadcasted it to all the Asian countries (including Au Lac). It could be heard by a vast audience, millions of people. Many radio and TV stations in Hong Kong broadcasted live, on the spot. The peaceful sit-in session began at 2:30 p.m. As it went on quietly and amicably, the Supreme Master Ching Hai joined in and meditated with the crowd. At the end of the session, She sang a holy hymn with the crowd and began to cry; the crowd also shed tears. The reporters asked some of the people why they were crying; they replied that it was because they could feel the pain and suffering the refugees were going through. During the event, Mr. Cheng-Jiah Lin, a Legislator from Formosa, also made an overseas telephone call to the scene to find out what was happening. A spokesperson for the news media answered all his questions. During their conversation, Legislator Lin promised that he would submit a recommendation to the Formosa Government to help the Au Lac refugees. The event ended successfully at 5:00 p.m.

Refugees, Be brave! Don't die!

On the 29th of April, we went to the Whitehead detention camp. TV and radio reporters, plus a famous Au Lac movie star accompanied us. When we arrived, many of the Hong Kong journalists and TV crews were already present, with their cameras at work. The supporters received permission from the Hong Kong police to hold the peaceful sit-in, but were denied entry into the camps by the camp authorities, so they just silently found a place to meditate and displayed various banners denouncing forced repatriation and the use of violent force on the refugees. Everyone started singing Hallelujah glorifying God. All the disciples present from all over the world seemed to have become one with the suffering refugees, they were singing with tears rolling down their cheeks even though many never had the experience of crossing the dangerous sea just to be locked up in prison.
Master came a short while after they started meditating. All the cameras and reporters immediately surrounded Her. After the interview, She sat down to meditate and sing together with the people, in front of the barbed wire fence. They then started shouting slogans to encouraging the boat people to continue with their struggle. When we came to the slogans "Refugees, we love you" and "Be courageous, don't die!", Master bent Her head down and burst into tears. Behind Her the disciples were also crying loudly. At that moment, the suffering of the refugees had become the pain of the whole world through the cry of these disciples all over the world. The boat people started becoming visible from behind the fence. Master used the loud speaker and encouraged them to be patient and endure the hardships while the people outside were fighting for their future. She asked them not to sacrifice their lives in vain. The boat people called out to thank Master for Her concern for them. The Au Lac news people also encouraged them to continue the fight as well as not to waste their precious lives. A Hong Kong reporter who came to interview Master also bursted into tears, and a few policemen had tears trickling down their cheeks. The refugees kept thanking Master and informed us that many of them had been moved to the Man Yee camp and are going through a hunger strike. They encouraged us to go there to give support to those people. Even in detainment without knowing their future, they still showed concern for others under similar circumstances.

Representatives From All Countries Presenting Protest Letters

In the afternoon, about one hundred representatives from over twenty countries accompanied the Supreme Master Ching Hai to the Government Office. They submitted thousands of signed letters from organizations and individuals all over the world, protesting against the Hong Kong Government's violent forced repatriation of the Au Lac refugees. The Supreme Master Ching Hai and Her group walked more than ten minutes up to the office, but the Governor didn't show up. He had only dispatched an officer to accept and convey the letters. Then, the Supreme Master Ching Hai and everybody proceeded straight to the Man Yee refugee camp, to join the group of the peaceful sit-in.
They stood outside and raised banners as well as posters boards with names of country on them to show where the people came from: Formosa, USA, France, Indonesia, Japan, Hong kong, Korea, Costa Rica, Germany, Singapore etc. We again shouted slogans asking the refugees to have courage to fight and keep their precious lives. Across a double barbed wire fence, about four persons high, they waved to the refugees, responding to each other. When Ms. Mai Han of Radio Saigon, California introduced Master, the refugees were cheering and applauding to welcome Her. Master then comforted them, and encouraged them to continue with their struggle, but asked them to reconsider and preserve their precious bodies that God had given them.

There Must Be Sunny Days After The Rain. Justice Would Eventually Replace Violence

This was the group of people who had been violently forced to move from the Whitehead center to prepare them for repatriation. Presently, they were filled with bitterness and anger; there was news that many planned to commit suicide on April 30th. This news made Master very anxious, and She asked the fellow practitioners as well as the press to come to console them. After speaking to the refugees, Master asked a comedian and movie star named La Thoai Tan to come to the microphone. He is a famous comedian, also a journalist and an artist. For over 20 years we have admired and laughed with him throughout many humorous acts and hysterical plays, but today his voice was filled with tears. He advised the boat people to continue fighting but to preserve their lives, because behind them were thousands of fellow practitioners from all over the world ready to support them. The refugees thanked Master, fellow disciples all over the world as well as the press for coming here in the rain to support their struggle. They also said 450 people would continue with the hunger strike which had started 75 days ago, protesting the violence and the forced repatriation policy by the Hong Kong Government. However they would continue to fight and not commit suicide because they now believed "after the rain, comes the sun". Upon hearing this outside the barbed wire fence, Master and everyone sighed with relief. The refugees had realized that they were not alone, and they finally felt the love in place of the violence, their hearts had melted with love instead of boiling in anger and bitterness.
At the end, Master Ching Hai's disciple read out a fax saying 26 Formosa legislators agreed to support Master in Her efforts to resettle the refugees, and promised they would try to find ways to resolve the problem. On the other side, in USA, a few congressmen intended to bring the issue of violence and forced repatriation to the House of Congress.

Sign Your Name To Save Lives

On 30th April 1994, to support the Hong Kong "Hibiscus Concern Group" on aiding the Au Lac refugees, a Signature campaigns was held. About a thousand people from more than twenty countries travelled to Hong Kong and Kowloon to support these activities. They went to the most crowded places, such as Tsimshatsui Ferry Pier, Fook Tuck Garden, central district Ferry Pier, Causeway Bay Park, Victoria Peak and various mass transit terminals, etc. - a total of over twenty base points - resulting in a massive and tremendous signature campaign.
Most of the activists were assembled at the Tsimshatsui Ferry Pier, and thereafter, split up and proceeded to various places. The Supreme Master arrived to give instructions, observe the activity, and also to give Her support. At the same time, She answered the questions from many news reporters and journalists (including journalists from the Hong Kong and Taiwan Chinese News, ONE magazine, Sing Pao News... etc). The majority of the Hong Kongers and tourists were very kind and supportive. When they saw the posters and banners - FREE COUNTRIES PLEASE ACCEPT REFUGEES, SIGN YOUR NAME TO SAVE LIVES -, they automatically came forward and signed their names. Therefore, the signature campaign was very swift, effective and excellent. In half a day, there were already more than 40,000 signatures. Subsequently, in less than 2 days, a record of 100,000 signatures were collected. On the 1st and 2nd of May 1994, representatives from more than twenty countries continued to rally and appeal to the people to show their love for the lives of the refugees. On the 2nd of May, the activists visited a few reputable universities such as Hong Kong University, Sa-tian Chinese University, and technical colleges. The responses from the schools and universities were very encouraging and warm. Students from the People's News Society requested to visit us and report on our activities. Although the activists were working on a tight schedule, nearly a thousand people would have to leave H.K. for their own countries within a few days, the accelerated actions showed results. Before noon of the 2nd May 1994, more than 100,000 signatures were obtained. This tremendous response fully reflected and showed the love and support of the Hong Kongers for the refugee. Since the maintenance of the refugees was from the taxes collected from the Hong Kong people, the Government should, therefore, respect the opinion and wishes of the people and not be stubbornly forcing the refugees to ruin their lives.

The Hibiscus Concern
Group Submitted To
The Hong Kong
Government & UNHCR
100,000 Signatures

We submitted all the signatures to the "Hibiscus Concern Group", who, in turn, swiftly these, together with the previous signatures, a total of 110,000, to the Hong Kong Governor's Office and UNHCR. The Hong Kong Governor's Office sent an officer to receive the signatures. UNHCR, originally, did not wish to receive the signatures, but finally and reluctantly assigned a representative to do so. This news was widely reported in the various major newspapers.

The Great World-Wide Signature Campaign. Don't Leave Hong Kong In Eternal Regret

Not only Hong Kong, but other countries also initiated the "Signature Campaign To Save the world's Au Lac Refugees". In Formosa, a record of more than a million signatures were obtained in less than a week. It is, indeed, a great relief and very pleasant to know that most people are still very compassionate, loving and sympathetic. The signatories told the Hong Kong Government not to pretend to be dumb and deaf by not finding ways to improve the situation, hence, leaving of a bad name and also the refugees in despair.



Journey Of Enlightenment

By American Fellow Initiate Christopher now in Formosa (Originally in English)

All of my life has been a constant struggle upstream. Walking many paths, thinking many things, yet never complete nor fulfilled inside. Over a year ago I travelled to India with this unnamed longing inside and wandered, and rambled like a nomad through its infinite landscapes and countless reflections. So innocent and naive, like a newborn child, only 19 years old travelling through such a vast and ancient land.
Because of the nature of India, the depth and clarify of its spirit it was easy for me to open up and let go of my many habits and confused ways of thinking. By this India became the mother that awakened me from my slumber giving me a splintered glimpse at the true nature of things, at the real meaning of God. Eventually I returned to America, and felt so strange, like I shouldn't have left India so soon, as though I had not yet finished school. After awhile I began to regress into older characteristics, and personalities. Until I felt like a caged animal, hungry, yet unable to express my inner longing. I called an old friend on the phone, searching for a connection. He began to talk reverently of some Au Lac master that he was waiting to see. I understood him only vaguely harbouring a small notion as to who this master truly was. Little did I know! But something inside demanded I go see this friend immediately. So I rushed across the country to visit him. After I arrived he again spoke lovingly of this master, of the Supreme Master Ching Hai. He offered me some books to read, lectures recorded by disciples that the Master had given.
Opening these books were like opening a door that had been locked for many ages, so familiar inside, so wondrous and simple, my heart sang with joy, so grateful was I. At long last I had found a true master. After having read so many religious books and doctrines, my mind could never believe that such masters truly exist. But they do, oh for the love of God they do exist! Fortunately for me the Supreme Master Ching Hai was touring America at this time giving lectures. So I rushed urgently to Colorado and waited anxiously for the lecture to be given. During the introduction, while someone was giving a speech on their personal experiences, the Master entered unexpectedly. I did not see the Supreme Master enter the room, but felt a bright, warm flash of light, splash against the right hemisphere of my body, like an ocean wave stirring inside me, calming as a mother voice. I received initiation that same day without any hesitation, so convinced was I.
My practices for the first month were difficult, I struggled, and felt frustrated. Later I realized it was because I expected, and anticipated that I became limited, and at that time I was not yet ready to truly listen. Although the Master being all compassionate and wise, was able to speak into my sleep and bless me during dreams. For that I am deeply grateful. Two and a half hours of required meditation, seemed to be too much at first, a true feat if it could be accomplished I thought. But after awhile it became easier and easier. All my life I had been a starving animal, eating off an empty plate, unable to satisfy my inner longing. And now; can you imagine someone just giving you a plate of real food after a lifetime of eating a mirage? So good! Yeah! And so filling inside. And not even asking for anything in return. But it's so difficult to truly describe this inner joy, one must experience it for oneself to understand the love I feel when I just think of this experience. I moved to Boulder Colorado a few months later, where I joined a group of fellow practitioners, whose sincerity and devotion touches my heart even today. I stayed there and practised, lived a simple life, and felt a wonderful joy spreading within me. Yet even with all this, the beautiful mountains and peoples on top of that, I was still not completely satisfied with living and working for myself alone.
I heard the Master was in America again. Wow! And only six months had passed. I felt so new and evolved in my reasons to be with the Master. I immediately drove to California with a fellow practitioner, and rejoiced wholehearted in the Master's infinite radiance.
It is through the Master that I have begun to learn the true love, the one all pervading love, which is within each and everyone of us. It is really so simple that I have difficulty, because the mind is used to complicated ways of perceiving. Enlightenment is really so natural when you have a Supreme Master to guide you. In fact it sometimes seems almost as if nothing has happened. But, its usually right after that I realize the indescribable magnitude of the Master, and again feel so grateful, so utterly grateful!

Master's Blessing Breaks Through My Meditation Difficulties

By Fellow Initiate Ly Kim Duc in Houston, USA (Originally in Au Lac Language)

When I first received initiation few years ago, I could not meditate well due to the discomforts inflicted on my body. Also, as far as inner experiences were concerned, they did not matter much to me. However, I do care that I could meditate at least 2.5 hours straight without moving or stirring. Therefore, every time I start to meditate, I always say a silent prayer to Master, "My beloved Master! Please let my body get accustomed to this practice."
I always try my best to meditate normally. I believe that whenever we try our best, we will succeed. With that attitude, I enrolled in the seven-day retreat in Miaoli, Formosa. However, I must admit that I was afraid that I could not meditate for many long hours at the retreat.
One night, a few days before the retreat, I could not meditate. My legs were in such pain that I could not sit still. I even tried many positions. Finally I gave up and went to bed feeling very sad because of that. In a half-sleeping, half-awake state, a wonderful experience came to me. I saw Master come and sit next to me by the bed. Master looked at me and rested Her hands on my forehead. I saw Her very clearly, so I grasped hold of Her. I was so ecstatic and happy that there are no words to describe this feeling. After a while, I opened my eyes and I could not see Master anywhere. However, the beautiful feeling still lingered, even for days afterward.
One afternoon during the 7-day retreat, a Formosan disciple stood up to give an account of his inner experiences. He said that this seven-day retreat was very special. He recalled that in his deep meditation, he saw the Van-Thu-Su-Lol Boddhisattva and thousands of Buddhas and Boddhisattvas come to meditate and give blessings to the group. After that session, coming back to my tent, I was recalling this disciple's inner experiences and wondered why some people were so blessed to have such good experiences. I felt ashamed and stood outside my tent and looked in the direction where Master resided somewhere on top of the hill far away.
That night, Master came to my tent in my dream. I was so happy that I grasped hold of Her like the first time. This time She held me in Her arms. I was so excited that I cried a lot. When I woke up, my eyes were still drenched with tears. This feeling so overwhelmed me that when I went to meditate the next time, I did not realize the time went by very quickly. It seemed as if 2.5 hours had passed as soon as I sat down. I just closed my eyes, started reciting the Five Names and the meditation time seemed over before I even finished reciting the Fifth name. After that, the rest of the days went by very quickly. At the end of the retreat, there was a birthday celebration for Master. That night, Master allowed everyone to dance. I did not know how or why, but I got up and asked Master to dance with me personally. To my surprise, Master accepted and danced with me. As I held out my arms to hold Master, I felt a tremendous feeling rush through me. The feeling from the dream and the feeling at that moment were identical. I did not know what I was doing. I did not even feel that I was dancing, even though my feet were moving to the music. However, in my head, in my heart and outside me, everything seemed to be one, all one. I know the feeling but there are no words to describe it.
Up until now, every time I have problems meditating, I always try to recall the blessing of love Master bestowed upon me to still my mind. Our Master is not only the Supreme Master, but She is also the benevolent, all-loving Mother who takes care of every one of us so that our spiritual practice will go more smoothly. Since that seven-day retreat, I always say the same prayer prior to meditating; "I pray to the highest God above, to all the Buddhas in all the directions to bless our Master's body to be in good health so that She will be able to help all the sentient beings."

The Grandeur Of Master Can Only Be Felt When You Follow Her Teachings And Spiritually Practice. Then You Have No More Doubt That She Is Truly The Return Of Jesus Christ

By Resident Disciple Chao From Hsihu, Miaoli, Formosa

When they spread the gospel, the sincere Christians would say: "The Kingdom of God is near! Jesus is coming again!" But people don't know when Jesus Christ will come again or where will He appear. When He comes again, what will He look like? Because when Jesus Christ returns, He would not have the same appearance as He had two thousand years ago to let people recognize Him immediately. People must have the wisdom to recognize him; they must have the perseverance to follow and learn from Him. When we go out to spread the gospel to others and say: "The Saviour is coming! The Kingdom of God is near!" We are genuinely filled with faith and advocacy. We are absolutely confident that the Supreme Master Ching Hai can definitely take us back to our heavenly home, that She will lead us to the paradise of freedom. The Au Lac refugees today reminded me of the story over two thousand years ago, where Moses led the people of Israel away from the cruel reign of Egypt. As Pharaoh tried to inhibit Moses time after time, he only brought onto himself and his people catastrophe after catastrophe. Isn't the bloody history enough to teach us a lesson? While natural disasters are happening throughout the world today, isn't that the result of dwindling morality and lack of righteousness, and truth? Master works differently from Moses in that She does not openly use magical powers, but instead, She uses Her love and compassion to awaken people's conscience in order to uplift the level of consciousness of the entire planet towards peace.
We should really realize this lesson of compassion which God gave to us, and Master's painstaking efforts. Don't ever miss this God-given precious opportunity to nurture our compassion and let righteousness reign.



You Are The Love

Be a servant of Your servant,
Although it is a little bit far away,
We start by sharing the Holy Love,
It becomes our forever.

Through several cycles of obedience and confession, We drink three big cups in Your ocean of Love, We are getting closer.

Ah!
We eventually will know
You are the Love ... By Resident Disciple Lin, Hsihu, Miaoli, Formosa

An Artist Of Cosmetic Surgery
By Fellow Initiate Huang From Kao-Hsiung, Formosa

When I met You,
My tightly knitted eyebrows
Was transformed
Into two softly curved arch!
When I met You,
My melancholy eyes
Sparkled
With cheerful brilliance.
When I met You,
My droopy lips
Blossomed
Into a colourful smile.
Oh! Master!
I can't help but
Admire
Your mysterious, artistic talent!

Ocean Of Love

Master,
You are the sun, bright and full of light, You are the moon, serene and tranquil, You are the sky, everlasting and transpiring, You are the stars, cascading the universe, You are the clouds, soft and peaceful, You are the rain, cleaning our world,
You are the rainbow, brilliant and colourful, You are the snow, pure and innocent.
Like the River, You are everflowing
and full of Life,
The Ocean of Love, that is what You are, Your Love runs deep, and is always in abundance, Everything rich in beauty I gaze my eyes upon, I see Master within.



Master's Love Toward Korea

By Pusan Center, Korea (Originally in English)

With response to Korean disciples' sincere request Master visited Korea on the way to USA. She stayed a few days in Seoul. During Her stay, Master spent time with Korean disciples every evening and She met various VIPs in the afternoon who were eager to meet Her.
On the first day one group visited Master, among them some are psychology and philosophy professors, some are journalists of a spiritual magazine and another is a politician. Master explained with love and the professors listened carefully. The journalist practice a different method under one master, They gave their master's presents to Master before the interviewing and said that their master respected the Supreme Master Ching Hai so much and he sent journalists and a gift: his Chinese handwritings after he heard about Master's visit to Korea. After this meeting three VIPs came to visit the Master. Congressman Park Se Jik. He was the major of Seoul, the former head of national security a minister and well-known in the world as the chief-director of the 1988 Seoul olympic committee. Mrs. Hwang San Seong, the former minister of environment, famous lawyer and TV guest. Also the president of Volunteer's Women Association ,Mrs. Lee joined the meeting. They ask about the relation, between Christ's teachings and Buddha's. Master explained the points, as they listen with attention, they felt their minds become more and more open. How they understand, somewhat, that the Buddha's teachings and Christ's teachings are not different. Mr. Park was particularly impressed so he invited a Korean Buddhist monk fellow initiates to a Christian morning prayer and breakfast, where the president all the influential VIPs present, and Master accepted his invitation.
On the second day Master was interviewed by the journalist of a Religion Newspaper. He is a new initiate. He asked the origin of the different religions, because that newspaper dealt with all kind of organizations about religion. Master answered each question with love.
Mr. Seo and Mr. Son (the biggest newspaper and magazine's chief cultural editor and publisher) visited with another journalists the last day. We were sure that they had most unforgettable experience of their lives. Master also made a call to General Jeon-Gwan. He was the person who invited Master to Korea the last time, He was very surprise after receiving Master's call. He said that he couldn't express Master's love or describe his feelings of thanks. He said "I hoped that this world would become heaven with no war, no suffering. I know that this is difficult, so sometimes I'am doubtful. But after I met the Supreme Master Ching Hai, I'm convinced that it is not dream. It is already happening." During Master's stay in Korea, every evening we had time to be with Her. Master told us interesting stories and answered our question. She especially gave some instructions for the center. We learned about "harmony". Master said that the Master's power is omnipresent. However, when Master uses someone as a tool to help us, we would reject this person on the contrary. Perhaps because we don't understand this person, or that he seldom comes to the group meditation...etc. We shouldn't care about his personality. The important thing is his internal enlightenment and talent in being capable of becoming Master's tool to help with Her work. If the fellow practitioner is still a virtuous person and believes Master's teachings, although he really couldn't come to the group meditation often, if he truly wants to help and is talented, we still should treat him as our kin, as a brother. Finally, Master encouraged us to broaden our mind, be magnanimous, give more encouragement to others, let our underlying love surmount our prejudice. G

Press Conference
In Los Angeles

By Fellow Initiates in Los Angeles, CA, USA (Originally in English)

Supreme Master Ching Hai returned to Los Angeles following an urgent need for a press release of the recent tragic event in the Au Lac refugee camps in Hong Kong. The news caught headlines in many local newspapers like China Morning News, Eastern Express, Hong Kong Standard etc. Master's arrival coupled with the controversial issue of the Au Lac refugees in Hong Kong attracted a much larger group of local reporters, journalists, T.V. and radio broadcasters from a number of communities such as Au Lac, Chinese, Korean, Indian and American.
Master did not waste a minute of Her precious time right after Her arrival at the Beverly Hilton Hotel where the press conference was held to personally meet each individual participant and extend Her warmest welcoming greeting to each one of them. Master then began Her briefing to the entire conference using Her latest and most up to date facts and information. A participant who had profound knowledge of the current social dilemma in Au Lac totally supported the argument by sharing his expert view. More than half of the reporters and journalists were from Au Lac communities, many of whom were editors in chief representing the different media like Vien Dong Kinh Fe Thoi Bao. Ngay Mai Magazine, Viet Times, Que Huong News, Hon Viet Magazine, Dien Anh Entertainment Magazine. Others were directors and CEO of various organizations like VPPMA, World Publishing Co., The Association of the Vietnamese Press and Media in U.S.A., Indochinese American Volunteer Organization (IAVO), Vien Thao Telecommunication, Asia Pacific, and the list goes on. From Chinese, Korean and American communities were top ranked people representing media such as Southern California Chinese Broadcasting, NAC Broadcast, North American Television, American Channel Television, Channel 62 KAZN, Indochinese American Social Workers, Sservianda Times. Some astonishing facts were also uncovered which surprised many participants who had been misinformed of the real truth, and therefore, were kept side tracked of the event. Many questions ranging from doubtful opinions toward Master's wholehearted advocacy of helping the Au Lac refugees to inquiries of non-related issue like assisting H.O. people were also fielded and satisfactorily responded by Master in Her used calm yet passionate voice reflecting Her stand of not only a true compatriot but also a loving human being. Her passionate briefing backed with sufficient facts about the Au Lac refugees issue not only caught attention and focus of those who attended but also touched off their true emotional and sympathetic voices which were reflected through their sincere discussion of alternative solutions aimed at helping the Au Lac refugees.
Nevertheless, the overall atmosphere showed vivid signs of good expectations and togetherness which brought about a good spirit for the people who shared a common ideal. After the press conference which lasted longer than scheduled, loving-gifts were distributed,

Master is watching a photograph given to Her by a reporter. He was present at one of the banquets, and had taken this photograph of Master singing Her own spiritual practice songs.followed by an entertainment program. The entertainment was provided by the local fellow practitioners, together with many Au Lac celebrities. The various exciting performances from comedy acts to singing and reciting poems. All created a relaxed atmosphere in entertaining Master and Her guests after their long and tiresome press conference. A famous Au Lac comedian was once again successful in arousing excitement, joy and endless laughter in the audience. He then confessingly disclosed to Master that he had been a true vegetarian since his last march when he met Her at an informal dinner party with the press. Another reporter who met Master at the same dinner party, with honor presented Master one of his works of art as a photographer. It was a meticulously framed colour portrait of Master taken at the party just at the right moment when She was singing: "Follow Me and I will Set You Free", with Her finger pointing upward.
As expected by the devoted audience, Master read a beautiful poem written by a well-known contemporary poet, and one of Her own poems that attracted thunderous applause from the aspiring audience.
The dinner party ended around midnight with excitement still lingering in everyones' mind. As Master started to leave the dining hall, the crowd surrounded Her for a last minute glance, reluctant to part from Her, but still having to say good-bye. May Master have enough energy for a private meeting with the press tomorrow morning!

The Bravest Mother!
The Prettiest Mom!

By Fellow Initiates Yu And Laing In Hong Kong

After the many Au Lac refugee supporting activities, it was Mother's Day. On Sunday, April 8, Master allowed the initiates to bring their mothers to celebrate Mother's Day at the ashram. The main activities of the day were the barbecue feast and the inauguration of the new main hall on level three.

In the morning, level one of the ashram was packed with fellow practitioners and guests. As Master had instructed earlier that the new main hall must be finished by Sunday, everybody did their best, and it was finished on time. Due to this holiday, fellow initiates took the opportunity of inviting Master, to conduct the inauguration. Soon afterwards, wearing a white dress with a golden patches, carrying a white umbrella, Master gracefully appeared. Amid the warm applause of the fellow practitioners and guests, everybody crowded in front of the lecture stage of the new main hall. The new hall was then formally inaugurated by Master. The ceremony was simply yet dignified.
On that day, there were several refugee representatives that happened to come from the Tai A Chau Detention Center. This refugee camp is the most difficult to visit, so both Master and disciples were very happy that these representatives could see us at the ashram. They brought the most precious gift of the day--a badge made by the refugees in the camp, symbolizing their endless gratitude and love. Master was delighted, and immediately pinned it on Her chest. She also told fellow disciple to take a photograph showing that Master had accepted their good will, and carefully instructed them to print many copies of the photo, so that each refugee who wishes could have his/her own copy. (As the Refugee representatives requested)
On behalf of the refugees in the camp, one of the representatives made a short speech, mainly conveying their gratitude to Master for the support given by fellow practitioners from all countries. From this they knew that many people in the world still cared about them. They recovered their faith and courage in life, and are no longer thinking of hurting themselves. They are not afraid any more, because they know there is still true and deep compassion on Earth. His short speech was a great consolation to Master and fellow practitioners. We will definitely carry on supporting them with greater effort and conviction. Master commenced the feast of the day. Everyone helped themselves to the many delicious foods prepared by fellow initiates: much tastier than usual.
After the meal, Master stayed to chat with us. She greeted the mothers present. Master also mentioned a dream She had last night. She dreamed that there were many bees, flies and owls in Her socks. She asked if any fellow practitioner knew the meaning of this dream. One fellow initiate came forward to explain her interpretation, "The feet of a saint are where disciples worship. The socks symbolize the feet. It means the owls with sharp vision will come as Master's disciple, helping Master to get rid of the disgusting pests!" There was continuous laughter after this explanation. Both Master and fellow disciples seemed to have accepted it.
To express our gratitude to the Master Mother, we sang a song "In the world, only mother is the best. A child having a mother is like a pet...."dedicated to every mother there, and the greatest of them all--Master. That was the only performance, simple but sincere. Because the refugees are still in suffering, Master especially expresses that Her birthday and Mother's day not be celebrated. The long-term residents of Hsihu center sent a poem to Master: The Bravest Mother. The initiates of Hong Kong are very lovely. They drew a picture of Master for a card upon which was written: The Prettiest Mom. How perfectly said! From all the fellow initiates of Formosa there was a hand embroidered poem entitled "Immeasurable Affection", describing the love between Master and disciples. The wording was so beautiful and touching. "Mother" was actually about to return to level five to rest. Due to Her children's love, She stayed and told something to the fellow disciples which they loved most--humorous jokes. The simple program and celebration ended in laughter. Upon bidding farewell, Master again stressed that we should be grateful to the refugees. Their courage in risking their lives is really admirable. Finally, Master told us to meditate more and pray more for the refugees, so that Master could soon find an abode for them. On this precious festival day, all the material things didn't mean anything. The only way to gratify our merciful Mother is to adhere to Her teachings. Watching Master's tiny figure vanishing in the distance, we were once more grateful in our heart for everything She bestowed on us.

Wishing our merciful Master Mother to forever be healthy and happy! G