Formosa/Singapore/Indonesia/Mainland China/U.S.A./Canada/Poland/Slovak

You May Not Know The Profundity Of Body, Speech And Mind
The Enigma Of Jesus' Multiplication Of Fish

Master Tells Story Trap Of Success

Poems Sending You My Longing
The Stream Of Grace
Tomorrow I'll Leave Palawan

Front Line Beauty Brought Us Together Abundant Rewards At The Spiritual Festival

Master Says The Enigma Of Yin And Yang

While On The Path Everyday Is A Special Day! Thank You For Your Precious Gift - The Quan Yin Method The Army Life Is Full Of Grace

Spot Light Over-population Is Not The Main Cause For Starvation
Looking Beyond The Cairo Caravan
Save Our Earth
The Task Of Environmental Protection Should Begin From A Vegetarian Diet
The Proof Of The Vegetarianism In Various Religions

Information Desk Why We Cannot Tell Others Our Spiritual Experience

Aphorisms The More We Work, The More We Will Be Enlightened!

Master's Wonder The Manifestation Body Of Master On The Bridge The Word 'Blessing' Verifies A True Master One Glance At An Enlightened Master Is More Beneficial Than Years Of Practice Master Saved My Son The Family Of Saints

Letter Between Master And Disciples Master's Reply

Between Master And Disciples Perfect "Designer"
Master, Welcome To Japan!

Elevation Of The Soul

Our Liaison Practitioners Throughout The World

Master Tells Stories

The Trap Of Success

Spoken By The Supreme Master Ching Hai At Tien Shan Center In Satin, Hong Kong (Originally in Chinese) Apr. 20, 1994

The meaning of this story is greed for life! Some people like to die, are not afraid of death. This person is afraid of death -- is greedy for life and fears death. So he is greedy for life.

Once, there was a king who came from the country Hsi-li and he went to war with another country. Everyday he noticed one particular army soldier who was very, very courageous. He was very enthusiastic in fighting at any moment, and was basically not afraid of death, volunteering to go to the most dangerous places. Any place that no one dared to go, he would go and this won the king's great admiration.

So, one day the king summoned him in order to reward him. When the king saw him, he felt very strange and wondered why this soldier was so skinny, his face was so green, the skin was not good and his body was very weak. The king was very surprised and asked, "Why you have become like this?" Then the soldier told the king, "I have an incurable disease, so my health is not good." The king pitied him and ordered his personal doctor to take care of him daily until his illness was cured. He was brought the best medicine and the highest quality food for his consumption because he was the national hero, a very courageous person, and needed to be taken very good care of. Of course the king's doctor also admired him very much and took very good care of him. Money was no problem because he was the national hero and also it was the command of the king.

After a while, this person recovered and became very strong, and healthy looking. Everything was fine, he was totally cured. But at that moment, he lost his courage completely (Everyone laughs). Now he dared not go anywhere, dared not rush to dangerous places, he always hid in the back, his courage was all gone. The king was very disappointed and also felt strange. He summoned the person over and asked, "Why you were so courageous before but now after I have taken good care of you, have fed you well, have cured your illness, you have betrayed my grace, not sacrificing yourself for the country like before? Also, you hide and refuse to fight in battle. Why? Huh! We have all been so nice to you, have trusted you so much yet you have betrayed our good intention and have betrayed our trust in you. Why?"

The soldier told the king honestly, "It is because you have treated me so nice that I have become this way." The king said with surprise, "Why is it that because we are too nice to you that you have become this way?" He said, "Because you have been so nice to me, have cured my illness, have fed my body well and made it beautiful that I have now become very greedy for life and dare not die." (Master and everyone laugh). He was near death before, thus death was nothing. The pain of the illness made him uncomfortable so maybe death was better. Therefore, he had charged forward in the battlefield not because of courage. (Master and everyone laugh). Now because he had a good and strong body, he became greedy for life and dared not sacrifice his life anymore (Master laughs).

Sometimes it is the same with our practice. If we have met with difficulties or undesirable situations, we would practice with all our devotion. But after being too rich, too free, too comfortable, perhaps we would become somewhat lacking in diligence. Thus, Shakyamuni Buddha also said, "Rich people, people with money or with high position, will find it difficult to practice! If a certain person who has a high position, with a very comfortable life and with a lot of money and leads a very smooth life still likes to practice, we should know that he is a Bodhisattva coming to this world to help the beings." How much he helps would depend more or less on his mission. It is not that he helps the beings a lot then he is a real Bodhisattva.

Then Jesus Christ also said, "It would be very difficult for the rich to go to Heaven! It would be as difficult as a camel passing through the needle hole." Because we are too comfortable, too happy, we would be reluctant to leave. Drowning there in enjoyment of the happy, comfortable and rich conditions, then we would not think anything about practice.

The ordinary people would practice because of having a little pain and thus would think of liberation. That is the reason why it is no good if life is too comfortable. Sometimes a person in a high position such as a public official, a reporter or any other position, would become proud if he was too successful. So, sometimes it is all right if we have a little of nonsuccess! Of course we have to do things successfully, but we still have to know the trap of success.

The Profundity of Body, Speech And Mind

Spoken By The Supreme Master Ching Hai,
At The Hsihu Center, Formosa, On Oct. 10, 1994
(Originally in Chinese)

You think that body, speech and mind are separate from each other, don't you? In fact, body, speech and mind are different forms of the same material. Therefore, our thoughts are the same as our actions. That is why we have to examine our thoughts, actions and words. Sometimes we feel that it does not matter when we merely think of something, which we will not actually do. Of course it is better this way. However, we have in fact violated the precepts. Do you understand what I mean? It is because our actions originate from our thoughts. Isn't it so?

For example, sometimes you go to buy vegetables, because in your mind you want to do so. Of course there is a difference between the thought and the act of buying vegetables. Nonetheless, the thought can still work. That is why there is so much trouble in our world! Too many people have bad thoughts, and then the atmosphere becomes not too good. So as we practice spiritually, we must be frank with ourselves. It is not that when nobody knows what we do, it will be fine. We ourselves know. We ourselves are one of the beings linking the whole universe. We and the creation are one. Therefore, if we know, the creation knows. (Master and everybody laugh.) It's terrible, isn't it? (Audience: "Yes.")

Let's not talk about creation, since that is not so easy to prove, but some people have magical powers, the ability to see beyond the physical world, or read people's minds. They know, they look at us and then they know what is on our minds. Those with supernatural vision can take a look at us and know whom we love. When two people are sitting next to each other, although there is a space between them, if they are in love, their energy will merge. (Laughter) Anyone can see it clearly. It's like there are invisible hands, which stretch out and hold each other. (Laughter) Then everybody can tell. Therefore, we cannot say that our thoughts do not matter.

Of course, we have only started our spiritual practice, and we cannot completely control our actions, speech and thoughts as much as we want to. However, when a bad thought enters our mind, we immediately cut it out. Then it is not so bad. We know at once that this is wrong, and we stop it. We use other ways to control it, to suppress it. We recite the Buddha's name or use our willpower to chase it away. This is also a form of spiritual practice. It is the spirit of striving to become better. However, it is not that there is a difference between our thoughts and actions. There is no difference! Body, speech and mind are one. Do not think that body and mind are different. Everything comes from the mind. It is because of our strong desire that we have this body. If we did not have such a strong desire, we would not have this body. That is why many people who practice to control their mind can make their bodies invisible. Even though they are in front of us, we cannot see them.

Sometimes our physical bodies don't exist, it's not that we truly don't exist! You go and ask someone who has lost his arm or leg about how he feels. He feels that he still has his arm. It's just that he can't use it. If we can see from a different level, we can still see the shape of an arm, an obscure form seems to be there. That is why people feel that their bodies still exist after they die. Some souls of the dead people still run around, being confused, and making trouble. It's because to him, his body still exists. Therefore, all is created by the mind. What is in our minds affects our bodies or our actions.

In fact, there really is no body. If there were bodies, spiritual practitioners would not be able to make themselves invisible. Do you understand? They cannot make their bodies disappear, or become invisible. You know, some people who practice yoga can bury themselves in the ground or in a coffin for one or two months without any problem. Their rates of respiration become very low, just like there isn't any. The cells in their bodies, the pores in their skin can breathe, so they can live on. In fact, our bodies are also controlled by a kind of subconsciousness. Like the heart, some people can control it and make it stop beating, and they won't die. Don't think that we will die when our hearts stop beating. Many people lay on their deathbeds in the hospital and their hearts stop beating. Doctors may announce that they are dead, but then a few days or a few hours later, they came back to life again. They then tell stories about heaven. Right? Some talk about hell, but not too many people describe that. (Master laughs.) Perhaps they are too frightened that they dare not talk about it when they returned. (Master laughs.)

These stories kind of console us. They let us know that truly we do not need this body to live. We can continue to live without this body. However, our souls have to understand, to be educated, to be shown the direction, before we die. Otherwise, when we lose this body later, our souls would still be puzzled and run around everywhere. They still feel that they have a body -- the astral body still exists. We still want to grow vegetables, to eat a meal, to look for a wife..., but we can not find one, and we can not do anything. Then we do not feel satisfied, and suffer greatly in our minds. This is how ghosts and devils come about. If we already understand clearly when we are still living in this world, and we cut off all those desires, then when we die we will know immediately as Master comes. We will go together, having no confused concepts, having nothing to relish, having nothing to be scared of, and having no question at all. At that time we understand everything, because we already understood when we are alive.

That is why I said yesterday that practicing magical powers is useless. Still you often ask, "Why can't we practice to gain magical powers? Why can't we cure people's illnesses, and on and on?" Sure you can! But magical power is not the ultimate way. Do you understand? If you use magical powers, you will forget to find inwardly the Truth. Many people cure others' illnesses, and then they are well liked by people. However, those who cure people's illnesses cannot give them the gift of eternal liberation. Curing an illness makes a physical body well, and that is all. Do you understand? Then everybody relies on that person, saying, "Oh! I'll see him next time when I am ill." Whatever illness he has, he can get cured this way. He never thinks to look within because he was not tested or taught a lesson. Some people only look within and find God when they are suffering from illnesses.

The Enigma Of Jesus'

Multiplication Of Fish

Recorded By Resident Disciple In Hsihu Center, Formosa

One day, Master came back to Hsihu, and with Her infinite love for disciples, She had specially ordered many vegetarian cakes from Taipei. That night She invited the resident disciples to Her kitchen to enjoy the cakes. Unfortunately, the cakes didn't taste good enough and one particular cake was really too hard to even cut into with a knife. Because of this, Master and disciples looked at one another shaking their heads.

In the meantime, one of Master's attendants, Tong X said, "Today because of this vegetarian cake, we unveil the solution to a Biblical enigma which dates back a few thousand years." Master then added, "Right! If we didn't have this vegetarian cake today, the Biblical enigma could not have been solved. Jesus Christ once multiplied fish to provide for five hundred or five thousand people only. We have more than five thousand people here. Aiya! Not so bad, we have solved the puzzle at last, and starting from today no one should exaggerate any more about how Jesus multiplied bread.... Master is more powerful! (All laugh.) Moreover, it is not done by Master but by fellow initiates only and it is already so powerful. I guarantee that no matter how many people present here, they cannot (eat) finish this piece of vegetarian cake which has been blessed by Master. (All laugh.) If each one takes a glance at it and passes it to the next person in turn, then it will be passed around the whole ashram. Then even if thousands or ten thousand people come tomorrow they could probably not finish it. Is that right?"

"It doesn't matter if we cannot finish it, we may save it as a souvenir. There is one kind of very powerful preservative which can be sprayed on the cake preserving it for a long time." Attendant Tong X said, "We can place it in the Treasure Pavilion." (All laugh.) Master said, "Right! Treat it as an antique. Five thousand years later people can still study it and say, "What happened to this vegetarian cake, even ten thousand people were not able to finish it? She must have miracle power!" (All laugh.) Then, certainly, they will say Master is so humble that She never exaggerates Her miracle power. All of you have seen it today."

Everyday Is A Special Day!

wBy Fellow Initiate Saunders In U.K. (Originally In English)

Brother Saunders was a famous and successful professional football player and manager in the U.K. He led Aston Villa to the championship of the Wembley Football Game in 1981 and was selected “the Manager of the Year?for his outstanding achievement in Football. In spite of all the success and achievement, he had been searching for the right path of truth but hardly felt satisfied until he found Master Ching Hai. I worked for almost 40 years in professional football, more than 10 years as a player and then several decades as a manager. Working as a professional sportsman requires not
only the natural abilities that you are born with, but also years of dedicated training and absolute fitness. Large numbers of players and managers dedicate themselves to the game just the same as I did, but have very limited success. I was one of the lucky ones! We had many successful times and plenty to celebrate but the winning and celebrations were always a big letdown to me. I felt that something was missing. I was never satisfied. When I should have been elated and happy I often felt empty and frustrated. “What was wrong??“What was missing??I quickly began to realize that everything in this life is already decided. If you are destined to win something then you will win it. What is meant to happen will happen. It also became quite clear that nothing ever happens by chance. There is always a reason for everything. You are always in the right place at the right time. A few years ago, when my wife and I watched a video of the Sai Baba we knew immediately what we should do; we went to India for several weeks to learn more about Sai Baba. Our experiences with Sai Baba have let us know more. It is him, perhaps, who led us to Master Ching Hai. Last year I went to the “Mind, Body, Soul Festival?in London and the very last thing I picked up was one of Master Ching Hai's sample booklets. I read this on the train going back home and was especially interested in the Questions and Answers section. Some weeks later I got the feeling that I should do something about this booklet. So I read it again and then phoned the contact person at the Oxford Center to get more information. This year I was initiated at Oxford and now regularly practice the Quan Yin Method. My meditation which had been “a bit hit and miss?is now well focused. All the years of blood and sweat, success and acclaim now count for nothing at all. They just don't matter. Our new understanding of life, at times give us a feeling of an altered consciousness and makes us more aware. But underlying everything is a deep feeling of contentment and love.

Everyday is a special day.
Thank You For Your Precious Gift -
The Quan Yin Method

wBy Fellow Initiate Yang, Hsinchu, Formosa

The most benevolent gift of God in this life is the Quan Yin Method, unconditionally imparted by the Supreme Master Ching Hai. This supreme dharma boat not only sailed me safely to the opposite shore, but has merged and transformed the suffering and happiness of this lifetime into a cheerful and optimistic mind of the middle way. Buying a house in this material world is a big issue, and the money involved is of huge sum. Arguments and conflicts between developers and buyers are commonly reported in the newspaper. A few months ago, I bought a private condominium from a developer. My original sincere attitude towards others and trust in their pureness of mind was shattered by the developer's numerous cheating and lies. Besides, my family members were not understanding either and the atmosphere at home was really bad. However, the amazing thing is, after having meditated diligently, the hatred and anger derived from the transaction was converted into the power of love and forgiveness by the inner sound current. The vexations and sufferings disappeared like darkness meeting the dawn, leaving a bright and clear sky.
Whilst the autumn leaves fall, I wish to weave infinite lotus with my utmost devotion, to offer and bow beneath Master Ching Hai's feet for Your greatness, and to thank you for your most precious treasure bestowed on me

The Army Life is Full of Grace

wBy Fellow Initiate Chiu in Taipei, Formosa
I will retire in a few days from the army. Looking back on the rugged road I have travelled, deep emotions fill my heart. However, thanks to Master's arrangement and care, I have learned even more. Also, I can clearly sense that the big change before and after I joined the army was all under Master's uplifting care. I joined the army after having been initiated for over one year. At that time, I had to temporarily leave the meditation center and the fellow brothers and sisters to go to a strange environment. The loneliness and fear overcame me because I had just started my spiritual practice, and I considered that my foundation was still not stable enough. A sister advised me “Don't be sad, wherever you go, it is all the same - you can still spread Master's teachings in the army.?So, before I got onto the train, I put a few of Master's sample booklets in my bag as I thought they could be of use. I will never forget the scene when the company commander was checking our bags when we stepped into Cheng Gong Ling camp. We were faced with a few years of army life to go through. My heart became heavy. When it was my turn, I poured all of my things out and consequently, the platoon commander picked up Master's sample booklet and asked “What is your relationship with this lady??I answered “My Master.?He said “Very good, I am a fellow brother too. I will look after you.?“Wow!?I shouted. It was really incredible. Suddenly the depressed mood was lifted. Writing now, I even can't control myself and I am clapping joyously, but there was something even more incredible to come. It was really strange. In my unit, many of my peers were vegetarians. Nearly all of the vegetarians in the camp happened to be gathered in my unit. The platoon commander, the squad leader, and the company commander were all vegetarians! The company commander was not a vegetarian before, and I didn't know what made him become one. Also, another company commander I met was a vegetarian too. He treated us very well, and even summoned all of the vegetarians and asked us about the army life and food. The fact that I continuously met senior officers who were vegetarians, made me realize that all was Master's arrangement.
Later, I was transferred to Pintung. Our company commander was changed to a new one soon after I joined, but he was also a vegetarian. After that, our leader was also changed and his replacement was a vegetarian too. At that time, vegetarianism had become prevalent and the food was really good. I could even cook my favorite dishes for myself while I was taking the N.C.O. training.
Thank God for seeing me through this stage safely. I realized that if we believe in Master, respect God and love life, there are no barriers that we cannot overcome and nothing that we cannot achieve. In the Bible it says, “Believe in me. Leave everything to God and you will achieve everything.?/P>



Poems

Sending You My Longing

By Fellow Initiate Xiao In Taipei, Formosa Because of You,
The worldly affairs transformed into droplets of nectar Gliding into my heart.
I never knew memories of You could be so sweet, Connecting You and I.
You, turning around, look as innocent as a child. Blinking Your eyes, the stars, moon and sun lose their charm!

Remembering years ago in Formosa,
With a robe full of patches,
You talked with wisdom and humor,
Dispelling ignorance at once.
Along the beaches and by the mountainside where You trod, A humble tent was Your only shelter.
Undaunted by the harsh environment,
You walked on steadily, over lands and seas.

Through storms of misunderstanding and attack, You patiently carried on with Your mission. Changing many images to comply with the affinity, Remaining unchanged are:
A heart of utmost purity!
Words full of wisdom and humor!
Blessings flowing incessantly!

Because of You,
The Tao so earnestly sought was revealed. I never knew before
That the Word of God could be realized with such certainty; That the flaws in me could be corrected so easily! Because of Your perfection,
The ancient masters appeared on earth, Lao Tze, Chuang Tze, Confucius, and Meng Tze came to life, And the realm of Quan Yin afar is within reach.

You are -- my magnificent Master who led me to the Path;

       -- my gracious parents who nurtured me as I grow;
       -- my dearest friend who sustained me through hardships;
       -- my eternal lover who will accompany me to the other shore!

Knowing that You haven't gone afar,
Yet I cannot hold my tongue tonight,
Truly, because of my heartfelt gratitude for Your grace, I wish to send You my longing.

Dear Master,
Are You well in the land far away?
Please take good care of Yourself.
May You be healthy forever...

(To the minors of the Palawan Refugee Camp, Philippines) Tomorrow I'll Leave Palawan..

By Fellow Initiate Nguyen From Hsihu, Formosa (Originally in English and Au Lac Language)

Tomorrow I'll leave Palawan...
Rain drops are falling
Like tears in one's heart!
The eyes quietly follow my steps
And the little angels sob silently

Tomorrow I'll leave Palawan...
Wandering into the unknown horizon
You came to the hotel to bid farewell
Performing a dance in the little room
To cheer me up!

Oh, little sisters!
What have I to give
Except a bleeding heart
And a shattered life full of broken dreams!

Tomorrow I'll leave Palawan...
Rain drops are falling
Like tears in one's heart!
Dear sisters, please come near me
Together let us keep warm
Because the sun has gone down
And storms are coming from
The far away ocean.
Tomorrow I'll leave Palawan...
The island where saints and devils together reside Leaving behind
The innocent eyes
And the faces of purity
Who never asked
Tomorrow what will happen
Who never wondered
Why human life's full of suffering and bitterness

Only ten years old
Already spent half of life
Behind barbed wires and cold steel gates Guarded by soldiers equipped with rifles.

Tomorrow I'll leave Palawan...
Leaving behind the countless ocean waves The happy, the sad memories
Of beautiful friends
Who have taught me
Human duty and love

Tomorrow I'll leave Palawan...
Wandering into the unknown horizon
Looking for answers
To unsolved questions

Tomorrow I'll leave Palawan...
Rain drops are falling
Like tears in one's heart...

Spot Light

Over-Population Is Not

The Main Cause Of Starvation!

Spoken In English By The Supreme Master Ching Hai At Group Meditation In Bangkok, Thailand, Sep. 18, 1994

Lately we have been talking about the UN Conference about the hunger of the world, remember? Now I have good news for you that now the scientists have found some way to make the harvest grow many times more than before. They already found some before, but now they found something even better. So, accordingly we can feed about 10 billion of people, not only 6 billion like they calculated last time; double in a 100 years even, over 100 years. So then during 100 years we might find something even better, or we can go to Mars to plant potatoes or go to Mercury to plant rice. (Master laughs.) If our planet people are being vegetarian, the way environmentalists suggest and it's justly so, and that the scientists find the way to grow more abundantly the crops for us, then I think we can "sing", no problem, we can sit pretty.

Actually if we just are kind to each other, live a very clean and pure life, there shouldn't be any problem. They shouldn't worry about killing the children inside the mother's womb just to prevent hunger. This is not a very appropriate thing to do. Even though, according to some of the spiritual masters and according to what I know, sometimes the spirit does not come inside the body of the fetus until the baby is born. But still the body belongs to a spirit and he is going to come down, and it is very sad to have no body to come into. Sometimes the spirit comes in already within the pregnancy, sometimes the spirit comes after the pregnancy, like in my case.

According to my mother, I came after, one day later. I am always late in everything, decided from childhood. (Laughed) You know, that is why I am always late now. You have to forgive me, I was born like that, born lazy, born late. Somebody asked me before, when I was born whether the light was all over the body, the room. I said, "No, I was born very normal, no light." It is true, but one day later the room was blazed with light; because it came late. According to my parents, I was born no crying and eyes just open all day long; never blinked and never shut the eyes. So the parents felt very strange! What kind of child is this? But my father said that the next evening, about 6 o'clock when it began to darken outside, and then suddenly the whole room, especially the bed I lay in was very, very bright. And they were thinking, "How come the light comes somewhere from the street?" Because we live next to a small path, walking path, and they were looking whether somebody put a shining light through the window. "Nobody there! But the light was there about 15 minutes," they said. And after the light was out, they then remembered, "Oh, it is dark!" And they began to light the lamps in the house. Because it had been shining for 15 minutes, so they did not light the lamps. And until the lights went off and they realized it was dark. And nobody was shining any light outside, no lamps on the walkway outside. So, therefore, the body was not functioning properly, the eyes just kept open and could not cry, and after that I think I cried very loud. (Master laughs.) I think, I was very frightened to come down here. I tried to delay as much as possible until God kicked me down. He said, "Here just go," and no more choice. Yes, probably, I saw from heaven - hunger, AIDS, gems stolen (Master laughs) wars, so much chaos. What for come here? No fun. But probably, a promise is a promise. Once you promise you have to do it, and so here I am trying to do my job with you until time is up.

So it is said, not every case of abortion is involved in killing a fully conscious person. That's definite. But we never know, the doctor never knows who is a fully conscious person inside, who is not yet fully conscious. You see, they cannot see that kind of light and besides the child inside doesn't always radiate light. Yes, so therefore, abortion is not recommended. It's not very good for human development and it is against our conscience, and it will punish us the whole life when we think about that.

In India there was a woman saint. Her name I think Ananda Maye, something like that. She said that at the time of her birth there was no physical connection with her mother. That is probably the same case that the spirit comes late, comes after the baby is born. Lately, I read a book from a woman. She was supposed to be dead and then a few days later she came back to life. She reported seeing this kind of process of the birth, like: sometimes the spirit comes in before, sometimes the spirit comes in during pregnancy, sometimes the spirit comes at the time of conception, or sometimes later. That is also a coincidence, different people in different corners of the world affirm the same thing. She was shown the process of creation, some part of it, and everything she says I know it is true. It's not a kind of made up story to sell the book, it is a true story. And at first she didn't even want to tell it. She told it only nineteen years later, reluctantly, because she found it very difficult to express what she saw in heaven into the human language and was afraid that people might not believe her also. But nowadays there are many people, who die and come back to life telling the same, very similar stories to this woman - sometimes shorter, sometimes longer and sometimes a different aspect, but very similar.

Some of these experiences, our disciples during meditation, they also know, because they die temporarily. And that is why some of the saints say, "I die daily, I die many times a day." That is the meaning. Once we meditate and we leave the body that is the same as when we die, except that the connection between the spirit and the body is permanent or temporary severed.

So actually the world over-population is not the real cause for starvation. I have read a very good article about this and I cut it from the newspaper, I have told them to print it on the magazine for your perusal, for your information this time. Okay, you can read it and you can have your own comment on it and you will know.

It's a very good article, very nice. It's from Bangkok Post, I think. It's about the Cairo Conference, about the population growth of the world whether it is related to hunger or not. No doubt that it is related to hunger also, but it is not the absolute cause, it's not the main cause, and it's not the only cause. And that can be avoided by fair distribution of food to different corners of the world instead of amassing possessions on some useless... and cannot serve anybody and even costs other peoples' lives, sometimes, due to possessions.

Reading newspapers is also my job. It is not really fun, I don't like it, but sometimes it's good for you to find some information to give you hope, and also give you evidence, examples of what I've been talking about. It's good for you to have a concrete example and evidence. Some good papers are also very informative, but sometimes the papers, they use their influence to do bad things and this we should avoid to read.

In the article, it is stated that most of the poor people have very little possessions of the world; and the rich people... they have put how many percent of the rich people, and how many percent of the poor people. And like the richest, 1/5 of the world, control 83 or 85% of the world's property; and the poorest 1/5, control only 1.4%; and then they blame the poor people for making hunger because too many children and things like that.

Now I think you can, you are able to discern what's the great difference between the rich and the poor, and what really causes the starvation of our fellow beings. The gap is so wide, 83% vs. 1.4%. So it's alright to have possessions but we must know what to do with them. Possessions are harmless, but if we are possessed by them, it becomes harmful for ourselves and for the people who are tempted and who are involved in our property. That's why many families are divided or kill each other, because of property inheritance and the arguments between who inherited what. Many times it causes the loss of lives. Is that not so? And causes war between nations, and causes war between tribes, causes hatred between people, because of the mishandling of the property. Not that property itself is bad. You know what I mean?

Save Our Earth!

Esteemed Member of Congress:
PLEASE HELP SAVE OUR EARTH!

As a U.S. citizen and an active member of the world community, I urgently implore you to address the issues which are presently placing the future of our world in serious jeopardy. As you are probably aware, countless research projects over the last 25 years (The Global 2000 Report from the early 1970's and books such as Diet For a New America by John Robbins, among others) have all led to the same drastic conclusion: unless present policies change, disaster on a global scale will surely occur within the very near future. As the population continues to grow at an unprecedented rate and the world's finite resources are rapidly depleting

1. PROMOTE VEGETARIANISM - Innumerable studies have proven that if only a small percentage of the United States alone would convert to a vegetarian diet, the decreased demand for beef world result in plenty of excess commodities to feed the entire population of Earth. Please set a positive example for your constituents and convert to a vegetarian diet and please encourage your family to do the same. Senseless killing of animals pollutes and wastes our valuable fresh water resources, arable land and vital rain forests. If we decrease the demand for beef, much of this wasteful policy can be quickly diminished and further damage to earth's ozone can be halted.
2. STOP ABORTION - It has come to my attention that there is presently a proposal before the United Nations to legalize abortion worldwide. Regardless of one's own personal opinion of Pro Choice vs. Pro Life - abortion should NEVER be thought of as a means of population control and the fact that this should even be proposed is truly beneath human dignity. PLEASE do not let this happen, fight for the rights of innocent souls who are robbed of their right to life even before their first breath. How can we call ourselves leaders who protect "Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness" while at the same time proposing such disregard and disrespect for human life? Please encourage all of your colleagues in government to carefully consider the immoral and inhumane implications of such a policy. If we want to curb population growth, we must educate particularly the Third World about birth control. With epidemics like AIDS, promoting the use of prophylactics should be done on a global scale anyway. Please vote against legalized abortion.
3. PROMOTE ENVIRONMENTAL AWARENESS - The Green movement is no longer in the hands of a few raving liberals, but rather is an issue now embraced by the public at large all over the world. It seems that the only interests that are not in favor of environmental protection, is the global military industrial complex that has convinced our government that it is more profitable to kill the planet. THE PEOPLE WANT LIFE TO BE SUSTAINED AND PROTECTED. Please vote for all legislation that promotes tighter restrictions on polluting industry, reforestation projects anywhere in the U.S. or the world, protection of marine and wildlife.

Under the laws of God, every action has a consequence. If we senselessly act against nature, there will be dire consequences as a result. WE CAN CHANGE OUR WORLD, BUT THERE ISN'T MUCH TIME - PLEASE ACT NOW.

Respectfully Yours,

Millar

The Task Of Environmental Protection
Should Begin From A Vegetarian Diet

Early last year, I had a precious chance to follow a fellow initiate to the Laii Ashram for meditation. Although I was not initiated then, and not on a pure vegetarian diet either, I agreed with the concept of vegetarianism as I was an environmental protection worker. I can still remember that we set off at midnight that day, and arrived at early dawn. After a brief rest, I was issued a VIP card by the registration desk at the entrance, and then went into the ashram. All around the ashram, all parking spaces were filled with cars of all types. As the sky became brighter, the details of the scene in the valley clearly emerged. Fellow practitioners from all over had beautifully adorned the valley. Everyone of them were emitting a peaceful aura, without abusing in any way the serenity pervading in the valley. My observation on that day created a great shock within myself, and also changed my whole life.

Restoring Dignity
To The Animals

Besides enjoying delicious vegetarian food in the ashram, I also noticed the dignity of the animals--the chicken fellow initiate, the goat fellow initiate (these are names that I later learned), wearing ID cards on their necks, running around cheerfully, as if they were our friends or relatives. That was a harmonious and welcoming scene. I suddenly realized that the new natural diet promoted by the environmental protection groups and the vegetarian precept of the spiritual groups is actually two different faces of the same thing, adaptable to each other. This is really marvelous!

The Concept Of A New
Natural Diet Emphasizes Vegetarianism

The concept of the new natural diet is based on the following theories:

First is the detrimental effects of livestock husbandry. Because of advanced technology and economic wealth, the demand for meat supply has far exceeded the need for human survival. Most citizens of the developed countries consume an excessive amount of meat. Overweight children are also common in our country. Ice cream, hamburgers, steaks and barbecues, etc., are Western recipes. The Chinese dishes are even more alluring, combining colors, aroma and taste. Most people can hardly resist them. However, the production of this meat is affecting our environment tremendously. Take cattle and sheep for instance. A vast pasture grassland is necessary for grazing. Since agricultural land is already limited, they have to either destroy the jungles for the pastureland, or convert the existing farmland into large fields. These actions are common in third world countries. The gigantic livestock husbandry groups have bought up large areas of farmland in Mexico for their pastures. The native farmers have to move into the hills and cultivate on the rocky slopes. Naturally, the produce harvests are much lower. Destruction of the forests has reduced the production of oxygen and the function of keeping water in the soil. Furthermore, raising livestock consumes an enormous amount of water - in order to maintain the grasslands, provide drinking water for the livestock, cleaning the barns, and removing the excretion. An unofficial statistic - from birth to death, the water consumed by a cow is sufficient to float a destroyer. It might be an exaggeration, but it is really wasteful in places where water resources are not in abundance.

Mass Raising Of Animals
Is Inhumane

Next, let us talk about humanity. Livestock husbandry emphasizes mass production.

The modern management methods and technology used are for the most part not natural for the animals. For instance, when a calf is born it relies on the milk it get from its mother, but they are separated and kept in different sheds never to see each other again. To have tender meat and fast growth, they are fed all types of vitamins, antibiotics, hormones, in order to meet the profit requirement. In raising chickens, the light is switched on only when feeding them. The purpose is to prevent them from wasting their energy, thus demanding more food. They are living in total darkness the rest of the day. To avoid damages done by the pecking, the beaks are cut off as soon as they are born, resulting in distorted beaks. To increase the production of eggs, people take advantage of the chicken's sensitivity to light. Continuous stimulation of light and darkness induces the chicken to renew its feathers, thus laying more eggs. A chicken barn is in fact a "crazy chicken barn". Furthermore, fearing that the chickens might climb over one another causing loss, people push more chickens into an already full cage, so that they cannot move at all. The result is their claws get entangled with the cage wire. Consequently, it is necessary to chop off their feet before they can be removed. Their life is so full of pain and agony just because human beings desire to eat their flesh.

A Vegetarian Diet - The Basis Of Good Health

The third point is based on the aspect of health. Medical studies have proven that the human physiology, from the teeth to the digestive system, coincides with that of a herbivore (plant eating animal). Carnivorous animals like tigers and panthers have long, sharp, protruding teeth to facilitate tearing and chewing. As meat is liable to decay, most carnivores have short and straight colons for easy absorption and excretion. The intestines of humans are five times the length of the tigers or panthers, and is suitable for the absorption of vegetarian food like vegetables, fruits and cereals. Excessive intake of animal fat brings cardiovascular diseases and thus is detrimental to human health. In the Taipei Tai An Hospital (formerly the Provincial Sanatorium), only vegetarian food is provided. This is welcomed by all the doctors, nurses, working staff and even the patients. The practice has been continued for years, and it is the best illustration for the benefits of a vegetarian diet to human health.

To the spiritual practitioners, a vegetarian diet is absolutely necessary. Already heavily loaded with the karma from previous lives, it is necessary to cleanse them with the greatest effort. Should we harm more sentient beings through direct or indirect evil deeds, we are heading in the opposite direction of enlightenment and diligence.

At present, most religious bodies in the country recognize the concept of environmental protection. They even lead the general public in recycling, cleaning the environment, and protecting wild animals and plants. These are actions benefiting sentient beings. Both the spiritual practice and environmental protection groups are calling for: the treasuring of lives, merits, soul purification, environmental protection and the leaving of blessings to our descendants. It is exactly God's will that the new natural diet coincide with a vegetarian diet!

The Proof Of Vegetarianism
In Various Religions

But food with the life thereof; which is the blood thereof; shall ye not eat. And surely your blood of your lives will I require: at the hand of every beast will I require it, and at the hand of man... -- Genesis 9:4-5

And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed to you it shall be for meat. And to every beast of the earth, and to every fowl of the air, and to every thing that creepeth upon the earth, wherein there is life, I have given every green herb for meat and it was so.
-- Genesis 1:29-30

People who have animals' flesh become their own tombs. I tell you honestly, the man who kills will be killed. The man who kills living things and eats their meat is eating the meat of the deadmen. -- Gosppel Of Peace In Judaism

People can't get flesh without killing living beings. A person who hurts sentient beings will never be blessed by God. So, avoid taking flesh! -- Hindu precepts

O meat-eater, you are a devil, not a human being. Keep not a meat-eater's company. For even his company is harmful to devotion for the Lord.

Believe me, friend, those who eat meat and fish, and drink intoxicating drinks will all be rooted out like weeds are taken from a fertile field, and thrown down into the dark valley of death.

All flesh is one, whether it be of fowl or deer or cow, and those who eat it will go straight to hell with open eyes. -- Kabir -- The Indian Saint

Aphorisms

The More We Work, The More We Will Be Enlightened!

The Supreme Master Ching Hai

Elevation Of The Soul

Songs and Compositions of the Supreme Master Ching Hai

This is the collection of Master's extempore singing in response to the request of fellow initiates from different places. The stereo equipments were insufficient on those occasions, and Master never practiced beforehand. Owing to the busy schedule of the lecture tour, Master didn't have enough time to rest and take care of herself. Therefore Master's rich and mellow voice could not be fully presented. Because of the earnest request of fellow initiates, Master kindly permits this collection of creative songs to be published as memorial of the beautiful recollections between Master and disciples.

A Special Collection Of Celestial Poetry

By The Supreme Master Ching Hai Has Been Published! (Cassette Tape In Au Lac Language)

With Her unique, poetic and graceful voice, Master softly recites the poems that She wrote some years ago. Her modulated tone and accentuated tempo deeply touched every heart. These heavenly tunes stir, and linger in everyone.

The Latest Video Tapes Of
The Supreme Master Ching Hai

(In English)
*Be Your Own Master (1,2)
Group Meditation in Austin Center, Texas, USA August 27, 1994

*Rely On Yourself (1,2)
Group Meditation in Hawaii, USA
September 6, 1994

*A Happy Life Is The Best Gift To Master (1,2) Group Meditation in Hawaii, USA
September 4, 1994

*The Mystery Of Cause And Effect
Group Meditation in Buddha Mountain, Thailand January 2, 1994

(In English With Au Lac Subtitles)
*Enlightenment Is The Key Answer To Everything Lecture in Denver University, Colorado, USA April 10, 1993

(In English With Chinese Subtitles)
*Love And Care Are A Duty Of Human Beings - Questions & Answers Group Meditation in Malaysia
February 25, 1992

*Tune In And Make Use Of The God Inside Yourself Group Meditation in Malaysia
February 27, 1992

( In Chinese)
*Corrupted Officials
Group Meditation at Tien Shan Ashram, Hong Kong April 13, 1994

*Dream Reading -- Mother's Day Special Collection Group Meditation at Tien Shan Ashram, Hong Kong May 8, 1994

(In Chinese And Japanese)
*The Way To Avoid The End Of The World (1, 2) Lecture at the Narita Airport, Tokyo, Japan September 8, 1994

(In Chinese With English Subtitles)
*Lao Tze, Chuang Tze & The Heavenly Music (1, 2) Lecture at Sun Yet Sen Memorial Hall, Taipei, Formosa February 28, 1993

*A Trip To "Hao Tsa" In Spring
Why One Cannot Become Buddha Immediately Life Film & Group Meditation in Pingtung, Formosa March 5, 1990

(In Chinese With Japanese Interpretation And English Subtitles)
*Cherish The Rich Life God Has Bestowed Upon Us At Tian Feng Union Building, Japan
March 11, 1992

(In Chinese And English, With English And Chinese Subtitles) *Christmas Eve Celebration At Santimen
In Ping Tung, Formosa
December 24, 1992

The Latest Audio Tapes Of
The Supreme Master Ching Hai

<<Group Meditation 52>>
(In Chinese, English And Thai)
*A Passionate Evening
The New Year Celebration at the Hilton Hotel, Thailand

(In Chinese)
*Obedient To The Will Of God (1, 2, 3)
Group Meditation at Tien Shan Ashram, Hong Kong April 19-20-22, 1994

*The Value Of Freedom (1, 2)
At Baptist Garden in Hong Kong
April 28~30, 1994

<<Group Meditation 53>>
(In Chinese)
*The Silent Work Of Compassion (1, 2)
Group Meditation at Tien Shan Ashram, Hong Kong March, 27&30, 1994

*The Story Of Mr. Stay (1, 2)
Lecture at the Tien Shan Ashram, Hong Kong

(In Chinese And Japanese)
*The Way To Avoid The End Of The World (1, 2) Lecture At The Narita Airport, Tokyo, Japan September 8, 1994

Songs And Compositions Of The
Supreme Master Ching Hai - Cassette Tape

Songs And Compositions Of The
Supreme Master Ching Hai - CD

Front Line

Beauty Brought Us Together -

A Report On The Painting Exhibition In Montreal

By Fellow Initiate Wang In Canada

It was around closing time on the last day of the painting exhibition. Together, the fellow initiates were packing up in silence. Some people were still enjoying the videotape of Master's lecture. Looking around and recalling the events in the past week, I felt a bit reluctant to leave.

The site chosen for the exhibition was at an open style exhibition hall in the Federal building, near a subway station. China Town and big shopping centers are nearby so that all kinds of people were able to have the opportunity to know about Master. Early every morning while we were decorating the exhibition hall, we broadcasted the electronic music composed by Master, and we became more light and energetic! Apart from Master's paintings, we also displayed Her photos, posters, books, as well the Longevity Lamps. The videotapes of Master's lectures were also shown to the public. The whole exhibition hall was filled with a spiritual atmosphere.

Everyday, lots of people came to admire Master's art paintings or to sit down and watch Master's lectures on television. There was an especially big crowd when we played the video entitled, "Rediscover Truth, Virtue and Beauty." Many of the audience praised Master's beauty and some even said that She is fit to be a fashion model! One person was curious and full of admiration for a Master who is so multi-talented and can speak so many languages. He asked details about Master's life and teachings before leaving. Some people even watched the video broadcast for the whole afternoon whilst others came to watch daily for several days. Some people came to our information desk to ask about Master's teachings just after they had watched part of the video broadcast. Some took the sample booklets back home to read and came back the next day to get a deeper understanding.

For a few days, an Indian gentleman requested that we show the videotape of Master's lecture in Montreal last year, because Master especially blessed him when She came here last year and he was deeply moved. Another friend who practices other method was very disappointed because for certain reasons, he could not attend Master's lecture last year. This time when he walked into the exhibition hall, to his great surprise and delight, he discovered by chance Master's poster. Happily, he followed us to the center to have further understanding of Master's teachings, and is now earnestly awaiting initiation.

Many people asked where Master was, and when She would be in Montreal again. The local people's intense spiritual longing can thus be seen. Besides, throughout the painting exhibition, we also prepared vegetarian delicacies everyday for the public to taste so as to promote the concept of vegetarianism. Some people, in the midst of watching the video, went to the information desk to take some vegetarian food. We could feel their satisfaction in enjoying both spiritual and material food together. Master's great loving power was the pushing force behind everything. Grown ups, children, wanderers and even the federal building security guards, came naturally to our information desk to get vegetarian food and candies, and to chat together with us. When the exhibition ended, some guards even helped us to pack up our things.

To the initiates' delight, this activity had another result. When working together, we exchanged ideas concerning our practice and feelings about our daily lives. By listening to the difficulties of others and the suffering in other nations of the world, we experienced the development of love. Some of the working initiates and would-be initiates were native Canadians, Europeans, Au Lac people and Chinese. We often encouraged and took care of each other while working. When we were introducing Master's teaching to the public, we also felt tranquility and satisfaction in our own hearts. The working initiates even learned each other's languages in order to associate together with even less hindrance.

Thanks to Master, we, these children of common ideals, were united to form a big, loving family.

Abundant Rewards At The Spiritual Festival The Annual Festival Of Indian Spiritual Unity In The United Kingdom

A Quan Yin messenger and fellow initiates in the UK, through the introduction of Indian friends, attended the UK annual Festival of Indian Spiritual Unity, at Round Pine Park, London. The festival ran for seven days. There were up to ten thousand Hindus and some people from other religions in daily attendance, and tens of thousands of people came to the opening day.

Our fellow initiates went to the event to distribute sample booklets. The venue was teeming with people as thousands of Hindus came from all over the place to attend the festival. The Hindu ladies were wearing the dignified and noble traditional Indian dresses, Saree, making the whole event more colorful, and beautiful.

When our fellow initiates entered the festival and told the person in charge, Mr. Sanghani about their intention, he immediately extended a warm invitation to them to be seated in the VIP section. He also took the initiative to help our fellow initiates distribute the sample booklets. Just as Master has always told us, the sincerity of the Indian people in their respect for spiritual Masters made deep impressions upon the fellow initiates. Several thousand sample booklets were eagerly grabbed by Indian friends and within half an hour they were gone. Mr. Sanghani said humorously, "Next time when you attend our spiritual festival, be sure to bring a truckload of the sample booklets!"

The festival then started with pieces of spiritual music with the traditional Indian instrumental. There were also performers singing in Hindi scriptures and poetry. The atmosphere was dignified and peaceful. At 10:00 am sharp, with the arrival of the long-awaited Shri Morari Bapu and invited teachers of other religious sects, the festival had reached its climax. Next, the MC introduced the teachers in turn and also announced the attendance of the disciples of the Supreme Master Ching Hai as VIP's. The festival personnel then distributed the sample-booklets and leaflets containing Master's life history and teachings to every teacher present.

The festival continued until 2:00 p.m.

Warm Response

A few days later, the UK center received a very warm response from new Indian friends. Some telephoned to inquire about Master's teachings while some requested to be initiated the Quan Yin Method. In the middle of September, one UK Indian spiritual organization wrote a formal letter inviting Master to be the special VIP guest at the seven-day spiritual festival which is going to be held at the end of the year in Bombay, India.

The origin of this spiritual festival dates back five thousand years in Haridwar, India, when it was first formed by King Parikshit and Swami Shukadevji Maharaji. The purpose was to pray for world peace regardless of race, nation, religious belief so as to plant together the consciousness and love of God Almighty deep into the heart of the people of the whole world.

The person in charge of planning the festival, Mr. D. R. Vasistha, indicated, "If Master could personally attend, even for just a day to bless everyone, it would be the greatest honor of the festival!"

In order to further understand Master's teachings, Mr. Vasistha invited the Quan Yin messenger and UK fellow initiates to his house at the end of September. He also arranged for his yoga master and some good friends of spiritual practice in the UK to meet with fellow initiates. When they arrived at his house, he greeted the Quan Yin messenger with the highest respect in Indian tradition and presented flowers to all the fellow initiates. The floor and the chairs were all covered with white cloth to show welcome and respect to Master's representatives. The Quan Yin messenger in return presented Master's books and Master's picture with traditional Chinese knots to him and also conveyed Master's love and greetings.

In the ensuing two hours of discussion and exchanges of practicing achievements, this yoga teacher, who had been practicing and meditating for more than ten years, brought up many high level questions about practice, and the Quan Yin messenger replied to each one. All the people present expressed the hope to be able to learn the Quan Yin Method on the spot.

After the meeting, Mr. Vasistha humbly indicated, "I sincerely hope to have the great honor to invite Master to attend this Indian spiritual festival. Even if Master is engaged and unable to attend, please sent a representative, and we wish to receive Master's personal blessings." He also expressed that he hopes to obtain Master's permission to print Master's name and Master's blessing for the festival on the festival's introductory brochure, so as to let the people of the world get to know Master and to share Master's blessing.

em

Information Desk

Why We Cannot Tell Others

Of Our Spiritual Experience

Extract from - Volume 6 of the Key of Immediate Enlightenment (Chinese Edition)
"The Real Enlightenment And The Real Opening of The Wisdom Eye"

Master does not allow you to talk about spiritual experiences because She worries that it will raise your arrogance and other people will defame you. It is because they do not have inner experience through spiritual practice and do not understand what you are talking about and look on you as having strange thoughts, talking about profound realms, Buddha and Bodhisattva, light, etc. and those worlds are different from the earth. Therefore, the Bodhidharma patriarch also did not allow people to talk about spiritual experience. He states very clearly in the Bodhidharma Blood and Vain Scripture, "When we see the light brighter than the sun, all the past habits we have will be dismissed immediately. At that moment, we are enlightened and realize our inner nature. It is enough we know ourselves and do not tell other people."

Not only is there a realm brighter than the sun, there are many other realms which are totally different from our world. If we use our worldly language to describe the realms, maybe it will create misunderstanding in other people, they will defame us, give us a lot of trouble and create a lot of obstacles for us. Also, invisible beings will get jealous and create obstacles for us. Therefore, we cannot tell other people our spiritual experience. But we can say, "I have experience, or so do other people who are practicing the Quan Yin Method." We can encourage others with saying this, but we cannot tell the details of what I can see and to which level I have attained. Without Master's permission, we had better not tell other people our inner experience.

Sometimes we do have experience but we may not be aware of it. Being a practitioner of the Quan Yin Method, have you ever experienced that sometimes your husband or wife wakes you up suddenly while you are sleeping? At that moment, it seems as if you had lost a realm, and as if we fell down from a very high level. Have you ever experienced this? (Many people answer: Yes.) Many people nodded their heads. I myself also experienced the same. Sometimes not by husband or wife, but we may be awakened by the noise outside, that is the same condition. Also, if we are in deep meditation and enter a very high realm, our mind cannot record it because our mind can only record the experience within the three levels and cannot record anything above them.

For example, there is a commanding officer who has a driver especially working for him. This driver can take the commanding officer to attend conferences at the President's office. He drives for the commanding officer and they arrive at the President's Office together, but the driver is not allowed to go in. He only knows his duty is to take the commanding officer there to attend the conference with other officers discussing nationwide affairs. He is not permitted to go in. Therefore, he does not know what kind of conference is being held and what matters are being discussed. Also, the commanding officer will never let him know.

When you have just a little bit of practicing experience, you tell others immediately. Practitioners of higher levels will feel you are ridiculous. It is because that experience is still of a low level. They will say, "You have just got such a little bit experience and you speak out so loud. How arrogant you are!" As for the practitioner of a low level or the people who do not have inner experience, they cannot understand your inner experience, so they will laugh at your "strange" stories. Therefore, we cannot speak about our experience until we have become a Buddha then we can say we are Tathagata (omnipresent).

News Magazine NO.39

Photo: Innocent like a child, Master can easily mix with the children at any time.

1. International Reports

   Formosa/Singapore/Indonesia/Mainland China/U.S.A./Canada/Poland/Slovak

2. You May Not Know

   The Profundity Of Body, Speech And Mind
   The Enigma Of Jesus' Multiplication Of Fish

3. Master Tells Story

   Trap Of Success

4. Poems

   Sending You My Longing
   The Stream Of Grace
   Tomorrow I'll Leave Palawan

5. Front Line

   Beauty Brought Us Together Abundant Rewards At The Spiritual Festival

6. Master Says

   The Enigma Of Yin And Yang

7. While On The Path

   Everyday Is A Special Day! Thank You For Your Precious Gift - The Quan Yin Method The Army Life Is Full Of Grace

8. Spot Light

   Over-population Is Not The Main Cause For Starvation
   Looking Beyond The Cairo Caravan
   Save Our Earth
   The Task Of Environmental Protection Should Begin From A Vegetarian Diet
   The Proof Of The Vegetarianism In Various Religions

9. Information Desk

   Why We Cannot Tell Others Our Spiritual Experience

10. Aphorisms

    The More We Work, The More We Will Be Enlightened!

11. Master's Wonder

    The Manifestation Body Of Master On The Bridge The Word 'Blessing' Verifies A True Master One Glance At An Enlightened Master Is More Beneficial Than Years Of Practice Master Saved My Son The Family Of Saints

12. Letter Between Master And Disciples

    Master's Reply

13. Between Master And Disciples

    Perfect "Designer"
    Master, Welcome To Japan!

14. Elevation Of The Soul
15. Our Liaison Practitioners Throughout The World

The Supreme Master Ching Hai News No.39 Published: October 25,1994
Published by: The International Supreme Master Ching Hai Meditation Associations

International Reports

Report From
Hsihu Center, Formosa

A Delightful Welcome To Our Merciful Mother

Due to the intense craving and longing of the disciples in Formosa, Master returned to Hsihu center on the eve of the National Holiday.

The resident disciples in Hsihu were the lucky ones to catch a glimpse of Master just as She arrived in Formosa. When Master's car was approaching Hsihu Center, the resident disciples requested Master to sit on a sedan chair. Slowly they carried Her on their shoulders so that everybody could see Her. At the entrance, the crowd applauded like thunder. Some were so happy that they shed tears of joy. The considerate Master, knowing the earnest hope in everyone's heart, immediately descended from the sedan chair and walked with everybody to the forest meditation hall, to have a lighthearted chat with them. The compassionate Master was very concerned about the living conditions of the resident disciples, and inquired repeatedly. She suggested that everybody build little wooden huts to protect themselves from the cold and wind.

It was a two day National Holiday. Master sensed the earnest desire of the numerous fellow initiates, and specially allowed them to stay in Hsihu Center till the holiday was over. During what seemed like a two-day retreat, Master gave a few explicit lectures: "The Son of Buddha is in Every Home", "The Enigma of Yin and Yang", and "The Profundity of Body, Speech and Mind", etc. She also inaugurated and blessed the Lecture Pavilion in the meditation hall, the exhibition area for the Fairy Clothes, and the male office in the back mountain. Not only did everyone benefit from an elevated level of consciousness, but they also had great satisfaction for their palate enjoying in the plenty the blessed fruit, candies and biscuits. Everyone was both physically and mentally satisfied. Many VIPs came to Hsihu Center on Sunday, including the former mayor of Pintung, Rong.

During the inauguration of the Lecture Pavilion, Master blessed it with the a prayer for "Multiplying Descendants". The prayer for the Fairy Clothes Exhibition area was for "Prosperity In Business", and the encouraging words for the male office in the back mountain was for "Universal Peace". Although they were phrased very simply, their meaning is humorous and profound.

The thoughtful Master not only wholeheartedly took care of the needs of the lay fellow practitioners and guests, but She also entertained the Hsihu resident disciples with hearty conversation and even watched a humorous movie with them. In these few short days, Master had not reserved a single second for Herself. All Her time and energy was spent on the public. With the return of our compassionate Mother Master, the Hsihu Center was pervaded with a delightful, high-spirited and joyous atmosphere.

Although the reunion between Master and disciples only lasted a few days, the selfless love of Master was sufficient to benefit all of us, Her disciples, for the rest of our lives, leaving each of us with a permanent souvenir.

Report From
The Taoyuan Center, Formosa

A Full Mid-Autumn Festival Evening

In the evening of the Mid-Autumn Festival, the preaching van from the Taoyuan Center was driven to a resort area, the Hsi-Man Reservoir, to play Master's videotapes to the public. Many tourists went there to admire the beauty of the full moon, and many of them were attracted. Some sat and listened attentively.

The crowd could not help laughing heartily when they heard Master's humorous lecture. Some of them praised Master as being very modern. Many tourists immediately asked for sample booklets and Master's News magazines, and couldn't help but read them while they were listening to Master's lecture.

Due to the nonstop flow of tourists in the evening of the Mid-Autumn Festival, fellow practitioners extended the time for showing the videotapes until midnight, when the last person had left. To the audience and those who worked that night, it really had been a full Mid-Autumn Festival evening!

The Grand Opening
Of The Vegetarian House

After the Mid-Autumn Festival, the first big event at the Taoyuan Branch Center was the Grand Opening of the Vegetarian House. The day of the grand opening, customers came in droves. Most of them were non-initiates. Some customers found out that it was a vegetarian restaurant only after they had finished their meals.

Taoyuan Center's Vegetarian House is opposite the Taoyuan County government offices, the most important administration district in Taoyuan. This place is an excellent location for promoting healthy vegetarian food and propagating Master's teachings. The business of the Vegetarian House is designed to comply with local customs. It consists of a fast food section, a natural food delicatessen, a beverage department and a section for healthy vegetarian food products.

Upon entering the Taoyuan Center's Vegetarian House, customers are warmly greeted by fellow practitioners dressed in neat uniforms with beaming smiles. Every floor is decorated with small potted plants. The green and lush atmosphere makes everyone feel relaxed and happy. Master's videotapes are played all day long on the first floor. The natural vegetarian food delicatessen stimulates the appetite. Walking up to the second floor along the wooden staircase one can see Master's graceful Fairy Clothes and artistic longevity lamps which are nobly and elegantly placed in the middle of the second floor. Prints of Master's paintings are hung on the walls which add lustre to the Vegetarian House.

Fellow initiates are grateful to Master for having an opportunity to serve others and wish that healthy vegetarian food will soon be spread to every corner of the world.

Report From
Nan-Tou, Formosa

An Invitation Of Sunshine,
Flowers And Love

On a sunny holiday, fellow practitioners chose a few major tourist resorts to do some tidying up, by sweeping the area. They also picked up all the garbage along the circular lake road. The whole cleaning process was like a picnic and everyone was high-spirited and happy. During this rare opportunity given by Master, everyone learned to be humble, to serve others and to love. In their hearts they all knew clearly that the ones who really benefited from the activity were not others, but themselves.

When fellow practitioners finished picking up garbage, they cleverly arranged an elegant lunch in the sun which was practical and yet beautiful and romantic. The whole table was covered by a tablecloth and once decorated with flowers, a romantic atmosphere was created. Because of the work they did earlier, the lunch seemed to be especially tasty. With the gentle sunshine and the harmonious atmosphere, fellow practitioners enjoyed the beauty of nature bestowed upon them by God while they ate their lunch.

Before initiation, they might not have imagined that they could do the work so happily, nor could they imagine that such a simple meal could, through some clever arrangements, become so outstanding. But, since they all have such a great Master who seems so ordinary, what is there that is impossible!?

After the cleaning work, the fellow practitioners from Nan-Tau, Formosa enjoy lunch in the sunshine.

Report From
Tainan, Formosa

Supreme Method Shared
With Local Citizens

The preaching van in Tainan has had a facelift. It is now the eye-catching focal point of the public when it appears at different important spots in the urban areas, such as the Cultural Center, the side area of the Cheng Kung University, the entrance to the Municipal Government offices, park entrances, and the night market, etc. At present, the preaching van is actively out looking for people with affinity, and in the future it will extend its services to the remote towns and villages, thus permitting rural people to have the blessing of hearing the voice and teachings of a living Buddha.

In the Cultural Center Square, many people who were strolling about in the evening were naturally attracted by the new preaching van and stopped to listen to Master's teachings. Some had no sooner finished watching Master's lecture then they immediately bought the videotape. There are many miraculous stories of Master's Buddhist chanting tape having liberated numerous souls who had already passed away. Because of that, fellow disciples regard Master's chanting as a Buddhist gem, and many spectators outside also had the wise insight to purchase the chanting tapes without hesitation.

The first time the preaching van broadcasted at the entrance of the Municipal Government offices, fellow initiates chose to show the videotape of the award presentation and dinner party celebration of Ching Hai Day in Hawaii, in order to make affinity with the public in a relaxing and solemn manner. Many drivers of passing vehicles and other passersby stopped their hurried steps to watch the video. Even in the parking lot, many passengers who were waiting for their tourist buses were watching the video while carrying their luggage, and they were unwilling to leave. Affinity is affinity, and the people who travelled from their homes to other places were still able to get in contact with the living Buddha.

When watching the moment of our Master accepting the award on the TV screen, we as students are indeed sharing the honor of it. It is really our glorious honor to introduce our great Master and the supreme Quan Yin Method to the public.

Countryside Camp,

Fellow Initiates Shared Joyful Moments

The Tainan center organized a camp meeting at the scenic Jiayee Farm, in order to foster friendship amongst fellow initiates.

Delicious vegetarian food was prepared for the BBQ and picnic. At the bonfire party in the evening, the blazing flames warmed everyone's heart. Everyone shared happiness within the big Quan Yin family. The unique 'Preaching Vehicle' also played an important part in the evening party. Master's magnificent and compassionate voice reverberated in every corner of the farmland. The guests also enjoyed watching Master's humorous and splendid lectures .

The next morning, everyone was in the woods enjoying the fresh air and scenic beauty of the mountains and lake. Following the 'forest bath', fellow initiates went down the hill, free to pursue their own activities. Some meditated, some took part in archery, and some slid on the grass. In the afternoon, all initiates started on their way home, their hearts filled with gratitude towards Master's blessing for such a fine day!

Pingtung And Kaohsiung, Formosa

The Happy "Children's House"

The "children's house" in the Laii Center, Kaohsiung and Pingtung, was recently renovated. Adopting a way to help each other, the fellow practitioners who are parents take turns to look after the little ones. During classes, the little fellow practitioners have various activities, such as physical exercise, studying Master's aphorisms, singing, doing their homework from school, reading children's books for enjoyment, painting or handicraft...etc. The children can also design their own group activities or hold contests such as creative block building. Before group meditation ends, they all help each other to put back the books or toys, and tidy up the place, etc.

Since the children's house has been established, the parents can attend group meditation with even more peace of mind. At the same time, the children can have a happy time. Enjoying Master's great love, the old and young fellow practitioners are full of bliss.

Purity Begins With The Mouth

The Supreme Master Ching Hai's disciples have recently established "The Supreme Master Ching Hai Meditation Association's Vegetarian House", Kaoshiung. The purpose of the restaurant is to promote vegetarianism, and to provide for vegetarians and people who really desire to eat vegetarian, a pollution - free and carefree place to enjoy meals free from onions, eggs, meat or any additives.

The day of the Grand Opening, the "Vegetarian House" prepared a lot of delicate Chinese and western snacks and cool beverages for the public to share and taste.

The most distinctive feature of the "Vegetarian House" is how it is different from traditional vegetarian restaurants. It was designed to be a healthy, lively, unique place which enables customers to enjoy both their meal and the outside scenery at the same time. One side serves as a circulation center for Master's publications thus permitting spiritual seekers an avenue to learn more about Master's teachings.

The little fellow disciples are studying with great interest the comprehensive teaching materials prepared by their parents.

The grand opening day of the Kaohsiung and Pingtung Vegetarian House filled the restaurant with guests and customers.

Report From
Singapore
Master's Wonderful
Visit To Singapore

On the afternoon of September 25, a group of new initiates had just joined the path of the Quan Yin Method. Surprisingly, our most beloved Master gracefully stepped into the Singapore meditation center where the initiation took place!

This unexpected grace was really bestowed by heaven! On the spur of the moment, our center was filled with laughter and joyful remarks! One person claimed that he could not distinguish the physical Master from the manifestation body of Master at that instant; another fellow initiate said she only felt that the whole room was in glorious golden brilliance; yet another remarked that if the Western Paradise was not here, where else could it be?

Master stayed for five days in Singapore. Although this time Master didn't give any lecture in public, each day She still allowed everybody to see Her. For the first two days, Master met with fellow practitioners from Singapore, those who rushed from Malaysia and Indonesia, and sincere seekers who had affinity for acquiring the Truth from Master. She also gave wonderful answers to all questions that they raised. A few days later, over fifty persons received initiation by Master and began a new life! During the initiation, Master personally came to the venue and blessed and talked to everyone despite Her exhaustion.

During Her stay, Master joined a unique and unforgettable buffet dinner with fellow disciples. To satisfy our earnest longing, Master walked to each corner blessing everyone compassionately. It was a most cordial and heartwarming scene.

Spreading Master's Teachings

At An International Book Exhibition

In order to spread Master's teachings, fellow initiates participated in the International Book Exhibition in Singapore again. This combined book exhibition is well-known throughout Southeast Asia. The participants included many spiritual groups. The event lasted several days in an atmosphere much like that of a spectacular international Dharma gathering. Fellow initiates elegantly decorated Master's exhibition area. Many visitors praised our area as the most beautiful and special of all. The representatives from other spiritual groups even came over to our booth to see it.

Fellow initiates were amazed and deeply touched by the open-mindedness of spiritual practitioners of various religions and sects as they visited our booth, cordially exchanging experiences and ideas. Master's power not only watched over the disciples' spiritual practices, but also invisibly influenced all sentient beings. As a result, the ideas and conceptions in this world will become more and more open.

Due to a national holiday in Singapore, large crowds of visitors came daily to the exhibition. Most passerby paused to watch Master's videotapes. They smiled broadly in appreciation of Master's wit. Some asked about spiritual practicing and many signed up to learn about meditation. Seeing so many people interested in spiritual practice, fellow initiates felt the exhibition had been a success. By listening to others describing the pain and suffering in their lives, fellow initiates remembered their own lives before initiation and could see how much they had changed. Master has taken away our miseries and given us happiness! Helping others to understand the benefit of the Quan Yin Method, we are very glad to share this happy "Method" with all.

When we happily handed the sample booklets to passersby, most people gladly took them and read them on the spot. The children were especially fond of the bookmarks with Master's photographs. A little girl passing by was crying sadly. When she picked up a bookmark, she immediately stopped crying and happily looked at Master's photograph. A lovely little Indian baby picked up a sample booklet and started kissing Master's picture joyfully. When we took the booklet from her to give it to her parents, she waved her little hands and feet in protest, showing in her eyes her fondness for Master.

Most Islamic practitioners also accepted Master's sample booklets. A group of Islamic Indonesian young women were very happy to receive sample booklets in the Indonesian language. They showed great interest in the booklet and they also praised Master's beautiful paintings.

An astonished visitor told the initiates that when he saw two of the lithographs of Master's paintings, "Master's Shoes and Fan" and "Enlightened", he knew he had already seen them in his inner vision. At that time, both paintings radiated purple light. Through such experiences we realize that whatever Master does in this world has been prearranged.

Because of the book exhibition, more people have learned about Master and the Quan Yin Method. The local meditation center has received many phone calls asking for more information. Some were even anxious and asked initiates when they could start learning to meditate.

The seeds of Master's teachings and the Truth have been planted in the hearts of many during the book exhibition. To be part of this meaningful and divine work is a happy and unforgettable experience for the fellow initiates.

Fellow initiates participating in the International Book Exhibition in Singapore which attracted many visitors.

Report From
Sarabaya, Indonesia

Only Quan Yin Practitioners
Are Real Muslims

Although Indonesia is a Muslim country, many practitioners there who are sincerely seeking the truth are still keeping an open mind toward Master's teachings and still request to learn from Master.

There is a recently initiated disciple who is a medical student and is a Muslim. During the initiation screening process, our Quan Yin messenger asked him, "As a Muslim, why do you want to learn from our Master?" He answered frankly, "It is because there is no difference between Master's teachings and the Muslims'." He feels that it is very proper to learn from Master. Even though he is busy with his medical studies, he still spares time to join group meditation. Actually, his case is not the only cheerful one, there are several initiated Muslim disciples in Indonesia as well.

This Little Girl's Soul Is Great

A lovely little girl came to our branch center with her parents. When she first looked at Master's photo on a sample booklet cover, she was very fond of it. She at once picked up the booklet and embraced it. She kept on staring at Master's photo not wanting to put it down even when it was time to leave the center. Because of this, her parents felt a bit embarrassed, hoping that their child would put the booklet back. One fellow disciple who was around watching what had happened, approached the parents and told them they might take the booklet home. After hearing that, the little girl cheerfully hugged the booklet and happily left with her parents.

Report From
Mainland China

Intensive Meditation To Celebrate
Mid-Autumn Festival

The fellow initiates in Hainan Island specially organized an intensive meditation activity around the Mid-Autumn Festival in order to express their gratitude toward Master's compassion. It was the most meaningful Mid-Autumn Festival they have ever spent.

The site chosen for meditation was a peaceful scenic countryside by the lake. Everyone meditated on the grass lawn and enjoyed the natural atmosphere. On the first day of meditation, many fish in the lake swam toward the grassland where the initiates were meditating and leapt up and down incessantly as if to welcome their arrival. For a few days, the sun and clouds in the sky demonstrated their most miraculous beauty.

The weather had been very hot and by the afternoon everybody could not resist the temptation and jumped into the lake to enjoy a natural baptism in the water. The fish swam around among the people just like friends, without any fear.

The weather was fine on Mid-Autumn Day. At night, the moon that rose from the woods was extremely beautiful! After meditation, everyone sat in a circle, enjoying the moon, songs, dance performances, stories and jokes and spent a relaxed and happy Mid-Autumn night. The party ended warmly with everyone singing songs like 'Longing for yonder shore' and 'Little lambs want to go home.'

Report From
San Jose,USA

World Vegetarian Day Celebration

In the beginning of October, at the Seventh Annual World Vegetarian Day Celebration, fellow initiates from San Francisco, San Jose, and Sacramento attended this big event and helped promote Master's teachings and vegetarianism.

The publications booth displayed Master's English sample booklets (new edition) and magazines and showed videotapes of Master's lectures. People showed genuine interest in Master's teachings and enthusiastically asked for copies of our booklets. Almost all of the available booklets were taken away.

The International Vegetarian House of the Supreme Master Ching Hai Meditation Associations, San Jose branch, also had a food booth to promote vegetarianism. The delicious selection of dishes attracted the attention of many vegetarians! Of the food booths present at the event, our booth stirred the most business by far. From the morning till evening, the long lines of customers seldom let up.

Because of that day's activities, we also created relations with speakers of some important activist groups. In addition, we brought awareness to all passersby about the atrocities occurring in the refugee camps, particularly at the Whitehead Detention Center in Hong Kong. Special pamphlets were created and handed out to those who wanted more information about the plight of the refugees. We got over 500 signatures from other vegetarians, and these will be sent with a powerful letter to local representatives in Congress.

Report From
Atlanta

An Old Woman With Strong Faith

Hoping that the merit from group meditation can gradually cleanse Atlanta City, the Atlanta Center now holds an additional group meditation each week. An old woman who comes from Beijing came across Master's teachings when she was in Mainland China. Apart from visiting her relatives, her biggest wish for this trip was to see Master and find out more about Her. Due to her sincerity and longing, she had the chance to read one of Master's magazines at a housewarming party held by one of her daughter's friends. She then got in touch with the center, sincerely paying her respect to Master. She is now awaiting initiation.

Report From
Oregon, USA

Master's Love Spreading Towards
The Shelter For The Homeless

Every other weekend for over a year now the fellow initiates from Oregon have been working in the "Transition Project" following group meditation.

The Transition Project is a shelter for more than 100 homeless people who have become homeless after quitting drugs or alcohol, because of family trouble, or because they just got out of jail. They love the vegetarian food served by fellow initiates and also to hear about Master's teachings. With Master's blessing, there was even one homeless person who got initiation.

Report from
Pennsylvania, USA

Participating in China Day
Activity of Singapore

During the 6th China Day of Singapore, our fellow initiates exhibited Master's books and introduced vegetarian food in the Pennsylvania Garden State Art Center. The fellow initiates from New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania cooperated and participated in this activity.

Many onlookers were attracted to Master's lecture video shown in our book stall. Master's sample booklets and news magazines were also freely distributed there. Fellow initiates prepared more than ten various kinds of vegetarian snacks with their superb cooking skills. These were cheap and delicious, making the promotion of vegetarian food on that day very effective. The activity ended perfectly with Master's love and fellow initiates cooperation.

Report From
San Diego, USA

Sharing The Truth With
The Neighboring Country

The fellow initiates in San Diego made use of the weekend to spread the spiritual message in the sample booklet "The Key of Immediate Enlightenment" to friends near Tijuana, Mexico. The Mexicans are a friendly and peaceful people. Also, most of them have been influenced by Christianity since childhood and they were enthusiastic to receive the sample booklets.

The fellow initiates went around the center of the city to distribute booklets. By the afternoon, more than ten boxes had been given out. The fellow initiates who participated in the day's activity all felt filled with bliss when they thought of the thousands of people who were able to see Master's photo and to have the opportunity to learn about Her teachings.

Report From
Canada

Picnic And Rwanda Relief

Each year, fellow initiates from Toronto organize a picnic in the summer. This year the picnic was held on the long weekend of the Civic Holiday. The place was chosen midway between Toronto and Montreal at Sandbank Beach in Picton. By doing so, the fellow initiates from four cities (Ottawa, Montreal, Toronto and Kingston) could attend the picnic. The friends and families of fellow initiates enthusiastically participated as well. Two initiated families from the United States were also present at the picnic. This outdoor meeting was very successful. Everyone was relaxed, joyful and happy. This event not only made the fellow initiates feel closer to each other, but also gave their non-initiated friends and family members a chance to better understand the practitioners' life style and Master's teachings. The children had a very good time: they swam in the lake, played in the sand on the beach, went canoeing, and played ball, etc...

While we enjoyed our delicious vegetarian food and had a good time, we still remembered our brothers and sisters who are suffering throughout the world, especially the Rwandan refugees. We decided to raise funds to help the victims of the war in Rwanda.

Several thousand dollars was collected from the four centers and was sent to Rwanda through the Canadian Red Cross Society.

Report From
Poland

Distributing Sample Booklets
At A Festival In Warsaw

Fellow initiates distributed sample booklets at a festival called "Psychotronika 94" which was held in Warsaw. They also brought free sample booklets to bookstores in Warsaw and in other cities. Each booklet contained the telephone number of the contact person in Warsaw, so people interested in Master's teachings could call us immediately. Afterwards, the response was quite good. Many people called from different areas to enquire about the Quan Yin Method and Master's teachings. There were many dozens of people asking for the Convenient Method. All of them had good experiences. We also had initiation and even now there are many people preparing for initiation.

Report From
Bratislava, Slovak

Master Show Us The Way

A Quan Yin messenger went to Bratislava to distribute Master's Slovakian sample booklets. It was a new place for us. Some of the fellow practitioners in Vienna, Austria accompanied him there. We had no problem to reach the border, but it was very difficult to find the address of where we were supposed to stay. We parked somewhere to look at the map and suddenly we saw a lady who was driving by and trying to make a U-turn, so we ran out of the car and asked her to show us the way. She said, "Don't worry, just follow me." She led us to the place where we were going to stay and after that we gave her Master's sample booklet. She was very happy. We know that it was Master helping us all the time.

When we got there, two non-initiated people stayed there with us, so we introduced them to Master's teachings. After they read Master's sample booklet, they wanted to practice the Convenient Method. They also helped us find several big universities where we could leave many boxes of Master's sample booklets for the students and people to read. A lot of people took Master's sample booklets and read it right away, because Master's picture is so beautiful and attractive.

Letters between Master and Disciples

By Fellow Initiate Darpan In Switzerland (Originally in German)

Dear Master Ching Hai,

I was a disciple of a certain master who passed away two years ago. I learned from him about meditation and other things in daily life. Although I was not courageous enough to get closer to him, I never thought of leaving him. Now that I have known You, and found that You are equally perfect and holy beyond description, I don't want to leave You either. Will You please advise me how should I carry on with my spiritual practice? I have another problem that needs Your clarification: You said that we should not heal people by spiritual power so that we may return to the Heavenly Kingdom earlier. Please forgive me for being unable to fully understand the meaning of this statement. Occasionally, I still instruct people about spiritual powers, in order to rouse their own underlying power and to further realize the existence of the most holy power. However, I do not heal them, I am only acting as a communication bridge. Sometimes, I teach meditation classes, or teach some self-healing methods in the healing groups. I do get remuneration from this. This job gives me quite lot of happiness. Is this job also within the criteria of healing people with spiritual power as mentioned by You? (At present, I am engaged in the job of observing the color of the people's spiritual aura.) I have no idea what type of job I should pursue now!
Frankly speaking, having to earn money for living as I am still in the world, I have always been puzzled and doubtful about the above-mentioned situation. I am confident that I am talented and have many capabilities, yet I am not clear as to what occupation I should pick. My dearest Master Ching Hai, I don't want to miss the plane back to the Heavenly Kingdom. What is the suitable job for me that won't waste my time?

                                                      Most cordially, Yours,
                                             Darpan

Dear Darpan,

All enlightened Masters or saints come to this world for the sake of reminding us of our God quality within, and leading us back to the source of God. The Quan Yin Method is the highest method. We can truly recognize God's glory only through meditating every day to communicate with the almighty power of God within. This is exactly what the saints and enlightened Masters wish to teach us. Therefore, practicing the Quan Yin Method does not affect your respect and remembrance of your previous masters. Instead, it is the best way to repay them. In this material world, it is very natural that we heal physical disease with physical methods. Healing people with spiritual or miracle power is violating the laws of the universe. You are intervening in other people's karma, that you must repay for them. Before we have reached the ultimate enlightenment in our spiritual practice, we are not strong enough to carry other people's karma. At the same time, we are not concentrating all our energy on realizing the highest, almighty quality of God within us. Instead, our merits are squandered, and we stop in the level of using the petty miracle powers within the three realms. Consequently, our arrival date to the Heavenly Kingdom is delayed. Therefore, any enlightened Master would advise their disciples not to tamper with miracle power. This is to protect the spiritual practitioners. Furthermore, sometimes God will remind people through suffering and disease, that the material world is ephemeral, that we should search for eternal life--only soul liberation is the ultimate goal. Thus, if we don't fully understand God's will, our good intentions are not really beneficial to others. Each of us has God's almighty power within. If any kind of situation makes us forget to develop our inner God power, or if it induces others to forget to rely on their inner God, then it is wrong.
If the job that you mentioned involves no miracle power, and is only introducing healing methods of physical exercise or massage, then it is all right. However, observing the color of spiritual auras is also using miracle power, and thus is detrimental to your practice. I would advise you to stop wasting your concentration in this small corner, and thereby forgetting the whole. It is much more important to heal spiritual illnesses then even bodily ones will also get benefits. The highest task is helping others to find the true method of communicating with God, and they can go back to the Heavenly Kingdom quickly forever healed of all sorrow!

Wishing you progress in your practice, Master's love is forever with you!

The Enigma Of Yin And Yang

-- Spoken in Chinese by The Supreme Master Ching Hai at Hsihu Center
Formosa on Oct. 10, 1994.

Why would most people like to have a boyfriend or a girlfriend? It is because he or she lacks the Yin (feminine aspect) or Yang (masculine aspect). We are born with the desire to find God. Before we succeed, we take whatever is most convenient. Therefore, we seek boyfriends or girlfriends, or get married, etc. When in love, each person gives the other either Yin or Yang. So, the two of them are very happy, very much at ease and contented. Therefore, when you are really in love, wow! You are so happy, because you give naturally, and then you have the Yin and Yang naturally. God arranges them to flow between you. However, people tend to forget later, and become unnatural. When in love longer, they expect from each other! They have been so happy in love because the Yin and Yang energies have been replenishing each other naturally. Suddenly, one day, they will get used to this kind of feeling, thinking it is because of the other person that they are so happy, not realizing that God is charging them naturally. When you are not thinking, God flows this energy to the two of you simultaneously and naturally supplements you. This is being given naturally when you are not thinking, so the two of you are happy.

As you start to think, then we say "missing", missing the other person. We think we are happy because of that person. Then, we begin to have attachment, and want to bind him to our sides, wishing to retain this happiness forever, just like when freshly in love. As we start thinking in this way, the energy is transformed into a limited one. We think it is from the other person instead of from God, so the energy is suddenly severed, understand? The power of our thoughts is so strong that anything would come true accordingly. So, as your thought emerges, the system is disconnected. The two persons then rely on each other, because they feel they are lacking something! They will keep searching. Unable to get contentment, they would capture, bind and cling to each other, and sink deeper in agony together.

Originally, they were two persons, now they stick together as if they have transformed into one, but still with two egos. (Master and everyone laugh.) Do you understand? The energies stick together, but not the egos! (Master and everyone laugh.) And then the problem starts right here. Each of us originally have our own energy and ego, controlling our own life, and being our own master. Before knowing the other person, we were always our own master! Today, I will watch TV, eat a certain vegetarian dish and I myself want to eat it, without caring about anyone. As the two get together and become one later, they supplement each other, and are happy together. However, their egos have not become one. Both of them are not accustomed to having two egos, and would only follow their individual ego. She wants to go swimming, while he prefers watching TV. The two heads simply won't coordinate, and it could be very troublesome. Both of them want to be the boss, though not deliberately. They have forgotten that all their capital is now in the same investment, but with two bosses. (Master and everyone laugh.) Do you understand what I mean? (Understand!) Then, the two bosses start quarrelling, as both want to take charge.

So, you see, this is where marriage failures start. The quarrels carry on, not contented with the love, the two egos try to become the only boss, destroying or suppressing the other one. As both of them are doing the same, there are struggles and agonies. Love vanishes, followed by the energy also vanishing. The plug to the greatest energy supply from God is disconnected. Now, they can only rely on themselves. Their vitality is limited, so they feel it is diminishing. They start blaming one another: "You don't love me anymore!" Then, they would pick faults with each other. "Why are you becoming like this?" They never saw any faults before, when they were abundant in vitality and bliss. Even when his hair turned white, it would not be noticed, (Master and everyone laugh.) not even when the floor is covered with fallen hair. (Master and everyone laugh.) They simply sweep the floor while singing, "La-la-la..." (Master and everyone laugh.) The hair is beautiful, I love you..." Now, they can't stand seeing one single hair on the pillow. They are picking faults, here, there and everywhere. It is because they are no longer happy, not contented, also because of the two egos. The two bosses are fighting for control. Since both of them want to take charge, surely one of them has to be eliminated!

As a new spiritual practitioner, our greatest fear is being attracted to some heretical paths. Heretical paths, meaning side tracks, not necessarily those inscribing mantras, or reciting hu-la-hop. This is not definite. Heretical path simply means not the path that we want to walk on. New practitioners are not steady enough to resist the allure of lust and passion. Then we will become weaker, and forget to get the vitality from God. We are finished when we depend on the other feeble person to render us happiness. Once overpowered, our spiritual practice would stop dead, not an inch of further progress.

That was why ancient people advised practitioners to become monks. Having become a monk, you better don't look at girls anymore. There is an Indian saying: Even the girl is seventy years old, teeth all gone (Master and everyone laugh.), hair all gone, dying on her bed, still don't look at her. (Master and everyone laugh.) They were frightened to such extent, understand? It is because, they fear that the new practitioners cannot steady their mind. Once abducted, their affinity with God is severed. Without the connection, he would think the other person can give him happiness. Therefore, their vitality is getting less, because they rely on each other. Observing that you are relying on someone else, God would say, "Okay! You don't need me anymore! Good bye!" This is a natural and automatic system, understand? You get what you asked for. So, the Bible says: If you pray to God, and find your Kingdom of God within, all will be added unto you. If all you asked for is that tiny petty drop, then it is all you will get. This is the way with the automatic system. This is why people in the world cannot find God. They recite so many scriptures each day, but they can see no one. Whatever they prayed for is not answered, understand? They are either relying on people, or on those inscribed or typewritten words. What can God do about it?

When we are in love with someone, our vitality would be united with that of the other party, not detachable. Not detachable but with two heads. When the two heads are heading for different directions, there is big trouble, causing quarrels and arguments, understand? Now, do you understand why there are quarrels? Think about it and you can understand. Both of them want to be the boss. Sometimes, it is not intentional, not deliberate, just a habit. We were used to being single. From our birth until now, twenty or thirty years old, we always walk alone, making our own decisions, deciding when we will eat, and when to go to the toilet. (Laughters) Oh! That is still negotiable! (Master and everyone laugh.) But, negotiation won't work in most cases. Each one sternly maintains their self-righteousness. Sometimes, this may not be deliberate, only a habit, not realizing that they should also consider the other party. Therefore, most marriage and love would be broken at a certain stage. We really cannot blame the people outside for being in love today, but not anymore on tomorrow, getting married today, and getting divorced next year.... They simply do not understand the mental state and this kind of system.

When two persons are in love, they replenish each other. One providing the Yin energy, the other providing the Yang. Sigh! It is so healing (Master and all laugh) so delightful, and so you get addicted, understand? It's because humans also represent God, they are equipped with a power generator similar to that of God! Therefore, when that person loves you, it resembles God loving you, so you are very happy. If the two of you love each other, well, both of you are fully charged, right? You may have observed that people in love look like idiots, care about nothing. (Master and everyone laugh.) The most painful moment is when they are forsaken, or when the love has just been cut off. It is as if the vitality is lost, the electric current is abruptly disconnected, so it is very painful. This is why people love to be in love, because of the happiness. Actually, the happiness is not due to that person, but due to fact that the vitalizing energy was replenished.

We won't be disappointed if we go for the most mighty power generator in the very beginning, which is everlasting for our use. It is all right for us to fall in love after we have steadied our pace! It is all right to have a mate. I am just afraid that we might not want any at that time. It is all right to have one or have none. It is only more troublesome if you have one more ego. (Master and everyone laugh.) Otherwise, you have only one ego, save the trouble of two egos. Sleeping at night, one of you want to leave the windows open, the other wants them closed. One prefers to have the light on, the other wants them switched off. Even trifles could cause a quarrel, right? It will be even worse after you have a baby. One wishes the child would behave this way, the other one wants the other way. One teaches the child this, the other teaches another thing. No one would give in, and both think they are right, because they are both Gods. I am sorry! (Master and everyone laugh.)

Actually, the other half of our soul is not to be found in this world. Only when we have found our true self, then we have truly found the other half of our soul. Therefore, even when we were successful in marriage, wealthy, abundant in anything in this world, we still feel like we are lacking something! It is because one person could not have sufficient energy to revitalize another person, unless we understand where the vitalities of both parties really come from. Then, we don't have to worry about our supply being cut off. It might be simple to say, but difficult to understand. At least, you should have an idea about this, and then do your best to practice diligently each day. Our willpower will get stronger, and anything we wish for will come true. That is the time when we possess the almighty, invisible miracle power. Then, there is no need to recite any mantra. Simply think about it and you will have everything.

Master's Wonders

The Manifestation Body Of Master On The Bridge!

By A Fellow Initiate In Sichuan, Mainland China

Master Helped Me

Start On The Way Of Practice

On a certain day two years ago, while on my way home in the afternoon, I met an old woman about fifty years old. She was holding a black bag and asked me, "Where are you going, young lady?" I told her that I was going to the "Great Emperor Temple" and asked her to go there also and donate some "incense money". She said she did not believe in this, and her eyes kept looking at me for about half an hour. This old woman, with eyes full of compassion and a gentle voice, was so friendly that it made me feel special and a bit familiar. I eventually remembered that this woman looked like the same old woman who took care of me during the birth of my child. Afterwards, she asked me to visit her place. When I asked her where she lived, she said, "on the other side of the bridge." At that time, I realized that she was extraordinary. The sky was sunny before she left, but it changed instantly to a downpour. Once back home, I immediately became a full vegetarian.

More than a year before this episode, at a friend's home, I came across a book, which had the words "The Supreme Master Ching Hai" on the cover. Since then, I kept thinking about this name, and tried looking around for this book, but in vain. Twice in my dreams, Master told me to go to the temple and also showed me the way. Later on, I found a certain temple and related the above details to the monk-in-charge, who then showed me one photo of Master. Only then did I realize that the Supreme Master Ching Hai is the Master I have been looking for.

Master's Manifestation Form
On The Bridge

One day in August last year, while my mother was on the new bridge waiting for transportation, she saw an old man in his seventies holding a long pole. The old man asked my mother, "Madame, what are you doing here?" My mother replied, "Waiting for the transport." She also asked him casually whether or not he had eaten. He replied that he hadn't. My mother gave the old man fifty cents and then she left. Only later on when watching Master's videotapes did she recognize that the old man was Master Ching Hai, and that the long pole he was holding was actually Master's Wish-fulfilling Pole.

Master's Manifestation Form Visits My Home

On a certain afternoon this year, my son saw Master coming to our home and cried out, "Master! Master!" I turned around and saw a patch of white light. Later on that same day, my son demanded incessantly for initiation by Master. We made the contacts and soon he was given initiation.

The above events are proof that the omnipotent Master is also omnipresent in any time. Master is always by our sides. Master's omnipotent power fills the whole universe and at all times is saving sentient beings in various ways, visible or invisible. Master, I fully realize Your greatness and I thank You deeply for saving and helping me so many times. Now all my family members have received initiation. From now on, I will try my best to learn and to spread Master's teachings, so that more people with affinity will be saved.

The Word 'Blessing' Verifies A True Master

Narrated By A Fellow Initiate, Hang Zhou, Mainland China Recorded By A Resident Disciple in Hsihu, Formosa

A would-be initiate in Hang Zhou, after viewing three of Master's videotapes, has had numerous spiritual experiences. Very intrigued, he went to a fellow sister's house to borrow dozens of Master's videotapes, books and photographs. He also told the fellow sister about the story of his search for the Truth.

He had become a devotee of a master in Shanghai and followed him practicing the so-called highest method. This master was esteemed as one of the ten most famous monks in China. Previously, he practiced in the Esoteric Sect, the Zen Sect and the Pureland Sect. After knowing about Master, he realized the method that Master imparts is truly the supreme. He also noted that it was stated in the Surangama Sutra that the Quan Yin Method is the highest.

To confirm his judgement, he consulted the master to whom he had devoted. His master said to him, "It is sufficient to practice one method at home. Why do you need so many methods?' He replied, "I also want to become a Buddha. You have practiced various methods, so now I wish to do some research, too." His master said, "Ah! The Quan Yin Method is good of course! Go ahead if you want to practice It! However, do not abuse any magical power!" He was very happy after hearing that. This master had even given him a blessed word, using a brush to write the Chinese character 'blessing'. It was given to him after being blessed. He also knew that many people failed to get this character from his master. They knew that his master had a certain kind of power.

His master told him, "Place this word on your Buddha altar. It will duly respond if anything happens! If the method you practice, or the scriptures that you read do not belong to the true path, it will respond accordingly" After putting this word 'blessing' on the altar, it was truly effective! He likes to study all kinds of books. He did bring the book of another "super human" Buddhist very famous Chinese-American master to the altar. The book fell on the first try. He picked it up, but it fell on the ground again. He was puzzled after the book fell twice, and decided not to read it. He didn't even dare keep the book.

Since this word 'blessing' worked so well, he then used Master's books for a trial. He brought Master's book and stepped into the altar room. The book did not fall. He went inside and put Master's book on the altar table and turned to the first page. Upon opening the book, that word 'blessing', the one that his master had written for him, immediately drifted down and stuck to the book of Master Ching Hai! He was so emotional, and proclaimed, "This must be the supreme, this is definitely the highest. Therefore, it can't be wrong."

One Glance At An Enlightened Master

Is More Beneficial Than Years Of Practice

Narrated By A Fellow Initiate In Hanzhou, Mainland China Recorded By A Resident Disciple in Hsihu, Formosa

One of my husband's teachers has been studying a lot about the martial art of Tai Chi Chuan and wishes to publish a book about it based upon actual experiences. He especially came from Shanghai to stay in our house in Hangzhou, so that he might concentrate his efforts into writing the book. When he first arrived to our house, he saw Master's photo and immediately asked, "Who is this?" So, I introduced Master to him and showed him a sample booklet. He leafed through the booklet and said, "When I saw your Master's photo, I knew She was the world's most enlightened Master and Her method is the highest!"

When he was in Shanghai, he had studied the Esoteric sect, Zen Buddhism and Pureland Buddhism. However, he said he had never had such overwhelming response as when he first saw Master's photo and that he was baptized in light from head to toe. In the past, even when the masters of the Esoteric sect energized him, it was never like this. He felt as if he was energized all over and he knew it was to cleanse his karma. Because he is from a wealthy family, has many relatives living abroad, and because he is well educated he is rather arrogant and seldom admits to any shortcomings. However, this time it was different. After he saw Master's photo, there were obvious changes in his temperament. He kept telling me, "Now I know my sins are very serious. I have violated the precepts so much that I must be going to hell. Now Master must help clean me, only She has the great power to help me cleanse off my bad karma."

The day after he saw Master's photo, he was looking toward the sky through his wisdom eye while standing on the veranda, and strangely all the clouds and the fog naturally cleared away from the sky immediately. It was incredible! At that moment, he had a wondrous experience of enlightenment -- he saw in the mist of the dispersing fog the most beautiful phenomenon that he had ever seen, which was indescribable in our worldly language. Since then, every morning upon awakening, he repents in front of Master's photo; afterwards, he calms down so that he may immediately see the visions of Master and communicate with Her. He saw Master transforming in brilliant lights; sometimes, She was as transparent as crystals.

Because he had been begging Master every day to be Her disciple and be cleansed of his heavy karma, one day he had an experience in which Master told him, "If you sincerely want to receive initiation, fine, I'll send a Quan Yin messenger over, his name is the Reverend Tong X" (Note: The Reverend means someone noble, has a higher level, in fact, our fellow initiates practice the good Method diligently and keep the precepts clearly, then they possess the qualities of a venerable saint.) The next day, he came to ask me, "Is the Quan Yin messenger's name Tong X?" I said, "How did you know that?" He replied that Master told him, "Go to the Rev. Tong X for initiation." So I knew Master really communicated with him. He said that he had received more benefit from the instant he looked at Master's photo than from so many years of practicing Tai Chi Chuan, Chikong and the Esoteric sect.

Master Saved My Son

By Fellow Initiate Chen, Taipei, Formosa

The infinite compassion and almighty power of Master saved my son from a predestined misfortune. He has been restored to a healthy life. The immaculate care of Master is so tremendous, that I, being insignificant and feeble, can hardly even repay a tiny fraction of it.

At about one year old, an abnormal stiff growth appeared on a certain part of my son's body. Diagnosis at the hospital showed that it was a tumor. Judging from the location, the doctor said that the chance of a malignant growth was over ninety percent. The need for an operation was urgent. This bad news totally shattered me. With my husband, we brought the child home. Amid tears and worry, we made preparations for the hospital admission.

My mother and my younger brother, who were already initiated, told me that nothing serious would happen to my son because he looked so healthy and lively. Master would surely take care of him as long as we practice diligently. They often took turns with me to accompany the child and meditated for him all through the night. My younger brother who was in a retreat in the mountains also especially came down playing with the child, and meditated by his side. Being a very diligent practitioner, he helped greatly in calming me down. Hearing the news, some fellow initiates also came to my assistance, helping me through the ordeal with their spiritual encouragement.

Complying with the advice of the doctor, I completed the admission procedures quickly so that the operation could be done soon. In my heart, I left it all to Master. On the eve of admitting him to the hospital, in my anxiety and agony, I begged Master to take care of the child. Vaguely I fell into sleep. Suddenly, I saw Master dressed in yellow coming to me and my son. Master said, "Let me have a look." I took off the child's diaper. Master touched the child from head to toe, including the part of the tumor. I was so glad that I cried and said to Master, "I was hoping all the time that Master would come to look at the child. Now, Master has really come." I started weeping and could say nothing more. Master smiled and told me, "This is not really a tumor. Don't you know it?" After these words, Master vanished gradually.

When I woke up in the morning, the dream was still so vivid. I knew Master had come blessing the child, and all was being taken care of by Master. Subsequently, I became relaxed and took the child to hospital feeling reassured. In the hospital, I hung a green vest bearing Master's photograph next to the child's sick bed, so that he could see Master's picture each time he got up. When he was sleeping, I also covered him with this vest. Master's photograph was placed on the side table, and the tape recorder was playing Master's tapes continuously.

When accompanying the child into the operation room, I said to Master in my heart, "I left everything to You, Master!" Then, I walked out and meditated in the waiting room praying for Master to take care.

The operation was very smooth and successful. The next day, the doctor told us that the child could be discharged. I was absolutely amazed to see that the child had no difficulty in eating, sleeping or playing, and the wound was recovering so well. It was such a critical disease, one of life and death, yet he was healed so fast! Two weeks later came the diagnostic report: "It is a benign tumor, most unlikely to recur after the incision. The other half of the organ is also functioning normally." The tremendous weight in my heart was relieved. Thanks to Master for giving a new life to my son.

I believe that, had it not been for Master's care, my son could not possibly have overcome this predestined affliction so smoothly. It is also due to came to know so many compassionate, helpful fellow initiates to see me through this ordeal.

The chance of a benign tumor was less that one percent, yet it so fortunately turned out to be. Of course, it is all by Master's grace.

The Family of Saints

Narrated By Initiate Hardiyanto, of Surabaya, Indonesia Recorded By Initiate Jiang (Originally in Indonesian Language)

Shortly after my initiation, my wife who was not yet initiated would go with me each time to the meditation center. While I was meditating with the fellow practitioners in the hall, she would watch Master's video tapes and practice the Convenient Method of meditation in another room. Having finished her meditation, she would wait for me outside the meditation hall.

One day, when fellow practitioners exited the meditation hall one by one after the group meditation, she stared at the head of each initiate with wide opened eyes, with a bewildered expression. On the way home, I asked her, "What was that just then that amazed you so much?" She said, "When all of you were coming out of the meditation hall, I saw that everyone had a halo above their heads, some brighter and some dimmer. If the person was standing in a place could vaguely be seen, but in darker places, they were very brilliant. They were so beautiful, just like the auras on the head of Jesus Christ and His holy disciples as illustrated in the Bible. I was stunned and overwhelmed with amazement and envy."

Hearing my wife's words, my confidence has doubled and I am extremely delighted about being in the group of saints. I know to follow Master is exactly right and with 100% certainty practicing the Quan Yin Method, can lead one to liberation. Hence, I practice more diligently and I love and venerate Master even more.