Why Are We Here?

Spoken by Supreme Master Ching Hai,

Auckland, New Zealand, April 27, 2000

(Originally in English) Videotape No. 686

The Buddhist scriptures say that you are the Buddha and that the Buddha Nature is inside you. The Bible says that God lives within this temple. So who else is in there, except God? If we are the temple and God is the only one who lives in there, who are we then, except God? If we don't remember, that's fine, but we are still God.

So whatever we choose to do as the God of all gods that we are, we should respect. As the Father/Mother of all of these beings that we are, we should respect our own wishes and our choice to live and express our divine Selves in whichever way we want.

That's why Jesus told us that we should not judge people. Because we don't know the path that another being has chosen to walk. He or she does his/her thing so that she/he might come to know God in a different way. He or she might choose to be a seemingly bad person, a very lowly person or a very so-called immoral person. But that's his/her way of knowing the divine. By choosing to be ungodly, that person will one day know that's not him/her. But they have to go back and learn the whole being again. Because if we always stay in Heaven and are Gods all the time, we won't recognize ourselves as God. So we need to lower ourselves and come down to this physical level so we can once again recognize our own greatness. That's our choice, and that's why we came here.

So the answer to our question about why we are here is: Because we want to know God. When we feel the time is up, that's the time we choose to remember ourselves again. That's the time we come to seek out spiritual friends, a spiritual group or maybe a spiritual teacher so that we can remember quickly; because we have forgotten how to remember and where to look. So some friend who has already remembered Himself/Herself may be able to help us. And then we recognize that we're nothing else but the Supreme Being, but God. We recognize the Supreme Being that's housed within this body.

But actually, Hes is not housed within the body. Hes houses our body. But then again, spiritual terminology is never a very exact science. So no matter how much a teacher tells us about God or how eloquently a spiritual friend might speak about the Divine being within us, we cannot understand just by listening. So the spiritual teacher, guide or friend has to show us practically, not just theoretically.

For example, when Jesus came to our planet, He taught His disciples both ways: the theoretical way and the practical way. And that's why later, His immediate disciples could also do wonders, could also see Heaven, could also hear the Voice of God as the Word of the Creator, could also see the Light of Heaven, could ascend to Heaven and even see the angels or see the Father. The Father spoke to them, like the Father spoke to Moses. And the angels also spoke to them.

Likewise, we can do that. Because as great as Jesus' disciples were, we are also great. We and Jesus' disciples are the same because Jesus said to us that we are all children of God. But because we have forgotten sometimes one or two friends have to come to remind us, but only when we are ready. Because if we aren't ready, no one can do much for us. 

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Report from Australia

Master's Love Prevails in Nimbin

[Byron Bay] Recently, fellow practitioners from the Byron Bay/ Northern Rivers Center, with support from the Brisbane Center, conducted a video seminar to introduce Master's teachings to residents of the small, scenic village of Nimbin. This community is situated in the back hills of the Northern Rivers region of New South Wales, Australia, an area well known for its world heritage rainforests and unspoiled mountain country, where artists and alternative lifestyle advocates live in idyllic wilderness retreats.

Local initiates simply intended to share Master's Love in this remote area, but much to their surprise, they experienced a better response than at any previous seminar. Master's love completely permeated the atmosphere at the event, and after Master's video lecture and the subsequent question and answer session, the guests responded with great enthusiasm, as some shed tears of joy and gratitude.

During the seminar, many longing souls realized their dreams of finding eternal liberation through Master's message, and now they are earnestly awaiting initiation into the Quan Yin Method.

After the video seminar in Nimbin, New South Wales, participants joyously anticipate initiation. 

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Supreme Master Ching Hai Day

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[Hawaii, USA]

After group meditation on Ching Hai Day 2002, local fellow and Convenient Method practitioners, along with their families and friends, gathered at the Ho'omaluhia Botanical Garden, where they formed a circle of love around Master's sculpture. The group observed a moment of quiet prayer and meditation for world peace, world love, Truth and understanding and later took part in a festive vegetarian feast and had a very "Happy Ching Hai Day!"

Supreme Master Ching Hai's Latest Videotapes

<In English>

738 Simple Living
Master talks to Residents at the Florida Center, USA, April 26 and May 1-21, 2001

740 Learning to Live in Harmony
Master's Birthday Celebration at the Florida Center, USA, May 10, 2002

"Ching Hai Day" Miracles in Hawaii 1993

Recorded by the San Jose News Group, California, USA

Each year on October 25, fellow initiates and their families from the San Jose Center gather to celebrate Supreme Master Ching Hai Day. While we enjoyed the special day this year, one of our members, brother Edgar, gave us an account of a series of miracles that he experienced before and after attending the Ching Hai Day declaration ceremony and international retreat in Hawaii in 1993.

All the fellow initiates who participated in these events will surely never forget that the location of the retreat was a serene botanical park surrounded by green hills and woods, and the floating clouds and misty haze that we experienced made us feel like we were in Heaven.

During the entire retreat, an unusually heavy rain fell, thoroughly cleansing the earth, as the participants were steeped in Master's abundant blessing energy and felt their souls purified and elevated. At the end of the retreat, everyone was overjoyed when we were instructed to dress up for Master's declaration ceremony. Pressed for time, fellow initiates hastily put on their formal attire before having a chance to wash off their mud-soiled shoes (casualties of the heavy rain). In the twinkling of an eye, everyone turned into a gentleman or lady, just like Cinderella transforming into a princess.

However, brother Edgar and his group were not in the mood to attend the feast, for they were anxious to find the car they had rented before the retreat. On the first day, they had lent the car to the work team for their use. But when the work team returned the car after the retreat, brother Edgar realized that it was not the original one they had rented. Just as they were searching high and low in the park for their rental car, they met a Quan Yin messenger who told them not to worry and invited them to go to the dinner party with her by using her car. So they got into the car and went to a house to change into their tuxedoes, and then moved on to the hotel where the party was being held.

After all this delay, when they arrived at the banquet hall, they found that all the initiates and guests had already been seated, and to maintain order in the venue, the guard refused to let them enter so they had to wait at the door. Happily, however, they were soon told that there were some vacant seats for them, and they felt very lucky to be able to participate in the grand event. By this time, for some reason, only sister Teresa was left without a seat. While she was pacing back and forth outside the door, suddenly, a sister who was going up to perform on stage walked over to sister Teresa and begged to exchange shoes with her. It turned out that this sister's new white shoes were too small, and were hurting her feet very much. Worried that her pain would affect her performance, she had been praying to Master for help. Then by chance she saw sister Teresa wearing a pair of white shoes. After exchanging shoes, they both found that their new ones fit perfectly. Of course, sister Teresa was also able to enter the hall later. Thus transpired that it had been Master's arrangement to keep sister Teresa behind so that she could help the other sister.

When the party was over, brother Edgar could not find the Quan Yin messenger who had bought him to the hotel. So he and his group resumed their car-searching mission. They hoped the work team would know where their car was, but no one had a clue. It was past midnight at that time, most fellow initiates had left the banquet hall, and brother Edgar's group had no idea how to get back. Then they accidentally came upon their car. It was parked right by the gate of the hotel. They waited by the car for a long time, but no one showed up. So they tried to open the door. Luckily, it was not locked. What's more, they found a spare key inside the car! At this moment, they were filled with gratitude, knowing that Master's blessings and protection had been with them the whole time.

Although they finally found their car, they dared not drive it away for fear that whoever was using the car would worry when he found it missing. So one of them stayed in the car while the others went around to look for that driver. They searched all over the hotel and only saw a few sisters packing up. No one knew anything about their car. Finally, they decided to leave the hotel with the car. And then brother Edgar was faced with a new problem: None of the initiates knew the address or phone number of the house where they had changed clothes since they had been delivered there by the Quan Yin messenger. So they could only look for it by memory.

After driving for a while, brother Edgar suddenly realized that a car far ahead of them seemed to be making the same turns that he was. He then had an inkling that the driver might be a fellow initiate. So he decided to follow the other car. But after a while, brother Edgar's car was almost out of gas, so he had to stop at a gas station, and to his surprise, the car he was following also stopped for gas! He walked over and asked, and sure enough, the riders were fellow initiates and the driver was a local person! More incredibly, they were also going to the same house! Our truly omniscient Master had ingeniously arranged a group of fellow initiates to lead the way for them! Consequently, they got back to the little house smoothly. After changing clothes, they followed the fellow initiates' car back to the retreat campsite in the park.

However, when they arrived at the park, they found that the gate was locked. So they drove around to find another entrance. At that moment, they saw a car not far ahead of them, which also stopped at the locked gate and turned around like they did. As it was turning, it got stuck in a ditch. Quickly, Edgar and his group got out of their two cars to help and found that that car also belonged to fellow initiates. Working together, they pushed the car up out of the ditch. It turned out that the driver of the third car knew the way to the only gate to the park that was open at night. So without further delay, the three cars drove together back to the campsite. That night, within a few hours' time, many miracles had occurred one after another, and brother Edgar and the other initiates once again realized that our omnipresent Master had been by their side all the while, protecting and guiding them.

Master, Thank You for Your Benevolence!

By sister Anh Tuyet, Hamburg, Germany

Dearest Master,

As my hand holds the pen to write this letter, I have a strong feeling of love and a desire to thank You and express my love to You in a worldly way.

Dear Master, I was initiated on April 2, 2000, the day when I was reborn in forgiveness and love! You have given me a lot in both the physical and spiritual domains. You teach me to use my wisdom instead of my mind to analyze, You motivate me when I am lazy in meditation and You comfort me when I suffer.

I often notice my mind cheating me. As I try to get rid of my ego, the mind traps me unconsciously in another form of ego. But when I pray to You for forgiveness, you cleanse me at once. You are always by my side to encourage and console me. Sometimes, You tell me, "Just let go! Once you renounce all, you'll become light and free to fly higher and higher." When I try to let go of one hand, though, my other hand cannot help but take it back. When I shed tears of disappointment, you continue to comfort me with love. Dear Master, the truth is that without Your benevolence, my soul would not have the chance to attain inner peace. Thank You, dear Master. On the way to our Father's Home, I will try to repay you by meditating diligently.

I always wish to attend group meditation with You, even just once! However, my physical condition does not permit me to go on long trips so I simply have to accept my situation. And lately, You've been holding many Internet conferences with fellow initiates around the world. Oh, it was such a great opportunity for me to be with you directly. Dear Master, why do You spoil Your children so much?

One day, I was sitting on my bed, dreaming about the day when the Hamburg Center would have an Internet conference with Master. If it occurred, I promised I would go there to meet You just one time at any cost, even though I live far from the Center. At that time, I would sing a small song for You that I have treasured since my younger days to show my love for You.

The following are the lyrics of the song:

"Now I see, understand and believe that the Lord has listened to my prayers and showed me the way to this place, to satisfy my endless longing! Now, I see, understand, and am full of love, with which I vow to dedicate myself to You forever, to be loyal all my life, even through hardship and suffering."

Guess what, Master? The next morning, the contact person called and told me that You would host an Internet conference with the Hamburg Center four days later.

Dear Master, You are number one! One more time, You made my wish come true. I was so happy about the news! Then the day arrived -- October 6, 2002! Despite many obstacles and difficulties, and with skillful arrangement by the Center and local initiates, I was there! I was so happy that I totally forgot this world!

Master, do You know something? I felt Your love, intense and warm, flowing from You to all of my bodily cells. I was intoxicated and greatly thankful for that. I don't know what to do to repay Your boundless love for me.

Finally, I can only pray that You teach me:

-- To love others because I am loved eternally by God;

-- To forgive others because I was forgiven;

-- To comfort others because I was comforted.

-- Please don't let me fall into any temptation so that I may be liberated forever from the sea of suffering.

Master's Love Produces Miracles

By a fellow initiate, mainland China

Practicing spiritually under Master's guidance is the greatest blessing we can have in many lifetimes. As long as we observe and perceive our lives carefully, we will surely find that each day is filled with the miracle of love. The following is a story about recent real-life events that gives testimony to Master's boundless, unconditional love.

It was early autumn in the area to the north of the Great Wall of China. The vast, clear skies and gentle breeze indicated a good time for travel. So a few of us, all fellow initiates, decided to visit a famous scenic spot. As we lived in different cities, we planned to meet in a nearby county town and then travel together to the tourist site. On my bus trip to the town, the driver had to drive along a meandering mountain road on lofty ridges that were part of a charming landscape. I wanted to enjoy the scenery to the fullest, but shortly after boarding the bus, I entered samadhi. Completely embraced by Master's divine love, I felt totally serene, and the outside world seemed non-existent.

When the bus reached the mountaintop, the driver had to make a sharp turn and the vehicle became unsteady. At that moment, I saw a nun in a familiar brown robe, wearing a bamboo hat, walking quickly alongside the bus. I suddenly became nervous, because the bus was moving close to the edge of the cliff and there was no space for anyone to walk on the road. A few seconds later, I realized that I had just seen a vision with my wisdom eye. I suddenly felt a sense of helplessness and loss so I prayed to Master to guide me to this nun if necessary.

When I arrived in the county town, I had lost the desire to meet the other fellow initiates. It began to drizzle but there was no wind so I decided to go into the mountains alone. Even though the sky was gloomy, I felt a brilliant radiance inside and a warm current flowing through my body. I decided to make the ten-kilometer journey from the town to the mountains on foot. Walking on a tranquil country road, with the rain falling, sometimes heavily and sometimes gently, I felt an inner bliss that was beyond words. It was truly a fabulous experience!

After having ventured deep into the mountains, I stayed at a brother's house, quietly enjoying Master's blessings in solitude, and did not contact the other fellow initiates until the following morning. By that time, I had completely forgotten about the nun! Soon the initiates arrived, and we moved on toward the scenic spot as planned.

Without coincidences, there would be no stories; however, Master's arrangements are always perfect and flawless. When we got to the mountain pass leading to the scenic spot, one sister suddenly said, "Let's take a walk in that village at the foot of the mountain! There's a small old temple there, and I heard that one of my cousins became a nun there." So we went to the village.

The local villagers told us that this nun was very odd. She had kept the temple gate shut for three years and had made almost no contact with the outside world. We then waited outside the temple gate for a long time and knocked many times, but it was quiet inside and no one stirred. Then we went around to the door leading into the backyard, but there was no answer even after the sister called numerous times until she used her cousin's secular name. At that point, a tall nun appeared before us. On seeing her, I was startled, for she was the nun whom I had seen with my wisdom eye the day before! And she was even wearing that familiar bamboo hat!

While the fellow initiates talked and discussed some spiritual topics with her, the nun was not only absent-minded, but also rejected their advice without consideration for her cousin's feelings. We shook our heads with disappointment as she mentioned that many people had tried to change her, but she could not be moved. She firmly believed that 'the righteous heart is Dharma" and one need not rely on any meditation method on the spiritual path. However, I believed the experience that Master had given me must have meant something so I refused to give up. While our sisters were talking to the nun, I kept reciting the Holy Names and praying to Master. At the same time, I found that the temple was overgrown with weeds, and pieces of yellow cloth had been hung in the four corners of the backyard wall to ward off evil. My intuition told me that this nun was in great desperation and must have suffered much injustice.

So I asked her if she would like to hear our ideas about becoming a monastic person. Sitting quietly on her cushion with crossed legs, she nodded, and so I gave a general account of my view: If we only forsake the secular life without gaining enlightenment and having correct concepts about spiritual practice, there is only a superficial difference between being a "monk" or "nun" and being a layperson! If we continue to struggle in our hearts and remain in misery without seeking the way to liberation while regarding "stubbornness" as "firmness," we make a big mistake!

The nun then burst into tears and told us her grievances from past years. After going through a marriage full of deception and trickery, she renounced her family and became a nun in the hope of finding peace for the rest of her life. But being the chief nun in the temple, she had to make compromises for the sake of the general interest, and deal with financial conflicts arising from temple ceremonies. Eventually, her temple ended up in a miserable situation without any offerings from followers.

Listening to the nun tearfully describe her experiences, we could not help but cry along with her. Then gradually, her heart opened up and we became like members of a family, sitting there exchanging our thoughts and feelings. We felt that she was not taking good care of herself and was thus in poor health; so we offered her all of the money we had on hand, and hoped that she would take better care of her health and love herself more. Holding our contribution and with tears in her eyes, the nun confided to us that it was the best offering she had received in her life for she sensed no ulterior motives on our part.

Master's love had melted the nun's cold, hopeless heart, and at that moment, her eyes shone with hope. On our departure, the nun, who had always seemed lonely and detached in the eyes of the villagers, walked with us out of the temple, talking and laughing. We walked together for one kilometer and she was still reluctant to say good-bye.

I feel deeply that each of us is like a chess piece in Master's hand, sending God's love to anyone in pain through Her ingenious planning. I am very grateful to Master for teaching us through the suffering of this nun to understand and cherish our blessings and live a meaningful life. Master, everything is Your divine and loving arrangement, and it is You who save those in greatest need!

Helpful Tips on the Spiritual Path

Spoken by the Supreme Master Ching Hai at Hsihu, Formosa,

October 10, 1992 (Originally in Chinese) Videotape No. 278

Spiritual Practice and Physical Matter

Sometimes we think that our lives would be very uncomfortable if we lacked physical things. But then, we could still preserve our lives and keep our hearts incorruptible. Sometimes too much money can be harmful to our lives and cause our morality to waver. If we lose this body, it won't matter. However, if we lose our longing for the Truth because of money, it will be very difficult to get it back again.

That's why Shakyamuni Buddha said that the path of the renunciate is broader, simpler and purer; while the path of the layman is narrower and more difficult to walk on. This is because the layman inevitably develops relationships with other people, and they pollute or fight with each other over fame and riches. Mundane possessions and relationships are not necessarily bad. It depends on how we use them. Having a husband, a wife or possessions may not be bad. Sometimes we don't know how to manage them; then they aren't good. Once we attain a certain level in our spiritual practice, we lose interest in the money, fame, possessions, love, desires and passions of the world. However, this doesn't mean that we've turned into a piece of wood, but that we've transcended all these things.

For example, when a child starts to learn the ABCs, he makes progress and the rate of his progress is very obvious. After he goes beyond the ABC level, he's able to recognize words. He studies every day, but doesn't feel that he's making any progress. By then, there's no need to test his ABCs, for he's already above that. It's not that he doesn't recognize words or isn't making any progress; it's just that he's at a different level.

Why are worldly possessions and passionate relationships not beneficial to spiritual cultivation? In reality, these things aren't bad. But if one becomes lost in the mundane passions and loves worldly people more than God, then of course, his level is not high because he's weighted down inside this world. For example, if one side of the scale is heavier, naturally it sinks lower than the other side. If the weights on both sides are equal, then there is balance. Hence, this doesn't mean that we can't practice spirituality if we still have mundane possessions or passionate relationships. The main point is the attitude of our mind toward these things.

If we're troubled or overly concerned about someone or obsessed with certain feelings day in and day out, then we should realize we're not yet free of the net of passion in the astral realm. Or if we're saddened by the loss of some possessions, then we're still inside the astral realm. If certain losses occur that may create difficulties and hindrances for the family, then of course it doesn't matter if we worry a little. But if the loss is not going to have too big an effect on the family, and we still feel very attached to these possessions and worry too much, then we should realize our level is still not very high.

We measure our level not only by sitting and seeing the Light and listening to the Sound. In spiritual practice, we should be careful every hour of the day. It's not only the two and a half-hour meditation period that counts as practice. We have to be on constant vigilance, knowing when our level is falling or rising. We should watch our own responses when people scold us, and see if we feel that our ego or self-respect is hurt. Or when people take our things or damage our property, see if we react strongly. This way we'll know if our ego has arisen at that moment.

Of course, we have to protect our property, feelings and families. However, protection is different from excessive craving and attachment. Every one of us has the right to protect our own emotions, family and possessions. However, if we feel very miserable and painful about these things and are unable to let go, then we must hurry to do more meditation.

What we call renunciates are those who can completely renounce those things that worldly people regard as very important and greatly needed, and cling tightly to. They have no difficulty leaving these things. Neither do they cry bitterly when they leave them behind. They clearly understand and truly want to let go. Of course, they may feel a little sad about parting with certain souvenirs or friends and relatives. However, it doesn't mean that they don't want to leave or are still attached to them.

The Importance of Quan Yin

For those of us who are practicing the Quan Yin Method, Quan Yin (contemplation on the Sound) for at least one hour each day is essential in order to erase the effects of the world on us, and for our spirit to attain genuine bliss. Of course, even if you only practice a little bit, you can still get a joyful feeling, but you won't feel completely happy.

Of course, it may be difficult to do Quan Yin for one whole hour, but you still have to try your best. Sometimes the situation improves after practicing for twenty minutes. The body becomes more stable and the spirit more inspired. Then the body feels nothing. By this time the initial atmosphere of excitement and instability will be gone. All will be well if only we endure it for a while.

Practicing Within the Truth

There's a book about people who practiced the Quan Yin Method a very long time ago. It says that when we practice, even when we're in touch with the Truth for a very brief period of time, say a couple of hours, or half an hour, or dozens of minutes, we can still manage to cleanse eons of heavy karmic burden.

The book also says that there are many aspects of spiritual practice. We can listen to a lecture by a Master, take a look at Him or join His disciples in group meditation. If one can't see the Master or listen to His lecture personally, one can read His scriptures or listen to His recorded lectures or follow His directions about spiritual practice. All this is considered spiritual cultivation and staying within the Truth. All this can cleanse the heavy karmic load that we've accumulated over eons, and make us relaxed, happy, comfortable and uninterested in quarreling with anyone.

The Benefit of Coming Close to Spiritual Mentors

Sometimes we need someone to remind us of the benefits of spiritual practice in order for us to remember to practice. Otherwise, we come in daily contact with many mundane beings or beings who are not at such a high level, and their non-practicing aura drags our level down a little, so we become like them, busily engaged in worldly and mundane matters and then we forget our most important goal.

That's why it's really useful to be with spiritual mentors and Saints! That means it's useful to be in the company of fellow practitioners and the enlightened Master! It's useful not because we see them or listen to them talk. Sometimes even when we don't hear them speak, the aura of their spirituality serves as reminders and gives us spiritual encouragement. Then we think of spiritual practice naturally. Sometimes just being near them makes us feel very comfortable and gives us the desire to meditate, so that we no longer want to think about mundane matters again.

That's why in India they say to see your Master every day if possible; if not daily, then at least every two to three days. If that's not possible, then see your Master at least once a week; and if that's not possible, then at least once every two weeks; if not, then monthly. If that too isn't possible, then see Him once every few months; if not, then once a year. If that's still not possible, then at least once in a lifetime! If even this isn't possible, then you'll see the Master at the time of your death. At that time He'll surely come to take you. Therefore, in the end you'll still see Him. However, we must have affinity with the Master for Him to come.

That's why the saying goes, "It's not easy to meet Shakyamuni Buddha." We don't necessarily see a Master even if we live with Him in the same world, or hear His words if we live with Him in the same era. If we're the same age as the Master, or live in the same country or same village, it doesn't necessarily mean we can receive His blessings because sometimes we lock ourselves up. Our heart is very important! That's why some people, like many fellow practitioners in China and Au Lac who can't see the Master, have never seen the physical Master, can see the Master's Inner Light manifestation form. It's because their hearts are with the Master. This is also considered spiritual cultivation. The heart is very important!

Heart-to-Heart with the Master

If we're good at heart, then it's simple for us to be one with all and in contact with the Saints. If our hearts are segregated, it's like we've built a wall around ourselves. The Saint didn't build the wall. We built it and set up the obstruction ourselves. We're not necessarily with a Saint even if we come close to Him. Our hearts have to come close. In this way even if we're thousands of miles away from Him, we don't seem to be separated spatially. If we're near a Saint but our hearts aren't with Him, it's the same as being separated by distance.

Once during Shakyamuni Buddha's lifetime, a disciple found a huge ant in the Jetavanna Grove. Buddha told the people that seven Buddhas had come and gone and given discourses in this place, but this ant was still there as an ant. It had no way to transcend the level of an ant. This is like the story we heard today about Sariputra previously being a venomous snake. (For the details of the story, please refer to the same videotape.) This is the first time that we've heard about this. We used to think that he had high ethical standards in his past lives, which was why he could become one of the ten great disciples of the Buddha. Never did it occur to us that he was formerly a venomous snake. As a snake, he had made good affinity with Shakyamuni, who saved him after attaining Buddhahood. Why was he a snake for so long, for thousands and millions of years? According to the scriptures, it was because his heart had not opened up and therefore he remained a snake for hundreds and tens of thousands of years. Once our hearts open up, immediately there is no more karmic hindrance.

We come to follow an enlightened Master and learn from Him. This means that we're prepared at heart to disentangle all the evil ideas, attachments and bondages to the world that we've accumulated over many lifetimes. Once these areas have been straightened out, the karmic burden from the past several lifetimes will be erased. Only then will we be able to come close to Saints, and see the Light and hear the Sound of the Real Self, the inner Sound.

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From One Seed to Many Trees Giving Shade

By a Quan Yin messenger

In late 1996, a Formosan brother named Chine arrived in the West African nation of Togo on a business trip. At first, he planned to stay in Africa for only a short period; however, some unexpected situations have extended his stay in Africa into the present. With Master's blessing, during these five years, brother Chine and local fellow initiates have spread Master's teachings in Togo and the neighboring countries of Benin, Cameroon, Ghana and Burkina Faso, and more Truth-sharing activities are planned for the future. Regarding his experiences in Africa, brother Chine told me the following story.

"At the beginning I didn't plan to do anything intentionally, and thought that after my one-year business contract was up, I would leave Africa. Then in 1997, a Quan Yin messenger came to Togo, and I told him that I would help as much as possible in sharing our method with the public, but would not work as a contact person for I didn't plan to settle down here. However, things somehow developed differently from my original plan. In the very beginning, I traveled around in neighboring countries, distributing fliers and sample booklets and having discussions in the streets with local residents. Later, some people in Togo received initiation into the Quan Yin Method.

Then gradually, I began to think about the most efficient way to convey Master's teachings in the region. Thanks to Master's blessed guidance, I began to encourage young local initiates to take part in this work. After demonstrating a thorough understanding of Master's teachings and a good ability to interact with people, they now visit foreign countries on the mission of sharing Master's message. As meditation centers have been established one after another in West Africa, we also have assisted the young initiates in setting up information centers. After the centers are launched, we broadcast three to four minute daily radio announcements that give a brief introduction to Master and Her teachings and describe how to contact our local center through the radio station. Every three to six months, we change the content of the announcements because human ears tend to respond better to something new and fresh.

Another powerful way of spreading Master's message is through TV broadcasts. I've noticed that after airing weekly lectures on local television stations for a period of time, many people are inspired and misunderstandings dissolve naturally. In addition, there are numerous other ways to introduce Master; for example, by posting Her aphorisms on billboards. I regard promoting Master's teachings as a process of creation, not just an ordinary chore. Master enlightens us with so much wisdom that even a few words from Her can bring great inspiration."

When brother Chine was asked if he ever encounters difficulties in his work, he said, "For some time, I felt like going back home to Formosa very much. Then one day, I watched one of Master's lecture tapes and heard Her say that our disciples didn't share Her love enough. Her words strongly struck me and so I decided to stay in Africa longer. Somehow, the feeling of loneliness is always with me. I was newly married when I came to Africa, and I miss my wife and son in Formosa very much. Nevertheless, as I came to see how our African fellow practitioners appreciate Master's teachings, and how much they long for a living Master, I decided to put aside my personal feelings.

Throughout my years in Africa, I've noticed that I've changed a lot. Perhaps my temper is not as mild as people might expect, but I understand that I've learned many lessons. Master's teachings are very vital for me now. Looking back, I'm most grateful for Master's love and blessings.

Many African fellow practitioners bear the same appreciation of Master in their hearts that I do, feeling very joyful, peaceful and thankful. Media reporters often describe Africa as a dark and underdeveloped continent. But this view reflects only the material level. They have no idea how rich in spirit the African people are. Along with this spiritual richness comes material comfort."

Today, if you walk on the streets of African cities, you can feel this emerging prosperity. Africans' yearning for both spiritual and material progress is very similar to that of Formosans 25 years ago. You can sense their deep yearning for a living Master, and as Master continues to bless Africa with Her abundant love and compassion, I'm sure that more and more Africans will come back Home.

Surmounting Life's Obstacles - Do You Cling to What You Were Before?

Excerpt from a shared essay on the Internet (Originally in Chinese)

The Journey of the Stream

A little stream flowed down from a high mountain far, far away through many villages and forests, until it reached a desert. The stream then thought, "I've been through countless obstacles. I should have no problem crossing this desert!" But when she decided to start her journey, she found herself gradually disappearing into the mud and sand. After numerous tries, she found it was all in vain and was very upset. "Maybe it's my destiny! I'm not destined to reach the vast ocean in the legend," she murmured dejectedly to herself.

At this time, a deep voice came, saying, "If a breeze can cross the desert, so can a river."

It was the voice of the desert. Unconvinced, the little stream replied, "That's because a breeze can fly, but I cannot."

"That's because you stick to what you are. If you're willing to give it up, and let yourself evaporate into the breeze, it can take you across, and you can reach your destination," said the desert in its deep voice.

The little stream had never heard of such a thing. "Give up what I am now and disappear into the breeze? No! No!" She could not accept this idea. After all, she had never experienced anything like it before. Wouldn't it be self-destruction to give up what she was now?

"How do I know if this is true?" asked the little stream.

"The breeze can carry the vapor across the desert and release it as rain at an appropriate site. The rain will form a river again to continue its course," answered the desert very patiently.

"Will I still be what I am now?" asked the little stream.

"Yes, and no. Whether you're a river or invisible vapor, your inner nature never changes. You stick to the fact that you're a river because you don't know your inner nature," answered the desert.

Deep down, the stream vaguely remembered that before she became a river, it was perhaps also the breeze that had carried her halfway up a high mountain, where she turned into rain and fell onto the ground and became what she was now. Finally the little stream gathered her courage and rushed into the open arms of the breeze, which carried her to the next stage of her life.

The course of our lives is like the experience of little stream. If you want to surpass the obstacles in your life in order to head for the destination of Truth, Virtue and beauty, you should also have the wisdom and courage to renounce your ego (attachment to yourself).

Perhaps you can try asking yourself these questions: What is my inner nature? What is it that I cling to? and What is it that I really want?

Cherish the Opportunity to Practice in the Age of Kali

Spoken by Supreme Master Ching Hai,

the Florida Center, USA, June 9, 2001

(Originally in English) Videotape No. 719

Q: In one of your lecture collections you mention "The Ocean of Love," a poem by Kabir. Is that right?
M:Yes, I've talked about Kabir's poems many times, but what is it about the Ocean of Love?

Q: It's about the highest God, they call Sat Purush; He comes through different incarnations in each age (Yuga). And in the Kali Yuga, Sat Purush makes a deal with Kal (Lord of the Three Realms) to take a lot of souls back home.
M:Yes, this is the Kali Yuga, the Dark Age. It needs a strong guy to come down and take everyone up! Big car! Strong! (Master laughs)

Q: Is that why so many souls can be liberated so easily?
M:Yes, that's right; you know it already. Of course, it's like that. It's the last age of this cycle. So whoever is left behind: Hurry! Hes brings everyone up; that's why it's very generous. But it takes a lot of power, just like a hurricane brings a lot of water. It takes a hurricane to bring so much water inland; normal rain doesn't do that.

So, at this time, it's like "wholesaling." Because we have a lot of room and a lot of grace, so everyone can be covered. It's no problem. You're lucky! (Audience applauds.) God is generous, but Hes has never been so generous before. In the old times, at most there would be a handful, maybe a thousand people. There could never be so many, and they could never be so openly gathered together despite everything. You guys are really lucky.

In the old times, if they wanted to have group meditation, they all had to hide and run all over the place, using secret codes, secret handshakes, secret hand signals like mudras (hand gestures), or the salutation that you use -- even this (Master makes a gesture) -- remember the wisdom eye, repeat the Holy Names, do the Quan Yin, and then we're together. That's the secret signal the Christians used to have, for recognition of one brother to another. Because in those times Jesus had to hide; all the disciples also had to hide. They didn't even dare to recognize the Master in public, saying, "I don't know Him." Even the foremost disciple Peter denied Him three times.

Such was the negative power -- so oppressive that even so mighty a person as Jesus, and so devoted a disciple as Peter, could not open their mouths. It was very oppressive then. But in this time, we're very lucky.

We Are the Luckiest Yogis

Q: I wanted to ask You how high I have to be in this life spiritually to not have to come back after I die.
M:Be as high as you can. Otherwise, the Master will push; the Master will be there to take you to whatever level and continue guiding you upward. Otherwise, you would have to pass through the three worlds. With any other master, you would have to pass the third level in order to not come back. But with this Supreme Method, it's OK; you can. Because sometimes it's not your fault that you didn't reach a high level.

For example, suppose you get initiated today and die tomorrow. It's the Master's responsibility to take you up from wherever you are before you leave the physical body, or before the Master leaves the physical body. We're OK. This time, we just have a fully open house to help everyone. Whoever is sincere, the Master power will help this time, very generously. This century, it's very generous.

Q: Why is this century so special as opposed to a thousand years ago?
M:Because every now and again, the Heavens open "wholesale." (Master and everyone laugh.) Like at a garage sale: Everything's one dollar. It depends on which Master came down. You see, we're all Masters. But some Masters are newly remembered again; they just became enlightened again this lifetime. Some Masters have been enlightened all the time. Some Masters have never left Heaven, and have just come down this time. Some Masters come and go, come and go all the time, and have affinity with a lot of beings on this planet. And when She or He comes back again, it's to all old friends: "Anything you want, it's OK. We knew each other." (Applause) Maybe we were old friends; that's why.

If the Master has just newly come, then he doesn't have too much affinity with many beings. So he just takes a few disciples to begin with, and then continues again and again the next time. If the Master has just remembered again that he's a Buddha this time, then of course he also has to develop more experience. It's not that the Master doesn't know, but just like everything else, you have to practice. You practice how to deal with the human mind, how to deal with the bureaucracy of this world, how to protect yourself from all the harassments on this planet and how to keep yourself intact in order to help people quietly without bringing trouble to yourself.

But the new Master doesn't know that. The new Master goes out with all full colors, blasting trumpets and everything. And maybe after three-and-a-half years, he's gone, or two-and-a-half years, or three-and-a-half months. The spiritual power is the same; it's from the universe. But the way to handle the disciples, the way to deal with political power in this world: That has to be learned because these are mind things. These are skills and abilities. They have nothing to do with enlightenment and the soul. Of course they have, because the more enlightened you are, the more quickly you learn. But if He or She has already had experiences, life after life, there's no need to learn so much.

Because how can a person learn so much in one lifetime? Even though you're enlightened, you can't learn auto mechanics, airplane piloting, sailing, business accounting, computer software, hardware and every other thing. You could, but your life is too short. These things are not soul things. These things are abilities that you have to use your mind and brain or hands and physical body to understand and master. So, if the Master has already learned all this stuff, about how to be a Master -- not "how" to be, but meaning that as a Master, you have to encounter and you have to be able to do many different things.

Therefore, being this kind of Master is easier and quicker. It's simpler. It's just the know-how of the world. The method is the same, the teaching is the same, the power is the same and the Truth is the same. But the Master Himself/Herself is capable or not capable: concerning the public, concerning how to teach the disciples the best and the quickest way to progress. The Master can teach the same method to the same people. But two different Masters might teach even the same method to two different disciples. And the one from one Master will progress differently or more quickly than the one from the other Master. It's like that. It also depends on how the teachings are imparted into his or her mind. Because if the mind doesn't understand, the mind doesn't accept it, then you cannot progress quickly. You don't feel so good. You don't feel convinced, or you don't feel confident. (Applause)

Always Focus on the Wisdom Eye

Q: I heard you say on a videotape that when we look at someone's wisdom eye, it helps them also. It makes me feel really good to do that, and I hope to remember to do it. What I'd like to understand better is how it helps the other person.
M:Well, it's when you yourself know what you're doing. If you're already thinking of the wisdom eye, that means you yourself are reminded of the spiritual center of wisdom and enlightenment. And, if you yourself remember that, of course your atmosphere will be spiritual. So that person will of course benefit from you. It's just like standing next to a fountain: Even though you don't jump directly into it, some water will sprinkle on your face and make you feel cool. Similarly, if you stand next to a person who's spraying perfume, even though you don't spray it on yourself, you will still have some scent on you. So you're important. Whatever you are is what the other person will receive. That's why, whenever we remember anything about the spiritual center, about our true Self, the person next to us will benefit. That's how it works.

Love Dissolves Everything

Q: Master, if someone keeps attacking you with negative energy, do you have to take it, or is there any way you can stop it, if it really becomes too much?
M:Recite the Holy Names and pray. That's the only way you can attack people. That's the best weapon. Kill them with friendliness. Kill the enemy by making them become a friend, and then they are an enemy no more. There's no one in this world you can't overcome with kindness and love unless they're cuckoo or something. But they will still feel your kindness and love. So that's the only way we can return their attack: with kindness, love, reciting the Holy Names and prayer. Pray not for yourself but for him or her, so that God will make her/him enlightened and then he/she won't do this kind of thing to you any more.

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Footsteps of Love

By fellow initiate Gnesh Yeh, Formosa

(Originally in Chinese)

Note: I had the honor of joining the work team during Master's 1999 European Lecture Tour, and was inspired to write this poem in Madrid, Spain. At a time when Europeans were distressed by the war in Kosovo, Master's presence, like a timely shower of nectar, put out the flames of the conflict in a short time. Precisely on the last evening of Master's European Lecture Tour, the two warring sides signed a peace agreement. Baptized by Master's divine love during the Tour, many with fearful hearts turned around their lives and embarked on the quest for Truth.

Sailing on the Ocean of Love

By sister initiate Anh Tuyet, Hamburg, Germany (Originally in Aulacese)

A small, frail boat

Lost on a sandy beach

Could no longer float

To the other shore.

Lonely, I felt self-pity.

Then one day I awoke

As a heavy rain

Pushed my boat to sea.

Wave after wave,

The boat sailed

When night fell,

Blinking yellow moonlight.

When the sun brightly rose,

The blue ocean glistened.

I was so happy --

My heart sang!

Flying away was my sorrow.

Seeing the other shore,

A small boat floating
On the Ocean of Love,

Of the precious Quan Yin!

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Liberation in this Lifetime

By sister initiate Kathy Doyle, Byron Bay/Northern Rivers, Australia (Originally in English)

For a long time I was obsessed with the idea of becoming a nun because I thought that it was the only way for me to progress quickly in my spiritual practice. Through Master's arrangement, however, I have learned differently.

Master has put me in a number of situations and environments over the past few years that have dispelled this pre-conceived idea. For example, I have experienced both living in a center for some time and living in the outside world. I have also stayed in major cities with large group meditation gatherings and small country towns with only a handful of initiates. What I have found is that the Master Power is everywhere, and that my spiritual progress is guaranteed, regardless of where I live.

In addition, I have come to see that a sincere and devoted heart, self-discipline and determination to practice the Quan Yin Method and study Master's teachings are all I need in order to realize God. This understanding has helped me liberate the part of myself that was so attached to the notions of being a nun and of practicing in a certain place that I thought they were necessary for enlightenment. I have also overcome the concept that I need to attend a large center in order to feel blessed and elevated. By contrast, my experience is that group meditation in a small center can also be an uplifting and powerful experience. I now feel the purity and devotion of the initiates sitting together are more important than the number of people in attendance.

In addition, I have come to realize that Master arranges diverse experiences for everyone in order to help each individual cope with his or her unique collection of mental "baggage." From this I have developed a more tolerant attitude toward others, knowing that what is right for me is not necessarily right for everyone else, and vice versa.

Truly, this experience must be what Master means by liberation in one lifetime and creation of Heaven anywhere one lives. The more I practice, the more I drop my preconceived ideas, and consequently, the fewer struggles and the greater freedom I feel as Master has shown me that She is always with me. No matter where I am, Her Power is there, constantly cleansing my soul, and loving me. Infinite thanks to you, Master, for being the best friend I always desired but never had before!

The Best Spiritual Doctor

By a resident disciple, Hsihu, Formosa

Foreword

The Inner Master is the best spiritual doctor. She always prescribes the most proper remedy for me according to the condition of my health. But effective medicines are often bitter. Sometimes I want to have sweets, but Master gives me a bitter potion instead. Only when I am cured do I discover that this bitter medicine is extremely beneficial for me.

In the News magazine, we often read articles about how Master helps fellow practitioners realize their dreams. In private, we also hear similar stories from initiates. However, for a while such stories seemed remote to me, because the Inner Master always bestowed on me what I most disliked or feared, and seemed to have overlooked what I craved and prayed for.

The following is one such example. In my childhood days, I often visited monastic practitioners with my mother. Most of the nuns gave me the impression of being pessimistic and torpid, and this image remained in my mind even after my initiation by Master. I was a loner, unsociable and felt out of place in the world; I dreaded having company and hated group living. Therefore, after I was initiated, I thought of living in seclusion, just like the ancient mystics living in hermitages, detached from the world. The idea of leaving home to become a resident disciple in Hsihu never occurred to me. However, my struggle ended in failure more than a decade later. Not only did I fail to reach my goal of practicing in seclusion, but I also joined the big family in Hsihu. This outcome was far from what I had expected!

Only when I had resided for a time at the Hsihu Center did I come to discover how fulfilling and interesting life in Hsihu can be. It is so completely different from my earlier image that I regretted not having come earlier (I was the last female resident disciple to be admitted to the Hsihu Center). Superficially, the resident disciples here have a similar appearance, hairstyle and attire, which makes them look rather uninteresting. However, closer observation reveals that each of them has a different personality. Some are stern and intrepid, some are gentle and flexible; some are insistent perfectionists, some are smart and adaptable; some are funny and amusing and some are dull and humorless. Although life here may seem rustic and simple on the surface, with so many people with such distinctive personalities living together in a group, it is instead rich in inner realization. If one calmly observes the Hsihu residents, one can see that each is a mirror reflecting one's own spiritual cultivation, and is an example to learn from. For those who care more about their inner life and who sincerely want to improve themselves, this is the most ideal environment for spiritual practice.

Life in the mountain at Hsihu is busy, but free from competitive pressures. Being mentally relaxed, we residents do not feel that we are toiling when we work. Instead, we see work simply as a chance that God has given us to learn and train ourselves. Each day, all kinds of situations arise from which we can learn lessons. Even when doing the same work, we have totally different insights because the frames of mind and working partners involved are different. Often on quiet nights, when my mind gradually becomes still, I am always amazed to find in myself a series of never-ending faults to overcome, but here at the Hsihu Center, there is an inexhaustible treasure that provides indescribable help for our spiritual practice.

My father has never seen Master nor read about Her teachings. Yet, one day, he said to me with deep feeling, "Observing the changes in you, I believe that your Master must be a great Saint, if not a Buddha." In the years that I have followed Master in spiritual cultivation, not only have I changed anew within and without, but have also cured my greatest fears about the monastic life. Even more fortunate is the chance I have been granted to live in surroundings that are absolutely ideal for spiritual practice. In return for such boundless love from Master, I can only quote an ancient Chinese saying: "For the greatest favor, saying thank you is not enough; just repay the favor whenever it is possible."
 

Make sure that every precept you keep is physically, astrally and intellectually all clean and pure. Of course, we can't help it if a habit rises up again. But we can help by stopping it, not following it and not making excuses for ourselves.

Spoken by the Supreme Master Ching Hai, Hsihu, Formosa, October 31, 1995

(Originally in English) Videotape No. 509

Being a Monk or Nun at Heart

Spoken by Supreme Master Ching Hai, Los Angeles, USA, December 16-18, 1998
(Originally in English) Videotape No. 641

We're all monks in different ways; we're walking monks. We walk on the street, and we mingle with people. It's the same. It's just that in the old times, it was very difficult for people to go out and spread the teachings. So you had to be a monk. You didn't work, and you relied on charity so that you could walk far and wide to spread the teachings of the Buddha or Jesus. Nowadays this isn't so necessary. You can do so from your own home and be a monk at home.

And another reason was that in the old times, people saved their sexual energy in order to do other things. Because if you had a family and a lot of kids, it was difficult for you to walk around on the street and preach the Truth. So you had to renounce that pleasure of family and lovemaking in order to walk along the way and spread the message. Because sexual energy is very distracting to the work that monks do so they had to do it that way.

So to be a monk or nun or not to be one, to me, is not the real question. The real question is whether you understand things in your heart, and you find God yourself. And so many of the householders are also very attractive to outsiders because they practice diligently in their hearts. And they are really enlightened. They also can spread the teachings from their homes, and they do a lot of wonders.

It's a different time now. We have this very wonderful method, which covers everything. So we don't have to starve ourselves physically, mentally or emotionally in order to reach God. I tell you, God is wonderful! Hes is so generous, so powerful. Nothing can distract you from Hirm, let alone a little pleasure with the woman or the man that you love. So it doesn't matter; the monk or nun is inside.

Returning to the Source of Creation

Spoken by Supreme Master Ching Hai, Seoul, Korea, May 17, 2000 (Originally in English) Videotape No. 705

Enlightened Masters' places are not far from you -- they're inside you. Just concentrate on the inner world, and one day you will see better.

There was a story about a person who tried to look for Heaven and someone said, "I know where Heaven is; I can show you. "So he took him to a small well, where he showed him several people sitting and meditating happily, living together in that hole in the ground. And he said, "This is Heaven!" The seeker said, "No! Are you kidding me? This is just a dark hole in the ground." So the person said, "No, no! Heaven is in the Saints who are sitting there, not in the hole."

The Quan Yin Method is the method for returning to where you came from, and where we came from is Heaven. We came from God. We came from the greatest Source of Creation. We're not the human physical body. So if you concentrate and return, step-by-step, back to where you're from, you will know where Enlightened Masters live. "Everything is created by the mind," Buddha said. So just go back and see the real Creator. That's you! You and me -- One! You and everyone -- One! You and nine generations of your family -- One! That's why it's possible for me to help you go back; it's possible for you to liberate nine generations; it's possible for the Buddha to be enlightened and to say all sentient beings are already delivered or already liberated. When you go back to the Source, you see nothing but just the "Oneness" of us -- no Master, no disciples. You're one part of me; we're one part of God.

So, it's possible that when one person is enlightened, everything's already delivered from inside, and everyone knows already. I don't need to deliver you; I don't need to give you initiation. You'll be saved because your soul knows from my soul connection inside. But the mind doesn't understand. So I have to continue teaching you and telling you this and that and the other, so that you'll feel peaceful here. And so that your life, this fixed physical karma, will be smoother, more bearable and more joyful until you leave this physical world. 

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Motivated by Myopia!

Spoken by Supreme Master Ching Hai, February 14, 1999,

the Florida Center, USA (Originally in English) Videotape No. 634

There was a man who said, "I work myself to death because I'm nearsighted." And so his friend asked him, "Why? What does nearsightedness have to do with you working yourself to death on your job?" Then the man said, "Because I can never tell when the boss is coming. So I always have to work very hard!" 

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A Time of Giving and Sharing

By sister initiate Rashida G. Harris, Seattle, Washington, USA (Originally in English)

The Christmas season, a time of celebration and sharing, is filled with joy, laughter, light and music. It is a celebration of the birth of Christ, partly as an expression of Christian beliefs around the World, but more so, as a time of giving and sharing for all.

With the frenzied pace of commerce and communication in the 21st century, the Christmas season is often reduced to a ritual of rushing to retail stores and the Internet to purchase last-minute gifts for relatives, friends and co-workers, to make sure that everyone on one's gift list is accounted for. However, such commercialism distracts from the true meaning of Christmas, which is really to celebrate a gift to humankind - the gift of an Enlightened Being who gave hope and salvation to the world over 2000 years ago.

I can remember as a child in church seeing the assembly of choirboys with their lit candles singing Christmas carols in melodious voices, which sent me to celestial realms. Their voices were so pure and beautiful that they made my spirit soar to the heavens, and their candle flames danced in the darkness like little "spirit lights," as the atmosphere was filled with joyful celebration. This is what Christmas meant for me - a highly uplifting celebration of spirituality.

For each of us, the Christmas season may have different meanings, perhaps a vacation from work, a time to connect with family, a rushed flight to get closer to loved ones or a reminder to go shopping. Whatever the case may be, I always like to remember the good feeling the holiday brought me as a child, and try to maintain the original spirit of Christmas by making it a time of celebration, joy, giving and sharing. For example, many times I have tried to bring happiness during the holiday season by joining a group to sing Christmas carols for the sick and elderly. At times I have also done singing from door to door to bring cheer to families. Any small act that can uplift others' spirits is more meaningful than an expensive gift.

Now that Master has come into this World, the Christmas season is especially significant for me. The joy and happiness generated by Her love give a deeper meaning to all holiday celebrations. Lights shine more brightly, music sounds sweeter, and love and goodwill seem more significant. My sincere wish is that all can discover Master and share Christmas in this spiritual way.

A Journey to Find the Meaning of Christmas

By sister initiate Kathy Doyle, Coffs Harbour, Australia

(Originally in English)

The 1998 Walt Disney Studios film I'll Be Home for Christmas follows 18-year old Jake Wilkinson's journey to get home in time to enjoy Christmas with his family. Throughout the movie, it is evident that Jake's actions are largely motivated by self-interest. However, by the end of his comical trip, he has learned some valuable lessons about caring for others instead of always thinking of himself.

Jake's father is so desperate to see his son for Christmas that he promises if Jake makes it home on time for the holidays he will give him the family's vintage Porsche. The boy thus tries to race home to claim the car for himself, and not because he wants to see his dad.

Due a classmate's prank, before embarking on his journey, Jake gets stranded in the Californian desert wearing a Santa Claus suit and a white beard glued with viscose onto his body and face. Without a penny on him, he then undergoes an arduous but hilarious journey freeloading his way across America from Los Angeles to New York. Instead of going directly home, he finds people along the way who need his assistance because they think he is Santa and that it is his job to help them. Each time he helps someone, he becomes a better person until he begins to make decisions based on other people's wishes instead of his own.

I'll Be Home for Christmas is a genuinely funny movie that is suitable for viewing by the whole family. The film really shows the extent to which human beings will go to try to fulfill their material desires! Even though Jake's motives initially are selfish, God never forsakes a chance to teach him the most precious lesson - to give and share - the true meaning of Christmas, which he learns from various people he meets, and from different episodes on his journey home that give him profound inspiration.

An Interview with a Vibrant Poet and Artist -- Anne Despretz

(Originally in French)

Foreword:

When speaking of art, one often thinks of France -- a beautiful country that has cultivated countless great artistic talents. In the course of their educational, and professional careers, many artists become involved in philosophy and psychology, and even spiritual fields for the purpose of realizing the true Self and going beyond their previous limits to produce greater and more touching creative works.

A French sister initiate, Anne Despretz is one such artist. After graduating from the National Superior School in Arts Bessieres in Paris, she first became a professor. Then, after realizing the significance of painting to others, she became a professional painter. She often holds exhibits of her works and takes part in group exhibitions. She has received many awards and is widely recognized in the French art community for her artistic achievements. In this exclusive interview, Anne shares with us her creative world, her pursuit of the Truth, and her family life since she began practicing the Quan Yin Method.

 

Q: Anne, could you please tell us why you took up a career in painting?
A: I loved painting even when I was very young. Also I enjoyed reading all kinds of books. As I grew older, I gradually realized that we can transmit a myriad of messages through artistic creation, which is like a shortcut through the brain leading directly into people's subconscious and hearts. Thus, painting became increasingly important in my life.

Q: Your pieces include both black-and-white figure sketches and brightly colored, abstract watercolor paintings. Could you please say something about this aspect of your work?
A: I use contrasting black and white to emphasize the light radiating from inside of people. It's like writing with black ink on white paper, clear and simple, and that's enough. For example, take the elderly woman in this copperplate engraving entitled ". And Smiling in the Sun." We can see that she's so happy inside that she seems to be deeply absorbed in the sun. I have noticed that anyone who sees this painting can perceive the light and joy conveyed in it. (Pic 1)

On the other hand, I also use brightly colored abstract watercolor paintings to interpret the energy around us that may not be felt by all. Why do I involve myself in these two greatly different painting styles? Because the left side of the brain is in charge of logical thinking and concepts, which belong to the rational domain, and corresponds to black and white drawings. However, the right brain controls our intuition, which shows our unrestricted emotions and corresponds to color paintings. It's better to balance both sides of our brains. Though these two styles are completely different, both are related to light. I hope that in this way people can feel and understand the impulse of the true Self and of Nature.

Take this abstract painting, for example. (Pic 2) The lines in the painting seem to be dancing. This penetrating light beam represents energy at work and symbolizes the endless cycle of life in nature. Underneath the painting is a poem that I wrote describing the myriad things embraced and nourished by light and music. In addition, I often create melodies to add to poems. Music plays a big part in my creative work, especially song.

The poem entitled "Brilliances of Verdure" reads as follows:

Brilliances of verdure,

Tatters of light,

Morsels of music,

Or murmurs of the wind,

Sweet sounds prolong into eternity,

And traverse the Earth,

Live in children's hearts.

Their movement is rhythmic,

Non-ephemeral freshness,

Which transcends time.

This other watercolor painting is very special because it's full of different parts that aren't on the scale of human vision -- I mean it's treated in very small shapes. (Pic 3) I took a photograph of each part and magnified it. As a result, each piece became an independent work. (Pic 4) Interestingly, when the photographs were displayed, visitors thought that each was an independent piece and forgot that they were all from one original painting. The purpose of this set of works is to show people that we all confine ourselves to a certain space or certain life, forgetting that we're closely linked with other lives. Only when we open our hearts and take a step backward can we see the boundless sea and sky; only when we become more tolerant of others can we see the whole world and the entire universe.

Einstein once spoke of this concept of "oneness in all" in one of his books. I like this text very much and found it by chance after making this painting. So I displayed it together with my painting. On this topic, Einstein said, "A human being takes part in a 'whole,' which we call the 'Universe'; he stays limited in time and space. He experiences that his being, his thoughts and his feelings are separated from the rest -- a kind of optical illusion of his consciousness. This illusion is for us a prison that restricts us to our own desires, and limits us to the affection of our near relations. Our duty is to free ourselves from this prison, by extending the circle of our compassion, so that it embraces all life, and all of nature in her full splendor."

This painting entitled "Why are legends, finally, all the accounts kept for fairies?" uses special materials and mainly conveys the idea that legends and myths as we think of them are not necessarily fictional. When we look at the painting from the front, we can see only the patterns on the surface. But if we look at it from a different angle, we can clearly see the golden light particles hidden in it. That is to say, what we do not know is not necessarily non-existent; we have to use a different method and a different angle to see things clearly and then understand their meaning and essence. (Pic 5)

Q: Could you please tell us how you came to know the Supreme Master Ching Hai?
A: Since I was little, I have known that a human being is a soul in a body, and that soul can be free of the body. But when I was young my parents always said to me, "Don't think about unknowable things!" Then one day I had a car accident, which was not bad because it gave me an experience of my soul leaving my body. Since I was very young I have been interested in spirituality and I was told then that things would become clear to me when I grew up. Later, I gradually discovered that the grown-ups didn't know everything; it depends. I often experienced disappointment because people could not provide satisfactory answers to my questions. So I told myself, "When I grow up, I must find the Truth that is obscured by superficial phenomena."

Then one day, at the age of twenty or so, at a time when I was searching for answers with great enthusiasm, I saw a shining door in the sky and felt that I was dreaming, but I was not. I could have almost gone through the door and reached the other side if I had wished. However, I said to myself, "No, no! I'm not ready. It's not time yet." So I closed this door somewhere. After that, I continued to have inner experiences. At the same time, I started to study psychology and philosophy, trying to find a concrete explanation for these unusual experiences. But I was very disappointed when I failed to find it anywhere. So, I walked toward the spiritual path step by step.

I discovered clearly that many things could be understood only through meditation, and said to myself, "In this world, there must be someone who can explain all this, and who can help me and teach me meditation!" It was very essential, not only for me, but for making it possible to help people around me. And I knew that a true living Master should be very coherent and positive and should only demand that I practice sincerely without any material conditions in exchange.

Then one day, when I had a strong longing in my heart, I suddenly saw a small advertisement in a spiritual journal that said, "Offering the correct method of spiritual practice for sincere Truth aspirants." I felt very strongly that this was what I had been searching for day and night, and my inner experience also gave me a positive affirmation. So I contacted the Paris Center, received some texts of Master's teachings and bought one of Her books. I felt very good after reading them. The Supreme Master Ching Hai's teachings are very thorough and completely compatible with the teachings of all other religions. I felt as though I had arrived at the beginning of a path toward the Essence of Truth and that there were many treasures waiting for me to discover on the way. After that, I made a very important decision in my life; that is, to receive initiation from the Supreme Master Ching Hai and practice the Quan Yin Method.

Since my initiation, I have often had inspirations spring up during meditation. Sometimes I can even "see" texts and "hear" the poetic rhymes and musical rhythms of my future works, such as this one, which was created according to an inspiration that arose during meditation. (Pic 6.) It's something like a book inlaid in a box, with two mirrors inside and a poem of mine sandwiched in between. The images reflected by the two mirrors are just like human life, which often becomes entangled, and show that this physical world is only a reflection of the true world. There are two marks on the box, a small bullet and a rose, symbolizing our worlds of war and peace respectively.

There's a little drawing inside of a child riding with all his concentration on a galloping bull, without any reins! It implies that if we don't find our true Self, we'll hate others. This may be hard for people to understand. In other words, if we find our true Self, our life will be balanced. On the other side, there is a brilliant light beam upon the words: "This colossal infinite golden light beam, do you still remember it?" We originally came from the Light, but we have forgotten it. However, we'll remember it again one day. This is a long verse written to a human being by his inner "Self," who also is the universal real Self, asking himself if he still remembers this familiar golden light. Many people have been moved to tears after reading it and have come to discuss spiritual matters with me.

Q: Are your family members all initiated?
A: My husband and two sons became initiated very naturally. Only my daughter is not yet initiated because she is too young. But she's waiting, impatiently! Our life is very peaceful and natural. Many things have become smoother and miracles have happened. Of course, I give thanks to the Supreme Master Ching Hai for Her endeavor to help numerous people!

Notes:

Poet and artist Anne Despretz's recent awards include:

• * One of 90 winners (from among fifteen thousand candidates) at the 1996 "Contemporary Artistic Exhibition" at the Museum of Bougon, Niort, France

• * First Prize in the 1998 International Artist Contest sponsored by the City of Strasbourg, France

• * Selected for the 2002 International exhibition "Art and Poetry" in Strasbourg, France

This interview was broadcast in Serial No. 11 of the A Journey through Aesthetic Realms TV program. For online viewing, please visit: http://www.godsdirectcontact.org.tw/eng/hichannel/index.htm  (French)

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The Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association,

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You answered our call for help for the victims of the city of Ales with great generosity.

I especially wish to thank you warmly for your donation in their name, and I assure you that it will be put to the best use.

Yours sincerely,
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http://www.Godsimmediatecontact.com (Singapore; in English)