A Wish Of The Master
Spoken By The Supreme Master Ching Hai
At The 7-Day Retreat, Cambodia
May 15, 1996
(Originally In English)
A Humble Saint
There is a good story about what a master should be. Would you like to
hear? (Audience: Yes, yes!) Suppose you want to be a master, so listen
carefully. Here is the way, the method and the secret. Now, there was a
man, so holy, so pure, that even the angels would rejoice every time to
see him. However, despite his great purity and holiness, he had no idea
that he was holy and great. That was the only problem with this guy. So,
he just went about his business, and tried to humbly distribute whatever
goods he had, or whatever goodness he possessed without even thinking about
anything, just like a flower emitting a beautiful fragrance without even
knowing that it has the fragrance, like the sun diffusing all its warm
and beautiful nourishing sun rays without ever knowing it. That was the
way the man was.
His holiness laid in this so that he forgot every person's past and looked
at them as they were now, and at the person only. He looked beyond each
person's appearance to the very center of their being where they were innocent
and blameless. Even too ignorant to know what people did. He saw nothing
extraordinary about his behavior or in the way he looked at people, because
it was the result of perhaps the purity inside or the way he lived his
holy life.
So, one day an angel came to him and said, "We have been sent by God
and Hes has thrown upon you favors that whatever you wish will be given
to you, so ask now."
The holy man was speechless in his very innocent way and didn't know what
to wish for. The angels had to give him a kind of idea. They asked him,
"Would you like the gift of healing, for example? The man said, "No.
I would rather God did the healing Hirmself."
Yeah, a clever man. (Master laughs.) He didn't want to do anything. Yes,
if we were asked, then we'll tell our wish. We would say, "No, we'd
rather go to heaven and don't have to meditate even; or God can come to
make a better, no leaking meditation hall for us Hirmself."
The angel continued to ask him, "Would you like to bring the sinners
back to the path of righteousness?"
"No." (Master laughs.) Funny man. "No," he said, "It's
not for me to touch the human's hearts. That's the work of the angels."
Pooh! Then what does he do? Oh, I could say the same thing and I'd be finished.
So, the angels continued patiently, with all reverence, and asked him,
"Would you like to be such a model of virtue that people would be
drawn to imitate you?"
"No," was the man's astonishing reply, "What for? For that
would make me the center of the attention."
Wow! He's clever. That's the worst thing you could be -- the center of
attention. Yuck! I know what it's like. How did this man become so clever?
He has not been the attention and he knows already. Yes, I should have
known this before.
"Then what do you wish for?" the angel asked.
"I wish for the grace of God," was his reply. "Having the
grace of God, I will have all the contentment, and all my desires fulfilled."
The angels were thinking that this man, despite his holiness, is so stupid.
God doesn't grant favors that often, and God doesn't dispatched an angel
to anyone that often in order to grant him boons. This man, how come that
he is so holy but stupid? So, they forced him. They said, "God's will
shall be done. Now, you must have a wish, or one will be forced upon you."
(Everyone laughs.)
I thought God was liberal, but Hes is a dictator. We always thought God
gives us free will, and lets you do what you want. Is that not true? How
come here Hes is like a dictator? Hes forces people to want something.
That's the problem with Hirm. (Laughter)
Okay. Then, the old man was kind of forced into this situation. He had
to obey God's will. So, he said, "All right, all right. Then, I shall
ask one wish. Whatever good be done through me, don't let me know it."
Wow, that was nice!
Master's Holy Wish
I remember when I first wished for something, when I wasn't enlightened,
before I became acquainted with the Quan Yin Method. It was the first Buddha
(statue) I took home in Germany. That was not the first Buddha but the
first Buddha in Germany. My Buddhist teachers believed that if I took a
Buddha alone home, without the presence of a master, a teacher, a nun,
then the Buddha is no good. I mean the Buddha will be good for nothing.
So, if you want to worship a Buddha, you have to ask a monk or nun to bless
it for you. Bring it to your house and have a ceremony with flowers, incense
and food. Just symbolic. Then, you have to bow to the Buddha, then to the
teacher and then make a wish. If your wish is to be granted, all the incense
will curl like a spiral and never drop on the floor. Normally when incense
burns, it drops like cigarette ashes. But when your wish is sincere and
accepted, then all the incense will curl like a spiral.
We burned a lot of incense, not only one. That was the problem. I don't
know why the Buddha has to test people's sincerity to this extent. So many
incense and each of them had to curl like this. Oh, God! I was thinking,
I don't think I will make it. Ha! Look at all the incense; and I always
saw the incense ash drop immediately after it burned. So, anyhow I just
did as I was told. I wished, "Okay! I don't mind that people told
me that human life is very suffering, and that we have to make a lot of
merit in order to get out of human life. I don't mind if I stay in human
life because it's not so bad for me. So, whatever good I have, it should
be distributed to people who need it most, and don't let me even know about
it."
That was my wish. Then, all the incense curled like this. (Master laughs,
audience applauds.) I was thinking that my teachers had bought special
incense for me, that was for sure. A special one already curled in advance,
or not the spiral incense, the incense stick very straight and they have
to curl by themselves with the ash, you know. (A: Yes!) That's how the
Buddha tests the people's devotion. But I was thinking it was the blessing
of my teachers. Yes, they were very holy, these people -- the Buddhist
nuns and monks at that time. The whole family had become nuns and monks.
I think they helped me a lot in my time in Germany, taught me a lot of
things. I thought they were very holy, and due to their blessings, the
incense dared not go straight or drop but just curled. I thought that they
had magical power, something like that.
So, they were very happy for me. They thought, "Oh, whatever you wished
will come true." I was not supposed to tell them what I wished inside,
I just did it alone. So, today I am telling you just to let you know that
I am very good. (Master laughs.) Okay, anyhow, you don't have to believe
it. (Applause) But after I've told you I don't know if I am good anymore.
I don't know if I should have told you. It was just by the way. When I
read this, it reminded me of my thing. At that time I didn't practice the
Quan Yin Method yet. I just recited Buddhist's sutras, recited the Buddhist's
great compassionate mantras and recited the Quan Yin Bodhisattva's name
and the name of the Medical Buddha and whatever. Everyday, I was busy with
all these thick books, of which I didn't understand half. (Laughter)
The Saint's Shadow
So, it was accepted that the holy man's wish would be granted. Now, because
the holy man didn't want to know whatever good done through him, God had
arranged it that his shadow would be a great blessing for anyone or anything,
anywhere that it fell upon; and the man would never know anyhow because
he would look in the front. So wherever the holy man went this shadow fell
on the ground and fertilized the land; it made the rain fall where it was
needed, and made the sun shine where there was not enough sun; it made
the people become healed of all diseases and healed the afflictions of
their souls; and made the place prosper. Mountains became green, springs
and fountains also sprang forth in different places. Many people who had
been weighed down with karma and bad fortunes began to look more alive
and became more healthy and more hopeful.
That was the benefit of the shadow of this holy man according to God's
arrangement. All the while, the man never knew anything about it; because
he always look in the front and did just his things, busy with his business.
He didn't know what was happening behind him through his shadow.
This is the true master. Therefore, you've never heard of any master who
says that he knows anything about what he's doing to you. So, don't be
surprised. Many disciples always praise the great master for helping him,
helping her do this, that or heal their sicknesses, change their misfortunes
and bless their houses or do anything. But the master never knows about
it, and don't be surprised. If the master says he knows, he's not a master.
(Master laughs.) Maybe sometimes the master, through initiates and through
the blessing of God, knows once in a while; but it's not always conscious
to the master about the good things that he or she does for mankind.
Also, in Buddhism, the Buddha said, The one who says he's the Buddha, he's
not the Buddha. That doesn't mean that after Buddhahood, you can not say
you have attained the Buddhahood, you may say so. But that doesn't mean
that you are very, very aware about it; because Buddhahood has no definition.
Truly, if we say we've attained something, that is not yet.
There's Nothing Except God
In the Diamond Sutra, the Buddha emphasized again, again and again that
there's nothing to attain, there's no Buddhahood to realize. It's not because
we couldn't become holy, but everything holy belongs to God, belongs to
Buddha nature. If we have attained our simplicity and purity enough; then,
that Buddhahood and that God power will reveal itself accordingly without
us having to know about it. How can we use the mind of a human brain to
understand the limitless, expansive nature of God, or the Buddha nature.
If we ever profess that we know that we are Buddha, we truly know that,
or that we know we are holy or we know God or things like that, it's just
a way of saying, but it's not truly so. If God can be described and can
be known by human's brain then it's not the true God, it's not the true
Buddha nature. Buddha nature is within and without us. God is within and
without, in heaven and on earth. We are swimming in God, breathing in God,
eating in God, have our lives in God, have all the essence in God. There's
nothing except God, around and about us. There's no need to say that I've
come in touch with God, I am looking for God. Hes is everywhere.
So, whenever we feel that we have attained something, stop and remember
this story. If we ever want to know what a master is like, remember this
story.
A Master Never Knows That He's Holy
A master never knows that he's holy, doesn't matter what he acts or what
he is like. Sometimes he admits it or whatever, whether it is for the sake
of sentient beings or just for the sake of just to get it over with; because
they keep asking all the time. So, then they say okay, okay, I am a Buddha,
so what, what next. Something like that.
People sometimes insist you admit that you are something in order to argue
around. Just like sometimes you come on a bus and sit there and someone
next to you or opposite you keeps looking at you all the time and says,
"Are you American?" for example like that.
Then you say, "No, I'm not."
She says, "But I'm sure you are American."
Then you say, "Certainly not, ma'am."
She continues looking at you and says, "But you look like. Just admit
it, won't you. You can just tell me that you're an American. It's free
here."
So, finally, you're fed up, you say, "Okay, I am an American!"
(Master laughs.)
Then, she keeps looking at you again, and says, "Well, on second thought,
you don't look American." (Master and audience laugh.) When I first
came out into the world (preaching), and had contact with the human brain,
I went on and on about the blessings and Buddha's power, the Quan Yin Method
and all that, according to their requests. Then, they kept insisting that
I tell them that I am a Buddha. I said, "Well, there's no need to
say that, and I don't even know if I am a Buddha."
But they said, "You are the Buddha. You must tell us! Like Shakyamuni
Buddha said, I am the Buddha. I'm the one and only, you should say the
same."
And they kept insisting and pressing me on and after a while I said, "Okay,
I am a Buddha."
Now, when I remember the Buddha's Diamond sutra, it says, The one who knows
he's a Buddha, is not a Buddha. (Master laughs, audience applauds.) Now,
you tell me!
We cannot win. So, just know yourself or don't know yourself. Whatever
you're comfortable with, it's okay. We cannot argue back and forth with
all these people. Humans, their brains are made this way, just to make
trouble where trouble is not, just to ask a question where a question is
not necessary, and to give an answer when an answer is not sought, things
like that. Always the same. What we do is just continue with our daily
business, do the best of our ability according to our knowledge, according
to our conscience about what a good human being should be. What we should
do in this life is our duty, our daily work, just do the things that we
feel good with, that we think that we should do and that's it. If God is
pleased with our behavior and purity, then Hes would grant us whatever
we need, or whatever is beneficial to mankind through us.
There is no need to worry about your level or whether you have attained
Buddhahood or you have gone to the ninth level or not yet. I'm still on
the fifth, but you have gone to the ninth already. The master is supposed
to be at the fifth level, but some people think they're on the ninth. Congratulations!
It's a little bit too far for us, but it's okay if he likes to go there.
It's God's Power Who's Doing All This
According to this story, the saint didn't know much about the good things
that were attached to him and his shadow, because the people were very
centered on the shadow that they forgot about the man. So, his wish, that
whatever good had been done through him should not be revealed to him,
had come true. God has granted him this wish. This is exactly what the
master is, according to my humble knowledge, opinion and experience.
So, if you want to ask me what the master is like, he's like this man,
nothing more. (Applause) If you ever want to know what the master is like
or thank the master for anything, it's not necessary really, because it's
God power who's doing all of this. The master is always free naturally.
He's like one of us. Never having the burden of carrying the holiness on
these shoulders all the time or having to take care of this holiness or
this Buddhahood, so that it doesn't slip away or that he doesn't fall down
to another level or things like that. Once you've attained Buddhahood,
once God is pleased with you, Hes does not withdraw the favor. He will
continue to have this all his life without even knowing about it.
If we do good to mankind, what for should we know about it. It's mankind
who is benefitted. That's the main important thing. Because we wanted to
benefit people, so if they got the benefit, doesn't matter where from or
how it was done. There are not many masters on earth, but some of the masters
that I've met, the true masters, they are like that, very, very humble
and very ordinary. They don't really know their supremacy inside, they
don't know their holiness. Maybe they love people, they bless people according
to their wish, but they don't feel themselves is a "blesser".
Yes, maybe they act like a master because people expect it. Just like the
lady who kept asking, "You're an American, aren't you?" Then
finally you say, "So, yes." Just okay, okay why not. Keep refusing
all the time makes so much trouble. So, the master is like that. Just act
accordingly so that everyone is pleased and happy and just to make things
simple. Otherwise, the master never thinks, never feels that he or she
is a master.
Why We Can't Integrate With Master
That's why I don't have problems integrating with you, but you have problems
integrating with me; because you always carry a master in your head and
I don't carry any disciples at all in my mind. I look at you as one of
the persons. That is why I don't like it when you are too humble or you
are over-acting that you love me so much, respect me too much, whatever.
I don't feel natural. If I come to know a person and said, "Oh, you
can be my friend, no problem." And for me no problem, but for him
it was a problem; because he always thinks I'm a master. I said, "I
never think of you as a disciple." So, it has never been any obstacle
from the beginning.
But you always have problems being my friends and that's why I don't have
friends because you put me too high and you put me separately. That is
why we have problems communicating with each other. That's why you misunderstand
what I tell you, often, and that is why you don't do the things I request;
because you think whatever you do for me must be very special, extra special.
Whatever it is, it turns out terrible, because you do it with the ego,
with the way you think, not the way it should be done. That is why everything
done for me is a mess. Always never the way I want -- simple, logical and
common sense. They have to make such a big deal about everything and I
end up suffering. (Master laughs.)
No One Knows How A Master Suffers
To be a master is such a difficult job, and such a suffering position;
because people heap upon you their own opinions about what a master should
be, how a master should have, what a master should like, how a master should
live. Therefore, the master becomes like a prisoner in your heart; and
when there are so many hearts put together, the master is finished. The
worst criminal has only one solitary cell, but the master has thousands,
hundreds of thousands, millions of solitary cells to live in. Do you understand?
Because our minds are very narrow and limited, the love in our hearts is
human-made. So, the master has to stay there and do work the way we think.
Otherwise, we give the master hell. Like you don't expect the master to
do this, you don't expect the master to wear that, you don't expect the
master to speak like this and blah, blah, blah, blah. You give this rejecting
and refusing atmosphere to the master every time in your hearts. That's
how you make a master a prisoner in your frame, in the narrow walls of
your minds; and that's how the master has to suffer.
It's like a bird, you put it in a cage. Doesn't matter if it's an iron
cage or a golden cage, it's still a cage. The master can not be free because
of the master's love for mankind; he or she will not be free until everyone
is free. But it's no problem, just to let you know what it's like because
you always ask me, "What's it like to be a master and what would the
master feel like or how is it, what is a master made of?" The master
is made of simplicity, just like every of us. Just because we complicate
our lives, therefore we can not be one with the universe and God can not
contact us. We build walls of prejudice, of religious expectations, of
social behavior patterns, anything to separate ourselves from the natural
way of life. That is why we can not become a master; originally everyone
could.
So, as long as we still occupy ourselves with such things as, what other
people think, or what the master should be like, we can never be one. Just
drop every idea, be as a child, and then you will know what's it like.
But it's better still that you don't know people, you don't go out teaching,
you don't lecture and all that; because then you're finished. People will
surround you with all kinds of troubles, all kinds of walls and frames.
Then, it's very difficult to move in your life. You still can try it, but
it's difficult and a lot of suffering -- mentally inside, not outside,
outside you don't see much. If some people cut your arms or bruise your
leg, people see it and sympathize with you; but if it's bruised inside,
very difficult, no one knows.
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Spoken By Supreme Master Ching Hai, Chula Longkon University, Bangkok,
Thailand
June 12, 1993 (Originally In English, Unabrigdged)
Good evening! I'm very honored to be in this royal country again, because
your country makes the guests, the visitors feel very comfortable and feel
at home in the first instance. Today I have the feeling that I would like
to stay in Thailand forever. I don't want to go home. (Applause) I feel
so touched by the spirit of brotherhood and nobility of the people of Thailand.
When you come to Thailand, you can not help but also feel yourself very
noble, very graceful. You can not kind of bring yourself into saying something
which is not polite, which is not noble, or bring yourself to do any kind
of not noble or not gracious actions.
A Beautiful Country Fulfills The Buddha's Teaching
That is because Thai people are very much educated in a beautiful and noble
tradition. They have a very age-old culture and very stable moral standard.
It is maybe because of the teaching of the Buddha. I think it is. Of course,
there are also influences from different religions in Thailand; but I think
the Buddhist teachings are the basic root of the social order in this country.
Also because the king, the queen, the royal family and the government of
Thailand respect and believe in the teachings of the Buddha.
When I first went to another country, they keep the tradition of the Buddhist
very strictly. I thought that was good. But when I came to Thailand, I
see a little different tradition. Here, for example, anyone can become
monk for one week, three months, one year or forever. It's up to him or
her; and no one would blame him or degrade him, if he came out of the monk
order. Now, I think this is even better.
That means the Thai people have truly understood the doctrine of equality
from the Buddha, and of the liberal spirit that we should obtain for ourselves
and also grant others the same privilege. We should not try to find the
Buddha nature from the outer appearance or dress but we should look right
through into the soul of mankind. That is why Thai people are so beautiful
and open. That is when I see the benefit of temples, of monks, of nuns
and of the teachings of the Buddha; because to be a Buddhist by name is
not as important as to understand the essence of the teachings of the Buddhist
doctrine. I'm very happy to find that such a people exist on this Earth.
On the way to this lecture hall, I was deep in prayer for your country.
While I was sitting in the car, I said to the Buddhas (enlightened beings)
of the ten directions, please bless your country, bless the people of Thailand;
because they are so noble, they are so pure, and so sincere. This prayer
came from my very heart. I wish your country more prosperity, more nobility
and more enlightenment. If one day I decide to stay here for sometime,
I hope you will welcome me as a Thai citizen. (Applause) I already tried
very hard on the first day. Yesterday, I promised some of the Thai disciples
to wear Thai dress, because they wished me to do. I hope I didn't make
a very bad example of your tradition, because your tradition is very beautiful.
I can only try my best to make an imitate of it.
We All Come From A Glorious Origin
In most of the countries of the world, the old ancient traditions were
very glorious, very noble. That is because we came from a very glorious
origin. In the old times we could communicate with the heaven easily. We
could see all kinds of glory of the heavenly beings of the Buddha land's
people. We could hear the teachings of heaven in the form of speechless
communication. This kind of speechless communication very much resembles
today our classical music. Except that when we hear this musical melodious
teaching, we will soar into heaven; and our treasure of hidden wisdom and
creative power will open. Much better than the physical music of our world.
When I say music that is because there are no better words to compare.
Otherwise, this is a kind of very powerful energy which will kind of draw
us upward into the higher dimensions of the universe. Our Quan Yin Method
is named after this quality of the heavenly teaching; because Quan means
the observation, Yin means this musical sound.
In the old times, when people still had very convenient connection with
heaven, we always heard this music. Therefore, we tried to make many musical
instruments which have lasted until today; and we have a lot of kinds of
imitations of the heavenly teaching. So, we have the church bells, the
harp, the flute, the piano, the zither, etc. Therefore, when we go to the
church we see all kinds of musical instruments, when we go the temple we
have also different kinds of musical instruments. When our relatives or
friends die, the church services or temple services resound with musical
accompaniment. That is the left-over from the age-old glorious heavenly
tradition.
The Heavenly Music Comforts Our Souls
Long time ago, there was a king in China; he was very compassionate. He
asked one of his wise advisors what would make people in hell feel more
elevated, feel more happy. So the wise minister said to him, that if they
could listen to the big bell sound, they would feel elevated, feel good.
So, the king ordered to make big temple bells and then told the people
to resound them everyday, because the hell people actually could not hear
the inner bell, so at least they made the outside bell to remind them of
the inner musical melodious teaching. So, such a similar tradition came
from such a compassionate person. Therefore when people pass away, we try
to accompany them with different kinds of music, hoping to comfort the
souls of the departed.
Now, if the man-made physical music could comfort the people when they
departed from this world and could comfort the hell beings, then we can
imagine how much greater a comfort we would get while we are still living
and if we get direct original music from heaven. Therefore, many enlightened
beings from higher dimensions in the universe, sometimes come down to our
world and try to give us this connection with the Buddha's land or the
highest heaven. Once we are connected with this teaching directly from
the Buddha's lands or from heaven, our life changes forever; because we
begin to enter into the golden teaching, the golden dimension of the higher
beings, like Buddhas or saints of different degree.
Therefore, when the Buddha came to our world, He said, I come to make you
become a Buddha. Jesus came and He said, whatever I do, you can do also.
The same with different founders of different religions. They brought the
message of equality between all beings.
But what is it that makes us become a Buddha? If it is all the teachings
from the Buddha that make us become a Buddha then we would have become
a Buddha long time ago. Similarly, if all my teachings which are recorded
by my disciples and printed in books could make you become enlightened,
then I don't need to come. I would just send the books to your house; and
we, the disciples, don't need to spend days, time, and a lot of energy
and money to organize today's lecture.
So, we remember when the Buddha transmitted the dharma -- means the essence
of the teaching -- to his fourth disciple Mahakasiba, He said, there are
no words for it, no language for transmission. My doctrine, my teachings
are non-verbal. The same with different patriarchs of the Buddhist system.
For example, the Sixth Zen Patriarch Hue Nung of China. Similar with different
religious systems, we have to get the essence of the Master -- not the
letters, not the words, the essence we have to get.
The Quan Yin Method is the way to help us to get this essence without language.
This method is very ancient, since the time that we appeared on this planet.
We came from a glorious dimension and we have to go back there, because
our work on this Earth does not last forever. So, for some people who feel
that they are ready to go home, the Quan Yin Method will be exactly for
them.
How do we know that your time has come? When we feel that this world has
no more attraction for us, when we feel that everything here doesn't satisfy
us, when we know, we see everything here doesn't offer us a kind of everlasting
happiness, that is the time to go home. For others who do not feel the
same -- they feel they still like to stay in this world, they feel like
they still want to do many things and they feel satisfied with this world,
for these, the time has not come; because each one of us has a different
mission for this planet.
For some of us the work is finished and we feel we can not stay here any
longer, nothing appeals to us anymore. We long to find something, but we
do not know what it is. Even if we have great possession of property, of
fame and of respect in this world, we still feel there is something missing.
Searching For The Inner Treasure
That's the reason why Buddha left home. That is the reason why many monks,
many nuns forsake the worldly attachments -- to lead a wondering, ascetic
life in order to find this missing substance in their lives. Some will
find it and some will not.
So, whoever has not found this essence yet, we offer to help them, be it
a monk, a nun or a lay person; because our inner nature does not discriminate
the robe, the place, the position of the human being. That's why when the
Buddha was alive, he had different kinds of disciples. Some were monks,
some were householders. But there was one of householder person, his name
is Vimalakirti. He was wiser than many of the monks in the Buddha's disciples'
circle. (Q: Was he a male or female?) Male. But don't worry. Females can also become
Buddha.
In the sutra called the Lotus Sutra... "sutra means Bible, the Sanskrit
scripture. The Buddha spoke many things and each time they recorded it
into a book which is called a sutra or we can call it a scripture. Sutra
is the Sanskrit name for scripture. Sometimes because we speak in English
terminology and we forget to translate into modern English. I forgot. Just
like "Buddha is the Sanskrit name of an enlightened master. If you
do not translate, it sounds foreign, it sounds very farfetched. When we
say 'enlightened master' it sounds closer, that we can obtain it maybe.
Now, in that Lotus scripture, the Manjusri Bodhisattva mention that a girl
of eight-years old had attained Buddhahood, a girl. Bodhisattva means enlightened
saint. So you see, to be a lay person and to be a woman is no problem for
Buddhahood. Similarly, in Christianity there are different male and female
saints. So, we don't worry about man or woman. What I say to you has proof
from the ancient scriptures, not from my own making. If you do not believe,
you can go home and search in these sutras and have a look. In any temple
you can find this. In any church, you can find the records of different
male and female saints.
So the essence of the teachings is not possible to be conveyed into human
language. It can only be transmitted through inner wisdom and through silence;
but in silence we will see the light of heaven, we will see Buddha's land,
we will hear the melodious teachings from the higher dimensions. Everything
that is spoken in words, is only an introduction to the true teachings.
Just like when we advertise the lotus flower or we talk about the lotus
flower, it is not the flower itself. When we talk about the king or the
queen of Thailand, these are not the king or queen, just an introduction,
just talk about them.
It's nice to talk about the king and queen, but it would be much nicer
for us to see these noble persons in person. Just like ordinarily, it's
nice to talk about our beloved, our girlfriends, boyfriends, wife and husband;
but it's better for us to be with them, to see them personally. So, it's
good to know that Buddhas exist, that Buddha's land is there, that heaven
is somewhere; but it would be best if we can experience these ourselves.
That is the reason why many people would like to get the initiation, to
get enlightenment; because they want the real thing. If you are those that
want to see the real thing, we are willing and we are happy to help you.
It's very easy -- even children can do it, if we know how; because we already
have it within ourselves. If I have this paper in my hands, I can see it
any time; but if I am too busy looking somewhere and busy with something
else and forget the paper is in my hand, of course I will not see it even
though it is in my hands.
Enlightenment Is Our Nature
It has always been there -- our enlightened nature, our wisdom or the Buddha
nature, always there. Even before we are born and after we die. This is
our true person, our real self. This body is not. That's why when our real
self leaves the body, the body just lays there, it can not move one inch.
What happens to us in life, be it happiness or suffering, only happens
to this physical instrument, it doesn't happen to our real self. But because
we forgot our real selves and we identify ourselves with this instrument,
we experience suffering or happiness. So Buddha said, there is a way to
end the suffering. That is the way of the enlightened saints, the way of
the Buddha.
To end suffering doesn't mean we run away from suffering, it doesn't mean
we run away from the world. We just make ourselves stronger, so that the
suffering seems nothing. That even when we experience the most severe blow
of upheaval, we feel that for only few minutes. Then the next minute life
becomes normal again. To end suffering doesn't mean we never suffer again
after enlightenment. It just means that we are strong enough to withstand
suffering and to be detached from happiness. Then we can rise above all
changes in this ephemeral world in order to recognize the real.
This is the way that Buddha has taught His disciples more than two thousand
years ago, and this tradition continues forever. As long as there are human
beings who wish to return to the source, who wish to become enlightened
and to end the suffering, there will be the teachings of the Buddha or
the great saints.
A Logical, Scientific And Easy Method
We are happy to present this teaching to you if you would like to rediscover
it for yourselves. It's very logical, scientific and very easy; because
it comes directly from heaven. Only everything man-made is difficult, everything
naturally or heavenly born is easy. For example, to have a child with full
intelligence, and full human being's quality, it's easy for a couple. For
all the scientists, the greatest minds in this world, it's difficult, even
expensive; but for a married couple they just do it with love -- no need
to research, no need the laboratory equipment, no need time, money, nothing.
Everything from heaven is easy to obtain. Just we forgot. So if you want
to remember again, we're happy to help you. Thank you for your loving attention.
If you have anymore questions concerning enlightenment, please let me know.
Questions And Answers
Q: What is wisdom?
M: Wisdom is what we called Buddha nature or the Kingdom of God within ourselves.
This is the greatest intelligent resource from which all intelligence comes.
When this wisdom is opened, we know everything without knowing, we can
do everything without doing, and we can be anywhere at the same time without
going anywhere. When this wisdom is opened, we have the power of Almighty,
omnipresence and all-knowing.
Q: To obtain Buddhahood or nirvana, can everyone reach it?
M: Yes, but it depends on your sincerity, your diligence and also your background
merit.
Q: After we have attained enlightenment and we die, where do we go?
M: It depends on where you are when you are alive. For example, during our
life if we have attained the third level of enlightenment or the third
heaven -- it's not the highest heaven, when we leave this world, we'll
go to the third heaven. Then our master will continue to teach us and then
we can gradually also rise up to nirvana or the highest dimension of heaven.
If we have already reached nirvana in this lifetime then after we leave
this world, of course, we will go to nirvana. 'Nirvana' is a Sanskrit word
for the highest heaven, what is termed "the Kingdom of God in Christianity.
Q: This is the first time I have been to Bangkok; but in my dream, I have
seen this lecture surroundings before. Is this something to do with my
previous life?
M: If you have affinity with a master, any master, then sometimes the master
will give you some sign of recognition before you see that master, so that
you know this is for you. It is just a proof, a signal, for your recognition.
Therefore, you have seen this lecture before you even came here. That's
just the blessing from the Buddhas, to let you know you have come to the
right place and met the right person. Many people have had similar kinds
of experiences before they met me in person. Sometimes even 17 years, 20
years, 10 years ago, before I even appeared in the public for the first
time.
Q: Master, can You see the future? If You can, would You tell us when the
end of the world will come?
M: I don't want to see the end of the world. (Applause) I want to see that
you help me to preserve this beautiful planet. The future is in our hands,
so you make it beautiful or you make it worse; it's up to you. (Applause)
We do not have to, we should not think in this negative way about anything.
We should always try our best to do good, to think good, to speak good,
then the future will be good. (Applause) Is it not easy, right? For example,
before I came here, I put on a beautiful dress, I put on nice jewelry,
because I wanted to appear beautiful before you. I made the decision to
be beautiful. I could have also made the decision not to be beautiful and
appeared to you in rags, dirty clothes, unkempt hair, and lousy looking.
So the future is yours.
Q: After initiation we are not allowed to heal other people's sickness, what
is the reason behind this?
M: It's not that you are not allowed, you are advised not to. It's better
for you; because after enlightenment, you don't have to do any kind of
actions to heal people. They just get healed automatically if they think
of you, if they pray to you. That is better for both sides; because if
the person knows that you healed them, they will be attached to you. They'll
worship you, instead of finding inside their own healing power. They will
rely on you, instead of relying on themselves. That is slavery. That's
dependence. That is not the teaching of equality, it's not the teaching
of enlightenment.
Now, when you heal without doing anything, your ego will not become bigger;
and that's good for you also. Many people claim that they are healed by
me when they pray to me, but I never do anything. Therefore, I can not
be proud, I can not take credit for anything. If we are proud of any achievement,
we walk the road of illusion, of maya. So I try to teach you the way of
egoless practice, the way without pride. (Applause)
Q. Why does having sex outside of marriage mean we can not reach enlightenment?
M: I did not say you can not reach enlightenment. I just said that you are
advised not to. The more disciplined, the stronger your mind-power, the
stronger the concentration, the more powerful you will be. You can reach
enlightenment; but you might not be so fast, if you are too much divided,
if your attention is too scattered on different material matters. Extra-sexual
relationships bring trouble, bring strain, bring unhappiness into the family
relationship and atmosphere. That divides your attention.
Also lately, scientists have discovered that people who have extra-sexual
relationships, outside marriage, tend to have more heart-attacks, more
diseases and shortened life. That comes from the restless conscience. Therefore,
whatever I tell you is also very, very scientific. This I told you long
ago, but the scientists just discovered lately.
Q: Is Your initiation method the same as in Taoism?
M: In the ancient time, originally the Taoist way is the Quan Yin way; but
today Taoism is different. Many Taoist sects have only the written and
oral doctrine, they don't have the speechless transmission. The same with
many other religious divisions.
Q: The business life means hard-work, confusion, confrontation of problems
the whole day. How can we provide time to study meditation, because I think
it needs time?
M: I told you already that you can find time, anytime you have time. Business
and obligations in this world we have to fulfill anyhow. Even if you are
monks or nuns, you still have to do some kind of business, do kinds of
work in the temple. So, there is no priority, no privilege for anyone.
Do you think we, this group, me and my close disciples, cross our legs
all day long and do nothing? If that were the case, you would never see
me tonight. I had to work for the airplane tickets for a lot of people.
For all the equipment, for all the staff members that you have seen, we
all have to work. So, don't have the illusion about a life in the Himalayas
with nothing to do.
Enlightenment must be also useful to the society. Otherwise, what is the
use? So, do your work and try to meditate at your free time. If you try
your best, the Buddhas, God will know your efforts and bless you all the
same.
Q: Could You explain about the cycle of rebirth?
M: You see, when we still have desire for anything in this world, we will
be given another human body or another kind of body again, in order to
make us satisfied. That is the cycle of rebirth. When we owe someone something,
we have to go back and repay. Therefore, when I teach you meditation, I
also tell you to keep the precepts. Make sure we don't owe anyone anything
financially, emotionally, mentally, and even physically. Therefore, we
keep the vegetarian diet; so we don't owe any living beings their life.
(Applause) Thank you for understanding.
Q: To see God and attain enlightenment, are they the same or different?
M: Oh, yes, the same. God is enlightenment; and when we are enlightened,
we are able to know God.
Q: Is it sinful to give meat to the dog we raise at home?
M: The dog can be vegetarian also, then you don't have to share his karma;
or you don't have to have a dog, save the problem.
Q: How can we know that what we think is not wrong?
M: Whatever you think, if that doesn't hurt someone else, then it is not
wrong.
Q: Can we go to heaven just eating vegetarian food?
M: You go the heaven if you behave according to heavenly rules. Vegetarian
food is just one of the rules. Otherwise, you will go to vegetarian heaven,
and see all the cows there. (Laughter)
Q: Who are You, Master Ching Hai? (Applause)
M: I am what you think myself to be. (Applause) I am different according
to individuals, but I never change. According to your understanding level,
so I will be.
Q: It relates to that question. Where are You from?
M: I came from the exact place that you came from. (Applause)
Q: What do You want in Your life?
M: It's difficult, because I don't remember if I wanted anything. I used
to want before but now, I forgot. Before enlightenment, I used to want
many things. Like you, I wanted to be successful, I wanted to graduate
with the best mark, I wanted to have a good husband, I want to have a harmonious
family. Finally, I wanted enlightenment. Now, I want nothing. (Applause)
Q: In meditation, we see the white light in the middle. Can You explain about
this?
M: It depends on the brightness of that light. If it is as bright as a thousand
suns, then you have reached the third level of enlightenment. If it's still
very dim, then you have to try harder. There are greater lights than this
white light. Only those with the initiation will experience the greater
light.
Q: If we have killed someone and practice the Quan Yin Method, can we be
delivered in this life?
M: Killed someone? Yes, you can, if you repent and don't do it again. You
did it because you did not understand, or because the circumstances forced
you to do it. So it will be forgiven if you understand now and try to keep
the precept. When the Buddha was alive, someone killed ninety-nine persons,
and wanted to kill the Buddha to make it a hundred; because his previous
teacher cheated him to do that. But when he came to the Buddha, the Buddha
enlightened him, he knew it, he repented, the Buddha forgave him, and he
became Arhat in a very short time. We have the same method to cleanse all
the sins.
Q: How do we know our original self?
M: Get enlightenment then you know everything.
Q: Why is it that as the scientific world learns more and more, it goes closer
to religions?
M: Religions originally are very scientific. It's just a science of life.
Therefore, many enlightened masters know a lot of things before the scientific
discoveries. For example, the Buddha said that in a glass of water, there
are numerous sentient beings inside; and the scientists refer to them now
as bacteria. The Buddha knew that over two thousand years ago. It took
a lot of time and research before the scientists confirmed that; because
the enlightened person sees with their real wisdom eye, and the scientists
have to see with instruments.
Q: In order to get initiation, people have to eat vegetarian food for the
whole life. It is very difficult. Don't You think that it prevents a lot
of other people to do or to practice good things?
M: Yes, it's difficult; but we don't have to always do easy things. These
are reserved for the babies, children. If we are grown up, we do something
difficult; because we are strong. But it's up to you.
We have two kinds of methods. One is called 'the great way,' and the other
one is called 'the small way'. 'Great way' is initiation, fully vegetarian,
keep the precepts; and you can save five generations and give them liberation
and save anyone that is dear and beloved to you. So, one person enlightened,
many people get benefit. 'The small way' is, you are enlightened yourself
and benefit your very own. 'The small way,' you can have, as expedient,
convenient method. My disciples can teach you, if you require them. In
this method, you don't have to be completely vegetarian. You try as much
as you can to eat vegetarian to lessen your karma. 'Karma' means the bad
or good effect from the action.
Q: How can we know that we attained Buddhahood?
M: We know, but we don't know; because Buddhahood is not candies or cakes
that you can define, "Oh! I've got a cake. But we know, the Buddhas
in the ten directions know, the whole world knows, and the whole universe
knows. When you attain Buddhahood there are different signs. Without your
knowing, you have all healing power, almighty power or all-pervading power.
That means you can appear in a thousand and one places at the same time,
while you are sitting in your house. That's one of the signs of the Buddhahood
-- very important sign; so that you can help different sentient beings
in different parts of the universe, not only this world, different heavens
and hells as well. Your disciples will know that you are the Buddha.
ĦiĦj==========================
International Herald Tribune, Friday, May 31, 1996 ASIA/PACIFIC
TOKYO -- Advice by North Korea to its citizens on how to make roots and
wild grass taste better is another sign of a worsening food crisis and
of a pressing need for international help, experts said Thursday.
"Today, I will introduce you to tasty and healthy ways to eat wild
grass, a woman said in Korean Central Broadcasting program; which was aired
Thursday by the Japan Broadcasting Corp. It was the first known public
advice by North Korea that people turn to grass and roots, an official
said.
"Parsley will be good after being briefly cooked in boiling water
or fried, the broadcaster advised. "Making kimchi out of parsley will
also be good, she added against background pictures of edible wild plants.
Kimchi is a spicy Korean pickled dish, usually made of cabbage. A Japanese
commentator said that, in addition to the recipes, Pyongyang was broadcasting
advice on ways to select edible wild grasses and roots.
International organizations have said food shortages are getting worse
daily in the isolated nation, which was hit by severe flooding last year.
Foreign estimates put the daily average grain ration now at 250 grams (9
ounces) a person, less than half the amount needed for good health.
Meanwhile, South Korea told the government of the North that it was prepared
to send 7,000 tons of milk powder to help ease near-famine conditions there,
but Pyongyang was said to have responded that it would prefer rice.
The South Korean press agency quoted a senior government official as saying
that an offer to send the milk free of charge had been made through the
International Committee of the Red Cross, but that it was rejected.
An increasing number of people have been seen in North Korea collecting
grass and roots at parks and roadsides -- the first such sighting since
the 1950-53 war.
The North Korean broadcast was seen as a new appeal for aid, said Kazuhiro
Araki, a researcher at the Modern Korea Institute, a Tokyo-based research
operation. "It's meant to be a political message to the outside world,
he added, to show that foreign help has become vital. Robert Hauser, director
of the United Nations World Food Program, in Pyongyang, said Thursday that
the food situation in the North was "very serious.
"Famine is coming closer every week, he said in a telephone interview.
Although Koreans, like most Japanese and other Asians, are fond of some
wild plants, these are not the plants they are now eating, Mr. Hauser said.
"They are telling us that they eat such wild grass only during the
worst periods of crises, and that they last ate them during the war in
the 1950s, he said.
"They eat them because there is nothing else to eat, Mr. Hauser continued,
adding that the authorities were considering further reductions in the
grain ration. The next four months until the autumn harvest are considered
the most critical.
The official North Korean News Agency alluded Thursday to foreign aid by
saying that the Nigerian government had made a cash donation to help the
country recover from the floods. The news service said that ambassadors
and other diplomats from such "friendly embassies as Pakistan, Indonesia,
Algeria, Cuba, Cambodia and Poland had helped transplant rice seedlings
on co-operative farms.
"They sang songs and talked with co-op farmers, deepening the friendship,
the English-language report said. The agency did not say whether the event
was related to the food shortages that developed after devastating floods
swept the North last year.
On Wednesday, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent
Societies began a fund-raising drive in Beijing to raise $750,000 in three
weeks and $4.5 million by October to combat the reported famine conditions
in the North. (AP, Reuters) Believe it or not...
ĦiĦj==========================
By Joe Berger/ Weekly World News
Los Angeles -- When ailing oldster Garrett Cornice collapsed with a heart
attack, his terrified wife Amy was too rattled to react. So their gentle
German shepherd Jake jumped in and saved his master's life -- by giving
him mouth-to-mouth resuscitation!
"I don't know how Jake knew what to do, but he sure as heck did it,
said grateful Amy, 60.
"He tipped Garrett's head back and put the paw over his nose and started
breathing into his mouth, just like they told us in CPR class. He kept
at it for maybe 40 to 60 seconds and the next thing you know, Garrett started
coming around. I still can't believe it happened, but the doctor says if
that dog hadn't acted so fast, Garrett would have died for sure -- or suffered
brain damage from lack of oxygen.
Amazing Jake swing into action just moments after his 85-year-old master
keeled over unconscious at the couple's suburban home April 10.
"Garrett had had two heart attacks when we lived in the Midwest, so
last year we took a first-aid class together so we'd know what to do in
an emergency -- and we even practiced CPR on each other, said embarrassed
Amy. "And when Garret collapsed in our living room and I absolutely
froze. I just couldn't make myself do anything. All I could do was stand
there and scream. But the next thing I know, there was Jake, giving Garrett
mouth-to-mouth as cool as could be -- so at that point I came to my senses
and ran to the phone and called an ambulance.
The retired fireman was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he remained
in intensive care for 13 days. "The first thing I did when I got home
was give Jake a big kiss and the juiciest steak I could find -- because
my doctors, the ambulance guys and everybody said I'd be a goner if it
weren't for that pooch, the easygoing gramps recalled. "Nobody has
any idea how he did what he did, and neither did I. Our vet says dogs have
great instincts and maybe Jake watched us practicing CPR at home and just
picked up on it somehow. All I know is, that dog is my best friend -- and
I'll never bitch about his breath again.
News 64 Index
Pearls Of Wisdom
Spoken By Supreme Master Ching Hai in Taipei, Formosa March 2, 1990
The heart is important, not the superficial actions. Many people pursue
spiritual practice, but some say, "I have practiced so arduously,
yet I have gotten nothing in return." Possibly they have not been
sincere enough. We should not blame God, we should not lose faith in the
Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, nor should we doubt our Master. Instead, we should
introspect to see whether we have any places or knots that have not been
untied. If we have great sincerity, all results will come to us. Even when
sometimes we think we are not sincere, still we have to persist in practicing,
and rectify it bit by bit. One day the world will give us the sincerity.
Sometimes, we are ill, we are in agony, in pain or a bad mood -- all these
unhappy situations will wake us up. Therefore, we still have hope.
News 64 Index
Master's Wonders
The Little Dog Who Loves Meditation Even A Snake Is Intoxicated When Master Recites Poetry The Auntie With Light Led The Way Home
By Fellow Initiate in Nan-ning, Kuang-hsi Province, Mainland China
During the time I was still practicing the Convenient Method, one day I
was invited to have dinner with my teacher in his home. He had several
dogs in his house. One of them stared at me, kept barking, and seemed to
be very happy to see me. After dinner, when I was leaving, that little
dog looked very sad and made me feel that I must have had some affinity
with it. With my teacher's consent, I took it home. Initially, it loved
to eat meat very much. If there was no meat in its meal, it would rather
suffer hunger for several days.
Since initiation, I have practiced meditation daily in my room at night,
and the little dog always followed me into the room. I didn't pay attention
to see if it went out or not. But after meditation, I was surprised to
see that the little dog often sits behind me for several hours without
making any noise. After that, it followed me into the room to meditate
each night. One night, it even kept barking until I opened the door to
let it join the meditation with me. Since then, whenever I am going to
meditate, my family will announce, "Meditation time, hurry up! As
soon as the little dog hears that, it enters my room to meditate with me
without any hesitation.
The little dog has become a vegetarian already, just like the Buddhist
sutra says: All sentient beings have their own Buddha nature. Even if a
little dog can practice meditation and make progress, there is really no
excuse for human beings not to do so. As long as we can keep our actions,
speech and thoughts pure, and follow the Master's instructions to practice
the Quan Yin Method, we will be able to obtain eternal liberation and go
back to our home in heaven.
ĦiĦj======================
By Residents Disciple Kuei May, Hsihu Formosa
As I returned to my room, I found that just outside there was a snake lying
lazily on a big rock, with its eyes open and tongue sticking out. I thought
that it might be taking advantage of the sunny day after it had been raining
for a while, and now it came out for some fresh air! It did not move at
all when it saw me approached. So, we should both be at ease, I thought
to myself.
Once I got inside, I played the CD of Master reciting poetry, "Traces
of The Past, that I had just borrowed. While I enjoyed listening to the
poems, I did some tidying up in the house. As I went in and out of the
house, I noticed that the "buddy snake had pointed its head towards
my door and lain flat on the rock. Its eyes were closed and tongue was
no longer sticking out. It stayed like that for quite some time, and remained
motionless even while I cut grass and walked back and forth around it.
Actually, I think it was intoxicated from hearing Master reciting poems.
Later, the poems recitation stopped, and I did not play it again because
my hands were dirty. The "buddy snake lifted its head and opened its
eyes, as if it wanted to hear Master reciting poems again. After a while,
when there was still no poem recitations, it slowly crawled away.
The next morning, the moment I stepped out of the door, I saw the snake
lying on the same big rock again, ready to enjoy more of Master's poem
recitations!
ĦiĦj======================
By Mr. Hwang , Guangxi Province, Mainland China
There was a man who believed in Master's teachings living in Guangxi Province
and he had a two-year old little boy. One night, he was playing chess with
a friend, and because he was so absorbed in playing matches of chess, one
after another, he was not aware that the little boy had wandered away and
had gotten lost. When they discovered this, they became frightened. Both
husband and wife and several friends searched around for half an hour and
yet there was no sight of the boy.
Later, the boy came back by himself. The father was rather surprised. The
little boy was not crying at all. He simply walked back alone in the dark.
So, the father asked the boy, "Where have you been?
The boy said, "I ran outside to play. Later, I met an auntie with
shining light. She led me home.
The father took out Master's photo for the little boy to see. The little
boy said, "That's the auntie with the shining light who led me home!
News 64 Index
Letters Between Master And Diciples
You Have Come Into My Heart
By Fellow Initiate, Lo Tze Wen, Taipei, Formosa
Dear Master,
I trust that You are well.
My lack of understanding of Your teachings led me to lose my faith in the
true path, and I left the spiritual group of the Quan Yin Method. Not until
last year, owing to Your infinite compassion, grace and affection, did
I return and continue my spiritual practice. In the past year, the tangible
and intangible care from You has nourished my heart continuously. Everyday,
as soon as I have a free moment, I think of You, and talk and repent to
You.
I am most grateful to God and to You for saving me. You had not given up
on me despite my naivety and misconception of spiritual practice in the
past. The setbacks I experienced, like a rude awakening, were undesirable
qualities which I could neither hide nor run away from. Everything was
so clear. Master, I thank You from the bottom of my heart. If it was not
for You, I could never have regained my faith in the path, nor could I
have increased my self-confidence. Everything is due to Your power. Having
You in my heart, I can face any situation. Now, my faith in You is so strong
that it is incomparable to any time before.
One day, I took my child out for a stroll. Suddenly, I heard a very loud
voice calling my child's nickname. Both my child and I turned around, but
only to find that no one was there, and yet my child exclaimed in delight,
"Master is here! Master is here!" Even now, whenever I think
about that, I am still moved. Thank You, Master!
I went to Phnom Penh to see You recently. Oh, Master! It was the first
time in so many years that I saw You. In the past, I did not know to cherish
the opportunities of seeing You. Now, I had to fly over mountains and oceans
just to see You briefly; but in my heart I greatly treasure and am deeply
grateful for it. I am still very happy even though it is over a month since
I have returned home.
As I have to go to work, there is no one home to look after my child, so
I prayed to You to help me to find the most suitable person. Sure enough,
not long afterward, a fellow initiate couple, who are very diligent in
their spiritual practice, became my neighbors. They have a child about
the same age as mine, and so my child has somewhere to go now. My child
has begun to like to be near You, to watch Your video tapes, and does not
want to eat any food that is not vegetarian. Under Your blessings and love,
my child is growing big and healthy. His father often asks, "What
does the baby-sitter feed him everyday? Why is it that he is getting so
robust?"
I understand clearly that You have not only found a baby-sitter for my
child but also one for me. Recalling when I received my initiation years
ago, I was still very young, and without any fellow initiates to keep me
company, I was like a lone ranger. But now, the situation is different.
I know that it is just another of Your perfect and wondrous arrangements,
which has enabled me to be close to good practitioners, which helps me
and changes my weaknesses.
Oh, Master! All the words of praise to You could never express one billionth
of how I am moved in my heart. Because of You, I understand what is true
sincerity, true repentance and true faith. Feeling as tiny as a mustard
seed, I wish that I could once again respectfully behold Your holy countenance
that is as radiant as the heavenly light.
News 64 Index
Elevation Of The Soul
The Latest Video Tapes Of Supreme Master Ching Hai
[Retreat Series In English]
3-Day International Retreat, Chicago, USA. 1994, 2,19-22
(In English With Au LacSubtitles)
The Exhibition Of The Heavenly Clothes (Part I)
Grow Up And By Yourself (Part II)
Live-Giving Spring Sun And Rain (Part III)
*To Be Continued Part (IV) &(V)
3-Day International Retreat, Formosa 1995,06,02
(In Chinese With Au Lac Subtitles)
The Way To A Peaceful Would (Part I)
7-Day International Retreat, Formosa 1995, 10,25-31 (I)-(V)
Bed Time Story: Seeking Fame Forsakes Morality 1995. 10. 27
The Secret Of Being A Good Wife 1995. 10. 27
The Story Of Lia Tzu 1995. 10. 29
The Great Medicine Men Of China 1995. 10. 30
Master Your Own Destiny 1995. 10. 31
4-Day International Ching Hai Day Retreat, Formosa 1996, 2,18-21 (I)-(V)
Be Responsible For Your Own Action 1996. 2. 19-20
The More Sincere Are Devoted To God, The Less Desire We Possess 1996. 2. 20-21
Be Constructive Rather Than Complain 1996. 2. 21
Introspection Of Conception 1996. 2. 18-19
(In Chinese With English Subtitles)
Doing a favor Without Asking For Reward 1996. 2. 18-19
(In Chinese With English Subtitles)
[In English]
The Truth Behind Offerings Group Meditation, Hsihu Center, Formosa
1995.11.1-2 &12.25
The Unsurpassed Benefit Of Taking Refuge In The Buddha
Group Meditation,Hsihu Center, Formosa 1996.2.17
Silence And Acceptance
Group Meditation, Hsihu Center, Formosa 1995.12.23 & 1996.2.18
[In Au Lac]
Virtue With Wisdom Group Meditation, Hsihu Center, Formosa 1996.2.24
[In English With Chinese Subtitles]
Be Practical And Spiritual Lecture in Honolulu, Hawaii, USA 1993.3.27
[In English With Au Lac Subtitles]
What You See Is What You Are Group Meditation, San Jose, USA 1993.11.30
[In Chinese With Au Lac Subtitles]
One Must Have Faith In Master To See God Group Meditation, Hsihu Center,
Formosa 1995.01.08
The Latest Audio Tapes Of Supreme Master Ching Hai
[Retreat stories In Chinese CR17]
Introspection Of Conception 4-Day International Ching Hai Day Retreat,
Formosa 1996, 2,18-19
Doing A Favor Without Asking For Reward
4-Day International Ching Hai Day Retreat, Formosa 1996, 2,20-21
Zen Humor
3-Day Retreat In Phnom Penh ,Cambodia 1996, 3,27 & 3,24
The Motherly Love Of A Master
3-Day Retreat In Phnom Penh ,Cambodia 1996,3,28
[Retreat stories In English ER8]
4-Day International Retreat, Formosa
Be Responsible For Your Own Action (I,II) 1996.2.19-20
The More Sincere Are Devoted To God, The Less Desire We Possess (I,II)
1996.2.19-20
Be Constructive Rather Than Complain 1996.2.21
News 64 Index
Poem
The One And Only Rainbow Garden
By Little Initiate Wei Hung Hsien (Age 12), Taipei, Formosa (Originally
In Chinese)
Hsihu, Miaoli has a bright and beautiful ashram.
The ashram has the brightest and most attractive place:
The Rainbow Garden.
It's heaven for us children.
It's also a nice place for grown-ups to relax.
It's where
We spend our happy childhood.
Here
Lies Master's hard work and sweat,
And Her blessings.
Here
Is the one and only
Rainbow Garden,
Our home sweet home.
Let us obey the rules here,
Enjoy the warmth and sweetness.
Let such a beautiful place
Remain so forever.
Ħ@
News 64 Index
International Reports
Report From Maryland, USA Cape Town, South Africa Calcutta, India Surabaya, Indonesia Tokyo, Japan Hsihu Formasa Chiayi, Formosa Palawan, Philipines
The Quan Yin Method Surging High
When we learned of the spiritual fair called "Natural Living Expo
in Silver Spring, Maryland, all the tables had been booked and we felt
sorry that we could not get one to display Master's teachings. Perhaps
the sincerity of the disciples touched God, therefore, several days before
the fair, we received a call from the fair organizer informing us that
there had been a cancellation and, thus, we could have one table at the
fair. The disciples from the Wheaton, Baltimore and Virginia Centers decided
to join forces and booked the table immediately.
The Silver Spring Fair was a spiritual fair on the outskirts of Washington,
D.C, which included many exhibitors and there were seminars running every
hour. The topics included practically everything. We attended the fair
to introduce Master's supreme teachings to those longing for the Truth.
Due to God's wonderful arrangement, at the Maryland's spiritual fair, many
Truth seekers find the enlightened Master who can take them Home.
After our early morning group meditation, we prayed for Master's blessing,
had a hearty breakfast, then headed for the fair. When we got there, we
discovered another miracle had occurred. Our table was next to the entrance
and behind us was a huge glass wall. The proximity to the entrance meant
everyone who came in would see our table right away and the glass wall
meant we could post Master's pictures facing both ways so people could
see Her from both inside and outside the fair!
When the fair opened to the public, we had dozens of people coming over
to our table and, from then on, it was a steady stream of visitors for
the entire day; at times there was no place to stand even. Many came to
pick up brochures -- introducing the Quan Yin Method -- and sample booklets.
A number of people also put their name down to receive our bi-monthly Supreme
Master Ching Hai News magazines. The response was so fervent. It turned
out that many people who came over to our table had already been vegetarians
and some decided to register for initiation immediately. Many came to watch
Master's lectures on television and ask questions about spirituality. One
man who had been initiated for several years with another master also wrote
down his name for initiation, eager for spiritual advancement.
As if finding their long lost kin, these longging soouls shed tears of
happiness.
One lady came by our table with her husband and daughter and talked to
us for a while. She picked up Master's sample booklet and several News
magazines, then went on to visit other tables. After a while, they came
back. She told us she did not know why she wanted to come back. She also
told us she had been meditating for some time and had seen the inner Quan
Yin Boddhisattva. A sister then found a picture of Master in News No. 52
in which She was dressed in white as the Quan Yin Boddhisattva during the
Ching Hai Day. Suddenly, the lady cried out "Oh, my God! She then
turned to her husband and said, "This was the Boddhisattva I saw through
my inner experience a few weeks ago! and started crying. She held the sister's
hand tightly like she had just found a long lost relative.
Even near closing time, after we had put everything away, there were still
a few people coming over to ask for our brochures and sample booklets.
It was a really busy and successful day! Everyone felt energized and rejuvenated.
One brother said, "Just seeing one person finding Master and the way
back Home made it all worthwhile! Apparently, he had spoken for all of
us. We are extremely thankful for having had the opportunity to be Mater's
instruments to spread the teaching of "Immediate Enlightenment and
Eternal Liberation to others.
ĦiĦj================
The Happiness Of Giving
It is now winter in South Africa. The weather is cold with very low temperatures
at night. Fellow practitioners of Supreme Master Ching Hai International
Association in Cape Town, South Africa, in accordance with Master's instruction,
have been taking action to care for the homeless people. In the most recent
warmth-sending activity, fellow practitioners extended again the spirit
of helping each other. They enthusiastically volunteered to take up the
various preparatory work, like shopping and cooking to prepare the vegetarian
food boxes. Mr. Huang, an overseas Chinese living in Queen's Town, when
he heard that Supreme Master Ching Hai is organizing an activity to send
warmth into the cold winter, he immediately donated several dozen new woollen
wear. This illustrated that there is always love and warmth among human
beings. Whenever someone takes the lead to do something correct and meaningful,
the love and virtues which have always resided in human's heart will be
aroused. They will rise up to help support the action. On one Sunday afternoon, after two days of diligent meditation, fellow
practitioners embarked on the journey! They took bags of winter clothing
and hot meals to the homeless people in the Claremont suburb. Some of those
who came forward to receive the gifts were only wearing very thin, torn
clothes, and were shivering in the cold wind. On receiving the big jacket
or the wind-proof clothing, they put them on immediately. There was a sense
of gratitude and excitement on their faces as a result of this unanticipated
present of love as they eat the fresh, rich and delicious meal, enjoying
the infinite love from God.
Fellow practitioners were very happy to have been able to participate in
this activity. They want to thank Master for Her teachings and the chance
given to them to utilize and expand their loving hearts. Some fellow practitioners
said that they slept exceptionally well and were very warm that night.
ĦiĦj================
Being Closer To God
Master's children (fellow initiates) and would-be children in India gathered
in our Calcutta Center to hold a one-day retreat and a garden party to
celebrate the birthday of the Mother of the Universe, simultaneously with
fellow initiates around the world. Some fellow initiates in other cities
in India, who could not come to join us, also held a one-day retreat in
their own place.
Our program started with a group meditation, during which each of us sincerely,
though silently, expressed our heartfelt gratitude to our beloved Mother
for Her untiring efforts in elevating the spirituality and welfare of mankind,
and especially for Her inexhaustible tender loving care of Her children
around the world. After the group meditation, fellow and would-be initiates
invited their families, relatives and friends to join our birthday party
to share Master's blessings.
During the party, apart from the delicious vegetarian meal and desserts
for the guests, fellow initiates also exhibited Master's books and Her
artistic designs and creations, and other publications. All the guests
were impressed by Master's spiritual teachings, as well as Her incredible
talents in bringing the Truth, virtue and beauty to the world, which reflect
the love and beauty from heaven residing in each person's heart. Therefore,
many of them eagerly requested to practice the Convenient Method of meditation,
and some are waiting for initiation.
At the end of the party, fellow initiates also distributed Master's blessed
food to the neighboring poor people and their children, to share with them
Her love and blessings. Many of them were surprised to receive such friendly
treatment and praised that Master's teaching is always giving and sharing
without asking anything in return, without any discrimination of caste,
race or religious beliefs. Caption:As if finding their long lost kin, these
longing souls shed tears of happiness.
ĦiĦj================
A Birthday Celebration Full Of Love
The Surabaya Center has never missed celebrating Master's birthday, this
special annual event has become its most important festival. However, this
year's celebration was even more unique, solemn and grander than usual.
On that particular morning, there was an initiation session. The unawakened
minds of the would-be-initiates were like a drought waiting for Master's
blessing rain. They were very happy to receive their initiation on Master's
birthday; it was as if they had received double Her blessing power. Each
of the new initiates were full of bliss.
The celebration was held in a vegetarian restaurant. The restaurant is
owned by an initiated couple who, inspired by Master's love, decided to
devote themselves to promote vegetarianism in order to help their countrymen
to practice. Before the couple was initiated, they applied for a restaurant
license, but the government did not grant them one. Only after they received
initiation by Master did they get the license, which was a pleasant surprise
for the couple. They felt very excited and were very thankful to Master.
By afternoon, the guest arrived one after the other; almost all the new
initiates were present, with some of them having come from quite a long
distance. The restaurant soon became packed with fellow initiates and their
non-initiated guests. First, they played Master's video with Indonesian
subtitles, which gave many natives the opportunity to understand Master's
teachings. Consequently, they became interested in practicing and in becoming
members of the Quan Yin family. During the celebration, fellow initiates
encouraged each other to follow Master instructions, to practice diligently,
and to purify the surroundings. Finally, the initiates prayed silently
for the happiness of the Indonesian people, for the prosperity of their
country and for world peace.
The atmosphere became happy and harmonious as fellow initiates sang the
birthday song to Master, and it felt as if She, Herself, was present. All
of us felt Master's loving blessing. As they enjoyed the birthday cake,
the party began to liven up. Different kinds of food were displayed on
the banquet table; and after the guest tasted the delicious, healthy and
pure vegetarian food and cake, they were full of praises. While they enjoyed
the delicious meals, they were also greatly entertained by performances
given by fellow initiates. For sure, they were all intoxicated by Master's
loving blessings.
ĦiĦj================
Guests From Outer Space Celebrate Master's Birthday With Us
In order to satisfy the innermost yearning of the fellow initiates in Tokyo,
Japan, Master most kindly allowed them to hold a three-day retreat in Her
mountain home. The fellow initiates felt deeply touched by this good news,
especially those who just got initiated in May -- they felt extraordinarily
happy and truly cherished this rare opportunity. The three-day retreat
happened to be on Mother's Day and Master's birthday, which enhanced the
joyful atmosphere. Due to Master's special care and blessings, the retreat
was a rich spiritual harvest.
On the first evening of the three-day retreat, something unusual happened.
Brother Hong, one of the guards, was outside during the group meditation
when he saw a bright and white oval spot of light spiraling continuously
right over Master's house; and the scope of the spiraling was as big as
half of Her house. The clouds were very low then, and it was very hard
for his eyes to see what type of object it was. Besides, airplanes couldn't
spiral in such a small area. However, the light object did not appear to
be illuminating from below because there was no light column. Concluding
that it was a UFO, brother Hong was a bit excited. Since other fellow initiates
were meditating and it was inconvenient to disturb them, he could only
look up into the sky with a fixed gaze to observe it. He saw that its shape
sometimes appeared round and sometimes oval, while moving and spinning
in a counterclockwise direction. Every time it moved towards Master's house,
its light would intensify. A half hour later, the light object started
to move slowly in a southeasterly direction.
When the group meditation was over, the fellow initiates came out of the
house one after other. The first sight of the UFO gave them a peculiar
sensation, like an electric current running up to their brains, which gave
their brain feelings of numbness and expansiveness. Some fellow initiates
experienced a continuous strengthening of their magnetic field; some heard
the resonance of a constant vibration, as if the aliens on the UFO were
friendly and were greeting them. Silently, the fellow initiates recited
the Holy Names to communicate with them. Then, they saw the UFO spiraling
over clouds; sometimes higher and sometimes lower, it's orbit was sometimes
round and sometimes oval, sometimes big and sometimes small, while hovering
in the southeastern sky. After two hours, it gradually disappeared from
site.
At this time, the entire mountain area was covered with thick clouds, and
not even a star could be seen. Only in the sky right over Master's house
was there a big circle, wherein, there was a cloudless sky filled with
stars. Some fellow initiates said that the extraterrestrial beings from
outer space came especially to wish Master happy birthday.
Having personally experienced contact with this UFO, the fellow initiates
felt deeply that this was a sign of the ripeness of the Golden Age. Human
beings on Earth should make their vision even broader, with boundless love
and care, to greet its coming. On Mother's Day, it started to rain in the
middle of night. The gentle rain, resembling a cradle-song from God, resounded
by our side while the light of the entire universe illuminated us. Reflecting
on the miracle that Master Mom came down to this world because of Her boundless
love for us, fellow initiates were all very moved. With hearts filled with
gratitude, we could not help bursting into tears during the "Happy
Birthday" song.
During the three-day retreat, one after other, the participating fellow
initiates expressed their joys and thanks to Master. Many of them said
that they had very good inner experiences. Compared with any group meditation
held here in the past, more incredible phenomena and heart-moving events
happened this time. Thank You, Master, for letting us experience this unforgettable
three-day retreat.
ĦiĦj================
The Patriarch Of Miaoli Visits Hsihu Center
One Sunday afternoon, County Magistrate Ho Chi Hui, the guardian of Miaoli,
and Mr. Tu Wen Ching, member of the National Assembly, visited Hsihu Center.
The fellow initiates there cheerfully greeted them.
Accompanied by the resident disciples, the guests walked along the tree-shaded
park, passed by the cool fountain, and arrived at the Nectar River. County
Magistrate Ho praised Master for being able to complete such a beautiful
and natural river in just three days. After admiring Master's various artistic
creations, musical compositions and poems, etc., that were displayed in
the book circulation center, Country Magistrate Ho could not help being
curious: what kind of Master is this, and what is this method of enlightenment?
The emerging of a person's dormant talents after spiritual practice made
him become more interested in understanding the Quan Yin Method.
When the National Assembly Member, Mr. Tu saw that the kitchen staff, who
were quietly going about cooking in complete awareness of and coordination
with each other, and that not a sound could be heard when there were thousands
of people sitting in the Forest Meditation Hall meditating, while the children
were playing in the Rainbow Garden, he praised that everything was so orderly
in the Center. He said that such an orderly scene, and one filled with
vitality, could not be found in society outside. Mr. Tu recognized the
good points of keeping a vegetarian diet. He positively agreed with Master's
teachings, and felt a certain manifestation of Her omnipresent blessing
powers.
After a visit to the unique Red Gazebo, they came to the Rainbow Garden.
County Magistrate Ho's daughter jumped onto a wooden horse with delight.
The joyous laughter and every single one of the toys in the Rainbow Garden
attracted her. By the lovely and colorful cement animals, the father and
daughter had quite a few photos taken. County Magistrate Ho said that both
he and his wife are so busy with official business that they hardly have
time to play with their daughter. He was very happy that he had the opportunity
to have his child accompanied him and have fun that day.
Both County Magistrate Ho and Mr. Tu enjoyed their visit, but had to leave
to attend to some official business. Mr. Tu conveyed the county council's
concern for the Center -- that they would be pleased to offer any help
the Center might need. Whilst thanking them for their consideration, the
resident disciples said that due to Master's absence, the hospitality extended
by them, the disciples, was not quite complete, and they hoped that there
would be another opportunity to entertain them in a better way. Caption:
A respected patriarch in Miaoli -- County Magistrate Ho Chi Hui and his
daughter, together with National Assembly member, Mr. Tu Wen Ching, visit
Hsihu Ashram.
A respected patriarch in Miaoli -- County Magistrate Ho Chi Hui and his
daughter, together with National Assembly member, Mr. Tu Wen Ching, visit
Hsihu Ashram.
ĦiĦj================
Honors In A Bazaar
On invitation from China Youth Corps (C.Y.C.) the Chiayi Center once again
participated in the bazaar held in the Sun Yat-sen Garden on Mother's Day.
It was hoped that Master's message could be delivered to more people who
have affinity.
This time, the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association's booth
was still introducing Master's books and vegetarianism. Just a few days
before the bazaar, there were more than a dozen big posters featuring Master
in various Celestial Clothes sent from Hsihu. These made the decorating
of the booth more complete and brilliant, attracting more guests. Also,
from the experience of not having enough vegetarian food supply last time,
fellow practitioners started to prepare international food, such as sushi,
dumplings, tea, fried rice, fried noodles, pizza, and desserts in the Vegetarian
House early in the morning. So, more people could enjoy the vegetarian
meals and desserts full of Master's blessings.
On that day, there were crowds of people at the bazaar. Fellow practitioners
handed out sample booklets and Supreme Master Ching Hai News magazines,
both at the entrance and at the booth. After receiving the News magazines,
many people could not wait to read them even when they were walking. Some
people just went and found a spot under a tree to sit down so that they
could read them immediately. At the food stall, by word of mouth from the
guests, the working staff were kept busy the entire time.
Amazingly, according to the weather forecast, there was suppose to be a
heavy rain on that day. Really, there was a downpour of rain from very
early in the morning. However, when the working staff arrived at the site,
the weather became clear and fine. It wasn't until the end of the bazaar
that the rain started to fall again.
After the bazaar, all fellow practitioners went out to pick up all the
rubbish left in the park. Unexpectedly, they met the head organizer of
the bazaar. She was very touched and told fellow practitioners that she
had never seen such a group like ours that were so united and so selflessly
giving. She also praised that we are a real practicing group. For these,
we have to thank Master for Her never-ending care of us and leading us
to a correct path. If there is any good performance on the part of the
disciples, it is the result of Master's never-tiring teaching.
At the Mother's Day Bazaar, Master's divine message reaches the guests
either verbally or physically, by being delivered into their hands.
ĦiĦj================
A Flower-Blooming Holy Land
The green forest, full of vitality of the fruit-bearing trees, dominates
the entire horizon with blooming flowers giving off their lovely fragrances
everywhere. It's the magnificent landscape of Palawan Center.
The Center has attracted many guests to visit it. They have come to know
about Master through a variety of ways, from the fellow practitioners who
walk all the streets in the city to spread Master's teachings, and from
the weekly TV broadcasts. The people have opened their minds, hoping to
know more about Master's teachings. Her artistic creations have also touched
the souls longing for Truth, virtue and beauty. The Center receives guests
daily. They come from different places throughout the Philippines, including
foreign visitors. Palawan Center has been categorized as a tourist attraction.
Ms. Leticia Ramos Shahani, a sister of President Fidel V. Ramos, set some
time aside to visit the Center. She was accompanied by Sister Pascal. It
was the first time she had paid a visit to the Center and was greatly impressed
by the beautiful scenery. Fellow practitioners told her Master had taught
them how to help the needy, the poor and the suffering, the orphans and
the handicapped. She expressed her admiration toward Supreme Master Ching
Hai's compassionate love while listening attentively. Fellow practitioners
also explained to her the Center's daily activities -- working in the plant
nursery, growing vegetables, preparing vegetarian food, and baking bread,
etc. All the honored guests happily commented that the life in this place
is very active. Fellow practitioners also invited them to try the freshly
cooked vegetarian delicacies. They were overwhelmed by our hospitality.
In addition, they were given Master's booklet and News magazines as spiritual
gifts. When leaving the Center they turned around for a last glance at
its natural beauty before departing.
During the summer break, teachers from the city of Manila also came to
visit the Center and to enjoy the delicious vegetarian food. They were
happy and excited to learn about Supreme Master Ching Hai's compassionate
activities and wise teachings. They also said that they would adopt the
vegetarian diet.
The Buddhist monks from Germany and India also stopped by the Center to
exchange spiritual messages. All the guests who visited the Center expressed
the same feeling, that upon setting foot in the Center, they are able to
experience an uplifting sensation of bliss and indescribable joy! Through
Master's boundless compassion, everyone is able to feel Her great love.
Master's teaching of love has permeated this fragrant, shady spot which
attracts many visitors.
Vegetables grown in Palawan Center are enough for the daily needs of those
in Palawan as well as in the neighboring cities.
Fellow practitioners in Palawan work at improving the daily meals to feed
the countrymen. They grow a type of mint with a special flavor that enhances
the food and makes it tastier for everyone. This kind of mint is extremely
rare in the Philippines.
Due to Master's loving energy, the vegetables grow rapidly. In addition
to providing for the Center's daily needs, there is also enough for the
compatriots in the camp and for market consumption. As well, fellow practitioners
are still able to donate a sizable quantity to the neighboring religious
groups, the agencies inside the camp, the Filipino people who work in the
camp, and even to the military kitchen within Wescom region.
Graced by God's and Master's loving care and concern, fellow practitioners
use every bit of the materials and food bestowed upon them without any
waste in the hope of sharing them with more people.
Ms. Leticia Ramos Shahani (Center), a sister of President Ramos, tastes
the fresh home-made bread baked by the Palawan fellow practitioners.
News 64 Index
Brilliance from heaven-SM Celestial Jewelry
Personal designed and supervised by Supreme Master Ching Hai
This article was published in "Elle", Asia May 1996
Supreme Master Ching Hai, a living example of truth, beauty and virtue,
as well as a world renowned master of the arts, has designed a collection
of S.M. Celestial Jewelry to reflect the quality of heaven. The scintillating
gold and the pure and flawless diamond illuminate and complement the radiant
pearls, jade and emerald. these have been crafted into necklaces, earrings,
brooches, bracelets and rings for ladies and cuff links, tie pins and rings
for men. As well, there are specially designed series of Celestial Jewelry
for children. All the Celestial Jewelry have been specially crafted by
a group of royal artisans. Each and every piece is a precious artistic
creation. Not only are they value-protected, but they also possess everlasting
beauty.
Liberation (Brooch): In Diamond, 22K Gold
The collection of Celestial Jewelry is engraved with the initials SM, representing
the inner supreme power that we all have; and also reveal the brilliant
and awe-inspiring realms of heaven. In the first series of Celestial Jewelry,
"Pure Lotus" (ring) represents our natures that surpasses both
filth and purity. The pure lotus that grows up from the mud yet remains
untainted reminds us to constantly maintain faith in the Truth. The life-like
lotus petal and lotus stem impelled the jeweler who made this ring to go
out many times seeking inspiration. In order to truly demonstrate the natural,
beautiful and pure quality of the lotus flower, he bought a real lotus
and placed it on the table so as to appreciate it everyday... Another piece,
"Oneness", (necklace) reveals the original nature, that every
aspect of creation in the universe is related and connected together. Each
gold ring is handmade and unique in design. There are a total four hundred
and eight small diamonds set in the sixty-eight gold rings. Each of the
small diamond has been specially selected by expert to be the best of quality.
Pure gold, flawless diamonds and superb craftsmanship together created
an incredible masterpiece with inlaid artistry.
The second series of Celestial Jewelry for men is also unique. There were
created to enhance their beauty. These are the eternal symbol of a Great
Man. For instance, in the "Earth, Mountain and Rivers", the mountains
represent the supporting pillars of the universe while the river flow through
all things, replenishing and sustaining lives. The "Sun" ring
represents the unconditional; love like the sun, shining selflessly to
nourish all creation, never asking for anything in return. Besides, there
are the "Heaven", the "Tao" and the "Lotus".
Whenever a man wears them, these will always carry with him the noblest
ideal of mankind and most cherished spiritual aspiration.
Mountains & Rivers (Ring, Tie Pin & Cuff Link):
In Diamond, 22K Gold
In the third series of Celestial Jewelry, coral, jade and opals were added.
In "Born Anew', a beautiful combination of gold, coral and diamonds
is used. Wearing this set of Celestial Jewelry would remind us to always
search for the supreme quality. The surface of gold was specially crafted
by hand, just like the beginning of the universe -- every nature and primitive.
he large and small stars together with the varying colors of coral represent
the subtle changes in life. The style simulates the eighteen century royal
jewelry, and is an extremely rare and exquisite piece of art creation among
the current trend in jewelry.
Another piece, the "Hidden Force Connection" is made with a crescent
shaped design, inlaid with colorful brilliant blue opal stones of the finest
quality. the outstanding feature is the varying shapes of these stones.
This diversity creates a dazzling effect. In addition, the esoteric touch
of ancient Egypt is truly captured. From different angles, different degrees
of brilliance can be perceived. The vastness of space and time may separate
us, but the love power hidden deep within is always there and never severed.
Hidden Force Connection(Necklace, Bracelet, Ring & Earrings): In Opals, Diamonds & 22K
Gold
The fourth series of Celestial Jewelry by Supreme Master Ching Hai was
designed for children. It represent the noble, open and optimistic nature
of the beloved children of God. "Bodhidharma," "Maitreya
Buddha," "Meditating Quan Yin Bodhisattva," "Little
Angle," "Little Bodhi," "E.T.," "Mother"
(Moon), "Children of God" and "Father" (Sun) are among
the series. They are made of gold, inlaid with a variety of gems, and crafted
with superior skill. The collection is lovely and creative in design, resembling
the innocent dreams of children. The lively and creative nature of children
was also considered, and thus sturdy materials were used to avoid the breakage
when playing.
Little Angel(Necklace, Bracelet, Earrings & Ring): In Beryl, Gem, Crystal, Ruby,
Coral & 22K Gold
The Sun (Ring, Tie Pin & Cuff Link):
Diamond & 22K Gold
Gold represents our invaluable quality while diamonds represent our eternal
inner self. These four series of Celestial Jewelry, crafted with exceptional
delicate skill and inlaid with a variety of gems, represent the precious
of inner soul, creating brilliant and touching piLeces of art. Their beauty
is so magnificent that it truly elevates the soul.
News 64 Index
While On The Path
The Love From Heaven Is There Any Humiliation To Endure? The Ego And Pride Are The Greatest Obstacles On The Spiritual Path
By Fellow Initiate, Xing Jiang Province, China
Looking back on my life since initiation, the changes have been like miracles.
It was Master who helped me to ascend from the levels of hell into the
realms of heaven.
Since I was a very young girl, I have always been spoiled by my parents
because they had problems in their marriage. As a result, they treated
me as the spiritual sustenance of their lives. However, I also became dependent
on them. The whole family was bound very tightly together because of our
emotional attachments. I had a very easy life. My friends and relatives
all loved and cared for me, but I felt tired of life and no longer wanted
to live. I often asked within my heart: What is the purpose of life.
Finally, I got a copy of Master's sample booklet and book one of "The
Key of Immediate Enlightenment, which are like precious treasures. I decided
to start a vegetarian diet, and I wanted to get initiated. By Master's
great blessing power and after three months of vegetarian diet, I easily
received initiation. During this period, my parents, who love me deeply,
thought that this was just another one of my passing fancies and that I
was not serious about it. They thought that it would be impossible for
me to stay with my practice because I used to love eating meat so much,
but I became more and more serious and was finally initiated.
After initiation, my determination to practice was very strong. I vowed
in my heart: Whatever the situation and wherever I am, I will definitely
meditate two and a half hours everyday.
In the northern part of the country, it is very cold in the winter. My
home is a little far from the group meditation place. One time, on the
way to group meditation, I was so cold that I cried. However, I knew clearly
that I had heavy karma and a lot of obstacles. I know I can quickly erase
the karma only by meditating more and going to more group meditations.
Unless I can not stand on my feet, I will go to group meditation.
After initiation, my parents discovered that I was not so attached to them
nor dependent on them like before. They were extremely worried that they
might lose me. Therefore, they began to strongly disapprove of my practice.
I was brought up in a very sheltered and comfortable environment, I never
experienced such a severe test. At this painful and helpless moment, I
cried and asked Master for help. Immediately I heard the inner sound clearly
and loudly, and felt Her great love surrounding and smoothing me. I wiped
my tears and my mind became calm. I knew that She was beside me and protecting
me. Therefore, no matter how serious the test or storm, I need not fear.
My inner heart knows clearly that it was Master who had protected me and
helped me pass the test and cut my emotional attachments, which bound me
for a long time. Several days later, my parents' attitude softened and
they apologized to me, which was something that I could hardly imagine
them doing. Gradually, they found that I had not become a bad person; but,
on the contrary, had become more loving and hardly ever got sick. In the
past, they used to spoil me and I never thought of thanking them. I did
not really love them much, and even sometimes hurt them because of my stubbornness.
Now, they feel that I sincerely love and respect them and show them filial
obedience. They also feel that I have become more and more gentle. With
Master's grace, sometimes I talked to them about Her teachings spontaneously.
One time, after I came back from group meditation, my mother, who was sickly,
told me that she saw throughout the whole night a very strong white light,
and at the end saw two huge snakes leave her body. The next morning she
felt very light and comfortable. Due to Master's blessing, my mother, many
times, has smelt a very strong scent of sandalwood. The most incredible
thing is that my parents told me that they have decided to become vegetarians.
My mom wants to learn the Convenient Method. My father said, "How
can that be? As soon as I smell that meat, I feel sick. I deeply and sincerely
thank Master in my heart -- my true, loving Mother. It was Your blessing
power which changed and took care of the whole family.
After my parents started a vegetarian diet, their complexions became more
beautiful. Some of their friends who have not seen them for a long time
said that they have become younger and more beautiful. The family's atmosphere
has become more harmonious, my parents not only support me to go to group
meditation, but also their minds are more open and they have become happier.
It was not only the family atmosphere which had changed after I started
practicing, but also right now it is as if I am living in heaven, the inner
happiness fills my heart. Every time I meditate, I am absorbed in Master's
grace; everyday is a brand new beginning. I treasure the opportunity to
be the disciple of a living Buddha, and I grab every chance to learn lessons
on how to change my bad habits and wrong ideas, which have been accumulated
over many lifetimes.
If we love Master we should learn Her love and patience. Being Master's
tools, we should spread Her love and change our inner character. Then we
can change our environments. There is no predetermined fate that we can
not change, there is no difficulty we can not overcome, as long as we believe
in Master and the Quan Yin Method wholeheartedly, practice diligently,
and go to more group meditations.
ĦiĦj======================
Narrated By Fellow Initiate Li-Chuan
Recorded By Supreme Master Reporters Liu May Yun and Hsing Yun, Taipei,
Formosa
After initiation, brother Lee changed so much that he was completely different
from what he was before; and this transformation shocked his relatives
and friends. His transformation was an indication of God's blessing and
omnipotence.
Brother Lee said, "Master's powerful helping hand, which is capable
of changing heaven and earth, saved me from being lost in this world. Master
takes meticulous care of him, using invisible and visible means to correct,
teach, educate and guide him so that he can greatly improve his character
in a very brief period of time.
One day, three months after initiation, brother Lee, who is a taxi driver,
was taking a passenger to a certain destination. Since the day was not
hot, he rolled down the windows on both sides of the car for ventilation.
When he saw the red light, he stopped before the intersection. Suddenly,
a passerby stuck his fist through the open window and punched him in the
face. Brother Lee reacted very calmly. Holding his palms together, he said
to the stranger, "Sorry, sorry.
At this time, the passenger sitting in the back seat asked brother Lee,
"Why did he punch you? For what reason did he punch you?
It wasn't until then did brother Lee ask the stranger, "Sir, did I
do something wrong?
The stranger seemed to suddenly wake up and said, "I don't know myself,
why I've punched you. He kept apologizing to brother Lee. The light turned
green and brother Lee started to drive as if nothing has happened, but
the passenger felt that it was unfair to him and asked, "You did nothing
wrong and that person punched you for no reason. Why did you keep saying
sorry to him?
Brother Lee casually replied, "The person whom he punched was not
me, the real 'I' he can not punch. What he can punch is not me, I didn't
even know he had punched me. I didn't feel any pain. The passenger seemed
to understand what he meant and replied, "That's incredible.
Brother Lee reflected on what had just happened and thought that if he
had behaved like he used to before he followed Master, before getting initiation
and practicing, he would have definitely fought back.
Brother Lee was surprised that he had held his palms together and responded
calmly. He could hardly believe it himself, but he clearly knew that it
was Master teaching and fine-tuning him to make him realize that the true
self can control the illusion of the physical body. Therefore, he is now
more convinced by Master's aphorism, "What is it to endure humiliation?
It means whatever happens is meant to be. You have to accept it completely
as your own karma. It is not the mistake of others.
ĦiĦj======================
By Fellow Initiate Chang, Ho Bei Province, Mainland China
In the early days of initiation, fellow initiate Hsa had often reminded
me in a humorous and soft-spoken manner, "We are still in childhood.
How could it be possible that we do not listen to Mother's teachings?
Before initiation, I was just like a child. I cried everyday asking Master
Mommy to come quickly to give me the initiation. Day after day, month after
month, I yearned like mad with tears that would never dry up. So, on the
day that I got initiated, the excitement could hardly be described in words.
I thought, "Well, the greatest thing in my whole life has been accomplished!
I felt so elated that I started to feel proud. There was only one thought
in my mind, "I am now initiated, enlightened. I am a saint! The sense
of pride was so great that I could not control myself.
With my heart still full of pride, I suddenly realized, when I went home
to meditate, that I had totally forgotten the Holy Names! I was in shock
and tried hard to remember. I could remember nothing. Because of the pride,
ego, and that I wanted to save my face, I did not want to ask other fellow
practitioners even though I did not know them. I pretended to be calm.
Fortunately, Master Mommy had not abandoned me, the proud and naughty child.
During one of the meetings with fellow practitioners, brother Tong was
concerned and asked me, "Are you able to recite the Holy Names well?
Oh, with this one sentence, Master Mommy broke the dilemma of my wanting
to save my face! I was immediately liberated from the difficulty with pride.
I changed and expressed my difficulties in a sincere and humble manner.
Instantly, I got help from the enthusiastic fellow practitioners.
After initiation, the practice was rather ordinary with not as many experiences
compared to before initiation. There was not much progress. Why? Before
initiation, everything seemed so smooth. After initiation, I got into trouble
all the time. Why? After thinking for a while, the words of fellow initiate
Hsa rang in my ears, "We are still in childhood! Her words ring a
bell in my mind. Yes, before initiation, I was very eager for the Truth.
I listened honestly to Master Mommy's teachings. Everyday, I received humbly
the blessings from Her. Therefore, everything went very smoothly.
After initiation, when the habits of the ego and pride emerged, I forgot
Master Mommy. I forgot that on the spiritual path I was still a child before
Her. I thought that I was practicing pretty well. Besides, after initiation,
I only thought that everything was already okay for me! This selfishness
that was hiding deeply in my heart was also a source of pride. Although
Master Mommy had repeatedly reminded us to have a loving heart, I did not
placed it in the heart and wanted to shut myself up to practice, "When
I am full, I don't want to be bothered by other's dying of hunger. With
such a selfish attitude, how could one make progress on the path? These
problems always put me in a difficult position and obstructed the progress
of my practice.
However, the most compassionate and most loving Master Mommy has never
abandoned me. She is always protecting me silently so that I would not
drift off too far on the wrong path. She had also warned me in a concerned
manner through the aphorism, "If we are very selfish, if we do not
mind others dying of hunger when we are full, or if we always tend towards
those negative and dark qualities, we, of course, have to know that we
are still very far from the Buddha and Bodhisattvas.
Oh, the most beloved and respected Master Mommy! I could not possibly leave
You! Before You, I am always a child. No matter in which corner of the
universe I will be, I do not want to leave Your embrace.
News 64 Index
Aphorisms
Spoken By Supreme Master Ching Hai (Originally In English)
By strong will, good habits, association with good people, you quit a lot
of bad habits.
There is no one doing anything, except God's love.
We live one day, we live beautifully; we die with a beautiful impression.
Live in the world with love and admiration for the beauty of Creation.
Be happy with whatever you have. Otherwise, God takes everything away.
Actually, there is no birth. There are no souls residing anywhere. We are
always free.
News 64 Index
Master Tells Jokes
The Stupid Servant
Spoken By Supreme Master Ching Hai At The 7-Day Retreat In Cambodia
May 15,1996 (Originally in English)
There was a person who was very rich and very addicted to alcohol. One
day, he happened to go out; but then he worried that his servant at home
would try to eat something of his food while he was away, or drink some
of his good wine while he was gone. Even though he had already been very
careful and he picked a very stupid looking servant, so that he was not
so tricky and didn't know how to eat or steal things or make excuses. Even
then, the rich man was still careful, and worried about the servant.
So he said to him, "Okay, now, you stay home and take care of my house.
You know, there is a piece of pork hanging over there in the kitchen. Look
after it. Don't touch it. Then there is another chicken, still alive, next
to the kitchen. Also, don't touch it, and take care that all the dogs and
cats do not come and eat these. He also said, "Oh, another thing is,
there is a pot over there. It's covered very carefully. This is poison
for the mice. Don't touch it. If the mouse drinks it, it will die, so don't
touch it. So, he went.
The servant just took out the pork, roasted it, and ate it. Then he took
out the chicken, killed it, and ate it too. At the same time, he drank
the alcohol to accompany it; and felt very good, drunk, and laid there
and slept very peacefully.
When the boss came home and saw the servant sleeping on the sofa, and also
smelled of alcohol, and some of the chicken bones were scattered all over
the place, he kicked them all around; and he slept. So the boss woke him
up and said, "What about my chicken, my pork spare ribs. What happened
to the poison (alcohol pot) over there? (Master laughs.)
So, the servant cried hard, kneeled down on the floor, and said, "Oh,
please, forgive me. I have really been very obedient to you. I tried to
look after your house and everything. But then, unfortunately, there was
a cat who came by. He crawled up to the roof of the kitchen, took the pork,
and ate it. When the dog saw the cat do that, he took the chicken, went
out, and ate it. I was so worried that when you came home, you would kill
or scold me, so I took the poison. (Master and audience laugh.) But why
am I not dead yet?
News 64 Index
You May Not Know
The Secret To Rectify Bad Habits Why Ananda Was Not Enlightened Celestial Clothes Woven With Love
Spoken By Supreme Master Ching Hai in Taipei, Formosa March 2, 1990
If we sincerely wanted to change, we can change some of the good or bad
things. Most of the good or bad influences were formed when we were young.
As a child, whatever people did to us, our feelings would be distinctly
recorded in our mind. As we grow up, these memories accompany us. Therefore,
our actions and responses are exactly the same as when we were young. It
is not that difficult to change these good and bad influences. Though we
are ignorant of our past lives or karma, at least we can avoid incurring
future karma; and this is already good enough.
It is very simple to rectify our bad habits. Go home and think about it:
Was there anything that pleased us when we were young? When was it that
something unpleasant happened and gave us pain? Write everything down one
by one. What was our reaction when we suffered, or when we were happy;
write down all of them. Everyday, write down any good points that we have,
in our diary. If there are any faults that we abhor or if are disliked
by others, and which we want to correct, also record them in our diary.
Introspect on ourselves everyday to see how many good and bad things we
have done. In about three months, we can improve a lot. If we do not deceive
ourselves and are sincere in our introspection, we could possible rectify
all of them in a few years.
If we can rectify ourselves and increase the good qualities in us, our
life will attract many of the so called blessed retributions. It is recorded
in the scriptures: By doing good deeds, we shall be rewarded with blessed
retribution. Since our atmosphere is good, we will attract good things
to us, and then become even better. The bad atmosphere will attract the
bad things, and then become worse. Therefore, spiritual practitioners are
becoming better, while the non practitioners are becoming worse and worse.
This is the reason.
It is absolutely accurate for the Chinese to say that "things of the
same nature attract each other"! Whatever the ancient people said
was always true, because they had the experience, and they knew it from
the wisdom derived from spiritual practice. This is a little secret method
that I offer to you today as a reference, if you wish to give it a try.
You may pursue spiritual practice; and at the same time, you may introspect
on yourself, and pray to the highest God, the highest Buddha, the highest
Holy Mother or any god that you like or believe in most. Pray for their
blessing, so that we will become better and better to benefit the country,
our family and ourselves.
ĦiĦj======================
Spoken By Supreme Master Ching Hai, Hsihu Center, Formosa
August 7,1991 (Originally In Chinese)
Sometimes, the attendants around me hear things that the public don't.
However, they took it for granted and didn't cherish it. When I repeated
it to the public or gave a similar discourse later on, they thought, "Oh!
I've heard that. Nothing special! This manner results in indolence and
the lack of cherishing.
As the Buddha's attendant, Ananda failed to attain enlightenment during
his 25-year service. It was all due to his over-dependence. When the Buddha
gave a speech somewhere, he could always hear what others couldn't. He
learned everything by listening to the Buddha chatting with
only a few persons or speaking to several hundred people. He was right
beside the Buddha! However, later on, when someone asked the same question
and the Buddha replied again before hundreds of thousands of people, Ananda
thought, "Oh! I've memorized all this. I don't need to listen to it
again. He didn't treasure it. Furthermore, while talking to the multitude,
the Buddha's blessing power was different than when talking to one person.
We receive double the blessing power for listening twice. Even though we've
listened one hundred times, we've failed to assimilate it, not to mention
listening just once.
ĦiĦj======================
By Xiao Ye, Hsihu, Formosa
When talking about wearing clothes, Master said that more karma is incurred
by wearing silk, and that originally, people should only wear silk when
they have reached seventy. Master jokingly said that She was this exception,
because She was already very OLD! Actually, even when wearing clothes,
an enlightened Master is benefitting sentient beings, giving them blessings
while shouldering their karma. Therefore, out of compassion, Master reminds
disciples to be cautious in what they wear, so that they can advance more
smoothly on the spiritual path. Furthermore, when choosing fabrics to make clothes, Master would not consider
using silk to make Celestial Clothes for fellow practitioners. The Celestial
Clothes that She designs for fellow practitioners are woven tenderly with
Her absolute love.
News 64 Index
Master's Words
We Must Have A Sacrificing Spirit
Spoken By Supreme Master Ching Hai, Cambodia
March 27, 1996 (Originally In Chinese)
Without a sacrificing spirit, we cannot grow
up. In this way, it is useless even if we practice for
several hundred years. To be devoted only to ourselves
and not to others is not the way of the Bodhisattvas
(enlightened saints). We should then realize that we are still far from
being qualified as such. Whenever we do not consider others, we should
know that we are associating with maya, the negative power. This is the
only
difference between a Buddha (an enlightened being) and maya. Once we are
selfless
in our thinking toward others, we have become a Buddha. Minding only ourselves
and
forgetting others, we become evil. We can clearly weigh ourselves by this
scale. Don't ask me
what level you are at or if you have reached Buddhahood!
You believe I am a Buddha. It is because I only consider others all the
time, to the point
of me forgetting my own benefit, disadvantage, future, body, comfort, reputation
and need.
I no longer care for anything. I would sacrifice my life for others regardless
of whether
I am successful or not. We cannot measure this by success or failure. It
is not
necessary to be successful each time we do good. Not so! It depends
rather on our vow to save the dying, on our sincerity to sacrifice and
devote ourselves for the sake of other beings.
News 64 Index
Master Tells Stories
A Topsy Turvy World
Spoken By Supreme Master Ching Hai in Taipei, Formosa
March 2, 1990 (Originally In Chinese)
There was a great enlightened master and he had a disciple. The disciple
had followed him for only a short time. The enlightened master had already
attained the Truth, and he often travelled around the world to liberate
any person with whom he had affinity. The disciple followed him everywhere.
This master was so pure and upright that he was reluctant to even beg.
Therefore, he always hid himself and walked on the concealed mountain paths.
On the way, he just randomly picked some fruits or wild vegetables to eat;
he ate whatever was available. In this way, and after a long time, of course
the disciple couldn't stand it anymore! One day, the disciple went into
town alone, hoping to find a wealthy household from which to beg for something.
Eventually, he came to a household where many people were rejoicing and
having a feast. Everyone could go in and eat the food. Extremely delighted,
he went in and filled himself fully. He also took some back for his master.
Since the disciple had brought the food, the master ate it. While eating,
the master laughed and said, "It is a foe and creditor coming back
to claim a debt. There is nothing to rejoice at!
The disciple was perplexed by these words and didn't understand what his
master meant.
"A baby has just been born to that family. They are so delighted and
have invited everyone to the feast.
They are so happy, yet master said that it is their foe and creditor coming
to claim a debt. He thought, "Perhaps master has eaten too many sour
fruits, so his mind is not very normal. (Master laughs.) He didn't say
anything. He still had some faith in the master, so he didn't leave.
That family had prayed many years for a child. Now that they were given
a son, they planned to celebrate continuously for several days. The next
day, the disciple again went to beg for food. Since this household was
entertaining guests free of charge, it would be a great pity if one did
not go to enjoy it! In a delightful mood, he hoped to enjoy the food again.
Unexpectedly, before he entered the door, he saw everyone running around
in confusion and crying noisily. There was no food at all. Yesterday, the
parents of the child were very happy, but today they were lying on the
floor blaming God. It happened that the child who had been born yesterday
had just died. Having had nothing to eat, he wandered around to see whether
there was anything left over. People were preparing for the funeral, so
there was nothing to eat. Therefore, he just quickly snatched something
and ran away! No one paid any attention to him. He came back and told his
master, "Master, something has gone wrong! The child who was born
yesterday is dead now. There is no good food today, so I just brought you
something left over from yesterday.
The master then laughed loudly. The disciple asked him, "What are
you laughing at? Their child is dead and they are so sad. Why are you laughing?
The master said, "The world is topsy-turvy! The foe came yesterday.
Today the foe has gone!
The disciple questioned the reasoning of this statement.
His master explained, "Originally, that child was the neighbor of
this family. He lent some money to them before, which they never repaid.
Later, when they became rich, they forgot the debt. After their neighbor
died, he reincarnated as their child, hoping to consume their entire wealth.
Because of the birth of the child, they entertained many guests and spent
all the money. The amount that he wanted to reclaim was spent in one day,
so he had no reason to stay any longer. He left after the debt had been
paid. (Applause)
Ignorance Is The Cause Of Delight, Anger, Sorrow And Happiness
We, humans, experience delight, anger, sorrow and happiness, all because
of ignorance. We don't know why we are delighted, why we are angry, why
we are sad, and why we are happy. There are many similar stories in China.
For instance, take the story of Emperor Zhou and Tanji in "The Merit
Roll of Gods : Tanji originally came back to take revenge, but eventually
Emperor Zhou loved and pampered her so much that he destroyed the kingdom.
That was exactly what Tanji wanted, but Emperor Zhou was completely in
the dark; he even thought that she was the most lovely person. He never
knew that she was actually his creditor and enemy. Therefore, it is very
difficult for us to judge who is our relative or friend, and who is our
foe. Unless we pursue spiritual practice, we have no way to find out.
News 64 Index
Supreme Art
The Radiance Of The S.M. Celestial Jewelry Bedazzled Atlanta City, New
Jersey, U.S.A. The Celestial Jewelry That Beautifies The World
By Supreme Master News Reporters, New York News Group
The annual International Jewelry Show was held in Atlanta City, N.J. in
the States in mid May. Facing the Atlantic Ocean, the Convention Center
has a most charming and pleasing environment. The show this year was unique
because the exhibit of Master's Celestial Jewelry enhance it with infinite
splendor.
Before the show, fellow practitioners in charge of renting the venue had
no idea how many Celestial Jewelry pieces would be exhibited. They had
also not gone to see the venue; they just intuitively booked five exhibition
counters. When the fellow practitioners responsible for the show came to
inspect the place, at first, they thought the counters would not accommodate
the jewelry. But, they calmed down and prayed for Master's help. Under
Master's blessing, they easily displayed all the jewelry in the counters.
Incredibly, the space was just right, no more and no less.
The exhibitors and spectators who came to the show were experts in the
jewelry field. As they observed the glorious and fascinating splendor of
the Celestial Jewelry, they couldn't help being deeply charmed. Unanimously,
they agreed that the S.M. Celestial Jewelry, made with exquisite craftsmanship,
was the most beautiful and extraordinary of all the jewelry collections
that they had seen. They kept inquiring about the designer. Besides introducing
them to our greatly talented Master and Her many stories, fellow practitioners
also related what Supreme Master Ching Hai has told us, "After pursuing
spiritual practice, one's talents will emerge spontaneously. The two hosts
of the booth across from us were also spiritual practitioners. Having read
Master's sample booklet, they had a delightful and long conversation with
our fellow practitioners concerning spiritual cultivation.
The charm of the S.M. Celestial Jewelry is truly incredible. Though fellow
practitioners had seen some of the Celestial Jewelry in photos, the feeling
was totally different when they saw the real pieces at the show. The more
they looked, the more they loved them; so they were the first ones to place
orders on the Celestial Jewelry that they loved.
ĦiĦj============================
By Supreme Master News Reporter Xing Yun, Taipei, Formosa
Fellow sister Lin was initiated in Thailand. Many years ago, with strength
and spirit that came from nowhere, she alone went from Formosa to Thailand
-- a totally strange land to her, to learn the craftsmanship and appraisal
skill of jewelry. Her infatuation with jewelry technology has persisted
throughout the years. Today, by exhibiting the Celestial Jewelry, uniquely
and exclusively designed by Master, in the jewelry exhibitions in many
countries, she has finally understood that everything has been fantastically
arranged by the almighty Master. Her life has always followed the orbit
set by the power of Master and the Creator.
Shortly after she was initiated, she ran into financial difficulties. She
often silently prayed to Master to bless her in many ways, so that she
could soon overcome this plight. With absolute faith in Master, she managed
to squeeze through the worst time. Each time she thinks about this, she
feels extremely grateful to Master for Her loving kindness. One day during
that period, she received a call from a fellow sister, telling her that
Master was in Thailand and fellow practitioners could go to see Her and
attend Her discourse. Unfortunately, sister Lin was bound by her business
engagements and could not make the trip; she could only shed sorrowful
tears for having missed the opportunity.
However, on one unforgettable occasion, Master showed sister Lin the design
drawings of the Celestial Jewelry. Sister Lin could not believe her eyes
when she looked at the drawings. According to her professional knowledge,
the older generation of designers would never come up with such daring
designs -- using gemstones like emerald, coral and jade together; it was
unheard of and original.
During the initial stages of production, sister Lin often tried to imagine
the final effects of the finished products, especially the artistic conceptions
that Master were trying to express through the Celestial Jewelry, which
were not found in any other jewelry designs. Judging from her experience,
sister Lin realized that these extraordinary and extremely difficult designs
were undoubtedly an unprecedented challenge to the skill of the old and
experienced artisans. Nevertheless, because sister Lin was very sincere
to do the work as Master's useful tool, each time she received the design
drawings, Master's blessing power would fill her workshop -- people could
smell the pervading faint fragrance of sandalwood or other unknown fragrances.
With God's -- Master's boundless blessing, generation after generation
of Celestial Jewelry has dazzled the world. All the finished products are
beyond imagination, and each item has been created with heavenly skill!
When the designs of the fourth generation Celestial Jewelry for children
reached her hands, sister Lin was glued to the drawings. She gazed at them
all the time and could not figure out where to begin. As the time limit
was approaching, she had no option but to go to Hong Kong to look for the
materials at the gemstone suppliers. She showed the drawings to the shop
owners, and described with all kinds of gestures, the variety, shape, size
and quality of the gems that she needed. With an absolutely amazed expression,
the shop owner took out a packet of gems and handed it to her, while asking,
"Are these what you want? Several days ago, for no reason, he cut
and prepared gemstones into these odd and irregular sizes. As if he had
received an order from a customer, he even packed the stones and put them
away waiting for the customer to come to get them. Sister Lin was most
delighted and surprised by his statement. Deep inside, she knew that Master
had already made the arrangement. She regretted her stubbornness (that
she sometimes argued silently or protested verbally with Master), and realized
that she should have just left everything to Master.
Having returned to Thailand she found that the prepared gemstones fitted
into the design drawings perfectly, no further cutting or grinding was
required. Master's blessing also graced the artisans. Without any working
plan or analytical working procedures, they simply worked smoothly according
to the designs, and successfully completed the Children's Celestial Jewelry
now being presented to the world.
Throughout the manufacturing procedure, sister Lin truly perceived that
Master is the embodiment of wisdom, love and power, while she, herself,
was only a tiny tool. Master has really given her too much! Her words are
always on sister Lin's mind, "Whatever target we have in our heart,
we will achieve that.
Caption:The exhibitors and spectators who came to the show were experts
in the jewelry field. They unanimously agreed that the S.M. Celestial Jewelry
is the most beautiful and extraordinary of all the jewelry collections
that they had seen.
News 64 Index
Supreme Master Ching Hai News No. 64
Cover Illustration: Using words of Truth, Master breaksthrough illusions
and obstacles,
brushes away thousands of difficulties at which the whole universe stands
trembling.
