Hong Kong/Thailand/Korea/Formosa/Philippines Mexico/U.S.A./Canada/Australia/U.K.

Aphorisms The Divine Meaning Of Work

Special Reports Have A Great Harvest!/Shopping For The Lunar New Year True Happiness/Gifts From Master Brought A Happy New Year

Master Says Enlightenment Awakens The Positive Power

Between Master And Disciples Experiencing And Observing Love In Small Details It Is Time For You To Take Some Tonic! Emperor Chien Lung's Royal Cooks

Master Tells Stories A Stingy Old Woman

Pearls Of Wisdom God Is Love

While On The Path Trouble Is Actually Bodhi An Apprentice To Love Reflections On My First Retreat

Spot Light Purifying The World With Pure Thoughts

Poems Western Lake, In A Dream In A Dream Last Night

News Bulletin Worldwide S.M. Fairy Clothes Fashion Show

Media Reports NewsTribune, U.S.A./Formosan Hsin Sen Post/United Daily News Liantong Daily News, Hualien, Formosa/The Morning Sun Daily News

Master's Words To Be A Messenger Of God's Gospel

Master's Wonder Put Down The Butcher's Knife To Become A Buddha At Once Firecrackers That Discharged Automatically The Heavenly Nectar Child, Don't Be Afraid

Front Line Let Peace Begin With Our Quan Yin Method Greeting The New Spiritual Year In Canada

Recommending A Good Book - "I Have Come To Take You Home"

Spiritual Interludes The More Nipping, The More Sprouting Perfect Bliss In My Heart

Letters Between Master And Disciples The Buddha's Grace Shines On My Whole Family

A True Account Of A Miraculous Person The Legend Of A Taoist (Part IV)

Elevation Of The Soul

Our Liaison Practitioners Throughout The World

Master's Words

To Be A Messenger Of God's Gospel

Spoken By The Supreme Master Ching Hai,
Group Meditation In Hawaii, USA. September 3, 1994.
(Originally in English)

The world always changes according to the mental expectation and the life attitude of the people of this planet. It change sometimes, so the best thing is we look up to God. And now we already have the connection with God, it's all right for us whether we come or we go, whether we stay or we go back to Him. It's all right, at least we don't fear. We have no fear, but we have to also sometimes pray for God's grace for our brothers and sisters in case they still can be saved in some ways. And please, God, please hasten it, yeah, the means for them. Yes... you can do is pray for the whole world because looks like we are going to have trouble as predicted by many of the clairvoyant people in the world, including your Americans, you know, famous the Dixson, Cayce. You know, huh? So you'd better pray and meditate.

We don't have too much time. We never have too much time. I hope you believe in what I say. I wish you do. And whatever we can save, we save. Whatever is damaged, well, that will be God's will.

Our world has been through a lot of upheaval, you know, changing. This is inevitable. There is no need to say if we are superstitious and thinking that the world will end, or something like that. We don't have to believe it. We don't have to. It will happen one day or another, right? Or it doesn't have to end. It's sometimes destroyed in some parts, and it will inconvenient a lot of people, and destroy a lot of people's lives and property. This is not something that's superstitious.

And you also try to work in your community, spreading the gospel, telling them that only God can save them. God saves us doesn't mean that God always will protect our house or protect our body, but He will save us afterward, after all the ephemeral things have gone. He saves us eternally. We will be there eternally.

Master Tells Stories

A Stingy Old Woman

Spoken by the Supreme Master Ching Hai, Hsihu Center, Formosa. Jan. 5, 1995
(Originally in English)

At the foot of a mountain in India, there lived an old women. This woman, she loved "seclusion." Most of people when they love seclusion, it means they want to be one with God, they want to be alone so that they can think of God, they can meditate on God, they can remember God, they can love God, they can see God, they can hear God, they can talk to God, etc.... That is a true seclusion.

But this woman is not this case, she was the worst of all the misers in the country, means she is very stingy. She lived alone in seclusion, just because she don't like to share her possession, her food with other people. Charity was unknown to her. She knows nothing about charity. She did not part with even one grain of rice for the Cambodian people. (Laughter) During her lifetime, never ever she give anything at all, not even her cleaning mop. When it's worn out, she would repair it, keep it somewhere in case and never give it to anyone.

Now there is a God, called Lord Vishnu, you know Vishnu, second world God and he watched with interest the life and action of this famous old lady. He found that she was to die soon, after New Year (laughter). After she eats the first rice cake, she's probably going to be choked to death. Actually, there are many Japanese old people choked on rice cakes during New Year festival. Make sure you don't eat too much rice cakes, you know, the sticky rice cake? I don't know how they can choke on it, but actually someone did. Maybe this lady will choke on sticky rice cakes on New Year and she'll die soon.

And the Lord saw that she has only three more days of her life on earth. (How good! So that people can share some of her possession after she's gone.) The Lord therefore called Busandi Maharaja to his side and say to him, "My very dear beloved Busandi, snatch something from her at least today, because tomorrow she has to die. When she dies, she will have some merit to her credit in that case, if you stole something from her, at least some chocolate or something (laughter), or maybe popcorns." (Laughter) Busandi nodded okay, in the modern language, okay.

And he took the form of a crow and sat on the tree near the house of Kachani; Kachani is an old woman's name. It was the time when she was washing a handful of black gram, soak in water for cooking her food. Now, Busandi decided to snatch away a beakful of it, and suddenly, at one leap, he flew near the vessel and took a beakful, a mouthful of grain with lightning speed, "chi!" (Laughter) But, the alert old woman grab him with the greater speed still, grab him in the neck like this. She wrung his neck, yuck! (Laughter) And kept it twisted, so that the grain would not slip down in his stomach. (Audience, in sympathy say, "Oh!") My goodness. Meanwhile, with her other hand, she parted the beak of the bird and squeezed out, took out the grains, to the last grain, from the throat of the struggling crow. Oh!

This really... she deserves the award from us (Laughter), "the most miserly woman in history". I don't know if there is such a story, there must be. I don't know, could be huh? Some people are so stingy and stupid, cruel, cold blooded. Busandi struggled for his life, gulp, gulp, gulp.... (Laughter) At last, he was let free after she thought all the grain have been poked out by her.

He flew to Lord Vishnu and fell at his feet, half dead. Lord Vishnu questioned him as to what had happened after he left him. Busandi gasp out the whole story, pantingly and said, "Oh Lord, I was almost strangled to death. I could not succeed in my mission. I'm very sorry. But I could not get even a grain of food from that wretched old woman. Then the Lord said, "Oh, Busandi, do not say so. Come, let me examine in your mouth. (Laughter). Open your mouth, let me have a look."

So, Busandi opened his beak, and the Lord Vishnu used his wisdom eye with the magnifying glass look into his throat, and find, "Ah, there is something there. (Laughter) What is it? Let me see what is it, let's see what is it, must be something." He saw a little bit of husk, the outer skin, shell of the grain, sticking to his palate. (Laughter) Thanks God! At least he has not wasted his time and struggled for nothing. And say, "Look, Busandi, there's a small bit of husk sticking to your palate. I am satisfied," the Lord says. (Oh! The Lord is easy to satisfy.)

So now, the old lady has earned some merit. Oh! Bless be the Lord, so compassionate and loving and merciful! Now he said, "Busandi, when she goes back to the world after her death, let her be fed on the husk of the particular grain which is found sticking to your palate. So the old woman will be eating that all her life long." And then, the Lord so saying, disappeared. Great and marvelous are the benefits of charity and righteousness, even involuntarily. Infinite and overwhelming is a love and compassion of the Lord, such is the mysterious potency of even the least act of kindness and charity. Probably she didn't want to take it out because she knows it is useless. Ah, it's not much there as you know. (Laughter)

The Lord Himself in His great love creates opportunities for the redemption and deification of the sinning human. When the old woman who did no meritorious act was ordained to get bread made of husk, even if she just left a little bit of husk sticking there. And if we give people a lot of things more, how much would we have? That is the conclusion, huh, that's the meaning of it.

While On The Path

Trouble Is Actually Bodhi

By Resident Disciple Huang, Hsihu, Formosa

To be focused is an important point I often forget, and Master frequently uses any situation to remind me of it. At one point, I had to be a driver quite often, therefore my own work piled up. Seeing my work load accumulating day by day, I couldn't help feeling worried and disturbed. So I tried my best to avoid any outside duty. One day, when I had just settled down to finish a letter, suddenly I was told that a driver was needed to deliver relief supplies. The matter being so urgent I didn't have time to think much, so I started off immediately.

On the way we talked and laughed; the journey was somehow relaxing and joyful. However, once on the highway, we entered a traffic jam. As time was limited, I felt a bit anxious. The fellow sister accompanying me, seeing that the condition was not favorable, became stern and said, "Hurry! Recite the Holy Names and be quick whenever possible." To tell the truth, my ego was a bit damaged at that moment because she was just talking and laughing with me, and now she was lecturing me with such a stern face. So, feeling not at all convinced I said, "How can one pass in such a crowded condition?" But she replied, "Don't talk, just depend on your intuition." As there was no alternative, I kept silent in obedience, reciting the Holy Names, and driving with concentration. In that way, we arrived at the destination smoothly and completed our duty successfully.

On the way back, I felt happy and relaxed, because I suddenly realized that Master had given me this lesson with a double meaning. In actuality, my work that had been piling up - was that not just like the traffic jam on the road? What was so wonderful was that at the right moment, Master used my driving experience to enlightened me on the secret of doing work, and to have the right attitude in facing problems. My conception changed and my mind broadened immediately.

From this experience, I realized that I should use a focused and positive attitude to replace the usual habits of the mind like worrying, being anxious, etc... I also realized that we can learn and be enlightened at any time and in any place. If we could only let go of our ego, be attentive, and sincerely want to learn, we would see that Master is teaching us all the time, helping us to go beyond our bad habits and our bad qualities. Every time I long for my qualities to be changed and elevated, I can feel Master's very deep and strong love surrounding me, continuously blessing and guiding me.

Thank You Master!

An Apprentice To Love

By Fellow Practitioner Lin, Nantou, Formosa

When I was a new initiate, I often heard fellow practitioners talk about karmic influences. Unknowingly I built a shield around myself, worrying that my cultivation might be harmed by other people's karma if I were not careful. However, I also felt inside that something was wrong. This concept seemed to be contradictory to the compassionate nature of the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. Master must have realized that this is a struggle common to the minds of many initiates, as She has given many detailed elaborations on this point.

In fact, Master has set a perfect example for everyone. Her unconditional giving, Her natural flow of love, are perfect models for us to learn from. Wherever there is suffering, Master immediately extends Her help to relieve the pain. Master does not want us to become narrow-minded Buddhas. She wants us to learn the infinite, boundless love of the Buddhas. Therefore, I am now doing my best to meditate conscientiously every day, to replenishing myself with the Master's infinite love and blessing.

Through participating in activities like cleaning the environment, helping the poor, and visiting the prisoners etc..., Master's intentions have become increasingly clearer to me. All these activities are lessons of love. We are apprentices in these lessons. With persistent practice, our love will become more abundant so that it can be extended naturally at any time.

Master, I know very well that no earthly language could ever express my inner gratitude. Besides, You would not mind whether Your disciples are grateful, because Your love is given without expecting anything in return. The best way that I can repay You is to be the best apprentice in spreading Your love!

Poems

Western Lake, In A Dream

By Fellow Initiate Ho, Melbourne, Australia
(Originally in English, Au Lac language & Chinese)

Golden sunset, Disappearing behind the Western Lake;

Red leaves,
Falling on the path of
Late autumn;

Alone,
In steps of longing,
Wandering,
By the Nectar River
My brother often mentions.

All because,
At the dreamlike Western Lake,
There was You,
My dearest Master.

Bright light,
Penetrating darkness before dawn;
Nature,
Echoing melodies of heartfelt delight.

Even though,
Seeing each other only in a dream...

The misty Western Lake was
Distinctive,
And bright,
Bathing in the boundless ocean of love.

The dreamlike Western Lake
Has You,
And the bright light!

** The author has never been to the Western Lake (Hsihu Center). His brother mentioned in the poem was once a resident at Hsihu for a period of time. In this issue, the poem "In A Dream Last Night", was written by his brother.

In A Dream Last Night

By Fellow Initiate Ho, Melbourne, Australia
(Originally in English, Au Lac language & Chinese)

Last night, I dreamt of the Eastern wind.
Misty moon was hanging above the Western Lake.
Little Nectar River whispered.
Asked if I remembered
Those fast bygone days.

Last night, I dreamt of Your holy countenance,
Elegant and brilliant as always.
Majestic as in the old days,
Your holy garment was as white as snow.
Sitting solemnly,
You sprinkled sweet nectar of wisdom,
Nourishing my withered heart.

Last night, I strolled in the holy meditation hall.
Bodhi trees still standing high,
Strong and never subdued by rain or gale.
With cool shadows,
Guarding those who were in the blissful state of samadhi.

Last night, I dreamt of spiritual aspirants
Walking in the forest of the Western Lake.
Longing for enlightenment, wanting wisdom,
Working hard weeding the wild grass in their hearts,
In the cold wind of winter.

Last night, in the state of unconsciousness,
The wind started blowing,
Awakening the dreamer.
O my fellow practitioners afar,
When will we meet again?
Or is it like water running towards the East,
Raising lightly thy sword of wisdom,
Concluding the affection,
Of a classmate who used to study under the same window?

The Great Master

By The Supreme Master Ching Hai
(Originally In Au Lac Language)

One hair
Carries mountains of merit
One toenail
Lights up the entire earth!
Your descent
Redirects the destinies of the five continents
Your grace
Encompasses countless worlds.

Your arrival
Is what I've been waiting for;
Eyes of oceans
Deep with Love and Mercy,
Your light
Dignified and extraordinary,
Guiding lost souls
Back to the Original Abode

The whole universe
Cheers aloud: "Hurrah!"
Falling to my knees
My heart can speak no word;
Worldly eyes recognize not
Your venerable Beauty
Ordinary hearts know not
Your unparalleled greatness!

Why is it me
Gifted with such Blessings
When heaven and earth
Still lost and half asleep?
How many thousand years of practice
To come to such a day
To be near Your side,
Like green palms
Shading the desert
Ye, the protector of our Souls
With matchless power

Precious stones and pearls
In the whole universe
Cannot compare to a speck of dust
On Your holy feet.
In tears
I secretly pity the world
Heading toward
Such a road of sorrow!
You have already come
Yet they know not, hear not,
Their precious lives
Tortured in boundless suffering

I want to cast
Clouds high in the sky
Joyously call Your name
Amid winds and clouds.
Engrave Your name
On every morning star
Call the world
To wake up with the sun
Do come and listen
To the words of the Holy Saint
Do come and share
The delightfulness;
Do come and greet
The heavenly Light and precious Tone

The day when
The universe sings happily
To receive One and Only.

The day when
The Master, the Almighty Love
Returns the universe
To us all!
Rajburg, India

Pearls Of Wisdom

God Is Love

Spoken by the Supreme Master Ching Hai, Hsihu Center, Formosa
September 24, 1991, (Originally In English)

Everyone Is God's Child

So, everything is made for purpose. Even some things we think very bad, but in a proper use, they are useful. Like in our home, the toilet is the most unwanted place, but it is very necessary. Therefore, we learn to value things in life accordingly and not to judge rashly or blindly. In the Bible, it is stated that Judge not so that you shall not be judged. Whatever we laugh at today, we will be laughed at tomorrow ourselves.

So be careful how you treat others, especially your relatives. Even if they are very ignorant and do not understand your purpose of practicing Quan Yin Method, you should treat them courteously and nicely because they are also members of the family of God. No one is excepted, no one is not a member of the family of God. Even if they deny God, they don't want to know God, they are still God's children.

The World Is A Good School For Training

So in this world, everything has its place and purpose. So, he could not go around and say what is good, what is not good. We don't really know. Even though in the field of medicine, you know there are so many herbs that in some countries are very well-known and popular and much widely used, and in other countries, they are completely ignorant about it. And even some poisonous plants sometimes will be used for some healing purpose. Until we know everything, we better not accuse anything, or blame anything, or criticize anything, because God is very wise, God is very wise. When God makes everything, it's for some purpose. It's just that we don't know.

Therefore, many people look at this world as miserable, as great temptation. But some other people look at this world as a school, as a good school for training. It depends on our mental attitude. If we are very wise and practicing well in our method, and we feel this world is good.

Submit Our Will To God's Will

Since God is omnipresent, we cannot escape from God. So we might just well remember and submit our will to His will, so that our life has more meaning and our purpose of being a human will be quickly fulfilled. If something is there and we keep denying it, it is a waste of time. Right? And a waste of energy. We just naturally accept it, and that's it. And it is better for us and it is better for God.

Spiritual Interludes

The More Nipping, The More Sprouting

By Resident Disciple Wang, Hsihu, Formosa

Years ago, as a new resident, I was young and exuberant, and encountered a number of tests and setbacks; I felt very frustrated.

One day while we were cultivating land on a hill slope, Master quietly approached me. Looking at a small tea tree, She said softly, "Strange! The more you nip the green tea leaves, the more it sprouts. But, just pick a few hairs off a piglet and it nearly dies." Since I was born in the year of the pig (according to eastern tradition), I immediately understood Master's encouraging meaning. I also felt the sweetness in my heart. It was like finding the answer to the riddle in a game; indeed, Master is loving me all through the testing and refining process.

Previously when frustrated, not knowing how to balance, I felt like I was being cast from the sky to the earth. Now gradually, I have learned how to keep my inner balance and always aim at growing up continuously, sprouting nonstop, no matter what the outside circumstance or my level of practice is!

Perfect Bliss In My Heart

By Resident Disciple Wang, Hsihu, Formosa I love being together with everyone, but I also enjoy being alone. While working together in the center, planting grass, happily drinking tea, those times seems especially sweet and warm! Each corner is a beautiful painting, and I, my heart always like a child, wanders each of them in bliss!

Being alone is also intoxicating. Peacefully in my tent, listening to the raindrops falling.... How carefree it is! If you ask me about glorious heaven, it seems that it is here!

Spot Light

Purifying The World With Pure Thoughts

Spoken By the Supreme Master Ching Hai, Hsihu, Formosa
September 24, 1991 (Originally in English)

The Holy Shield Of Protection

When we meditate, or we remember God, our thoughts are holy and pure and unconditional, so we don't create anything bad, only holy vibrations and powerful blessing. So when these powerful blessings and thought power are generated around us and within our environment, and then it's raised up. And then other people who are also holy and practicing, they also generate the same thought, same blessing, same power. And like attracts like, and these attracting each other and make it become a very powerful force which defeats all the evil, negative influence in this world. And that's how the world will become purified and improved day by day. That's how we help the world without having to do charity work even, without having to go out and preach.

Of course, when we go out and preach, we bring, momentarily, some high vibrations within... into the minds of the audience and raise them up for a while, or maybe permanently, or maybe for a long time. And maybe these persons go home, and then they carry these vibrations with them, and they nourish them. And they become stable in this holy atmosphere. And they grow holy too, pure and stable. But it takes a powerful person to do that. Otherwise, we are not influencing people. On the contrary, we will be influenced by them. Because the mass, the majority of the people, are many more minds put together and we are only one. If we are not strong enough to cover all the minds up, then they will engulf us and we are in danger. Nevertheless, we do not need to do that. We could just sit in our corner, in the quiet corner of our bedroom and send out good thoughts, good vibrations, powerful blessing into the world and the universe at large.

Meditate In Order To Purify Our Thoughts

That's why we must meditate in order to purify our thoughts. Every time we remember God, every time we remember the holy names of God, we are empowered with these - purity, holiness and blessing. And whoever in the same consequence, in the same level with us, will be united with us at that moment. And we add it to the force, to the positive force to purify the world and to make the world better and better place. And to help those people who have similar minds with us to be more enforced, and to help those who come in contact with our thoughts, come in contact with our presence, to have more power to raise themselves up. That is the best way to help the world. Of course, when we help the world we help ourselves, because we are living in it. The cleaner the atmosphere, the better for us even. Not only for our neighbors. So helping others is helping ourselves. So every time, we should generate a very pure thought, unconditional love and good will - all the time, without wanting anything in return. This is the best way. Even if we have not reached the holy stage, or very great Bodhisattva or Buddha stage, at least we keep ourselves pure and uninfluenced by the negative power around us. Because in the world, many people who do not practice this goodness and who do not have real faith in God, they generate bad thoughts all the time. And they make the environment filthy by their own thoughts and deeds, and even speech. Spiritual Power Must Be Awakened

By An Enlightened Master

And if we are not covered by a holy shield, by our own mental protection, and by our own purity and good will, then we will be drowned by this massive negative power around us. That's why we must always repeat the Holy Names of God, which is charged by the Master Power at the time of initiation. That is what we call spiritual lineage, or dharma bloodline. If we don't have the bloodline or the spiritual lineage, we repeat the names like an empty word, has no power. Truly it is so. It is just like a material well-being. A person who has no money cannot give other people money. Even though he signs a check, it will be an empty check. No support, no bank account to support it.

Similarly, the spiritually empty person cannot charge other people with spiritual power, cannot revive other people's spiritual power. Even though the spiritual power is invisible, but it is existing. It must exist in order for a Saint or a Master to reawaken in the people, within people, their own spiritual power. They have it. Otherwise, it cannot just suddenly stand there and then make fire by themselves. Even though fire comes from the wood, but it needs something. Or it needs another firewood to burn it, or to make the fire within itself develop. Similarly, the Master is the one who has developed her or his own spiritual power, which can influence thousands, millions, the whole world and the whole universe. The stronger the Master, the larger the influence, and this we can know by coming in contact with that Master. We feel very calm when we sit with a spiritual Master. And if we go out with other people, some people evilminded or very fierce, we feel very restless and frightened. This is the invisible influence of the inner being which we cannot tell, but we feel. So accordingly, we try to live up to the Master's standard.

The Best Thought Is Just Think Of God

So we meditate. We try to purify our thoughts. The best thought is no thought. Therefore, if you repeat the Holy Names of God, that's enough. That is the best thought. They are very neutral, very holy and very powerful. At that moment, you have not the need to invoke the daily mind, the mundane mind. Because however good we think, sometimes it is still conditioned by the customs of the country, by the habit of the mass of our people and by the trend of the society. Therefore, the best thought is that we just think of God, because God is almighty, powerful, God can do everything. That means, at that moment, we submit our will to God's will. Let God rule the universe and we feel unburdened.

Special Reports

Lunar New Year Delights Have A Great Harvest!

Narrated By Fellow Initiate Huang, Taipei, Formosa
Recorded By Fellow Initiate Wu, Taipei, Formosa

The New Year was approaching, and fellow practitioners were inevitably wondering if Master would allow everyone to celebrate the New Year with Her at the Center? Perhaps, Master would play some "new tricks"! I was dreaming and expecting the same, but I was also a bit worried. What if my non-initiated husband refuses to come? Shall I leave him at home alone during the New Year? Before I could sort out my thoughts, Master's wisdom sword struck. She announced that fellow initiates should stay at home for the New Year! It was all right, whatever Master says, Her disciples do accordingly.

Complying with Master's instruction, I followed my husband obediently to visit his parents family, and those of my own mother and my foster mother. Household by household, we paid respect to the elders, and the younger relatives and friends. One thing special about this year, I set out bringing along Master's love, so my steps were nimble. At the dining table, they remarked that I was absolutely correct to have insisted on using vegetarian offerings when my foster mother passed away. When my own mother died, my sister-in-law knew that I would definitely not allow anyone to interfere and use meat offerings, so she did not bother asking me, thinking that it must be correct to use vegetarian offerings. She even told me with amazement that my mother's body was soft after she died.

Returning home on New Year's Day, I was totally bewildered when my husband reminded me to attend the group meditation in Ta Zee! He never acknowledged Master, much less listen to my introduction of Master's teachings or watch Her video tapes. What was happening now? Forget about it. Perhaps it was only a momentary blossoming of the flower. Just let things happen naturally, and leave everything to God! The group meditation is more important. However, the same thing happened before the several other major and small group meditations that followed, which proved it was not just a passing phenomenon. It was Master's power that caused such a drastic change in my husband.

Master, Your child is so grateful for Your immaculate love, Your wise guidance, which encompassed my family in a circle, and also all my relatives and friends in a large circle. Master, Your child is also grateful for helping her to understand one thing - act entirely according to Your instructions, and then we shall celebrate the harvest in the forthcoming year!

Shopping For The Lunar New Year

By Fellow Initiate Liu, Taipei, Formosa.

On the Lunar New Year's Eve, I went with some fellow initiates to the Vegetarian House at the Taipei Center to do some shopping for the Lunar New Year. For the spiritual shopping, I went to the book circulation center to choose some of Master's lecture videos. I also hoped that I could watch more of Master's videos over the New Year holiday, to solve the problems in my heart.

Faced with so many lecture videos, I really didn't know which to choose at that moment. Eventually, when I paid for my purchase, the amount was exactly the sum of money in my purse, not a penny more. From the contents of Master's lectures on the videos we purchased, all of us received exactly the revelations and answers that we were looking for. We could not help highly praising Master's wondrous arrangements!

Master's video tapes are the best assets in the world one can possess. They are also important spiritual food during the New Year holidays. Besides benefiting ourselves, our families, friends and relatives, and filling our lives with bliss, the tapes also enable us to understand Master's teachings. Indeed, several objectives can be achieved with this one gesture.

A Delightful Trace Of Green In The Chilly Winter

By Fellow Initiate Wu, Taipei, Formosa

Observing other people going home to rejoice in their family reunions, I was also looking for a temporary abode for my lonely self. With a sudden inspiration, I decided to go to my brother-in-law's house!

There was not a single vegetarian dish on the dining table, but never mind, I made myself at home while I was there. I took out the vegetarian food that I had prepared in advance and enjoyed the meal, as I quietly watched Master's video tape. Master's unexpected arrangements are truly wonderful. We can be Master's vehicles without saying a word. My eldest nephew, watching me eating the New Year's dinner alone, felt that this Auntie was very pathetic. So now and then, he would chat with me. He asked me, "Why do you have to be a vegetarian? What does Master mean when She says "guaranteed liberation"? Does transmigration truly exist?" He even mentioned that he could hear the sound current.... Then, I was enlightened! I understood why I had to be alone during this New Year. It was his longing that dragged my footsteps.

My nephew loved studying the earth and science phenomena, black holes in the universe, nebula, etc. So, naturally I told him somethings about the theory of evolution, extraterrestrials, flying saucers, UFOs and other phenomena in the universe. He kept nodding while listening. After I explained to him the terrible consequences of eating meat from the viewpoints of science and compassion, he now takes the initiative of asking his family for vegetarian meals. Although he is not eating vegetarian food at every meal, it seems that the vegetarian diet is not difficult for him.

When I gave him a necklace and pendant with Master's photo on it, he wore it without any hesitation. Once, he even told me in a very confident and serious expression, "I am safe as long as I have Master!" Observing that he had not the slightest doubt towards Master, no unnecessary struggle, or you could even say he was so very natural and at ease, I told him, "If you wish to follow Master to practice and become Her disciple, you may decide to take the initiation or not, when you grow a little older." He said happily, "Auntie, I will soon be old enough for the initiation!"

I am so grateful for Master's fantastic arrangement, which, in the chilly winter, delighted me unexpectedly with the trace of a beautiful green new shoot announcing the arrival of spring!

True Happiness

Narrated By Fellow Initiate Liu, Kaohsiung, Formosa
Recorded By Fellow Initiate Shih, Taipei, Formosa

The Chinese always cherish when family members gather together during the traditional Lunar New Year. Yet after initiation and beginning to practice, due to various reasons I have not gone home for a long time to celebrate the New Year. This year after being earnestly reminded by Master, my husband (also a fellow initiate) and I went back to his family in Taichung. We did not expect that our appearance would give my mother-in-law and the other relatives great surprise and joy. Only then did we realize that they very much longed for our return.

I cooked the feast on New Year's Eve. Within a short period of time, a number of delicious dishes were placed on the table. The whole family enjoyed the vegetarian feast and offered unending praise. They were surprised that vegetarian dishes could be prepared so deliciously and easily. This experience also changed their idea that vegetarian dishes are unpalatable.

The few days of getting together with family and friends during the New Year holidays moved me deeply. Seeing that they are influenced by the world's usual conceptions, constantly seeking impermanent happiness outside, and not knowing how to seek the inner, true source of bliss, I could only feel sorry for them. I realize even more that I, having the chance to meet an enlightened Master who transmits the dharma, and being able to practice the Quan Yin Method and become liberated from the bonds of worldly fatigue, am very fortunate indeed!

Gifts From Master Brought A Happy New Year

Narrated By An Initiate in High Island Refugee Camp
Recorded By An Initiate in Hong Kong

This Chinese Lunar New Year was a happy one indeed. The past few years in Hong Kong, I have spent the Spring Festivals in various detention camps, Chi Ma Wan, Shek Kong and High Island. Only this year did I taste the joy of the Spring Festival (New Years). All of this was due to Master's care and concern.

Every boat person in the camp received a gift from Master for the New Year. They were touched by Master's impartial generosity. They could hardly believe that each of them received such an abundant gift and this made them feel very excited and beam with smiles. All the sad faces disappeared.

Even though they are confined in the camp, the boat people still think a great deal about Spring Festivals. However, because they are limited by poor material conditions, they have not been able to take delight in celebrating the New Years' Festivals. This year in particular, some of the supplementary supplies had been cut down due to the forced repatriation. But now they were all saying, "It's so good! Everyone is rich for the New Year. The contents of each gift package are so abundant: tea bags, melon seeds, lotus seeds, chocolates, ginseng candy, preserved tangerine, candies, biscuits and a towel...." Youngsters could not wait to fill their mouths and then went everywhere to pay New Year visits. They all said that the towels were both practical and beautiful. They were ideal for washing one's face. Many people tried to guess the reason why Master sent the towels. The most popular opinion was: Master knows the suffering of the refugees, so She sent us towels to wipe our tears!

Master's New Year's gifts brought them a happy and relaxed festival atmosphere, something that has never been experienced in the camp before. The whole camp area was peaceful and calm, like a baby being intoxicated in its mother's embrace, whose love is as deep as the sea. I have lived here for many years, and have never enjoyed such a feeling. Even the camp authorities seemed to have been affected, in that the routine camp search before each New Year was canceled this year, thereby greatly reducing the inconvenience to the boat people. They could enjoy the festival more peacefully.

At the beginning of the New Year, everyone went around to pay New Year visits to each other, feeling very happy and relaxed. Youngsters could be seen running wooden sticks quickly along the wavy iron plates on the wall. The resounding sounds and rhythms produced were pleasing to the ear and very much resembled real fire crackers. This is a unique form of fire cracker celebration.

The attitudes of some of the boat people, who had previously been less than polite to the initiates, had also changed greatly. Now whenever they talk about Master, they also call Her "Master" or "Mother". One boat person warmly said to an initiate before going to sleep, "Please send words of gratitude to Master for me!"

Master's love not only made everyone in the camp have a happy New Year, but also brought out their inner qualities of beauty and virtue!

The Warmest New Year's Present

Recorded By Fellow Initiate Hou, Taipei, Formosa

The mother of a fellow initiate did not believe in Master very much. She was fond of visiting temples everywhere to burn incense and perform rituals of worship. Eventually she was troubled by many astral beings and frequently heard them whispering into her ears words such as "Your family is going to be this ...." or "Your neighbors are going to be that ....", which exhausted her mentally. Once, for more than ten days, she could not sleep well, not even for a moment. She was very close to having a breakdown and was almost taken to a mental hospital.

Observing the state of her mother, this fellow initiate played Master's Buddhist chanting tape on her walkman for her mother to listen to. Miraculously, her mother could finally have a good night's sleep!

From then on, her mother's attitude towards Master changed, and she received initiation at the end of last year. The fellow initiate felt that Master had given her the best and warmest New Year's present. This New Years, not only did she spend the holidays happily with her mother, but they also attended the New Year's Day group meditation in Taipei together!

The Greatness Within The Ordinary

By Fellow Initiate Lu, Taipei, Formosa

On every special day, I especially miss Hsihu Center, the place that awakened us to our mission in spiritual practice. It is a place for us to fulfill our dreams and experience our lives; it is also a courier station for our fellow initiates on the way to the Truth.

Chinese New Year's Day was coming, and with the usual feeling, we longed for Master's return to this hometown of the Quan Yin family to have a reunion with us. Each time that Master throws into the air the colorful blessed candies and gives us lucky red envelopes along with the New Year's blessings, all the toil and hard work of the past year change instantly into millions of golden lotus blossoms!

This year, Master especially instructed us to spend the New Year's holidays at home and treasure the reunion time with our families. That's right! Since when did "home" become a name that is familiar yet far away? It is familiar because we have grown accustomed to having the universe as our home; it is far away because it has been a long time since we have paid attention to the home that created our childhood stories. Through the contemplation of home, our loving and considerate Master skillfully guided me, a careless child, into the time tunnel in search of the threads of self realization.

Once when I was young, after a strong typhoon, an ugly gosling was washed down from the swollen river in front of my house. I took it home, built it a warm nest, and nursed it back to health. Each day after school, the first thing I did was run to the field to pick some young and tender lettuce to feed it. Unconsciously, it grew up into a beautiful white goose, and I was so happy!

One day after school, I could not find my little friend; I anxiously searched all over the place. Finally, I found its pale body on the dinner table. The reason given by the adults was that it would give me extra nourishment, since I was such a small and thin child. Because of this incident, I harbored a kind of hidden bitterness toward my mother for many years until Master's prompting, which helped me realize that I had been wrong! From my mother's graying hair, I sensed the glorious love of a mother. During times of instability and poverty, a mother's worst fear is that her child will be cold and hungry; with no complaint, with no regret, her selfless love lasts for many decades. If we claim that we are the sons of Buddhas, then our parents are the guardian Bodhisattvas that bore and nursed us. How worthy are we to be compared with them even to the slightest degree? I felt ashamed! Without Master's timely, direct and sharp warning and guidance, I probably would not have understood the greatness within the ordinary.

A True Account Of A Miraculous Person

The Legend Of A Taoist (Part IV)

Narrated By Fellow Initiate Hu, Nantou, Formosa
Recorded By Resident Disciple, Hsihu Center, Formosa

The Taoist's shabby and modest Min Hu Temple was built on Wu Sheh Mountain in Taichung, a place of green mountains and clear waters. In front of the Taoist Temple, there was a lake named Min Hu. Many mysterious events happened there when the Taoist was living on the mountain....

Appearance Of The Water Ghost

Several decades ago, Wu Sheh was still a remote and restricted mountain area. Before receiving initiation, the Taoist as well as the other villagers, used to catch fish in the lake to sustain their livelihood. One evening he was catching fish as usual. The local police came to fine them. The Taoist warned the policeman, "Don't come down here! This surrounding area is very dangerous. The water ghost often appears and harms people."

How could the policeman believe his words? He retorted, "Do you think that I can be as easily fooled as a child? Unless I see it with my own eyes, I'd never believe it even if I were killed." The Taoist told him, "I am not fooling you! If you don't believe me, I will catch a water ghost for you to see tomorrow evening." The two of them confirmed the appointment.

They came to the lake the next evening as appointed. The Taoist had prepared a fish net. Rowing the boat slowly and chanting his mantra, he cast a 'net of the eight diagrams'. (This is a special Taoist symbol.) After a short while, he really caught a 'water ghost'. He told the policeman, "You must not harm it!" He then slowly brought it ashore. The policeman was bewildered by the sight! He used to think that a 'water ghost' was some sort of invisible ghost. However, this 'water ghost' appearing before him looked exactly like a human being, only shorter in physique, about one to two feet tall. Its eyes were red, and blinked continuously. It kept uttering a "Gee" sound, and the whole body was covered with short hair.

The Taoist said to it, "Don't live in here anymore because you will frighten people. Besides, it's dangerous for you as you may be caught by a fish net again. So, you had better go to another place faraway!" He then put it back to the lake, and continued to catch fish. The Taoist had particularly good luck that night. He went home with a big catch. The 'water ghost' helped him by chasing the fish into his net.

There Is No Enjoyment In Using The Money Earned By Killing

The Taoist always caught plenty of fish, thus providing him with a good income. So, fishing was his second profession.

However, one afternoon when he was resting at home, the Manjusri Bodhisattva suddenly appeared and told him, "The time has come for you to stop fishing." The Taoist was earning a handsome income of one to two thousand N.T. dollars each day through fishing, and of course he was unwilling to give it up. He replied, "I am not doing anything bad by fishing. Why ask me to stop fishing?" The Manjusri Bodhisattva said, "Your time has come. You must not fish anymore. If you ignore my advice and carry on fishing, you will become blind. You may decide on either giving up fishing or becoming a blind man." The Taoist said, "It is impossible! My eyes are in perfect condition. How can I become blind?" Because he would not listen, the Manjusri Bodhisattva disappeared. Subsequently, the next day, out of his alertness, he saw an unidentified black force suddenly rush towards his eyes. He had no time to avoid it. His eyes pained a lot as if someone had put sand in them, and they were flooding with tears.

The next day, he told his wife, "My eyes will be gone soon. I almost can't see anything." He also told her of the encounter he had with the Manjusri Bodhisattva the day before. His wife quickly took him to see the ophthalmologist, but the two ophthalmologists both concluded that his eyes were normal, and could detect nothing wrong. The Taoist then realized that this was an invisible karmic illness. When he returned home, he prayed to the deities worshipped in the Taoist Temple: "Please restore the vision to my eyes. I will consider giving up fishing."

The next evening, the Manjusri Bodhisattva appeared again and said, "I am the Manjusri Bodhisattva. I have an affinity with you as Master and disciple. From now on, you must stop fishing. This incurs killing karma. Use the skills that you have learned in your life to help the world and people." The Taoist said, "I am earning one to two thousand N.T. dollars each day by fishing. How do I sustain my livelihood after giving up fishing?" The Manjusri Bodhisattva said, "Don't worry, you will earn your living naturally!" (At that time, the Taoist seldom charged people who came asking for help at his Taoist Temple. Observing people's difficulties, he would even voluntarily give them money.)

The Taoist then promised the Manjusri Bodhisattva that he would give up fishing. He also begged for his eyesight to be restored so that he could take care of his fishing boat and nets. The Manjusri Bodhisattva then thrust a golden pill into his mouth, and told him to swallow it and then go to sleep and rest. When he woke up the next day, his eyes had really recovered to normal. Delightedly, the Taoist went to the lake and towed the fishing boat and all the fishing equipment ashore. He then burnt them and hence concluded his fishing career. The Taoist recalled: "There is no enjoyment in using the money earned by killing!" He said this because almost all the money he earned by fishing was spent taking care of his ill wife when she was hospitalized, rather than being used to sustain his livelihood. His livelihood was actually supported by selling dried day lilies and bamboo shoots. The Taoist said that the consequences will not be good from using the money earned by killing. Fortunately, the Manjusri Bodhisattva manifested to rescue him, otherwise God only knows how much more karma he would have accrued!

Bravely Protecting The Holy Books

One day shortly after he was initiated, he was away from the mountain handling some matters with his wife. On the way home, they passed a temple. He saw many people carrying some books and putting them outside that temple. Curious, he told the driver to stop. He got out to ask if the books were so-called 'free holy scriptures', that he could bring back home to read. Getting closer, he found that the books were Master's sample booklets!

The Taoist sensed something wrong. Why are the books being piled on the ground so casually? He asked the people moving the books, "Where did you get these books? Why are you putting them here?" The person answered, "These books were distributed by the disciples of the Supreme Master Ching Hai. We collected the books after they were distributed to keep the people from reading them. We are going to burn them." Hearing this, the Taoist was extremely furious and said to the man, "These are my Master's books. Why do you want to burn them? I won't let you burn my Master's books." He then summoned his wife and the driver, preparing to load the books into the car and bring them home.

Suddenly, a young person jumped out and yelled loudly at the Taoist, "What are you doing here?" The Taoist most anxious to protect the dharma, could not suppress his temper. He snapped back, "What are you howling at? These are my Master's books. What right have you got to burn them?" The young man said, "Your Master is the devil." Hearing this comment, the Taoist started quarreling with him. He said, "My Master teaches people to keep the five precepts and meditate each day to purify our acts, speech and thoughts. She has never taught people to do anything evil. In transmitting the method, She has never accepted any red envelope (fee for the service). Also, She never criticizes anyone. How can She be the devil? It is the devil's behavior to act like you, randomly burning other's books and criticizing people. What kind of master teaches you to do this? The master teaching this type of disciple is indeed the devil!" Finishing his words, he began loading the books into the car. The young man was furious and was about to assault the Taoist. Fortunately, he was stopped by the many people nearby . However, he still continued to scold in very rude language. The Taoist pointed at him and said, "If you have the guts then ask your master to come. If you become too unbearable, I will inscribe a charm and burn it at the 'Bai Sheng Gong' (a temple for worshipping wandering souls, ghosts.). It would take only three days to kill your master. For you, one day would be enough!" Hearing his words, the young man was even more enraged. A local elderly person who was standing nearby approached him and said, "Young man, don't ignore his warning. This man is the abbot of the Min Hu Temple. He speaks the truth. He really has the power. Don't provoke him any more, just let him take the books away." Heeding the old man's advice, the young person yielded like a deflated ball, and dared not speak any more. So, the Taoist and his wife took the several thousand sample books back to his temple. Gradually, they distributed them to people with affinity, introducing Master's teachings of the Truth to them.

With deep emotion, the Taoist said, "Actually, those people were jealous of Master. Watching Master becoming famous, Her disciples increasing more and more in number, they defamed Master everywhere. Spiritual practitioners should tolerate and live with each other in peace. The more they practice, they should be more open-minded and magnanimous. Just because they were not practicing the correct method, and lacked the teaching of a good enlightened Master, they became religion extremists who could not tolerate the existence of others. However, real gold is not afraid of being tempered by fire. If Master is not an enlightened Master, a real ancient Buddha, who comes to deliver sentient beings, how could a female, having no relatives or friends in Formosa, without any financial support, stand fast against the numerous defamations and attacks, and become even stronger with each setback? Master is not only famous in Formosa. Her reputation is widely spread throughout the world. If Her disciples did not receive real benefits and spiritual experiences from the method She teaches, they would have all been frightened off by the defamation long ago. How could they still support and believe in Master so much?"

Aphorisms

By the Supreme Master Ching Hai

I Have Come To Take You Home

A Special Selection Of Quotes And Spiritual Teachings By The Supreme Master Ching Hai

(Compiled By Sophie Lapaire and Pamela Millar)

(English Edition)

The sound of Truth arrives across time and space. Awakened souls, the time has come to recognize your dear ones. Lost travellers, the light signals for landing are already lit. We look back and suddenly find that the One leading us home is already in front of our eyes.

In listening to the Supreme Master Ching Hai's lectures, there is always the feeling of wishing that they would not stop, longing for more. The audience feel sorry that the time they are together is so short. Their only wish is that the lecture could be extended indefinitely, so that sentient beings with affinity would be able to be cleansed and purified by the great wisdom and love, to take the spiritual journey into the mysterious universe, and to find solace for the suffering of life after life of reincarnation, wanting to make up for the regret of the late reunion with the Mother of souls.

The Supreme Master Ching Hai's American disciples take the opportunity of this beautiful Spring season to present these words of wisdom: "I Have Come To Take You Home". This book is a collection of related topics from numerous English lectures by the Supreme Master. Each quotation is followed by a reference number which corresponds to the original lecture, allowing the reader to explore further, as well as appreciate Master's whole lecture.

This book offers the Supreme Master Ching Hai's fresh perspectives on the age old wisdom found in all religious and spiritual scriptures. Its inspiring content satisfies the public's curiosity brought about by the misunderstanding of religious and spiritual practices in the world. Also introduced in this book is the Method, as taught by the Supreme Master Ching Hai, for you to find your own inner 'Supreme Master'.

With her usual light hearted sense of humor, the Supreme Master offers a practical guide on how to incorporate spiritual practice into our daily lives, how to overcome obstacles, and how to use meditation as a means for a happier and more fulfilling life, etc.. The truth we all know, only we forget it far too often. So sometimes, someone has to remind us. This excellent book will become your good friend on the path of spiritual practice.

For your reference, the following is a sampling of the many topics covered in this book:

More information of the New Book

Elevation Of The Soul

The Supreme Master Ching Hai's Latest Video Tapes

(In English)

Let Others Believe In God The Way They Want
Group Meditation In L.A., U.S.A.
March 9, 1994

Be Free Here Now
1995 New Year International 3-Day Retreat (4), Hsihu Center, Formosa
December 31, 1994 to January 2, 1995

Go Beyond The Difficulties Of Life (I, II)
1995 New Year International 3-Day Retreat (5), Hsihu Center, Formosa
December 31, 1994 to January 2, 1995

Be A Good Example For The Society
Group Meditation, Hsihu Center, Formosa
January 3, 1995

(In Chinese)

The Award Ceremony (I, II)
1995 New Year International 3-Day Retreat(3), Hsihu Center, Formosa
December 31, 1994 to January 2, 1995

Use Your Wisdom To Handle Conditions
Group Meditation, Shatin Center, Hong Kong
May 4, 1994

Celebrating The Chinese Lunar New Year
Group Meditation, Hsihu Center, Formosa
January 29, 1995

(In English With Thai Translation)

Everyone Can Become Buddha At Home (1,2)
Lecture At Kosa Hotel, Khon Khean, Thailand
December 1, 1994

(In English With Korean Translation)

The Affinity To Receive Initiation
Group Meditation At Red Cross Association, Pusan, Korea
May 16, 1993

(In English With Thai Translation And Chinese Subtitles)

The Way To Unlock The Buddha Nature Within Yourself
Lecture In Thailand
May 7, 1992

(In English With Spanish Translation And Chinese Subtitles)

How To Get In Touch With God Everyday (1,2)
San Jose, Costa Rica
November 22, 1989

(In English With Indonesian Subtitles)

Enlightenment Is The Key Answer To Everything
Denver University, CO, U.S.A.
April 10, 1993

We Must Find Our Real Self
Los Angeles, CA, U.S.A.
April 3, 1993

Enlightenment Is The Tool For Everything
Georgetown University, Washington D.C., U.S.A.
April 14, 1993

Let God Serve Through Us
United Nations, Geneva, Switzerland
April 20, 1993

The Suffering Of This World Comes From Our Ignorance
World Trade Center, Singapore
January 10, 1995

You Are The Supreme Master
Brisbane, Australia
March 20, 1993

Seek You First the Kingdom Of God
Sydney, Australia
March 17, 1993

Front Line

Let Peace Begin With Our Quan Yin Method

Report of the participation in the Kaohsiung Ethnic Peace and Reciprocal Prosperity Activity

Travelling between villages and towns, Tainan's preaching mobile arrived at Gang Shan Town, Kaohsiung to spread Master's teachings. Coincidently, they met Mr. Zhu, an employee of the Kaohsiung County Government, and the convener of the "February 28th Incident" commemoration activity. The goal of this peaceful activity was to promote harmony between different ethnic groups, as well as the harmony and unity of the community.

After viewing Master's lecture videos, the convener of this event, Mr. Zhu, immediately invited the fellow practitioners to participate in this peaceful activity. He also requested that a video seminar to purify the mind be conducted, by playing Master's video tapes on the preaching mobile. Since Master was the recipient of the "World Peace Award", he thought it most appropriate that our group take part in this function! Hoping to establish affinity with numerous people through joining various activities, the fellow practitioners delightedly accepted this invitation from the government.

To reflect the main theme of the day, from the many video tapes by the Master, the conveners chose two tapes in particular, and requested the tapes be broadcasted on that day. One was entitled "Meditation Is The Source Of Love" recorded in Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall, the other was "Let Peace Begin With Us" recorded in Malaysia. They especially praised "Let Peace Begin With Us". Because the latter tape was spoken in English with Chinese subtitles. They requested that we have the Chinese subtitles printed into a text, to be distributed to the spectators on that day, so that the people could better understand the real meaning of peace.

The venue of the event was Peace Park, Gang Shan Town, Kaohsiung. Several hundred fellow practitioners from Tainan and Kaohsiung helped with the work. Besides the preaching mobile broadcasting Master's lecture videos, booths had been set up displaying Master's books, video and cassette tapes, and prints of Her paintings. Vegetarian food was also available, some free for tasting, and some for sale.

Mayor Yu of Kaohsiung County, who was the chairman of the day's events, had especially brought along his little daughter to visit the area where Master's teachings were being shared with the people. They were greeted by the fellow practitioners with warm applause. Besides watching Master's lecture videos, he was also extremely interested in Master's various works of art, books and other materials, each of which he viewed in detail. He also went to the vegetarian food sales booth to find out how spiritual practitioners solve their daily living needs.

Despite Major Yu's busy administrative schedule, taking care of the local people like a parent, he also cares about the purification of the mind. Thus, this wonderful occasion was possible, the opportunity for the preaching mobile to spread Master's teachings at that location. Apart from admiring his sincerity in supporting the Truth, fellow practitioners were also happy that he was able to acquire a good affinity with a living enlightened Master. This reminded us of Master's words: "If the leader is enlightened and practices spiritually, using his wisdom to guide his people in doing good things that benefit sentient beings, he will bring more blessings to his country."

Channel 4 TV reporters covering the event on location were most curious about our participation in this activity. They especially interviewed our fellow practitioners: "Why would a religious group participate in such a politically sensitive activity?" Fellow practitioners answered with a inspiration they had received from Master's video lecture: "We don't mind about politics. However, the objective of this activity is very meaningful, capable of promoting peace among human beings. This is why we have come to participate. However, the teachings of our Master are not only aimed at peacefulness among individuals, but further extend to the peaceful coexistence among all things and all sentient beings. Thereby, even the animals can live with us peacefully and free of worry in this world. Vegetarianism, refraining from taking the lives of animals, is truly the first step towards peace, as well as being the initial mean of developing compassion."

Fellow practitioners had on hand a large quantity of Master's sample booklets and specially had printed over a thousand copies of the lecture "Let Peace Begin With Us". They were all quickly taken by the earnest guests at the venue. One of the guests visited the booth many times, and purchased a whole set of Master's books "The Key of Immediate Enlightenment", plus many video and cassette tapes, to study at home. He claimed that he had visited countless religious groups and had practiced Zen and meditation for several years, but had not received any inner contentment. Therefore, he was longing and anxious! Today, when he watched Master's lecture video at the preaching mobile, he found what he had been missing for years. Feeling absolutely confident that he had finally found the "Tao" (true path), he was extremely blissful at heart!

When the program reached the launching of the colorful balloons, a fantastic and amusing incident occurred. The event organizer had prepared an airborne slogan "Let Peace With Us Begin" in Chinese characters. The one prepared by the fellow practitioners was "The Quan Yin Method". Neither party had conferred with or informed the other in advance. When the two groups of colorful balloons bearing the characters were launched one after another into the air, the balloons being launched by the organizer stopped at the characters "Be gin". These balloons simply refused to soar. It was not until we had released all four of our balloons "The Quan Yin Method" that the two balloons bearing "Be gin" climbed into the sky. Subsequently, the two groups of slogans, "Let Peace With Us Begin and The Quan Yin Method", mixed in the air and literally became - "Let Peace With Us The Quan Yin Method Begin". (The more exact Chinese meaning is "Let Peace Begin With Our Quan Yin Method".) The spectators could not help marvel at this miracle!

The "February 28th Incident" was a highly sensitive political issue in Formosa. However, because the convener introduced Master's concern, Her boundless divine love, to all sentient beings, an extremely peaceful and harmonious atmosphere pervaded the venue that day. Furthermore, due to Master's blessing, we were able to successfully and peacefully carry out this activity of spreading the Truth. We believe, with Master's and the fellow practitioners' participation and concern, Formosa will become even more peaceful.

Greeting The 'New Spiritual Year' In Canada

Each year the Au Lac people always hold a Spring Exhibition. This year in Canada, the fellow practitioners in Montreal, Toronto, Kingston, Vancouver and Ottawa also took this opportunity to participate in the regional exhibitions, creating affinities with the general public through Master's teachings and all kinds of publications. It is exactly like Master says, "Canada is a highly spiritual country". After a series of events, the fellow practitioners realized that this is indeed true!

A Special New Year's Gift

By Fellow Initiate Chen, Ottawa, Canada
(Originally in Au Lac Language)

Many incredible things happened during this exhibition. All the exhibition booths had been booked in advance. However, shortly before the opening ceremony someone gave up their booking, so the fellow practitioners were able to have an exhibition booth. Another thing was that the fellow practitioners had prepared to serve some vegetarian snacks to everyone. But according to the regulations, the food exhibits had to be displayed independently of the other items. Just when everyone was racking their brains for a solution, coincidently they found another unoccupied booth. Also, this was the season for heavy snow, but there were only some light snowflakes drifting down that morning. Therefore, all the work could be done smoothly and rapidly. This was all Master's marvelous arrangement!

For this exhibition, the fellow practitioners from Los Angeles had especially prepared some cassette tapes as gifts. After listening to the tapes at home, many people were very delighted and kept praising: Master's words are indeed words of wisdom and Truth! A young Au Lac person had read Master's sample booklet before. As he did not know how to contact us, he was praying all the time for spiritual guidance. He had never come to the Spring Exhibition in Ottawa before, but he came this year out of an impulse. Consequently, he met the fellow practitioners here, which proved that even the most difficult obstacles can be overcome with true sincerity!

The vegetarian food booth also received a warm welcome. The fellow practitioners even gave away vegetarian recipes to the spectators. As for the children, they were fond of the tiny stickers with Master's photo. In the beginning, they were hesitant because they thought they had to pay for them. Later, they came one after the other, bringing their friends, cutely asking about Master and the meaning of meditation.

Cameramen from the local television station also came to cover the exhibition. Consequently more attention about the event was brought to the public. Representatives from the Carleton University Vegetarian Club invited the fellow practitioners to their meetings at the two universities in Ottawa to have a discuss session and to introduce the Quan Yin Method. Although the fellow practitioners were busy during the whole event, they sensed a warm current of love. After the exhibition, they even conducted a diligent one-day retreat, to recharge after the hard work.

Truly, we have received Master's New Year Red Envelope. This gift was not packed in a red envelope, but inside Master's love! Her disciples deeply believe, with the nurturing of Master's infinite divine love, the spiritual seeds sown will surely flourish and cover every corner of the world!o

Fellow practitioners in Ottawa, Canada are spreading Master's teachings at the Spring Exhibition.

a The Cold Winter Cannot Hide The Traces of Spring

By The News Group, Montreal, Canada
(Originally in Au Lac Language)

Although there were gusts of chilly wind outside the "Complexe Desjardins" Square, the enthusiasm of the fellow practitioners was not at all affected. Mindfully, they decorated the exhibition booth with a fresh and elegant look. As soon as the Spring Festival Program started, large crowds of people soon packed the venue. Besides the Au Lac groups and people, the mayor of the city of Montreal was also among the spectators. With delight and attentiveness, the fellow practitioners distributed Master's sample booklets and magazines to the people, and in turn, answered the spectators' questions. They also introduced the center's Vegetarian House to everyone.

On that day, all the magazines and sample booklets in the many languages were taken by the huge crowd of people. They were all very delighted to receive these spiritual gifts. This was also an opportunity for them to receive blessings from Master's photo. Through watching the video tapes they came to know about Master's activities all around the world, especially Her aid to the Au Lac asylum seekers in Hong Kong and the Philippines, the financial and spiritual help rendered to the volcanic disaster victims in the Philippines, and the relief efforts given to the flood victims in the midwestern states of the United States.

Please Come Earlier For Enlightenment!

By Fellow Initiate Chai, Vancouver, Canada

During this event that lasted several days, many people with great interest came to the booth where Master's eye-catching poster was displayed, to ask about any news of Her, and to express their hope of attending Her lecture soon. Many of them had been in contact with Master's teachings before, and now they were looking for a more profound understanding. The sincere attitude of the people made the fellow practitioners feel particularly grateful for Master's blessing. The pure and simple nature of the local inhabitants had also impressed them deeply. As the event began, the streaming crowd was immediately attracted by Master's lecture video. Soon after the opening ceremony, the exhibitor of another booth in the venue came over and continually watched the video. During the next few days, he came every morning and evening. Through chatting with him, we found out that he had been in contact with Master's teachings before. Observing his intense longing for the Truth, the fellow practitioners sincerely hoped that he would soon enrol for the initiation.

The last day was New Year's Eve, and it was estimated that a lot less people would come. Unexpectedly in the evening, a large crowd of people flooded in. Amidst the squeezing and tugging all the sample booklets were given out, and fellow practitioners were extremely busy handling the crowd. Late that evening, when the exhibition booth was about to be closed, there were still many people running in asking for the sample booklet. Therefore, the fellow practitioners remarked jokingly, "We are sorry, the time for enlightenment today is only up to ten o'clock. If you want enlightenment, please come earlier next time!"

With Master's blessings and in a delightful and high-spirited atmosphere, the exhibition to spread Master's teachings was concluded, greeting the coming new year with a most satisfied heart.

News Magazine NO.44

Photo: "The Supreme Master Ching Hai"
Majestic and compassionate as a king unifying the whole world
The Great Spiritual Master revered by all.

1. International Reports

   Hong Kong/Thailand/Korea/Formosa/Philippines Mexico/U.S.A./Canada/Australia/U.K.

2. Aphorisms

   The Divine Meaning Of Work

3. Special Reports

   Have A Great Harvest!/Shopping For The Lunar New Year True Happiness/Gifts From Master Brought A Happy New Year

4. Master Says

   Enlightenment Awakens The Positive Power

5. Between Master And Disciples

   Experiencing And Observing Love In Small Details It Is Time For You To Take Some Tonic! Emperor Chien Lung's Royal Cooks

6. Master Tells Stories

   A Stingy Old Woman

7. Pearls Of Wisdom

   God Is Love

8. While On The Path

   Trouble Is Actually Bodhi An Apprentice To Love Reflections On My First Retreat

9. Spot Light

   Purifying The World With Pure Thoughts

10. Poems

    Western Lake, In A Dream In A Dream Last Night

11. News Bulletin

    Worldwide S.M. Fairy Clothes Fashion Show

12. Media Reports

    NewsTribune, U.S.A./Formosan Hsin Sen Post/United Daily News Liantong Daily News, Hualien, Formosa/The Morning Sun Daily News

13. Master's Words

    To Be A Messenger Of God's Gospel

14. Master's Wonder

    Put Down The Butcher's Knife To Become A Buddha At Once Firecrackers That Discharged Automatically The Heavenly Nectar Child, Don't Be Afraid

15. Front Line

    Let Peace Begin With Our Quan Yin Method Greeting The New Spiritual Year In Canada

16. Recommending A Good Book - "I Have Come To Take You Home"
17. Spiritual Interludes

    The More Nipping, The More Sprouting Perfect Bliss In My Heart

18. Letters Between Master And Disciples

    The Buddha's Grace Shines On My Whole Family

19. A True Account Of A Miraculous Person

    The Legend Of A Taoist (Part IV)

20. Elevation Of The Soul
21. Our Liaison Practitioners Throughout The World

The Supreme Master Ching Hai News No.44 Published: Mar. 25,1995
Published by: The International Supreme Master Ching Hai Meditation Associations

International Reports

Report From Hong Kong

Celebrating the "Supreme Master Ching Hai Day"

February 22, 1995 was the "Supreme Master Ching Hai Day," which was celebrated by many people. In order to mark this joyous occasion, fellow initiates distributed sample booklets, meditated together, and enjoyed a feast!

In coordination with the celebration of the "Supreme Master Ching Hai Day," extending Master's spirit by spreading the Dharma, benefiting all sentient beings, and letting more people have a chance to know Master, fellow initiates worked full-time or part-time after work to distribute sample booklets all over Hong Kong and Kowloon. On the evening of the Supreme Master Ching Hai Day, everyone gathered together at the new Book Circulation Center in Mongkok, to take part in a big group meditation, praying wholeheartedly for world peace. After the group meditation, fellow initiates, as well as their families and friends, enjoyed a bountiful meal together. In this joyous atmosphere, the topics of conversation all centered around the grand event - Supreme Master Ching Hai Day.

As the busy Hong Kong streets began to quiet down toward the end of late evening, the hearts of fellow initiates, at that moment becoming one with Master's, radiated great brightness.

Report From Bangkok, Thailand

Sincere Spiritual Practice
To Develop Wisdom

In order to progress further in their practice, to uplift their spiritual levels and develop their wisdom, the fellow initiates in Thailand held a two-day retreat during the holiday break. The location was a villa provided by a fellow initiate. Surrounded by fruit trees, it was refreshing and peaceful - a perfect place for meditation.

Some people arrived early to help with cleaning of the environment and food preparation. They experienced the precious meaning of work. On the day of the retreat, due to the usual traffic congestion in Bangkok, some fellow initiates worried about being late since they were coming there after work. They concentrated on reciting the Holy Names on the buses and everyone arrived on time. It was truly Master's blessing! There were fellow initiates who came from faraway Chiangmai; they were in such an elated mood that they did not feel tired from the trip.

The fellow initiates got up early in the morning to meditate. As time passed, their random thoughts gradually disappeared, peace and harmony filled their hearts, and they felt very blissful and comfortable! At noon, they watched Master's videos, from which they received boundless spiritual warmth and mental inspiration.

The fellow initiates sincerely appreciate the happy new life that Master has bestowed upon them. Master's grace is engraved in everyone's hearts, and each are determined to faithfully follow Master in spiritual practice.

Thai fellow initiates hold a retreat during the holiday break.

Report From Korea

An Old Zen Master's Prophecy

More than a decade ago, there was an one hundred years old Zen master, whose explanation of the Suramgama Sutra was the best in Korea. His books explaining this Sutra are still kept in a certain temple, not available to the public. Although he was so good at explaining the Suramgama Sutra, he still did not know the proper practicing method as stated in that Sutra.

Before he passed away, he once made the prophecy, "A decade from now a long haired female Master from China will come here. (Now we know why Master wears Her hair long.) She teaches the true Quan Yin Method. By practicing that method one can truly attain enlightenment. In the future, there will be more female than male enlightened people, and the whole world will use one language. (The language is the inner sound.)" Since he did not have the affinity to stay behind and learn from Her in person, he instructed his disciples to be initiated by Her and practice that method. He also foretold that after he passed away, he would return to practice spiritually.

This New Year's Eve, one of his monastic disciples went to Formosa seeking initiation from the Supreme Master Ching Hai and to attend the three-day retreat. She learned the proper way to practice as stated in the Suramgama Sutra, and verified the old Zen master's prophecy to be true.

Report From Changhua, Formosa

The Year Ends With
Warm Compassion Everywhere

In the cold of winter, Master's love, like the warm sunlight, shone again on many people who needed care. Full of love, fellow practitioners visited the Zi Seng Home for the Mentally Handicapped in Changhua.

Stepping into the Home, one could see many childlike faces, but the eyes were dull. The children were mentally handicapped. The director cordially described to fellow initiates the situation at the Home, and led them into the classrooms where children were learning. They were sitting in a circle folding colored paper under the instruction of a teacher. For some of the severely handicapped, even folding a piece of paper was so difficult that they had to use all their might, trying with great effort to coordinate all the parts of their body. The teacher without a trace of impatience, encouraged them in a soft voice.

Because the sun was particularly warm that day, many children were playing in the yard. They were extremely delighted by the visit. Fellow practitioners tried communicating with them using simple language. The shy and introverted children began to smile. The warm and pleasant atmosphere had dissolved the barrier between them. Through this visit to the Home for the Mentally Handicapped, fellow practitioners have come to realize that they are the most fortunate people in the whole universe, being physically and mentally fit, and graced with the blessings of an enlightened Master.

caption:On this trip, the Changhua fellow initiates warmly experienced Master's love uniting everyone together.

Report From Tainan, Formosa

A Journey Of Love

Bringing Master's love with them, fellow initiates in Tainan gave money and gifts to the poor and unfortunate families. Once again the fellow initiates experienced being immersed in the bliss of Master's compassion and love.

In one family, two brothers had suffered strokes and were bed ridden. In addition to the aches and pains of their illnesses, they were often troubled by medical and living expenses. Their eyes were brimming with tears when fellow initiates visited them. Their long suppressed emotions submerged like flooding waters of a river. The initiates tried to comfort them and helped them understand the ephemeralness of the cycle of birth, growing old, sickness and death in this world. They introduced them to Master's teachings and told them that only through spiritual practice could they be liberated from this sea of suffering. After this "journey of love" the fellow initiates deeply felt that in facing the various situations in life, only Master's guidance and the Quan Yin Method could help people easily overcome all the difficulties. Also, they learned that love is the best way to eliminate the ego. All participating initiates benefitted a lot from this experience. Thank You Master for reminding us always to do good and to love all as ourselves!

Report From Palawan, Philippines

Sharing Holy Love With The Filipinos

Following Master's instruction, fellow initiates in the Palawan refugee camp carry out cleaning work every week. The cleaning sites are the children's park, school, public toilets, bath houses and those crowded passage ways in the camp. When the work is finished, not only does everyone not feel tired, but they even feel joyful and comfortable. They have a deeper understanding of Master's teaching: "Cleaning the outside is like cleaning one's own heart". The experience also serves as a reminder to correct oneself in order to elevate one's spiritual level.

caption:Palawan initiates share material and spiritual food with the Filipino people from the village of Bananghx Bangcao.

At present, because there are no more groups or organizations coming to the camp to give help to the children and the minors, the Quan Yin messenger, under the loving instruction of the compassionate Master, helps the fellow initiates with the weekly distribution of milk. The milk is distributed from the camp Meditation Center to the growing children. The whole camp area is like a big family sharing and helping each other.

Once the fellow initiates inside the camp became self-sufficient, they began directing their attention to those still lacking in their lives. They specially arranged a group of initiates to visit the poor Filipinos and the orphans outside the camp, in response to Master's love and care for the poor and helpless. With the help of the social welfare group of the city of Puerto Princeca, they came to visit the little village of Bananghx Bangcao. Under the direction of the village leader's wife, Mrs. A.G. Betano, they visited all the poor people and orphans in the village.

The fellow initiates distributed the sample booklets and photographs of Master they brought along. After they received them, all villagers looked happily at Master's photographs and also immediately opened and read the sample booklets. In the afternoon, the village leader brought the villagers to the Meditation Center inside the camp to receive rice, milk and clothes that were donated by the initiates. Apart from the material gifts to temporarily fulfill their immediate needs, initiates also introduced them to Master's teachings about liberation from the transmigration of life and death, thus offering them the highest and most priceless spiritual gift.

caption:Palawan fellow initiates wrap thousands of rice dumplings to share with their compatriots, enhancing the festival atmosphere in the camp.

A New Year Festival Of Infinite Warmth

Master is always attentively caring for Her children. Taking the opportunity to celebrate the Lunar New Year in Au Lac tradition, Master out of compassion allocated funds and instructed the Quan Yin Messenger to help the fellow practitioners in the Palawan camp to prepare vegetarian rice dumplings for the New Year celebration. Within a few short days, they had prepared and wrapped thousands of rice dumplings to share with everyone, bringing the infinite and warmest love and joy to the people in the camp! The camp was inundated with the blissful and lively atmosphere of new spring, plus the hope of a bright and glorious future!

On New Year's Eve day, Au Lac compatriots gathered together in the square facing the meditation center to watch Master's video tapes, and enjoyed the rice dumplings charged with love. They watched the video tapes with deep feelings, and were intoxicated in Master's infinite love and divine words. While tasting the dumplings in their hands, a delightful smile automatically appeared on the face of each person, and their indescribable gratitude towards Master was obvious. Wishing to share Master's infinite love with others, they also delivered some rice dumplings to the destitute Filipino people outside the camp.

(Originally in Au Lac Language)

Westside Headquarters
Refugee Camp
Palawan, Philippines
Palawan January 28, 1995

To: The SMCH
From: Executive Committee #34

Dear Master,
As spring (New Year) approaches, on behalf of all of fellow compatriots in the Palawan Refugee Camp, Philippines, we would like to sincerely wish You and all of the brothers and sisters of the Meditation Association a happy and prosperous New Year.

We would also like to take this opportunity to thank You, and the Meditation Association for your concern and help during the past year. A special thanks to fellow practitioners in the Palawan Camp who wholeheartedly serve vegetarian meals to a large number of people in the camp, as well as distribute medicine to the sick, and give cakes and candies to people during the holidays. We respectfully wish You and everyone in the Meditation Association a joyous and happy spring season (New Year).

Executive Committee,
Palawan Refugee Camp,
Philippines.
President Ngo Cong Ca

Report From Mexico

The Most Advanced Science
and Technology Exhibition - The Quan Yin Method

At the International Exhibition of Industrial Plastics, the fellow initiates from Mexico worked together to set up a display of Master's books and other publications.

The presentation of Master's books and the playing of Her video tapes highlighted the exhibition. Each day, thousands of people came to the booth, thus keeping the fellow initiates extremely busy. To the Mexican people, the information about Master appeared to be quite novel. Surprised and curious, many people took the sample booklets home to read.

One of the visitors who had attended Master's lecture here two years ago, upon seeing the fellow initiates introducing Master's teachings, felt especially warm and familiar, and kept asking for more information about Master. For the fellow initiates, the greatest achievement in doing this event was to enable more people on the American continent to know Master.

Report From Illinois, U.S.A.

A Delightful 2-Day Retreat To Celebrate The Joyful Festival

The fellow initiates from Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky and Missouri especially got together at the Peru Center in Illinois and held a "Delightful 2-Day Retreat" to remember Master's receiving the highly honored "World Spiritual Leadership Award" in Chicago last year, as well as in celebration of the first anniversary of the "Supreme Master Ching Hai Day" February 22nd designated by the Governors of six midwestern states in the U.S. (25-Oct is designated by the State of Hawaii).

During the 2-day retreat, the temperature suddenly rebounded. Besides giving a break to the sustaining cold weather for the past several days, it was also a record high for the customary subzero cold weather there for this time of year. It was such an extraordinary "warm" gift from Master to the locals indeed!

During the retreat, the fellow initiates meditated and held a lively concert to sing and praise this commemorable date. While meditating, everyone felt Master's strong loving blessing; one brother initiate saw extremely brilliant lights shining on all the fellow initiates. In the concert, a new initiate performed a self-composed song, expressing his joy for his new life and his gratitude to Master. The fellow initiates sang along when Master's compositions rose from the keyboard. Everyone was intoxicated in the grateful and cheerful atmosphere. Thank You Master, for giving us this beautiful day full of extraordinary meanings.

Report From London, Canada

Blessings For The New School Term

After the New Year, at Western University located in London, Ontario, both the students and the teaching staff return to start the busy new term. A fellow practitioner happened to have found a temporary job distributing propaganda material for an advertising company outside the University Bookstore. This fellow practitioner immediately came up with the idea of displaying the Key of Immediate Enlightenment sample booklets and leaflets, simultaneously, outside the bookstore. The site was inside the premises of the Students' Activity Center where there was heavy traffic of students and teaching staff. As the new term had just begun, there was an endless stream of people coming to the bookstore each day.

People with affinity would automatically approach the counter displaying the sample booklets and take a copy. Some even took several copies for their relatives and friends. Several days later, a university student called the local Branch Center wishing to know more about Master's teachings. After watching Master's lecture videos, he asked to learn the Convenient Method, and borrowed some of Master's videos and books to study at home. In this period of about a month, fellow practitioners took turns to be on duty outside the bookstore. Hundreds of sample booklets were gradually taken home by passersby. One day, a fellow practitioner noticed something incredible - a leaflet with Master's photograph printed on it was placed in the display window of the bookstore, and no one knew when. He was so surprised and delighted, because the display window was normally locked up. He realized within, that this must be Master's fantastic arrangement working invisibly, so that more people in the university could have the chance to see Master's divine form.

Contributing To The Earth

Ever since the fellow practitioners read Master's words of caution in the lecture - The Way To Save The World From Doomsday, they deeply realized they are also responsible for this grave mission. As a spiritual practitioner, besides blessing the Earth by using all available time to meditate and join the group meditations, they must also grab any chance to spread Master's teachings to every thirsty soul, as much as possible. Despite the extremely cold winter, fellow practitioners, fully loaded with Master's love, still traversed the thick snow through every street and lane, distributed to the mail box of each household the leaflets introducing Master and the Quan Yin Method.

On the Lunar New Year's Eve and New Year's Day, fellow practitioners went to the densely populated Au Lac communities in London, conveying to each family the message of our soul's true home. On Valentine's Day, a western tradition, fellow practitioners distributed the beautifully printed leaflets - a token from the "Eternal Lover" in the Heavenly Kingdom, to every home. February 22nd was the Supreme Master Ching Hai Day, and fellow practitioners travelled a long way to the residential area in the middle of town to distribute leaflets, extending Master's infinite love to the people there. Even on their way going to the office or returning home, the fellow practitioners never forget to hand out the leaflets to the passersby on the way, hoping more souls will reach home, the Heavenly Kingdom, early.

Report From Brisbane, Australia

The Premier Also Received A Sample Booklet

Recently, fellow practitioners have attended various Expos. Everyone experienced boundless bliss in their work. The more they worked, the stronger they felt Master's love and the more they appreciated Master and Her mission. Because of Master's blessing, there are many sincere Truth aspirants practicing the Convenient Method and awaiting initiation.

Besides these, fellow practitioners also spread Master's teachings during the Au Lac New Year celebrations. Many people gratefully accepted Master's sample booklet, including the Honorable Wayne Goss, Premier of Queensland. As well, an Au Lac monk took away many copies of Master's News magazines. Fellow practitioners were also advocating vegetarianism. In one corner of the booth, they had a vegetarian area, where delicious food exquisitely prepared by the fellow practitioners was offered to many people to enjoy, so that the public would become more interested in vegetarianism. caption:A letter of appreciation from the "Free Overseas Au Lac Community" in Australia for the fellow initiates excellent contribution in Brisbane during the Au Lac New Year's Celebration.

Report From Melbourne, Australia

Spreading Holy Love In The Prison

In Melbourne, the center especially arranged a trip to our brothers and sisters in prison. Fellow initiates wrote a letter to the officials concerned, and enclosed a copy of Master's sample booklet. After a few days, they received a call inviting them to attend an interview.

The prison official welcomed the fellow initiates' visit. Because this official had already read the sample booklet and agreed with Master's teachings, this created a warm atmosphere in the meeting. After fellow initiate explained their intention and Master's method, without hesitation, she allowed them to give a lecture and to teach the Convenient Method.

The day of the lecture, the prisoners were deeply touched by Master's wisdom, compassion and love radiating from the video tapes. More than half of audience agreed to learn the Convenient Method of meditation. Among them, there was one so sincere and touched, that she nearly cried right there and then. Because of her sincerity, when she learned the Convenient Method, during her first meditation session, she saw Master inside. Word spread throughout the prison and others asked to learn the Convenient Method. There were really a lot compared to the total number of prisoners. This was an incredible display of Master's power of attraction. Many have already asked to be initiated into the Quan Yin Method after they leave the prison.

Fellow initiates are now regulars at the prison, and it is certain that once the information about Master spreads, more and more people will be attracted. From the point of view of beyond the worldly thinking, prisoners are so simple humble and more detached!

Report From Oxford, U.K.

The Glory Of"Supreme Master Ching Hai Day"
Brightened Disciples' Hearts

"We especially miss our families at joyful festivals." The fellow initiates and would-be initiates truly felt its profound meanings on this very special "Supreme Master Ching Hai Day".

The fellow initiates in the United Kingdom took this opportunity to celebrate the occasion by holding some festivities. For the convenience of all the initiates and would-be initiates that are spread out all over the United Kingdom, the celebration took place at the Birmingham Meditation Center in central England. The large kitchen at the center served well for the occasion. Everything was under Master's marvelous arrangement.

The party began with a brief introduction by fellow initiates to the guests about Master's life and Her worldwide relief efforts, and singing "Happy Supreme Master Ching Hai Day to Master" in unison. The program that followed included talent performances, guessing games and prize drawing, etc. The joyful atmosphere unified everyone.

The festivities also included vegetarian cooking lessons. From making tofu to the chef's prized dishes, everyone learned to cook many delicious vegetarian dishes. While learning, the new cooks even had the opportunity to apply their new skills by preparing all the hearty delicacies for the banquet. As they savored their products, besides being exceptionally tasty, they also felt much more confident cooking vegetarian dishes in the future!

On that day, the glory of the Supreme Master Ching Hai Day brightened everyone's heart! Thanks to Master for giving disciples this opportunity to share Her glory.

caption:The fellow initiates and would-be initiates in the United Kingdom gather at the Birmingham Meditation Center in celebration of the "Supreme Master Ching Hai Day."

Letters Between Master And Disciples

The Buddha's Grace Shines On My Whole Family

By Initiate Kong, Mainland China

Dear Master,

How are You? Ever since I've watched one of Your video tapes, You began to bless and look after me mercifully in various ways. In my meditation, You manifested as the Quan Yin Bodhisattva and told me, "You must practice the Quan Yin Method". In my dream, You took me to a very bright place and I saw Your beautiful Buddha form. I couldn't help kneeling in front of You and crying, as I received Your embrace of motherly love. (At that moment, I didn't know that it was You, Master.)

After I received Your sample booklet that satisfied my inner spiritual longing, I immediately gave up meat and started a vegetarian diet. Since then, You have given me more protection and unlimited blessing power, allowing me to be free of a lot of the worldly worries, as well as liberating my soul. After initiation, I was so ecstatic! A child who had been playing for hundreds of thousands of years, finally found his Mother and could follow Her back home. I was so determined to follow You and practice diligently! The manifestation form of the merciful Mother is also always looking after me and my family.

One day, my younger brother's job took him to another town. On the way home, he had a car accident in which one of his colleagues couldn't get well and later died. However, my brother had only minor injuries. When I saw him in the hospital, he was conscious and I told him to recite Your name and to pray for Your help. I also sincerely prayed for Your help. When I was reciting Your name in my heart, immediately I felt a blessing power come from my head and travel through my body. That unlimited loving power moved me to tears. I also put Your sample booklet beside my brother's pillow, and at night I sat and meditated beside his bed, praying for Your help. The next day when my brother awoke, he told me, "The evening before yesterday, someone beat me up in my dream. The next day, as Master waited beside my bed for me to fall asleep, those people wouldn't let me sleep. Because of me, they even beat up Master, suffering hardship in my place." When I heard that, my tears began to flow uncontrollably like a spring. The merciful Master enduring such pain for my brother greatly upset me. I really don't know how to repay this grace. During my brother's recovery, he always dreamt about You caring for him. In this way, he soon recovered, and was discharged from the hospital. Every time my mother talks about You, she cries and is so thankful for Your care.

Dear Master, Your merciful, motherly loving power takes care of my whole family, and we really don't know how to express our gratitude. I think the only way we can repay You is to practice diligently, follow the precepts clearly, always keep our actions, speech and thoughts pure, and meditate well. Do You agree?

Thousands of thanks to You Master! Wishing You good health.

Respectfully,

Your disciple

Between Master And Disciples

Experiencing And Observing Love In Small Details

By Resident Disciple Huang, Hsihu, Formosa

Today, Master gave me a special gift.

As I was taking care of some paper work after a day of work at the Spiritual Practice Information Desk, Master's "Imperial Decree" arrived - "Everyone may go to the Treasure Pavilion for a BBQ." Wow! Although I was a bit tired, when I rushed up to the place, I found that I was the first to arrive. By chance, the attendant mentioned to me the area approved by Master for the BBQ. My fatigue suddenly disappeared at hearing this new idea.

Enthusiastically, I began planning the locations for the grills, moving bricks, and so on. Gradually, everyone arrived and everything was ready. Without our noticing when, Master had already been shuttled silently into the crowd. The night sky dotted with bright stars and the warmth from the fire formed a vivid picture. Master too must have been experiencing this beautiful scene and atmosphere. Later, Master slowly walked toward us. She looked at the fire, then at a tree, as if She had already felt the pain in its tips caused by the smoke and heat. She said, "You didn't consider that the flames could reach the tree. It can be hurt and feel pain! When you put your hand over the fire, can't you feel the pain?" Master immediately pointed out an empty space where there was no worry that the trees would be hurt by the smoke and heat. Everyone started to move the fire. At that moment, I realized that I had been very careless, and I was also surprised at myself for having missed something so obvious. Why hadn't I noticed it before? Sometimes, seeing the disciples so ignorant or careless makes Master shake Her head.

When the party was over, with deep regret, I silently cleaned up the area. The sister in charge of Master's chair asked me to help her return Master's chair to its original place. Suddenly, I felt my heart being filled with Master's love, as if She was saying, "No big deal! This is just a lesson. As long as you sincerely want to change yourself, don't blame yourself too much." Master teaches us by example and through Her teachings. She reminds us to pay attention to the little details of love, and progress toward the higher ideals. From caring for the trees to our daily needs, from caring for the disciples to the suffering people in the world, Master always spontaneously pays attention to the little details. What we may ignore, Master never misses. During the New Year's holiday, Master kept reminding us to become new people for the new year. Although we are not around Master to learn from Her as often as we were before, through these experiences, I understand that to be one with Master, we must elevate our noble inner qualities to serve others with love and care.

It Is Time For You To Take Some Tonic!

Recorded By The Tainan News Group, Formosa

Recently, upon Master's return, a would-be fellow sister saw Master for the first time in Miaoli. She immediately decided to enrol for the Convenient Method. As Master was strolling around greeting everyone, She very casually stopped by her side and said to her, "It is time for you to take some tonic!" She was shocked and thought: "The Quan Yin Method is the greatest tonic. Perhaps Master is telling me to receive the initiation." She then rushed to enrol for the initiation.

Emperor Chien Lung's Royal Cooks

Narrated By Initiate Lin, Taipei, Formosa
Recorded By Taipei News Group, Formosa

Master specially and ingeniously played the role of Emperor Chien Lung to celebrate the New Year with the fellow initiates in Formosa.

This time it was the Taipei fellow initiates's turn to do the cooking. A fellow sister and I were part of the kitchen crew. After lunch when we were taking a rest, we had a small chat. We are not sure whether we were both the maids or the royal cooks when Master was Emperor Chien Lung. At that moment, Master, dressed as the Emperor, happened to come by. We prostrated on the ground and greeted Master, "Long life to the Emperor!" Master replied, "You were the royal cooks...! Be at ease." At that time, the fellow sister and I both smiled, because Master had given us the answer.

Another fellow sister could not hold back her tears, when she saw Master play the role of Emperor Chien Lung. She did not know the reason, she only felt that she had known Master before. This goes to show that any role played by Master is simply for the sake of all beings, so as to awaken their memories to remember to practice spiritually.

Media Reports

NewsTribune

Serving North Central Illinois Friday March 3, 1995
Open Forum

Spiritual leader deserving of special commemoration

February 22 is Washington's birthday and also is the day for a world's spiritual Guru, Ching Hai. This day was named the "Supreme Master Ching Hai Day" by the governors of six Midwestern United States last year, in Chicago for her many exceptional charitable and humanitarian works for the United States and for the whole world.

Even though she never sought acknowledgements of any kind, Master Ching Hai has been recognized and honored by many government officials throughout the United States and the world. In the United States, she received the Honorable U.S. Citizenship on Oct. 25, 1993, at the city of Honolulu, Hawaii by the Mayor of Honolulu. This day also was proclaimed by Hawaii officials the "Day of The Supreme Master Ching Hai." Here she received the "World Peace Award." In Chicago last year, on Feb. 22, she received again another award, "The world Spiritual Leadership," given by the Midwestern states governors with congratulatory messages from Presidents Clinton, Bush and Reagan. In May 1994, she received "The World's Humanitarian Award" at the international press conference in Taiwan for her tremendous efforts in humanitarian works, especially in helping the world's refugees.

Many of her humanitarian activities in the United States were: the victims of fire in southern California, victims of floods in the Midwestern states, the lepers and families of retarded children in Hawaii, the homeless and veterans throughout U.S.A., institutions of medical research on AIDS and cancer in USA, etc.

Rarely in history was there anyone who was given so many awards and recognitions worldwide in such a short time and never was there anyone who was given a day named after them, while still living. She has two, both were given by the U.S. government.

Master Ching Hai was born in Vietnam, is now a well-known Guru of our time. She teaches the Truth which is the essence of all major religions. Her teachings have spread rapidly to all corners of the world with the number of followers increasing to hundreds of thousands of people in the last several years. In order to commemorate the first anniversary of the Supreme Master Ching Hai Day, Feb. 22, many of her followers gathered in Peru for a celebration and meditation retreat. These people came from Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, and Missouri. The retreat was filled with peaceful and loving atmosphere with music entertainments afterward.

Hannah Vu, Peru

Formosan Hsin Sen Post

Tuesday February 28, 1995

Floods And Drought Cause Serious Food Shortage In Cambodia Meditation Association Launches Rice Donation Activity A Second Shipment Will Be Sent Within The Next Few Days

Reported By Journalist Ni Shu Chi, Taichung Harbor

In view of the serious food shortage caused by devastating floods and drought in Cambodia last year, the International Supreme Master Ching Hai Meditation Associations in China, Miaoli Hsien, launched an activity - "One kilogram of rice saves an entire country". A total of six thousand tons of rice was donated to Cambodia in two shipments. At present the second shipment of three thousand tons of rice is being loaded onto the Vietnamese cargo ship Van Ky, at Taichung Harbor.

The Supreme Master Ching Hai of the International Supreme Master Ching Hai Meditation Associations in China, in Hsihu Hsieng of Miaoli Hsien, went to Thailand on the 1st of December last year to give four lectures. After the lecture on the 6th of December, Supreme Master Ching Hai held a dinner party especially for the working staff fellow practitioners from the many countries who assisted in the lecture preparations. It happened that a special delegation from Cambodia also visited the Supreme Master Ching Hai on that day. Among them, the Deputy Chairman of the Emergency Disaster Relief Committee, Mr. Ted Ngoy, talked about the devastating torrential rains in Cambodia last July. In August, the level of Mekong River rose abnormally causing a serious flood disaster. Several hundred thousand hectares of crops were flooded. Other areas suffered from a drought, making it impossible to produce food. According to an estimate by the Cambodian government, a serious food shortage of approximately three hundred thousand tons of rice exists throughout the nation. Thousands of the numerous famine victims were on the verge of dying of starvation. On hearing the news, the Supreme Master Ching Hai was very concerned about the situation in Cambodia and immediately promised to extend a helping hand. She would also call for a worldwide rice donation activity.

Upon Her return to Formosa, the Supreme Master Ching Hai launched the "One kilogram of rice saves an entire country" activity. Consequently, in the short time of less than a month, Her disciples in Formosa donated more than one million seven hundred thousand U.S. dollars. Also, donations of over one hundred and fifty-one thousand U.S. dollars were collected from the general public. Six thousand tons of rice were purchased, which were then divided into two batches, to be shipped to Cambodia for the relief of the victims. The first batch of three thousand tons of rice was shipped in December last year, and arrived Cambodia on the 14th of January. A rice donation ceremony was held in which the rice was accepted by Mr. Nhim Vanda, a special representative of the Cambodian Prime Ministers.

The three thousand tons of rice was distributed in the Battambang province, with King Sihanouk of Cambodia personally participating in the relief efforts. With the presence of the King, the local people felt a joyful atmosphere like that of New Years. King Sihanouk also distributed the rice in the drought affected areas of Svay Dounkeo and Phnom Sam Pao. Every disaster affected family received dozens of kilograms of rice, clapping their hands in joy while receiving the rice. Especially when they saw the words printed on the bags, "The Supreme Master Ching Hai", they expressed even greater admiration and gratitude towards Master.

The second batch of three thousand tons of rice for the disaster relief efforts from the International Supreme Master Ching Hai Meditation Association in China arrived at Pier 25 warehouse in Taichung Harbor on the 24th of February. The Vietnamese cargo ship, Van Ky, transporting the rice had already moored at that pier for loading. The rice was packed into sixty thousand bags. As of yesterday, approximately thirty thousand bags were loaded onto the ship. If all goes as scheduled, loading will be completed by the 2nd of March, when the rice departs for Cambodia.

The Association said that Cambodians are devout Buddhists, so they are especially fond of lotuses. Throughout the country, in ponds and gutters, lotuses can be seen wherever there is water. Frequently, the relief working staff were saddened to see many rice paddy fields totally immersed in water as well as dry and cracked land, both leading to a lack of rice for the local people. Therefore, they hope that the relief rice could reach the hands of the victims as soon as possible.

After helping Cambodia with six thousand tons of rice, there is a balance of more than two hundred and sixty-five thousand U.S. dollars from the donations of more than one million eight hundred and fifty thousand U.S. dollars collected through the Association's "One kilogram of rice saves an entire country" activity. This will be used to help the poor and needy in various places.

The International Supreme Master Ching Hai Meditation Associations in China help Cambodia with three thousand tons of rice. The rice being loaded onto the ship at Taichung Harbor.

(Photographs by reporter, Ni Shu Chi.)

Liantong Daily News, Formosa

Wednesday, January 25, 1995

Meditation Association, Hualien Branch, Yesterday Donated More Than NT$ 140,000 Cash Helping the School Children of Needy Families with Education Fees

Reporter Gao Fen-Chen, Hualien

The International Supreme Master Ching Hai Meditation Associations, Hualien Branch, yesterday (January 24th) sent out several of its members to the Hualien Family Help Center to distribute more than NT$ 140,000 worth of donated cash and daily necessities to the needy families at the center to help their school children with education fees. The kindness and welfare of the project are admirable.

The Meditation Association, founded by the Supreme Master Ching Hai, has been contributing to many charitable organizations all over the province these past few years, extending their help in action to many poor and sick people, and those without anyone to depend on in difficult times. The Association began two to three years ago and has continued to donate to Hualien Family Help Center and to other charitable organizations. As the Chinese Lunar New Year was approaching, this time each child in the needy families received NT$ 3,000 for their education. The new school term begins right after the winter break. Many poor families have had a lot of trouble raising funds for the education of their children. Thus, the Branch Center chose the time before the Chinese New Year to distribute the donated cash, according to the list given to them from the Family Help Center.

Yesterday, the needy families who received the cash gratefully thanked the members and the volunteers of the Meditation Association for the money and materials, and also for their kind concern. One of the fellow sisters humbly said, "Don't thank me. This is Master's grace!"

Yesterday, the International Supreme Master Ching Hai Meditation Associations Hualien Branch Center representatives went to The Family Help Center to distribute a donation of more than NT$ 140,000 (Photograph by reporter Gao Fen-Chen)

The Morning Sun Daily News

Australia February 16, 1995
(Originally in Au Lac language)

The International Supreme Master Ching Hai Meditation Associations Participate
In The 1995 Lunar New Year Exhibition

Captions:

1. At the 1995 Lunar New Year exhibition, convened by the Free Overseas Au Lac Community in Australia, the
   International Supreme Master Ching Hai Meditation Associations' booth enhances the splendor of multicultural Australian.
2. On display here are the souvenir pins and photos of Master.
3. Mr. Philip Ruddock, Social Welfare Chief of the Opposition Party, visits the Meditation Association's booth.
4. Fellow practitioners introducing the Supreme Master Ching Hai's books and materials to the Social Welfare
   Chief of the Opposition Party.
5. Representative of the International Supreme Master Ching Hai Meditation Associations, Mr. Duong Tan Toai,
   shakes hands to greet Mr. Michael Photios, Multiculture and Ethnic Affairs Minister.
6. Introducing the rudiments of the Quan Yin Method to the Australians.
7. Visiting the booth is Mr. Vo Minh Cuong, Chairman of the Free Overseas Au Lac Community in New South Wales, Australia.

Master Says

Enlightenment Awakens The Positive Power

Spoken By The Supreme Master Ching Hai, Singapore
Jan 10, 1995 (Originally in English)
Passing Through The Gate Of Illusion

Many people expect that the enlightened persons or to be enlightened, that being must be something extraordinary, must be perhaps seven feet tall or have feet like this or hand like that. Because we read the sutras, the Buddhist Bible, it described that the Buddha had such and such marks, like his feet link together like the duck (Laughter) or his leg look like the deer's leg and his eyes look like a cow's eyes, things like that. (Laughter) And they try to make the Buddha beautiful. But if you put all these together, it makes a funny Buddha, you know? (Master laughs.)

They don't realize that perhaps in the old time, these kings of animals are the best symbols of beauty and a noble character. That's why the one who love the Buddha try to convey to others that he's so beautiful, like the way he walks like the king of goose and his chest like the lion and such and such things. But when you put all these animal parts together you don't know what kind of Buddha that is.

Now this is the outside only, and the inside of us, each one is the same. I think all of you know that. But how same, and how can we know that? This is a difficult question. Even though it's very easy but it is difficult, because we have forgotten it. That's all. We have forgotten completely what we really are. And we are busy with chasing our dream everyday and trying to fulfill our immediate desires and we forget, we forget what we really are and where we come from. Just to tell... you know forgetful we can be, I'll tell you a true story of myself.

I went to Australia, I think two or three years ago, also due to invitation first time and we supposed to have three lectures in different cities. The first lecture went on all right, no problem. The second lecture also all right. I was on time. The third lecture I was late! The only reason is not traffic. It's not that I slept. It's not that I have no car or nothing. The only reason is that I forgot. I forgot that I have the lecture that evening.

I keep doing my things, like the room is a little bit untidy so I keep tidying it up and then I try to move things here and there like it's my house. Perhaps it balances my busy schedule, give me something to do. Perhaps so or perhaps I'm a perfectionist. Whenever I see something it's not in order, I try to put in order. But that was to the extent that I forget that I had the lecture that evening.

I forget until half an hour after the beginning time. And then some nervous disciples run in, broke in, kind of crashing in and said, "Master, where are you?" And then I said why, I'm here. Really cool. They said, "Master You suppose to be in the lecture hall." I said, "What! What lecture hall?" I've really completely forgotten. I guess no one as terrible as me, but perhaps we do forget sometimes. You do, or not?

Sometimes you are engrossed in some other business and you forget the main purpose of your goal that day. Did that happen to you sometimes? It does, huh, okay. And of course I have to rush and apologize to the people. I feel really terrible and I promise to God that if He made me lecture again, He must put alarm clock for me. So from then on I always put alarm clock everywhere, and whenever the lecture I set it on everywhere so that I will remember in case I forget. How can you forget a lecture? Oh! I even don't understand that. But that's what I did.

So now if we are here too long, one life, two lives, hundred lives, then of course we forget even more what the purpose of our coming here. Some of the people sometimes they die temporarily, for like a few minutes or twenty minutes even. Clinically dead, declared dead by the doctor, stop breathing, no pulse, etc.. But then after they came back, they told many stories of the other life beyond and then they also remember why they came here for, what for they came to the earth. But many of them, most of them forget immediately what they have seen in heaven or what they suppose to do in this life. They know that they have seen, the purpose of their life, but when they came back here, they came back to this life again, they forgot. They just know that they know, but they don't know what.

The Chinese have a saying that before we are born into this world again, the king of nether world would give us some soup, kind of hot drink, maybe chocolate or something. (Laughter) That is supposed to make us forget completely our past life and start anew. Many of us promise that we come here, if we are given the chance again to be human being, we would do this, do that, and others. And we will go and practice the meditation and so on, and then we get enlightenment and we dedicate all our life and energy to serve mankind, etc., etc..

And we really meant it well. But because of this soup, this "forget me soup", everyone forgets. So the only thing for us to remember again is that we must open the gate of secret knowledge. Without that gate open, we can never, ever peep beyond this world and the only thing we know is this material existence and all is suffering, joy and temporarily other things, and we would forever identify ourselves with this physical appearance and suffering with it.

The Suffering Of This World Comes From Ignorance

But why? Why must we remember the purpose of our coming here? Not because we have promised to do so, but because if we don't remember, we must come back again and again and again until we remember... until we fulfilled our mission in this planet and then we can go to higher existence or remember our original great position in heaven or in nirvana. The suffering of this world is not due to only the war. The war is not the catastrophe. It's not the lack of food and all these, but the suffering of this world comes from ignorance. Because we don't know our mission, our purpose, we mistaken the playground for home and overstay our due and sometimes suffer the cold, danger outside the house.

But even then the Buddhas, God Almighty always try to look for us, for the lost children, for the ones who love to play and forget to go home. Therefore the Buddha sometimes come down and endure the suffering of the human existence, endure the humiliation of the petty physical life in order to find the lost children, to bring them back to safety before it's too late. Because any house, doesn't matter how solid it built, one day it must be demolished by itself or by some other elements or some causes or have to rebuild a new one because it's too old. This world is a big house, very beautiful, very solid house, but it's not a permanent house.

That's why the Buddhas, the Saints, like Jesus, Mohammed, etc., they came down to us, extend their blessing to us. We walk one step, they walk hundred thousand steps to receive us and forgive our mistakes, cleanse our past unwholesome actions, and teach us the new kind of life, new beginning, or better speaking, and lead us back to the original way of life, the way we must live, the way we should carry out our life.

The Destructive Power Of Negative Information

Because up to now, all the cells in our body, all the nerves in our system listened only to almost negative orders from our information center. That's why we have war. That's why we have assassination. That's why we have competition at the cost of other people's jobs or business, or wife or husband, because we do not have a positive information in our brain center to order our body to do good things. And the people who are good in this world are also sometimes, or often overwhelmed also by the negative, by the negative influence in the society, also become shaky in their faith, became weaker in their goodness, and sometimes eventually also give in to the negative power.

So when we have only negative information in our brain, then of course we can only give out negative information or negative orders, and the cells in the body, the nerves in the system also can follow only the negative orders and then do negative things. That's why we have no peace in the world. That's why even up to now brothers are still killing each other. Even parents are killing their children for pleasure, for privacy, for individual freedom, "pro-choice", etc.. Not because they are bad, not because all these war makers, all these parents bad. Or the husband who killed the wife or the wife killed the husband or the brother killing each other, not because they are bad, just because their brain are fed only with negative information, only with negative ideas and that's what they carry out. Whatever the brain order, the cells complied, the cells have to do it, the body must function. And that's why we sink deeper and deeper into depression and that's why our world is almost any time in danger of disappearing, from our own making.

So the only thing to help us now is very logical, is that to feed us with positive information to change our information stream. Everyday we must receive good information, positive information, constructive information, enlightened, wise informations, and then from the brain they will direct the cells, the nervous system and everything will do only good, only peaceful, only wise, only constructive positive things, and that's how we save the world. Otherwise, it doesn't matter how much peace talks, how much money we spend on the arms, on the army, still we don't have secure feeling. Look, one day this country just finish the war, shake hands with each other. Okay. We start anew. And the next morning, we heard that the other country broke out in war. And then the United Nations run over there and that's not yet finished, the other one, the other country makes war with the other country over there and then over here, over everywhere.

Enlightenment Brings Wonders To The World

And it's already nearly twenty-first century and we suppose to be civilized, peaceful, loving, helping each other. And for all the technical inventions, for all the wealth that we have discovered from the mother earth and from the universe, we could live a kingly life, all of us. Instead, we still have poverty, war, suffering, just because we don't have enough positive information to feed our brain and our whole system with. That's all there is about enlightenment. Enlightenment is a way of positive life. It's a way of tapping into positive power, which is already existing within us. Because in the universe there are two kinds of power, we call yin and yang. Everyone knows. Now we are living almost in yin, no positive, no yang, because we did not open that resource.

This world is a negative world. So it is obvious that we have plenty of yin everywhere. And the negative or the yin is easily accessed. It is more accessible to everyone, except when we are wise enough to turn also into the positive department and draw there from, something for us for everyday supply. Then we are balanced. Then we can do wonders to the world. And of course there will be no more war, no more suffering. That's why we said earlier that the suffering in this world is not due to any individual or nations. It's due to the ignorance of us, the earth people.

Enlightenment is nothing new and nothing that we have to beg for, nothing mysterious. It's just a positive power that we have within ourselves, laying, sleeping, unused up to now. So if someone to remind you where to look into or how to use it, and that is called enlightenment, and that's why it can be immediate. Because if you have something in your pocket or here, you can take it out right away. It's no need to go to supermarket to buy it. That's why it's immediate. As long as you want to accept it, it will be right there and I will show it to you, that it is immediate and you can use it right away and you can see your life improved right away in the first days.

Some people feel like they are born again, right at the time of initiation. They are so joyful. They could just go on the street and kiss everyone. Of course I advise them not to do that, especially in Singapore. It's just a way of expressing their joy. And from then on, their lives become as light as feather. They work without burden. They take care the family with love and not with so much struggling. Most of family members are often struggling with each other, also due to ignorance. So many people after enlightenment they find their family become heaven. And if everyone's like that, every family like that, then we don't need to go to heaven. Our planet will be preserved and then because due to our positive power, we can also elevate the vibration of the earth and make it become heaven-like.

The Difference Between Heaven And Earth

The only difference between heaven and this earth is the vibration, the frequency. The frequency of heaven is fast but smooth. The frequency of the physical world such as our earth is gross, is rough, uneven. That's why sometimes we have disasters earthquake and all kind of eventful weather. Of course, we can say it from weather forecast: "Oh, the wind in northeast, it winds", something like that, and causes all these and that. But it is all together also due to the vibration of the whole planet, and atmosphere around it. In heaven, they don't have it, they don't have typhoon, they don't have earthquake, they don't even have earth, they don't even have wind. Everything is different. And the heavenly beings, their vibration is also different, because they are different. They have their vibration different, therefore heaven is different. So if our vibration is different, our life become different, even if we stay here. Of course we cannot change the whole planet into heaven, if the people of the earth are practicing only in a small number. But if the whole planet or maybe even half of us practice in such a way, then the vibration of the earth will also change, then other half also will be benefitted without having to do anything. Just like in one family, the father and mother goes to work, and the whole family can also benefit from his or their parents' salary. No need for the children also go to work. They can, later, when they want to, when they grow up, as a duty to society, not because of necessities. And of course, the more money they earn, the better for the family.

Similarly, the more people practice into heavenly kind of life, and the more elevated our earth will become. At that time then, our house here is safe. Otherwise, it's not safe. As long as the frequency is so gross, rough, then it's bound to happen that one day it will break apart or explode. We learn that the finer the thing, the more invisible the thing, the more enduring. Similarly, our earth is too gross, too heavy, so it's bound to happen sometimes that it will destroy itself, if we do not destroy it before that with our atom bombs, with our environmental abuse, with our ignorance of the protection of the atmosphere around the earth.

We sometime poison ourselves with too much chemical, poison our earth, poison the water, and so it's bound to happen that it cannot last. Has no need to be a clairvoyant person or predicting well like Nostradamus or something to say that, the world is not everlasting. We can predict it ourselves. If we look around our neighborhood and see how we treated our planet and how wars have damaged each and every corner of the world, now and again.

The Story Of The Red Goblin And The Green Goblin

There is a story about two devils who live in a mountain. Actually they are not devils, they are kind of demighost, demigod or ghost perhaps, perhaps half angel and half goblin-like. And they live together, two. One is green and the other is red. Just like the green light and red light outside. Green is for peaceful, smooth going. Red is for war, stop, obstruction. But both of them live together happily ever after, (Master laughs) before, ever before, together in the mountain and with no problem, no anxiety, no desire, nothing.

They live for long... many many hundred of years already. And often when they have nothing to do, they sat on top of the mountain and look down into the world below them, the world of humankind. And they saw all the business and the people, walking up and down and all that. And then they saw the world is always changing. So the green said to the red, "You see, we live here many hundreds of years already and our life never changes, everyday the same thing. But the world below, the world of human being, everyday change. How come?" And the red said, "Oh, yes, you're right, very interesting, their life is more interesting." But the green said, "How come, how come their life is so changing all the time?" And then the red thought for a while and say, "Oh, it must be because they always fight with each other. Because they build a building, beautiful and big and next day they fight and demolished it. And then they build another one and then have war and destroy again and that's why the world always have something to do. That's why the world is always changing. So now if our world here, the two of us, too peaceful, too boring, I think we have to start fighting with each other." That's what the red thinks.

And the green said, "No! No fighting. We are good friends, we've been friends for many hundred of years. How can we fight each other?" But the red said, "If we don't fight, then we can't have any change. Our life will always going on like this and it's boring and we don't make any progress, so let's fight!" So the green said, "No, no, no, no! I can not do it. No, we are friends." But the red insist and said, "From today you are my enemy. That's it.", Declared war right there and then. So then he left. He didn't live with the green anymore. He moved to the other side of the mountain and sat there alone, prepare for war. And the green also stay there in that corner of the mountain, felt so lonely and miserable. He missed the other goblin. So he was feeling very miserable.

And you know the goblin, the kind of demiangel, they have magical power. Apart from being able to fly, making things appear by themselves, seeing very far, hearing very far, they also have long nose which can stretch to no limit. So the green goblin sat there one day and feeling very bored and suddenly he notice in the world of humans below that something shining, flashing, shining all the time. So he was curious and he used his nose. (Laughter) He makes his nose long. He said, "Grow longer, grow longer, grow longer and then the nose kept growing long, long, long and then pierce into the world below where the shining and flashing is happening.

The shining and flashing came from the clothes of the princess of that city and it happened that the servants were hanging her clothes outside to air them and her clothes have gold flakes and also some jewelry studded with diamond, rubies, and etc., etc.. So it's glittering in the sun. That's why it were shining and flashing. So now the servants say to each other, "Oh, her clothes is so beautiful, but so many. Now we don't have enough bamboo pole to hang. What to do?"

At that moment the nose of the goblin just arrived on time. (Laughter) Did you hear this story before? (Audience: No) No! Oh! I'm glad. (Everyone laughs.) So, and then the servants thought, "Oh, we have a long bamboo enough to hang the rest of the clothes on it." So they put the rest of the clothes of the princess on this green pole and then happily went inside. Ah, to eat some chapati.

So now, the green goblin suddenly felt so heavy on his nose. So he was scared. He immediately pull his nose back to the normal size and there come all a bundle of glittering clothes at his feet. And he was thinking, "Ah, oh, it must be a lucky day." So he try it on and beautifully it looks. So he was proud marching around himself alone.

And it happened that the red came over. He wanted to start a fight, to progress. But then the green said, "Look here! I have some new clothes, beautiful, and I save some for you, half of them for you." And the red was looking with contempt and said, "Look, I don't wear these kind of ridiculous things, only crazy people do, like you." He want to start a fight, so he talk every nonsense. But the green is always green, so he's very cool; so he don't pick on it. So he say, "Okay, okay, fine. If you don't wear them, it does no harm. Leave them there. It's all right." So the red don't know what else to do, so he went home.

But actually he was very very jealous of the green and so he tried to get some clothes for himself. So now he also put his nose very long down into the palace and waiting for some clothes to be hung on. But it happen that the samurai, at that time there practicing sword together and when they saw such a long thing coming, they said to each other, "What's that? And the other said, "Ah, it must be the new invention of the enemy trying to attack us. Let's kill it first." "Oh, okay." Then "Pa" (Master imitates the sound of cutting) with the sword. And so suddenly the red feel such sharp pain and immediately he pull back his nose to the normal size. And then here it bleed and then he cry and cry so much.

And then the green heard his crying and came over and say, "What happen, what happen?" And the red was so embarrassed and angry and can not say what the true was and so he said, "Leave me alone" "And you don't bother me." And so the green said, "No, I don't bother you, I try to help you. It's bleeding. Look here. I know the medicine. I put it on. It will stop right away and your nose will become beautiful like before. Otherwise, you will have a big scar, a big hole there and then it will be very ugly. I just want to take care of you."

And so the red after all feel touched and said, "All right, all right." And then he cried his heart out, "Ah, it's really hurt. Please quickly, quickly help me. Make it better, quickly." And then from then on of course they make peace together because he had enough with fighting. He thought, fighting is no good. He learned the lesson of peace. From then on they wear nice clothes and drink tea together everyday, and no more war.

Only Enlightenment Can Awaken The True Self

But our world has not learned this lesson of love and it is a sad affair. So now, instead of always writing on the newspaper, criticizing the government of this and that country, scolding this and that dictator, or telling the army what to do, because it has not been any use up to now... so instead of doing all these, or apart from doing all these, still, we have to find the way out for ourselves before it's too late. And the only way out is the so-called enlightenment. And an enlightenment is only getting back the positive information that we badly lack. And it's right there. Because it's already there, it's just that we didn't use it. When we are born into this world, everyone must take care of the immediate needs, such as cold, hunger, environmental infection, etc., etc.. Therefore the immediate reaction from birth or since childhood is all these material comfort, all these physical need. That is why we don't have the chance to remember the positive information that we must have in order to survive, in order to be wise and to fulfill our duty better in this world.

You see why we forget? You see why we don't have it? You see why we have it but we don't use it? Just because immediately this world overwhelms us with physical threat. So the immediate reaction from us is that to protect ourself, the body, feeding, drinking, clothing it, building house, buying more blankets, and getting a big car so that we can move around, building a big road so that we can drive the car on, etc., etc.. All these physical necessities immediately from birth overwhelmed us and take all our time up and that's why it became a habit to us to preoccupy ourselves with physical needs alone, and that's why we forget further and further, more and more about our other positive side of nature. And that's the only secret. Does it make sense to you? (Audience: Yes)

So now I have in brief and in logic explained to you or reminded you what is truly enlightenment. And there's no mystery about it, just the positive side of our nature. And we have both inside. Up to now we only use the negative, because the necessities of this negative world force us to always have to lean on the negative side to survive. And then, the more we do it, the more we forget the other side. That's all. But that is the thing that we should not do. Because without the positive we can't even take care of the negative well. Without the driver, you know what I mean, the car doesn't matter how good you take care, it will not move and it will move all wrong way around, killing people if it does. So now the driver must wake up. Wake him up and tell him to drive the car, drive properly. And that is all there is for enlightenment.

(The lecture's questions and answers will be in the next issue.)

Master's Wonders

Put Down The Butcher's Knife To Become A Buddha At Once

Narrated By Brother Chen, Hsinchu, Formosa
Recorded By The Hsinchu News Group, Formosa
Illustration: Initiate Song, Taipei, Formosa

Brother Chen is a taxi driver. An incredible incident that he encountered on the Lunar New Year's Eve not only saved an injured soul, but also gave him an even deeper understanding towards his spiritual practice. "No matter what line of work we are in, we should make good use of the roles that Master arranges for us, because 'there must be a use for the talents given to us by God'." This Lunar New Year, he could not go to Hsihu and receive a red envelope from Master, but he still had a special gift from Master, which made his New Year holiday a very meaningful one.

Before the Lunar New Year, because it was busier, this brother initiate especially worked extra time, lengthening his normal working time a great deal. Early New Year's Eve morning, his daughter needed to go to school, and his wife wanted to go shopping at the market. So, the brother initiate dragged his exhausted body out and started his car again, to provide a service for his family. When his wife said good-bye to the brother initiate, she especially asked him to come back for her in half an hour. So the brother initiate parked his car by the alley, and listening to Master's Buddhist chanting tape, he closed his eyes for a rest. A little while later, someone knocked on the car window. Normally, the brother initiate would explain to the customer the reason why he could not take him. However that time, not only did he not have any thought of refusing that customer, he was more than willing to accept him. Everything seemed to have been prearranged by God so that he was there waiting for him.

As soon as this customer got in the car, he said to the brother initiate, "You are lucky that you can give me a ride today!" With many years of experience, the brother initiate knew from one glance that he was a gangster. Although he was not frightened, he wondered why this man made such a statement. The customer continued, "You might witness something very unusual today." Upon hearing that, the brother initiate intuitively thought that the man was going to kill someone. The man continued, "It is good that you have me as your customer today. You can name any price for your time." Then he took out a bundle of money and said, "My purpose today is to take revenge. I was wrongly jailed for decades, only because I was betrayed by a childhood friend. Today I want justice to be served!"

At first, no matter what the brother initiate said to him, the man did not want to listen to a word. However, it happened that he could not find the person he was looking for at the several places they went to. So, there was more time for the brother initiate to talk to him, but all he had was a determined reply, "I understand everything you've said. It's just that I can't let it go. Unless you can totally convince me within ten minutes, I won't give up what I want to do today." Then he said to the brother initiate, "What is the greatest thing in life?" The brother initiate thought, "He is a gangster, and I am a businessman. What if what I say is not proper, I will increase the burden in his mind. Wouldn't I have misled him then?" Facing the awkward situation at that time, the best thing he could do was pray in his heart to Master to dissolve the man's hatred. He also continuously played Master's Buddhist chanting tape. Suddenly, an inspiration came to his mind. The brother initiate said straight forwardly, "The greatest thing in life is to be able to forgive others and love your enemy! I still can't do that. I am working hard on it." The man agreed with that completely. They continued with their conversation, but the man only agreed to what the brother initiate said initially, and insisted on keeping the remainder of his views.

When the car arrived at the next destination, it happened that the customer just missed the person he was looking for. So, he asked the brother initiate to drive faster, and perhaps they could catch up. The brother initiate felt that all was Master's wondrous arrangement, so he purposely drove slower. The man said helplessly, "Alright. If you can untie the knot in my heart in five minutes, I will turn back at once and will no longer have that intention!" The brother initiate knew that he was neither an intellectual nor someone who was eloquent and very good at judging people's minds, but at that time he immediately and spontaneously said, "I feel that there are some ties in your heart, and all this time you have been struggling whether to let them go. If you don't forgive, you have to take action. Once the action starts, a dreadful fight is unavoidable. Eventually the victims will be your wife and children. Frankly, the action you want to take will only satisfy you for a moment. It cannot cure your wound. You choose to do it today so that the other party can't have a happy New Year. But likewise, your wife and children can't look forward to a happy future. Your family is waiting for you to return, to have a New Year's Eve reunion. Once you make your move today, you can't go back for your reunion, because either you will have to flee or you die with injures. That is why you have been struggling in you heart."

"Right! Right! Right! It is indeed so!" The man totally agreed with what the brother initiate said. Then he asked the brother initiate, "Whom does a person live for?" The brother initiate replied, "If it is an ordinary person, he lives for himself. A person who has attained Buddhahood lives for other people, for example, my Master - the Supreme Master Ching Hai." Once the man heard Master's name, he interrupted and said, "The Supreme Master Ching Hai! I read two or three books of Hers while I was in jail." The brother initiate continued, "My Master, the Supreme Master Ching Hai, has attained Buddhahood. She is an extraordinary person. Everything She does is for other people. She lives for sentient beings. From an ordinary person's viewpoint, we have no blood relationship with Her at all. However, She still transmits the dharma to disciples like us...." "Master has attained the Tao, the perfect enlightenment. She deeply understands that every person has a Buddha nature. We come to this world to learn different lessons, and you are learning yours. They are difficult, aren't they? What you are facing now is a big test. If you can be tolerant today, it is like the saying: 'Put down the butcher's knife and become a Buddha at once.'" All through the journey, this friend had been blessed by Master's loving power, and now he heard these sincere words from the brother initiate. Suddenly, he broke out in tears like a child. He said to the brother initiate, "It's strange! How did I end up riding in your car today? I was going along fine driving my car. Once I made the turn near the market, my car suddenly broke down!" After hearing that, everything was clear in the brother initiate's mind, "This is Master's arrangement. You should cherish the affinity! Today we met for the first time. You were able to share with me what was on your mind, and I tried to answer you with all I know. I ask you please not to think too much...." The customer cried louder and louder, and his suppressed feelings flowed out along with his tears. . . .

As the brother initiate recounted the incident to this point, he was almost in tears. That event still moved him greatly. He said, "Since following Master to practice, even though I have not worked very hard studying Her teachings, She always uses outer miraculous experiences to teach me Her omnipresent love." Although we all know that after receiving initiation, Master's transformation form looks after and protects us twenty-four hours a day, we often forget to respect at all times the fact that Master is omnipresent. However, once there is trouble and we pray to Master, She immediately extends Her helping hand. Through this experience of his, we once again verify that Master is everywhere and with us at all times.

Firecrackers That Discharged Automatically

Narrated By Fellow Initiate Shih, Taipei, Formosa
Recorded By The Taipei News Group, Formosa

Not long ago, the father of a close colleague passed away. I knew she was a very filial daughter and wanted very much to help her father elevate to a better realm. However, she did not know what to do. So I suggested she play Master's Buddhist chanting tape next to her father's body, and use only vegetarian food throughout the funeral. Although my friend never recognized Master (and even once slandered Her), she still followed my suggestions to give it a try.

At that time, her family did not approve of the vegetarian food. Consequently that night, a child in the family dreamed that his grandpa was vomiting and asked his relatives to stop giving him meat offerings. It was because he would vomit each time he accepted them, and he felt terrible. The next day, the child told everyone about the dream. Half believing and half doubting, they sought confirmation from a medium. The resulting message was: "The Supreme Master Ching Hai is going to bring your father to the West (Western Paradise)!" After that, the whole family believed the words of the child, and decided to handle the funeral with vegetarian food.

Furthermore, on the forty-ninth day after the funeral, a string of firecrackers had been prepared to be set off that morning during the family ritual. Before the scheduled time, without any people or inflammable substance around, the firecrackers discharged automatically. Even more incredible was that they were discharging from the top going downwards. The whole family was bewildered and curious, so they immediately consulted the medium again. The answer they received was: "As early as forty-nine days ago, at the time when your father passed away, the Supreme Master Ching Hai was going to take him away. However, he loved the noisy atmosphere here and begged the Supreme Master Ching Hai to let him stay around longer. Just now, the firecrackers were set off by your father, extending his respectful greeting to the Supreme Master Ching Hai who came to take him to the West."

Master once said, "Anyone you are concerned about, whether or not they are your relatives or related to you, just because you have directed a sympathetic thought to them, Master will take care of them." Therefore, even the non-initiated people, who have been eating meat all their lives and have never practiced spiritually, can benefit because they have friends or relatives who are initiated spiritual practitioners. o

The Heavenly Nectar

Recorded By The Tainan News Group, Formosa

There is a fellow sister who had great faith in Master even before she was initiated. She had thoroughly studied Master's books, cassette and video tapes. She believed very much in Master's power. Besides silently savoring her abundant inner experiences, she also frequently talked about Master to her very old grandpa. Subsequently, her grandpa also had strong faith in Master, and often recited Master's holy name and looked at Her photos.

One day, her grandpa dreamed that the manifestation body of Master took him to heaven to enjoy himself, and fed him nectar and heavenly fruit. According to his description, the heavenly nectar was extremely sweet, and the heavenly fruit were much greater, in comparison, to the most cherished fruit on earth. After this dream, incredibly her grandpa had no desire to eat for many days!

Child, Don't Be Afraid

By Fellow Initiate Zhu, Mainland China

My father passed away due to illness. In the last few months of his life, my young daughter was the one spending the most time with him, and they become very close to each other. Therefore, she was most upset and felt somewhat frightened by the death of her grandpa. To make her feel better, my husband and I let her sleep between us in bed.

One morning, she told me that she saw Master's form in her dream, and distinctly heard Master asking her, "What are you afraid of? Your grandpa has already come with me." She then asked Master where grandpa is now? Master said, "Raise your head and look up." She raised her head, and saw grandpa singing and dancing in the sky.

Because of the solace from Master's manifestation form, she is not afraid anymore!

Note: The little girl is now a vegetarian, and awaiting initiation.