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Master Says Power And Finance

Letters Between Master & Disciples Experiencing God's Love A Seed Of God

Special Reports Our Gratitude To You! Dedicated To All Father's Maturing With The Buddha's Children Master's Love Surpasses A Father's Thousand Words Practice Happily As A Father With A Mother's Duty The Change In My Father A 'New' Father

Aphorisms True Love Can Clean Anything

Pearls Of Wisdom The Quan Yin Method Is All Encompassing

While On The Path Master Reveals My Wife's Goodness The Bless-ing Of Keeping The Precepts Zen Is Inherent In Daily Life

Spot Light Fighting The Spiritual War

Poems Supreme Matriarch To Mother - Queen Of The Universe The Almighty Father's Love

God Almighty Takes Care Of Everything

Spiritual Interludes The Really Happy Princess The Amazing Magician Be Humble And Flexible A Barbecue Picnic

Media Reports

Master's Words Methods of Healing Illnesses

Master's Wonder One Person's Spiritual Practice Benefits His Entire Family The Story Of A Little House Lizard A Lesson The Marvelous Buddha's Chants

Front Line Free Ourselves And The Earth

Center Events Cooperating To Create A Paradise On Earth

Relief Efforts Rescue Work At The Sampoong Department Store Disaster In Seoul

The Supreme Art Suma Ching Hai's Holy Musical Melodies That Exist Only In Heaven

Between Master And Disciples A Beautiful Way To Meet Master Break Through The Habits Of The Mind

Feature Reports Welcome Home! Enjoying A Summer Vacation With Mommy Master Exploring The Treasure Hills At Hsihu Heaven On Earth Dream On A Starry Night Secret Words Of Love Deja Vu Parents' Grace Is Beyond Measure

A True Account Of A "Big Brother" The Reforming Of A "Natural Born Killer"

A Little Message

Elevation Of The Soul

Our Liaison Practitioners Throughout The World

Master's Words

Methods of Healing Illnesses

Spoken by Suma Ching Hai at a group meditation, Hsihu, Formosa on June 11, 1995.
(Originally in Chinese)

There is a method that heals all illnesses; that is, meditation and loving others, two simple things only. If we just sit there every day worrying about this and that illness, we get sicker and sicker, feeling worse and worse as we practice. Some modern scientists have stated that we should not find an excuse to stay home just because we suffer from a little cold or flu. It is not necessary! Just go out and work. If necessary, take some medicine, wear more clothes to keep warm, and then continue with your work. In this way your system will improve as you force yourself to resist your sickness.

Help other people if you have time. Help your neighbors or orphans and widows. Observe their needs and render help accordingly. Don't spend time worrying about your own feelings; because, the more you worry, the more exhausted and sick you get. It is good for us to think of others. Should we die while we are caring about other people, it is also a great honor. Is this not so? I have told you many stories; you should practice their principles in your daily lives.

Aphorisms

True Love Can Clean Anything

By Suma Ching Hai (Originally in English)

Love is the greatest law in the universe. Anything can be cleansed away by true love. So, when you do things in a charitable manner, do it with love. Don't worry about karma.

The most important thing in this life, in our practice principle is loving, loving others, loving ourselves. Liberate from all hatred, prejudices, criticizing attitudes, and negative thinking, because these are the negative things, the burdens that bind us to this physical world or within the three worlds. If we have none of that we are liberated while living.

The outside represents our inside. You have to reflect your own inner level of cleanliness and saintliness.

Master's Wonders

One Person's Spiritual Practice
Benefits His Entire Family

Narrated by Follow Initiate Chen, Nantou, Formosa Recorded by The News Group, Nantou, Formosa

Brother Chen has been initiated into the Quan Yin Method for many years. His family was never interested in religion. Moreover, because of their worldly preconceptions, they were further biased by Master's constantly changing attire for the convenience of saving sentient beings. His whole family believed that brother Chen had followed the wrong Master!

On one occasion, brother Chen's uncle was sleeping in his room. In the middle of the night, his uncle woke up from a dream and saw Master's photograph on the wall emitting very bright golden light, which lasted for quite a while before disappearing. A similar phenomenon occurred to brother Chen's younger sister. She saw a photo of Master on the wall in brother Chen's room transforming into various appearances. These unique manifestations of Master granted brother Chen the opportunity to introduce Master's teachings to his family members.

Once, while dozing off in a chair during the funeral of a relative, brother Chen's mother saw in her twilight state a large hand holding the deceased person's casket and lifting it all the way to heaven. She was extremely curious as to which Buddha, emitting bright, golden light had come to ferry him away. She looked up and exclaimed to herself, "Hey! Isn't that Suma Ching Hai, whom my son follows?" When she mentioned this occurrence to her relatives, one of them, a Buddhist of the Pure Land Sect, was very amazed and said, "How can this be possible? I have been reciting the Buddhas' names all my life. Why didn't they come instead of letting Suma Ching Hai take him away?" Little do they know that Master is truly an omnipresent living Buddha!

Even though brother Chen's mother still cannot let go of the worldly way of life, she has begun to accept the idea of vegetarianism. She tries to adhere to a vegetarian diet as much as possible and has gradually come to understand how being vegetarian and performing spiritual practice are beneficial. Spontaneously, she has stopped objecting anymore to brother Chen's pursuit of Master's teachings!

Reflecting on these experiences of his family members, brother Chen said with deep emotion, "I know that my family has strong attachments to the material world; they are very difficult to change . But our merciful Master has guided them by various means to change their attitudes toward spiritual practitioners. I should practice more diligently. Perhaps, some day, my family will suddenly be enlightened and take on the path of spiritual practice and liberation." The Story of
A Little House Lizard

By Fellow initiate Qiu, Taoyuan, Formosa

Once a strange gecko entered our house. It was crawling around the cassette player when we first found it. Whenever Master's Buddha's chanting tape was played, it stopped by the machine. Head up, eyes half closed, ignoring the people walking about, the lizard looked as though it were in samadhi and full of blessing.

Gradually, we became accustomed to the behavior of our lizard "friend" who loved to listen to Buddha's chanting. We were very careful while walking in the house for fear of stepping on it.

One day, when the Buddha's chanting tape was played, the little lizard rested at the same place and position as usual. Out of curiosity, I wanted to play with it for fun. I lightly scratched its tummy with something. Strangely, it didn't move at all. Gently I turned it upside down, and to my surprise, it had passed away. Our lizard friend died in samadhi. God bless! God bless!

A Lesson

Narrated by Fellow Initiate Lu, Tainan, Formosa Recorded by Tainan News Group, Formosa

Everyone in sister Lu's family is initiated, except her father. Having resided in a temple for years as a temple keeper, not long ago, he came back to live with his family for health reasons. Either because he had lived in the temple for years or smoked for many years, his body, including his face, was blackened by incense smoke, just like the wooden statue in the temple.

After he returned home, he complained everyday for no reason. Everything was offensive to his eyes. In the house, there was a picture of Master in her early days hung on the wall; She wore a white hat with one hand holding a calabash walking stick, and the other hand pointing afar, like a shepherd. To him, this picture of Master was offensive, as was everything else in the house. He often pointed to the picture and poured out abuse, and the family members could do nothing about it but tolerate him and pray silently to Master, hoping that She would teach him and help him to change.

One day, father became abusive about Master's picture again, and all of a sudden, he saw Her holding Her walking cane and walking out of the picture. The cane turned into a dragon's head pole, and Master became very tall. She stared at father indignantly, roared like thunder, and fiercely knocked the ground with Her pole, making a loud sound. Having resided in the temple for years, father had never experienced such a miracle. He was dumbfounded with fear until Master calmed Her anger and slowly returned to the picture.

Since then, stubborn father has never dared to point at Master's picture and call Her names. With a lingering fear, he has often mentioned to others in the family that Master is mighty and powerful, with a great body that is much taller than his....

This story provides a good example of how Master's transformation body delivers all types of sentient beings in numerous ways. For a stubborn, fierce, and tough person like father, Master's transformation body has to use the fierce visage of a Buddha's guardian warrior to teach him.

When I saw sister Lu's father again, I hardly recognized him! Unlike his previous blackened image, the skin over his entire body had become white and smooth. He had become gentle and polite, and he no longer smelled like cigarette smoke .

The Marvelous Buddha's Chants

By Fellow Initiate Chang, Taoyuan, Formosa

One night, I let Master's "Buddha's chanting" tape play continuously. Late that night, when I was half asleep, I found that the familiar Buddha's chanting had changed; although it was the same melody, Master's voice disappeared, being replaced by the sound of various musical instruments. I felt extremely amused and joyful, and a sweet smile stayed on my face till dawn.

Master once said, "Master is light. Master is sound. Master is power." Through this experience, I came to understand more and more of Master's teachings. The vibration of a living Master's voice has immeasurable frequencies.

Master Tells Stories

Spoken by the Suma Ching Hai, Hsihu Center, Formosa Dec. 31, 1994 (Originally in Chinese)

God Almighty Takes Care Of Everything

There was once a very conscientious Indian yoga practitioner. One day his very old and sick mother died. He became very happy and immediately ran to the big hall, kneeling there, he thanked God Almighty, perhaps the inner Master! He was there prostrating and saying, "Thank you God! I had not asked and had not prayed to You, but You have already given me a great blessing. Now that my mother has been taken away by You, I am very free and I'm able to think about You wholeheartedly everyday without any encumbrance. Thank You!"

He was there joyously dancing and singing. The neighbors felt it very strange: "How come? His mother has died, and he did not shed a tear, and he is even dancing and singing." Meaning he was dancing a type of dance as to make an offering to God, not that he was going to a karaoke; it's not the same! Perhaps it was about the same, moving and shaking, they looked the same. But his mother would not have been sad because his mother was also a very pious spiritual practitioner, just like himself. They both knew that the world is ephemeral. Thus his mother was very happy when she passed away, and he was also very happy after she passed away. They were both strange people!

After burying his mother, he went to the bank of the Ganges everyday, reciting the five names, meditating, and communicating with God Almighty. It had been three days and this person did not eat or drink anything. He totally forgot about it. He was sitting on one very secluded bank of the Ganges where no pilgrims pass by, thus he did not get anything to eat. Every day he very happily recited the five names and meditated, so he forgot about hunger.

God Almighty spoke to the people beside Hirm, "Alas! What a pity! My disciple down there is dying of hunger and it seems like I am not being very responsible; not giving him anything to eat. He is there, remembering me every moment of the day, yet I am here forgetting to protect him." Then God told the angel beside Hirm to bring some good food to the riverside for him. A lot of blessed food was put on a gold plate: chapatis, milk, apples, etc. and brought to that person. That angel had never seen a human being before, not to mention a boy. She was a girl and a bit shy to see a boy, so she silently put the plate beside him and flew away.

That person saw the food but did not see anyone come. He thanked God thinking it must have been sent by Hirm. He finished the food and continued to recite God's name, meditate, and enter samadhi. Suddenly a lot of people surrounded him and woke him up. They were carrying sticks and broad swords wanting to arrest him. Very puzzled he said, "Why? What is the matter?"

They said, "You thief. You dare to steal this gold plate from God's temple. We want to take you to the King to punish you."

No matter how he tried to explain, the soldiers would not believe him. They saw this poor boy in tattered clothes sitting by the river, so they could not imagine that he could possess such a precious gold plate. Thus they assumed that he must have stolen it. The plate looked like the ones used in the temple to make offerings to God, so they were taking him back to be punished.

After taking him back, the King was very angry. He told his subordinates to beat him. He was beaten for a long time, very hard and very seriously, but that yogi did not feel anything at all, and continued to laugh. (Master laughs). Not laughing like I am, but about the same. He was not only laughing, he was also very happy like being tickled. They got tired of beating him; their hands were sore. (Master laughs.) Then they stopped beating him and let him go. The King also felt strange, feeling as if God was protecting him, thus he dared not continue with the beating. But he was very curious and ran to the temple to see if a plate like that had been stolen.

When he went to the temple, he saw blood flowing from God's statue. He was very surprised, "How could it be so? How could a statue bleed?" Not only that, the places that were bleeding on the statue were exactly the same places that were bleeding on that person which had been beaten. Therefore, he knelt there repenting not knowing what sins he had committed. Later he realized that perhaps that person was innocent, and beating him was like beating God; thus God's statue was bleeding. At that point, the King and his ministers were all very frightened. They all hurried to the riverside, knelt, and repented to that small, penniless yogi; they also offered him food every day. When they went back to the temple, they saw that God's statue was no longer bleeding, hence they knew the reason.

Because this person was very earnest in his meditation, he thought only about God every day, so God felt guilty because he did not have anything to eat. If it was because of the food that he was beaten, then of course it was God's fault. Thus Hes bore the punishment Hirmself. Understand? It is not that after being God or Buddha you care about nothing. If we truly practice sincerely then God will take care of everything. This is the meaning.

<<A True Account Of A "Wonder-Person">>

The Reformation Of A "Natural Born Killer" The Story of 'Little Lame,' The Big Brother Of The Tainan Underground (II)

Narrated by Fellow Initiate Wu, Tainan, Formosa Recorded by a Resident Disciple, Hsihu, Formosa

At the early stage of Master's preaching, She always found time to visit prison inmates. Besides comforting and encouraging them spiritually, She also shared with them biscuits and candies. Due to the longing of sentient beings around the world, Master has become increasingly busy, and constantly travels and preaches abroad. Although She no longer has time to visit prisons, Her concern for prisoners persists. She has instructed our fellow initiates to visit them on Her behalf when they have time. Initiates who used to be prisoners have been requested to go along to encourage the inmates with inspiring stories of their own conversions from evil to goodness.

For this reason, brother Wu was also asked to join such a trip. Unexpectedly, when the organizing brother explained the trip's objective and asked him to present a speech in the prison, he refused abruptly on the spot. He continued to reject later requests as well. His fear was that, after speaking in the prison, he would be laughed at and would lose face in the event that he should decide to join the gangster circle again. He also found many excuses, like being too shy to speak in public , in order to turn down the requests. The organizing brother had no option but to report the situation to Master. In order to help him understand the holy meaning of this work, Master asked someone to relate the following message to him: "This is the last opportunity in your life to do this job. You must seize this chance, and remember your mission. When you go to fulfil your assignment, be humble at heart, and absolutely refrain from being arrogant."

Upon receiving Master's instructions, brother Wu dared not refuse anymore. To accomplish the job perfectly, and to avoid stage fright, he practiced frequently before his wife and son who acted as his audience. The response to his speeches was always "It is awful!" After several attempts, he was ashamed to torture his wife and son any longer. He could only wait until midnight when no one was around, and then stealthily go outdoors to practice his speech to the light pole. And whenever he had time, he would meditate at home, praying to Master to bless him and grant him inspiration.

One day, he felt thwarted and complained to his wife, "I don't think I am going, because until now my practice is still far from satisfactory!" His wife rebuked him, saying, "This is an assignment from Master, how can you refuse to go? I see you are usually very talkative. Why can't you speak now that you have the opportunity to express yourself?"

Since it was Master's assignment, he dared not complain any more. Instead, he rushed to meditate and pray for Her help. On the next day, the organizing brother conveyed another message: "Master said that your wife may also give a speech to the female inmates." Upon hearing this, his wife's face turned green, and her nervousness was no less intense than brother Wu's.

Early the next morning, brother Wu and the working members arrived punctually at the Taipei Prison. Cordially, the prison staff led them to the VIP Room for a brief rest; then they split up into two groups and went to the male and female wards respectively. This trip induced very deep emotions in brother Wu. Previously, whenever he went to a prison, he entered as a prisoner. However, this time he came as a VIP lecturer. Events in this world are truly ever changing and unpredictable. On the way, he recalled some fragmented memories of his life in prison, and without being aware of it soon reached the lecture venue.

When brother Wu went onto the stage and began to speak, the inmates stared at him with hostility and indifference. Even the applause sounded mechanical. An indescribably strange atmosphere pervaded the venue, as if invisible forces were oppressing him and making him speechless. Immediately, he prayed for Master's blessing, and his mind was stabilized. He described his whole life in detail to the inmates: how he had sunk into gangster society, how he had been converted to goodness and pursued spiritual practice, and how he eventually met Suma Ching Hai.

As time went on, the atmosphere gradually began to change; the inmates started to listen with great interest and attention, and their expressions also became more cordial. When brother Wu concluded his speech, he received warm applause from the whole audience, which seemed to convey their encouragement and recognition. Some inmates took the initiative of helping the work team clear the venue. Several inmates who knew brother Wu even approached and greeted him. One of them rushed forward saying, "Hello, brother boss! I will surely visit you at Suma Ching Hai's Center when I am released." Brother Wu delightedly expressed his welcome.

After this first speech in the prison, brother Wu's blissful feeling could not be described in words. He never imagined this meaningful mission could be accomplished so smoothly and successfully. For him, it was an incredible challenge . Without Master's admonition, he could not possibly have gathered the courage and strength to rectify his undesirable quality of declining to do good deeds and benefit others. Furthermore, he had conquered his stage fright.

The most precious lesson that brother Wu learned from this was that he could always feel the bliss of being one with Master during such missions, and experience Her selfless and almighty love. For instance, when going to the Tainan Prison to give a speech, he kept shedding tears in the car until he felt embarrassed. He wondered: "I didn't shed a single tear when being punished severely for many days in the prison before. Why am I behaving like this now? Perhaps it is like Master once said that our soul knows we are now on the right path, so it cries due to extreme bliss!

When brother Wu made a speech at the Jiayi Prison, another initiate observed a strong light bathing him as he was on stage. He looked much younger in the light, and Master's manifestation body was standing behind him. No wonder brother Wu always feels that, the more work he does that benefits others, the happier and more relaxed he feels both physically and spiritually, and the more his guilty feelings are eliminated. So, it turns out that Master's manifestation body is always blessing him and cleansing his karma. This story testifies to the truth of Master's words: "When helping others, we are actually helping ourselves."

The application for brother Wu to present a speech at the Hsinchu Youth Prison encountered difficulties. The local fellow practitioners had been applying for a long time, without being approved. Once, when brother Wu spoke at the Hualien Low Security Prison, several inmates advised him, "Brother boss, you should pay a visit to the 'Hsinchu Youth Prison.' The situation there is very serious. Tell them the story that you told us today; it will surely touch many of them, and lead them back from the wrong path." This loving request intensified brother Wu's wish to visit the Hsinchu Youth Prison.

Perhaps sincerity really worked, or perhaps it was Master's fantastic arrangement operating invisibly in the background. Mr. Ma Ying Jiu, Minister of the Justice Department was inspecting the Swallow's Nest (Yan Cao) Prison where he coincidently met brother Wu, who was making a speech there. Minister Ma shook hands with him and encouraged him cordially. Shortly afterwards, the fellow initiates from Hsinchu received permission from the Youth Prison regarding the lecture application. It happened that Minister Ma had personally called the Hsinchu Youth Prison instructing them to invite brother Wu to give a speech. Fortunately, the Formosan Government is very wise and really cares for prisoners, allowing its youth who have gone astray to have the blessing of developing affinity with a living enlightened Master.

A chain of presentations by brother Wu has occurred in prisons throughout the province. As brother Wu is inclined to getting carsick, long distance travel is agonizing for him. The occasional recurrence of his chronic ailments also aggravates his exhaustion. Once when he was travelling to Yilan to make a speech, he was complaining within about being too tired. However, in the car, he heard a brother recalling when Master wandered and preached everywhere in earlier times. For the sake of saving sentient beings, Master camped anywhere necessary, and did not even have a Center in which to stay and preach. Overcome by remorse, tears rolled down his cheeks. Immediately, all the grumblings in his heart disappeared completely.

So far, brother Wu has presented speeches in prisons in Taipei, Taoyuan, Kaohsiung, Swallow's Nest (Yan Cao), Jiayi, Tainan, Yilan, Hualien, and Green Island (Lu Dao), as well as the Hsinchu Youth Prison. He receives an overwhelming welcome everywhere he goes. After each talk, he always begins to wonder, "Where is the next opportunity for me to redeem my sins?" He truly feels that real happiness can only be found in doing work that serves and benefits others.

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POEMS

Supreme Matriarch

By Fellow Initiate Diep, Los Angeles, U.S.A. (Originally in English)

Master!
From Your grace I am reborn,
Given a new life.
By Your great love,
I've thrown my past to the wind
To follow the path You have chosen.

Like a young fledgeling
Maturing under Your gentle loving care, My Eye opens to see an entirely new world. With Your great love
You beautify the world.
Under Your patient guidance
My life is pure music.

The darkness fled in the bright sunlight; Brighter than the sun,
You are my life.
You grant me hope.
I glimpse new worlds,
Spreading my wings, soaring high,
Far and wide, to the worlds yonder.

You are the star of my darkest night.
You are the heart of my soul.
You are the silver cord that gives me life. My life is Yours
For all eternity.

Master!
I love You so.
Living to serve You
Is my life's goal.
I know sometimes
I will stumble and fall
But I will fight on
To overcome all obstacles
And be worthy
Of Your unconditional love
And forevermore
You are my Supreme Matriarch.

To Mother - Queen of the Universe

By Fellow Initiate Bai, Indiana, USA
(Originally in English & Chinese)

You are the Ocean of Love;
The world is the rippling waves between the tides. Sentient beings fathom the rhythm of life in Your rising spray.

You are the Harp of Love;
The universe is the rainbow
pulsing from Your strings.
Riotous* and ever changing,

        the light nourishes the spirits
        of ten thousand beings.

You are even more perfect than the Sun; Miraculously and ingeniously
turning the Wheel of Dharma Wisdom for eternity. Wherever Your light beams reach,
the lost and longing souls become enlightened.

You are the Holy Water,
purer and brighter than the moonlight. The Treasured Vial inverted; ten directions are blessed by Your ever falling dew.
Billions of lives are filled with Grace, baptized in Your Nectar.

Oh! Mother- Queen of the Universe,
How I long to become a bouquet
of never withering heart flowers, consecrated to You - for eternity...

The Almighty Father's Love

By Fellow Initiate Chang, Cambodia

Holy Father,
It is a beautiful planet,
Really beautiful.

Recalling the past,
My will took Your command.

You once promised
To protect me and stay by my side
Till I go back to heaven in triumph.

You created mountains and rivers.
Eighty thousand creatures
Accompanying me,
For me to play with.

Listen.
They sing praises to You
With heavenly music.

Look.
They glorify You
By showing off their abundant colors.

They use their endless energy
To praise Your miracles.

The Ganges River whispers
And the lilies smile.
Almighty Father,
I know You are always with me.
Every part of the universe is full of Your love.

Pearls Of Wisdom

The Quan Yin Method
Is All Encompassing

Spoken by Suma Ching Hai, at a group meditation Hsihu Center, Formosa May 12, 1992 (Originally in English)

Recognizing Your Ability

As you go on developing your mastership, you will master slowly, slowly, one by one the arts, and you know many things by the way. One by one, you'll master them. Not one by one, one hundred, one thousand by one thousand. It's just because you have no opportunity to use these, so you do not know what you have yet. When you suddenly encounter trouble, danger or problems that you have to solve, then you know what you have.

Faith

What is faith? Not the blind belief, but the higher, the nobler idea of who you are, of what you can do, and of how great you truly have been and will be. That is the faith, the true faith. Not the faith in my power, not the faith that I could heal you, I could help you, but the faith that the almighty power is within me, within you, and that can do everything. You do not follow a master, you follow the great principle of the universe of which the master reminds you.

Follow The Highest Master

Do not follow anyone if that person talks nonsense and counters your evolutionary process. Follow anyone whose teaching is grand, is noble, is high, and inspires you to become greater, to have more confidence and more wisdom in yourselves. That's the highest master. The master might have different personalities, might not suit your taste; how the master dresses, how the master speaks, how he eats his meals, he might eat bread and you eat rice, or he eats rice and you eat bread, but that doesn't matter, doesn't matter at all. If the master knows the highest principle of life, the noblest ideal of mankind, and teaches you that, that is the right master. Don't look for the miracles, don't look for personalities, don't look for the outer appearance, don't look for his way of life. Look for the principle that the master teaches, which is very logical and evolves upward. Anyone who teaches downward is the devil; anyone who teaches upward is the master of high order.

The Real Teaching Comes From The Master

Everyone can say that we are God, that we have Buddha nature inside. But, saying and having the power behind it is different. The real teaching is not verbal; therefore, I don't mean anyone who talks good, who tells you good principles, that's a great master. No, I mean the real teaching, the teaching that comes from the whole being of the master, from the whole vital principle, from the whole energy of the master. You don't listen with ears alone. You listen with all your soul and you understand it by your own wisdom. That is the real teaching. Not by words because many teachers teach by words. I don't mean that. The real teaching is the invisible power that goes with the words, with every promise that the Master makes to you. That will be fulilled. So we must know. There is a difference between a copy and an original.

Spiritual Interludes

The Really Happy Princess

By Fellow Initiate Zheng, Taipei, Formosa

One night, I dreamed about myself wearing a resplendent dress and sitting gracefully. However, my face looked extremely worried and sad, and my mouth was like a crescent moon in the last quarter. When I received the newly released News magazine and looked at the cover photo, I was amazed to see Master wearing exactly the same dress as the one in my dream!

Shortly afterwards, I bought a photo of Master wearing the same gorgeous dress. She was sitting elegantly, with a beautiful, dignified, gentle, reserved, yet magnificent smile on Her face, which warmed my heart like the sun in winter.

Recently, I went to the three-day retreat in Hsihu, and saw for the first time the videotape of the dazzling Celestial Fashion Show. This dress was labeled the "Happy Princess." Only then did I realize Master's intended message -- beautiful clothes and delicious food cannot give us contentment. Only when we are happy within, are we really happy.

Be Humble And Flexible

By Fellow Initiate Valerie, Paris, France (Originally in French)

Several of us French fellow practitioners arrived in Milan with the Celestial Fashion Show work team. In the hotel suite, there were two bedrooms and a living room. Since all the Celestial Clothes were hung in the living room, without hesitation, we occupied one of the bedrooms, without considering whether there was enough room for the Celestial Fashion Show work team and other staff as well to sleep.

Early the next morning, a voice suddenly awakened us: "Are you some big shots to be sleeping on the bed? Others have been working the whole day long, yet they are sleeping on the hard benches in the living room. Do you think you are so important?" With that, we immediately left the bedroom while learning a good lesson: We cared only about our own comfort and not about others; Western fellow practitioners should not always enjoy privileges. We should be humble.

On the second day, the Celestial Clothes were shifted to another room, and the work team moved out as well. Then some long sofas were placed in the living room. Since several more French practitioners had arrived, we offered the bedrooms to them; some of us slept on the living room floor, while others slept on the hard benches, which were so short that they didn't allow us to stretch out our legs. Meanwhile, the long, soft sofas lay idly beside us.

The fellow practitioner who awakened us felt very weird about this scene. She then said, "Well, perhaps you should not occupy the bedroom, but no one forbid you to sleep on the sofas!" So this time, we learned another lesson -- be flexible.

The Amazing Magician

By Fellow Initiate Hwang, Taipei, Formosa

Master! My dear and respected Master! She is an amazing magician. She is a philosopher and poet, as well as a painter, a horticulturist, and a musician. We've further discovered that Master is also an outstanding chef, an ingenious architect, and a talented fashion designer.

However, no matter how Master changes, we all know full well that Her boundless love for sentient beings is always the same. Because Master's love -- Her profound love -- originates from the source of the cosmos; for us, the disciples, our withered hearts are nourished by its nectar; our meek souls immediately find courage; our sorrows suddenly are dispelled, and even the most worrisome faces open up and smile.

Children are filled with more vigor! Adults are more innocent! And the elders are more lovely!

With Master's love, the sunshine feels warmer! The moon looks more luminous! And the air feels refreshing once again!

Desolate mountains become everyone's paradise; everywhere the dreadful human world becomes heaven. Master -- the truly amazing magician -- makes the impossible possible.

Thank You, Master, for Your love. Thank You, Master, for Your magic wand; for letting us witness Your supreme, divine miracle!

An Express Vegetarian
Birthday Cake

By Fellow Initiate Xiong, Paris, France

When I was informed that there would be a birthday celebration in Monaco for Master, all I thought about was preparing some fruit and vegetarian cakes and so on, for fellow practitioners and other guests. I did not think that I would experience any difficulties. The only problem was that vegetarian cakes were not available in France, but I thought it would not matter if the cakes could not be obtained.

Eventually, one of Master's guards called repeatedly on the phone telling me to prepare a sufficient and great variety of beautiful and exotic fruit for decoration. Furthermore, I found out that a vegetarian birthday cake was absolutely necessary! I then realized that the assignment was not as easy as I had imagined. I obviously needed to be very serious and concentrated in undertaking the task that I had originally thought was trifling.

Hurriedly, I contacted some fellow practitioners to prepare the blessed food, birthday presents, flowers, and air tickets. I had only one day to prepare the vegetarian birthday cake. While praying for the blessing of inner wisdom, I had the thought that Master was using this opportunity to teach us how to break through the concept of 'the impossible.'

The next morning, when I first called a number of bakeries on the phone to make inquiries, I received disappointing responses as expected. Having no other option, I visited the bakeries one by one but still encountered shaking heads and a lack of willingness to try. However from past experience, I have learned that each time I work on Master's assignments, no matter how difficult the situation, if I have faith and persist, there is always a favorable outcome. Then, I went into a bakery where the lady owner also refused. However, an elderly lady standing on one side was paying attention to our conversation. I sensed that this could be a turning point in my crisis. It must have been God's blessing that accounted for her cordiality. I approached her and described the style and flavor of the vegetarian birthday cake that I wanted to order.

Indeed, as expected, she promised that a beautiful three-tiered birthday cake would be ready the next day. All she needed to do was tell the baker not to add any eggs when preparing the cake! (The solution was so simple, yet no one, except her, wanted to do it.)

This fantastic vegetarian birthday cake really enhanced the joyous occasion of Master's birthday. Master even shared it with all the staff and the owner of the party venue.

Who would have imagined that there was a story with profound meaning behind this beautiful vegetarian cake? It provided me with an opportunity to learn how to overcome obstacles and experience God's love and support.

A Barbecue Picnic

By Fellow Initiate Liu, Taipei, Formosa

Last year, our company held a barbecue picnic. In order to promote vegetarianism for environmental protection, several fellow practitioners cooperated closely in a vegetarian group, and fully displayed their cooking talents at the picnic. Many of our meat-eating colleagues were attracted to the rarely seen toasted sugar canes, as well as native toasted sweet potatoes, mouth-watering buttered corn, and vegetable soup with miniature oranges. Upon smelling the aromas coming from the food, they gave up meat at the picnic to eat our vegetarian delights, and their praise for our cooking can be heard to this day.

Last Sunday, another barbecue picnic was held in the Tian Hsi Garden, Yang Ming Mountain. It was windy that day and there were a few light orographic showers. In the June acacia woods, caterpillars about to transform into beautiful butterflies were seen everywhere. Upon entering the woods, our surprised screams arose one after another, mixed with the singing of cicadas to create a boisterous chorus and a lively atmosphere. With keen eyesight, the members of our vegetarian group removed many lovely caterpillars for fear that their beautiful future might be crushed by the footsteps of us `giants,' while silently reciting the Holy Names.

Before the barbecue had even ended, some colleagues had to go down the hill to call a doctor because of severe itching all over their bodies. The next day at work, without prior discussion, our meat-eating colleagues all showed us the traces of their many severe rashes, and said, "It's really strange that those vegetarians do not have any such symptoms. Is it true that our flesh is more acidic than theirs?" In my heart, I knew that Master was taking care of us all along. I am deeply grateful to Her.

After both picnics, there were a number of our colleagues signed up in advance to join our vegetarian group at following picnics. I sincerely hope that one day they will become vegetarians as well.

A Short Stay In Hsihu

Compiled By Taipei News Group

As there were many major and minor construction projects going on in Hsihu, a fellow sister seized this rare opportunity to join Master's work, and stayed in Hsihu for a week. The time might have been short, but she learnt and understood a lot. There were two incidents which impressed her the most.

She was filled with romantic illusions when she went to stay in Hsihu, which were proved wrong after she had stayed there. Working in Hsihu, she had to always struggle against herself, challenging the habits accumulated through many lives. The difficulty was not only in facing her own shortcomings, but also in chopping them off and overcoming them. This demanded that she be quick, precise and determined, while upholding truthfulness and beauty.

It is very difficult to know the real situation unless one has lived in Hsihu. However, the numerous tests also brought her fast and tremendous improvement. She is extremely grateful to Master for giving her this chance.

One day, she laid turf with other fellow practitioners. As she seldom paid any attention to plants, she did not think that horticulture was a great science. It was not until she heard Master say, "When laying the turf, you have to sing to them, wish them and bless them to grow prosperously, very green and beautiful...", that the sister deeply realized her love was too small and shallow. She suddenly understood why the trees and plants in Hsihu were more prosperous and beautiful than those in other places! Because of Master's love, they have the confidence to grow!

Spot light

Fighting The Spiritual War

Spoken by Suma Ching Hai In Los Angeles, CA, U.S.A. Nov. 6, 1993 (Originally in English)

In 1993, after a fire in California, USA, Master invited disciples to participate in a spiritual gathering at Laguna Beach, Los Angeles, to pray for the victims. Master's Wtalk at that gathering inspired us to reflect on the spiritual implications behind disasters. An extract of the discourse is taken to enlighten and to encourage everyone.

hatever happens in our lives, it is a kind of maybe unbalance between the negative and positive. It is the negative force at work and that we have to reckon with. So we have a choice between the negative and positive. It's very simple. Every time we think negative, we switch back to positive. Every time we want to speak negative, switch back to positive. Every time we want to hate someone, think twice and switch it to love because it doesn't help you to hate someone, right? (Answer: Right!) (Applause) And we can enjoy all richness, all luxury and all the beauties that God has bestowed on us, but we must remember the owner. We must remember God, and God is ourselves, our highest nature, nothing more. (Applause)

Always Think Positive

Therefore, we have the choice to think positively. Everything that is beneficial to other people and ourselves at the right moment, that is positive. And everything that hurts you and hurts other people, that is negative. So every time we have to consider what is negative, and what is positive and that is how we fight. And when we always think positively, speak positively, and love people, and always act in a positive way, which means properly, in the right time and beneficial for ourselves and to other people, that is when we are siding with the positive force and the positive force has one more storehouse of power to overcome the negative energy in this world. (Applause)

Now if we have more positive energy in this world, then we have more beauty, more fortune, I mean, not in a moneyway but in environmental atmosphere and in all the things that we do, it will be smoother and more successful for us. And if we have more negative force, then we add to more disaster, more trouble, more wars and more bickering amongst neighbors.

We have the choice, so don't think that the disaster here or anywhere is maybe the karma of the people here alone; we also are responsible. Every time we think negative, we are responsible for disaster in the world, understand? Or our neighbor's. So try to think positive all the time. Try to be loving and kind, and try to control our negative thinking. I know you know it, but sometimes you forget to make use of it. That's all. So try to make more use of it. Think positive. Speak positive. Do things in a loving way. Think in a loving way. Every time there is a negative tendency, you switch it off, and pull yourself back again. That's the only way. I have no other secret. I am trying to do the same.

Sometimes disaster is also good for us, good for humanity. Yes, like they learn to work together, protect each other, love each other, and share the hard times together. And people's hearts become more tender. And hatred dissolves between misunderstood neighbors and all that. And so people in disaster will begin to reflect the ephemeral nature of life. And then they will begin to understand that material security is not everything reliable that we need. Look at millions of homes, just six minutes finished, five minutes.

When I read the newspapers lately, there were many things that were very interesting. For example, even the doctors, they admit now that people with religious faith sometimes heal better, or at least they have more strength in endurance and acceptance of their health conditions. They are more optimistic, more cheerful, because they trust in God. Even if they don't see God like we do and they don't see God helping them, but they still have faith in God, and this faith helps them with their diseases and the doctors know about that now. Also, in times of disaster, when people have faith in God, they feel better. Like this fire; some of the victims because they have faith in God, they just accept what it is and they feel better within themselves; more acceptance and not too much misery. But most of the people in times of disaster, they get into some kind of a shock, and it will be a long time before they can recover.

Practice Loving Kindness And Compassion

America is getting better. I saw in the newspapers, like on TV programs, now they're cutting down on violence. And on the music radio programs, they want to cut down all kinds of violent music, all kinds of music that glorifies gangs, drugs or sexual tendencies—something like that. And I was very happy. For the first time, they did right. No, I am sure there are many other things that the Americans have tried to do right for a long time. But it takes some power behind that to push them. So we try to supply a little power, together with other spiritual groups, to make the world a better living place.

But that doesn't mean that we don't have disasters any more. That doesn't mean we don't have disease in the whole because the majority of mankind is still clinging to the negative habit, even though many of them know it's not good for them. And therefore they probably need some kind of shock like that to shock them out of their dream. But I don't like it. I don't like that, because it's too painful for the people.

Therefore we try to minimize their pain, with our care, with our material comfort and spiritual support. Otherwise, what are we here for? What are we in this world for? If we always blame God for everything and say it's their karma, it's their bad retribution, then what are we here for?

Just like your children, if they did something wrong and they hurt themselves, of course, you know that is a consequence of the bad doing of the children. But still you help them when they get hurt, when they are wounded, when they are sick, even though it's due to their own foolishness, their own actions. Still we help them and we love them all the same, right? So similarly, this is also good for us, to practice loving kindness and compassion. Everything we do is for the whole, not for ourselves.

The world is getting better, it seems, everywhere. But it looks chaotic at the moment. Why? On one hand, it seems like the world is getting better. Every nation has more freedom. All the restricted countries are open now, have become more free. And the people of different nations have gotten together now. The worst enemies before are becoming friends now. That's very good for our world. Very, very good. But why, why does it look chaotic at the same time? Who knows?

Audience: People can't handle the freedom. You got that from me last night. (Laughter) Who else? Audience: The karma works faster!
Yeah, it could be that also. It could be that the karma works faster for them so that they are cleansed. In the same sense, it is like when you want to build a new house or you want to clean the whole house, it looks messy, right? It looks messy at that moment, but then it becomes better in the future. Or sometimes you go to the doctor when you are very sick, and he gives you medicine. Then it has a counter-effect and you become worse than before, it seems like for a very short period of time and afterward, you get better. So that's it.

God Is Eternally Reliable

We can never be sure how to protect ourselves from this world. So now the most protection we can get is from where? From ourselves, from God. That's the most permanent, because at least we know that we have something else besides all these material possessions. Then sooner or later we will return to that where we have everything, we have the whole kingdom. (Applause) So at least even if we encounter any misfortune, we are secure; we don't go berserk; we don't go into shock, have mental problems, or things like that. So at least even that, the society has less burden with people like you. You are capable mentally to stand up, to grow again.

I'm glad to inform you that none of our disciples who live in that area have any problems. I mean no houses were burnt. Because many of our people are living in that area, Santa Anna and all that. So it's good for you; you have to help those who are in need. Otherwise it would be you that we have to bring food, toys and blankets to your house.

Now if we have a very simple life, it's easier to help people and to help ourselves. And also we have security from our spiritual practice. So we never fear, very seldom we fear.

I fear sometimes, when I go into that tube for a medical exam. It looks like a tunnel, like a coffin, like the tunnel before you go back to this world that separates this world and the other world, the life and death tunnel. A long tube like that and it's very low. And when you look, it's right in front of your nose; you feel closed in. But then I made it. After the third time I said, "That's it. I'm going to lie here and it's done."

It's okay to have fear, because it's a habit. And sometimes you collect the fear feeling from the atmosphere also, it is not necessarily yourself. Sometimes because we are practicing and we become more sensitive, we collect it from other people to share with them the difficulty, the fear, or the feeling of that place or at that moment. But that's what we are there for.

Share The Responsibility Of Cleaning The Planet

Nevertheless our fear is not the real fear. We can conquer it. That's the difference. And we know how to do it. We know how to conquer it. But we are made like that, so that we help in cleaning the planet. Every Quan Yin practitioner shares the responsibility of cleaning the planet in some degree or another.

Therefore when you're sitting here meditating together in a group, it's not that you do it for yourselves, for your five generations' liberation, for America or for your family alone. It's for the whole planet. And the more people that do that, the better. Unfortunately not everyone realizes that. Their level is only up to thinking of the immediate benefit. Therefore sometimes it's difficult for them to join us in this noble task force.

It's not that we don't care. It's hard to care sometimes. But that's the karma. So we have to be patient and wait until one day the karma is over and then we can help. We can't force the issue. We can't step over the Lord of Karma's head and then do what we want, because it's not good for the people.

Just like in the family, our big world here is like a family, and there are some parents who watch over the children - us, like the children. So now whoever is nice, quiet and good will be rewarded, so that they develop more and make a shining example for the others to follow. And the children who are naughty, repeatedly naughty, then the parents have to do something like spanking or no ice cream for one week, for example, like that. Then the children will learn to behave better. Right?

Now, the Lord of Karma is like our parents, who represents the highest Almighty to take care of the children here. So he has to do his job. Because people don't remember the karma of their past lives, they sometimes blame God, saying, "I am doing good this life. I am not doing anything and you still burn my house." They forgot just 30 years ago, before they were born what they did; something like that, or where they have been. Understand what I mean? It is very easy to forget what we have done last year; never mind last life, many lives.

Do Everything Unconditionally

So when you practice for enlightenment in a spiritual way, you have to know we do it with no conditions. Even if we follow the Quan Yin Method, practice the highest way, we still have to accept some minor or sometimes even major problems or disasters that come to us. But luckily they are fewer than ordinary people who don't practice. Yes.

If you come to me with a kind of contract, then you are in for a disappointment. Some people misunderstand our motive. I never promise you riches. I never promise you a life of ease, a bed of roses. I never promise you you'll get anything you want, even when it's bad.

So we practice to eliminate the ego. The one that wants everything even when it's nonsense, when it's not possible, the one that always wants to push everyone else to work for him, wants things for nothing, wants things when he doesn't work for them, wants to serve himself first and does not consider in that circumstance whether it's correct or incorrect, that's the ego. Also God doesn't owe us anything. It's only for us, for our benefit that we should meditate, that we should become good; because that's good for us.

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Aphorisms

By Suma Ching Hai (Originally in Chinese)

The only means that can provide security is to obtain more inner protective power and wisdom through meditation.

Try our best to pray for this world, for ourselves, to protect ourselves, our morality, purity and the eternal power within ourselves. This is the only way that can save ourselves.

Whatever you do, you represent the most high, because we follow the highest path, we worship only the most high. So we have to represent Hirm in speech, actions, and thought. At least, speech and actions. Though people do not know much about what you think, but at least your speech, your actions are easy to detect. We should live a simple life, not an impoverished life, not a messy life. Simple is different.

The Supreme Art

Suma Ching Hai's Holy Musical
Melodies That Exist Only In Heaven

By Fellow Initiate Yue-chi, Taipei, Formosa

Suma Ching Hai's musical compositions are very diverse. Sometimes they have an Oriental character that is mysterious and remote, and sometimes a Western temperament that is elegant and romantic. No matter whether it's soft classical music or popular jazz, all of Master's music is like the melody of hundreds of streams flowing into the ocean.

Master uses many kinds of instruments in Her music, for example, the harp, piano, electric keyboard, mandolin, dulcimer, zither and even percussion instruments, among others. She plays spontaneously, apparently without effort, and yet She conveys the subtle nuances of musical expression very precisely.

Master once said that after She started to practice the Quan Yin Method, Her artistic and creative talents began to develop. This is perfectly true. Who else, besides God, can create such heavenly music, which unifies heaven and earth and harmonizes the Yin and Yang? These compositions should only be heard in heaven. In this world, only people with affinity have the opportunity to appreciate them!

While listening to Master's music, one may feel intoxicated and carefree -- physically and spiritually -- in the serene and peaceful atmosphere that the music creates. One feels very clear and empty, as though one were becoming a single cell, which slowly breathes quietly in unison with the entire universe. It's also like transforming oneself into a musical cord that floats among the orbiting stars; playing together the eternal, immortal tunes that express a feeling of joy for life and a longing for happiness and freedom.

Holy Music Can Open The Door Of Wisdom

A person with real spiritual power can not only develop his or her own talent, but also act like the flame of an Olympic torch, transmitting energy through high level vibrations to open the door of wisdom of our souls, enabling us to learn the Truth. There is a saying: "Teaching by example is more effective than teaching by words." The strong magnetic field of Truth, virtue and beauty set by a holy saint, without form and effort, teaches us the meaning of perfection.

Each one of Master's artistic creations radiates a strong vitality. Whether it's a song or a painting, it is full of vigor and boundless love, like a living entity in itself, giving people wondrous, elevated, and joyous experiences.

In music, voices that resonate from the top of the head are considered the most beautiful. Master's voice emanating from the wisdom eye is crisp, clean, and powerful, yet graceful and soft, and full of sincerity and love. Very few people who hear Her singing are left untouched.

Comparable To Mother Nature

After hearing Master's compositions and Her uplifting and resonant singing, one is no longer content with worldly music, feeling like an unloved person who has fallen from a cloud - remaining unsatisfied as if something is missing.

Besides, Suma Ching Hai's artistic creations symbolize what Confucius used to say: "My way is only oneness." Their delicacy and innocent spontaneity are comparable to those of Mother Nature, being just like the simple naturalness of her intricate landscapes.

Master's natural and refreshing style of creation is amazingly resourceful and inspirational. Her music is delicate, rare, and of the highest standard. It is out of this world, yet warm and intimate, enabling it to be widely appreciated.

Note: Sister Yue-chi has never learned to play a musical instrument. Her musical creations are inspired without the aid of teachers or instruction. She started composing music and writing songs when she was in the sixth grade. After initiation, she became more prolific, often composing one song in two to three months. She once composed two songs in one day!

Center Event

Cooperating To Create
A Paradise On Earth

By the Garden Work Team (Originally in Chinese & English)

When we make use of the almighty power we obtain through Quan Yin meditation, we can do anything.

Master Guides And Supervises
Us To Reforest Hsihu

It was summer already, but it still felt like spring in Hsihu. Under Master's personal design, supervision, and guidance, each corner of the Center gained a new appearance, with everything acquiring a green hue and infinite vitality. Soon after Master returned to Formosa, the project of beautifying and reforesting Hsihu made brilliant progress. The entrance to the Center, the publications area, the mass kitchen, the children's room, and other areas were completely redecorated, which allowed the fellow practitioners to conduct activities in more spacious and pleasant surroundings. This beautiful environment made them feel happy at heart and more comfortable while working.

When fellow practitioners arrived at Hsihu, the first thing that struck their eyes was a pleasing green wall, covered with variously colored creeping flowers, which greeted the homecoming crowd. This project of 'greening the enclosure' was completed overnight so that the next day, a Sunday, the fellow practitioners who came for group meditation and the guests who came to visit the Center were greatly surprised!

Creating A Garden In One Week

Master instructed that the library area be planted with Korean grass and flowers to make it look like a garden. Also, She said that in some places, large stones should be placed as seats, and the walkways paved with gravel or flagstone; moreover, this project had to be completed in one week.

Looking at this large area of land, filled with weeds and rocks, and the small number of workers, we thought to ourselves, "Is it possible that we can complete this task in seven days?" But since Master said that we should finish it within a week, it must be possible. Let's start working, anyway!" Soon after, under Master's arrangement, the overseas disciples at the Center supported us greatly. Even the young resident disciples came to help. We divided the work and cooperated with each other, cleaning the grounds, pulling weeds, buying flowers, removing rocks, making walkways, designing flower beds, and planting grass and flowers, to create the garden together. The majority of the overseas disciples were Au Lac people, and were very enthusiastic, bringing into play their talents and sense of beauty, as though they had known beforehand how to do everything involved in creating the garden. Some of them even used original arrangements to create an excellent horticultural effect, thus making the garden strikingly beautiful. Fellow practitioners from other countries also worked earnestly, applying all of their mental and physical powers to the project. Master used to say, "No matter who built this garden, it would turn out to be beautiful." Thus, it so happened that Master had already silently arranged everything beforehand!

During the process of creating the garden, it happened that several projects were going on simultaneously in the ashram. However, with Master's help, the transportation problems were all solved. Because we needed to purchase so many flowers, we had to collectively order flowers from the southern and northern parts of Formosa; the grass also came from all parts of the province. Some people jokingly commented, "This is really a national garden."

The More You Work,

The More Enlightened You Become

During the work, rocks of many sizes needed to be carried for the purpose of paving the walkways and serving as stone tables and chairs. At the beginning, ten-plus fellow initiates carried the stone tables, exerting strenuous effort, and moving very slowly. Until the final stages of the project, only a few people were able to use ropes to pull the huge stones and easily move them to where they were supposed to be.

Some of garden paths were made of flagstone. While we were contemplating how to work in order to let people walk on the paths safely and comfortably, several of the female Korean fellow initiates had already begun working. They dug out earth from the areas where the flagstones were supposed to be placed, and also used their technical skill, thus allowing the walkways to be natural-looking, attractive, and easy to walk on. They looked very confident in their work, as though they were professionals working with high speed and quality. Originally, people thought that they had learned or frequently done such jobs before. On the contrary, this was their first time, and they learned how to do the work on their own, which was really surprising. This is another example that practicing the Quan Yin Method helps us to develop our wisdom and work more efficiently.

Master's Power At Work

A sister who was in charge of purchasing stones told us that when she visited the local sand and gravel company, the managers there allowed her to choose and scoop her own gravel, which they offered free of charge. This surprised her greatly, as if those people already knew beforehand that she would come to purchase the gravel, and understood that the gravel would be for public use and be placed in God's garden. She understood that this was Master's power at work!

Originally, the fellow practitioners were unfamiliar with how to arrange the flowers in the beds. But after several days they all became more skillful and quick at their work. In addition, the elaborate design of the flower beds by an Au Lacese sister made the garden even more attractive. Miraculously enough, this sister who designed the beds had lived in a city since childhood and led a life of leisure. She had never thought of planting flowers, grass and the like. When she signed up for gardening work, she thought that she could pull weeds or do some similar task. She never expected to do landscape design, which requires many years of experience. She herself could not believe that she could design such beautiful flower beds. She understood clearly that her inner master was working, and remembered Master once said that we have done many things and held various occupations in our numerous incarnations. As long as we make use of the almighty power we obtain through Quan Yin meditation, we can do anything. Through this experience, the Au Lac sister truly realized Master's teaching.

Master, The Key Designer

Master was the primary designer in this project. She possesses the Creator's power, which transformed the desolate area into a beautiful and graceful paradise. She let us go all out to 'play' and use our creative powers; however, when we did not know how to do something, She would appear in the nick of time and tell us how. A sister wanted to use white gravel to create a rest area. She had this idea before, but did not know where to put the gravel. It so happened that she met Master, who told her that the white gravel should be placed under the shade of trees, so that it would be cool to the eyes; if it were placed in the sun, it would reflect the sunshine and cause discomfort to the eyes. Originally, the sister had only considered the prettiness and cleanness of the white gravel, but neglected other factors. Fortunately, meticulous Master gave her some timely advice. This sister also realized that good and beautiful things should be placed in the right place to make people comfortable, and a designer should consider all the details of a design. Sometimes, Master taught us the specific details that we needed to attend to when She passed by our work area. For instance, when She saw that a brother was watering flowers, She immediately told him that he needed to water them tenderly. The best way was to water as naturally as rainfall, and at the flowers' roots.

Master always offered spiritual support whenever fellow practitioners needed it the most, thus sweeping away the initiates' exhaustion, bringing them freshness and vitality, and enabling them to continue working with higher spirits. When we were about to finish the last piece of the garden, Master passed by and asked us, "Is it true that you finished this garden in six days?" We replied, "Yes, Master." Master continued, "You only took six days to achieve this. I am very glad." After that She drove her car down the hill, and we became even happier.

Completing the Beautiful Garden

Finally, we stopped working, appreciated the beauty of the garden, and indulged in its charm -- from our panoramic view, the green grass looked lush, the trees created a shady place, and the flowers, whether distributed in meandering or semicircular patterns, all exhibited a riot of colors and attracted many butterflies, which danced above them. The flowers called 'impatience,' pink and white plants grouped together, provided the most striking visual spectacle under the sun; the orange and gold coreopsis, swung in the breeze which was most pleasing to the eye; the refined demeanor of the lily and the graceful posture of the sea taro enhanced each other's beauty. The lovely sunflowers exhibited bright and boisterous colors. The curving, simply designed pathways were another aspect of the garden's scenery that led the people admiring the flowers to each of its beautiful corners. The unique flagstone paths were natural and elegant, creating an unusual horticultural scene. All this made us feel as though we were in a royal European garden; but in fact, it was even more like a paradise on earth, which Master transplanted to us for our appreciation and enjoyment.

On the last day, we lined up in a long line to move the stones. That night, some people worked the whole night without sleeping; and others worked automatically like 'robots' after many days of effort. It was due to Master's blessing that many people could work such long hours without feeling tired. Dawn came, and when the sun rose, brilliant, rose-colored clouds appeared, and the birds started singing. The green slope of the hill was very refreshing and pleasant. The flowers were peaceful, warm, and attractive. We wondered whether we were in heaven or still on earth. It was a miracle to produce such a huge garden in one week. Master has told us that when we make periodic advances in our spiritual practice, we will obtain incredible 'magical powers.' We looked at the new garden, and it was obvious evidence of what Master has said. This garden was created by an unimaginable power and accomplished by Master's love and blessing. We learned how to cooperate with one heart and with great efficiency and to diminish our egos and wholeheartedly believe in and rely on Master and our inner wisdom to complete our tasks.

After we had finished all the work, it started to rain continuously. Once again, Master silently took care of everything, because for such a huge, newly finished garden, it would have taken a very long time and much manpower to water the whole area.

Elevation Of The Soul

The Lastest Video Tapes
Of Suma Ching Hai
(In English with Indonesian Subtitles)

(In English with Chinese Subtitles)

(In Chinese)

(In English)

Front Line

Free Ourselves And The Earth

By Fellow Initiate Bai, Indiana, U.S.A.

In order to celebrate Earth Day, various environmental protection organizations and advocates from around the U.S. launched a series of activities to promote environmental awareness, including a signature campaign to request the New Congress to preserve current legislation involving environmental protection.

On Indiana University's Earth Day, many student organizations united with other local groups to undertake an event called 'Free the Planet' at the Bloomington campus. The sponsoring organization invited influential individuals to give speeches. One of the student organizations sent an invitation letter asking Suma Ching Hai to deliver a speech at this event.

I was the only initiate who attended the activity. Since I represented a non-profit organization, the sponsor offered me a free exhibition table, on which I placed a poster of Master, and a banner that read, "Free Ourselves and the Planet." I also displayed sample booklets, News magazines in various languages, and albums of Master's pictures, as well as prints of Her paintings, and played a tape recording of Master's 'Hallelujah Song' in the background.

It was really Master's ingenious arrangement that Bloomington Solidarity and an animal rights group were right beside me. Bloomington Solidarity emphasizes social issues such as the homeless, AIDS, women's rights, and nuclear war. Because Master and our fellow practitioners always do work that benefits the world, sharing the same ideal with this group, its members agree with many of Master's teachings.

A member of the animal rights organization heard that Master teaches us to extend our love to all sentient beings and to keep a vegetarian diet, and thus he admired Her very much. In Master's News magazine he noticed that She was meditating in Hong Kong for the Au Lac refugees. Deeply moved, he said, "Other spiritual leaders are all hidden in mountains and seldom interfere with worldly matters. Your Master really cares about people's suffering, and this is really rare and commendable! She is indeed a perfect being." After accepting a sample booklet, he immediately asked his friends to take care of his exhibition table and, wasting no time, ran to the shade to read Master's words of wisdom. Most of the organizations participating in this event received sample booklets, along with flyers describing Master's views on environmental protection and vegetarianism. The response was very enthusiastic. An old gentleman came specifically to my table and told me, "Thank you very much for giving me these messages. We are very happy to know about the existence of an organization like yours." And many other people expressed the same sentiment. An American girl and a Chinese girl came to my table. The American girl immediately opened her eyes widely and said in an excited tone, "I lived in Formosa for several years and knew that Suma Ching Hai was very popular there. It's so amazing to see Her books here!" And she told the Chinese girl, "This is the great Master I told you about." So they left jubilantly with sample books in their hands.

Another girl spotted a medallion that I was wearing, which showed Master in Thai royal dress, and she exclaimed happily and with great surprise, "Oh, how beautiful She is! I like it so much!" So I immediately gave her a News magazine with the same picture of Master on the cover, and a sample booklet. She looked as though she had obtained great treasures, as though she could not believe that she could take them free of charge. Many people from different religious and spiritual backgrounds came to Master's table and were very pleased to get sample booklets containing Her teachings.

Also, there were many visitors who came from other states to visit their friends in Bloomington. They thus developed a good affinity with Master through this opportunity. One gentleman was leaving for Japan to study, and was very glad to know that there were fellow practitioners in Japan as well, so that he could learn further about Master's teachings there.

The day started off being warm and dry; but in the afternoon it began to rain heavily, so the Earth Day activities ended with rain falling from heaven. The Mother of the Earth -- our beloved Master, sanctified the world and blessed sentient beings with Her nectar. The hearts of all creatures are full of life and gratitude.

Feature Reports

Welcome Home!
Enjoying A Summer Vacation With Mommy Master

It is always the sweetest dream of the overseas disciples to have a chance to live with Master. Mother Master kindly answered their longing, and allowed them to stay after the Dragon Boat Festival Three-day Retreat, gracing them with the bliss of being close to Her!

Amid the immense magnetic field of Master's love, fellow practitioners together savor the divine meals, nectar, and occasional dreamlike ethereal feasts. As they work with the resident disciples, they get a better understanding of ashram life, and gain many insights into spiritual cultivation.

Oh! I shall never forget this vacation in Hsihu!

Exploring The Treasure Hills At Hsihu

By Fellow Initiate He, Ohio, U.S.A.

This summer vacation, I had the good fortune to stay for the first time at Hsihu Center, and was deeply moved in many ways during my visit.

Understanding Zen In Life And Work

The resident disciples at Hsihu work efficiently with full concentration. Whether it is hard labor or delicate work, men and women go all out in their tasks together, such as carrying cement, driving big trucks, and preparing for group meditations on Sundays; they are busy almost from dawn till dusk. Every night when I returned to my tent to sleep, many of them were still preparing food in the kitchen for all the residents and guests. I used to assume that resident disciples have plenty of time and a tranquil environment in which to meditate and study scriptures. But in fact, at Hsihu Center, I found that they seemed busier than people living in society; only their tireless work is for other people and the world. More importantly, they have incorporated "Zen" into their lives and work, truly practicing "living Zen" and "working Zen." They have developed their powers of concentration through work and made breakthroughs in their spiritual level through daily living.

Master's Work Is Meticulous, Considerate, Well-rounded, And Seamless

Recently, foreign disciples have been either leaving or arriving at Hsihu Center every day. Master, who has been extremely busy, manages to take time to meet with them each day, answering their questions or giving discourses. As well, She offers special entertainment to foreign disciples in various forms, such as tea parties, or barbeque parties. Being natural and easy-going, Her love is revealed completely, making us feel fully at home. Through all of Her considerate, meticulous, and caring arrangements, we can feel Master's perfect, seamless love.

Returning To The Ultimate Source

What I have learned most during my stay is that I experience the supreme power of the magnetic field at Hsihu. It is particularly intense during group meditation. Unfortunately, my powers of concentration have been too weak to match such a strong vibration. So, I couldn't meditate to full effect, while the negative energy in my body and cells was being affected and became manifest. Eventually, I understood why Master says that after initiation, we are not yet able to immediately go to very high levels. It is not that Master is not powerful enough; but instead, our vibrational energy is by no means capable of matching the frequencies of the higher realms. Therefore, only if we follow Master's instructions, and practice diligently every day will we uplift the vibrational frequencies of our spiritual bodies, and thus return to the Ultimate Source some day as we wish.

Heaven On Earth

By Fellow Initiate Cao London, Canada

After the three-day retreat during the Dragon Boat Festival, it was very fortunate that we could stay briefly at Hsihu Center. Meditating, working, relishing the Buddha's meals, and imbibing nectar every day, life was really wonderful. Master came down to give discourses each day or every other day. In addition to that, as people were eating, drinking, or resting, She would often show up unexpectedly, like Buddha descending. A bit of small talk, or a graceful smile captivated the disciples.

One Saturday night, Master specially invited disciples from other countries to the place in front of Treasure Pavilion on the hill. All the way up the quiet, beautiful mountain path, we heard birds singing and insects chirping. As we chatted and laughed, the path made a turn and suddenly, a broad, level, hill-top garden came into view. We could not believe our eyes. The grounds were covered with pretty pebbles and soft green grass, as well as intermittent tropical and subtropical trees. In the middle of the hill was a spacious, moonlit terrace with several large, multi-colored umbrellas covering tables laden with gourmet food. Resident disciples served food and tea to us all. Sitting under the shade of some nearby trees, holding a glass of non-alcoholic champagne and a few pieces of delicious cake, I felt as though I were in a dream. Where else could we find a paradise beyond this world?

I looked up into the sky. The floating clouds were thin and stars twinkled; trees were strung with colored lights, and many bodhisattvas sat beneath them. At this moment, the sound of heavenly music arose and the lights started to move and flash. All at once, my heart was filled with a rush of sentiments. Finally, this lonely wanderer had returned to his own home. I remembered that when I was little, I often sat alone by a window, looking into the boundless sky as if I was somehow touched by something, but also felt I was at a loss. It seemed that I was somehow connected to my source; yet I could by no means find the way back. Since my childhood, people had said that I was easy-going and polite, a nice child; but at heart, I was always detached like a recluse. Sometimes, even the kinfolks around me seemed like distant strangers. Nowhere in such a vast world could I ever find a corner of the sky that belonged to me.

Today, thanks to Master, I was brought back home. The planet earth remains cool and somewhat mysterious, but I no longer experience loneliness and sadness. Everything lives in oneness and in harmony. Everything has its own special quality, yet is all closely connected.

I will never forget the day when we gathered beneath the bodhi trees. What a refreshing night it was!

Dream On A Starry Night

By Fellow Initiate Chang, Hong Kong

Sparkling stars fill the skies.
Cool breezes gently drift by.

Trees decorated with various stars - red, green, and blue - Shining and twinkling.
Seems like a dream - perhaps not.

Champagne, candies, cakes, and snacks;
Casual chatter, intoxicated without wine. With the soft sound of music
And the light scent of flowers,
We dance with the wind.

Wordless conversation,
Wisdom opened naturally.
What a beautiful night...

Secret Words Of Love

Spoken by Suma Ching Hai, Hsihu Center, Formosa June 10, 1995 (Originally in English)

These words are very difficult for me to say, so I say 'green pig...' It's difficult to say but I want you to know that "I love you." (Laughter and applause.) It's really difficult. I learned it from you. I can never say these words. (Master and all laugh). This reminds me of a story someone had printed in the newspaper.

There was a brother who was very sick and dying of some incurable disease. So his big brother always came to see him everyday in the hospital. One day before that kid was very soon going to die, the big brother managed with all his courage and said: "You know, little brother, it's very difficult to say these words, but... you know I love you!" Phoo! And after he said the words 'love', phoo! He sighed, you know, (Master laughs) relieved.

So the small brother, smiling very gently, said, "Well, if it's very difficult then you say some other words, maybe like 'red buffalo' or something, and then I will understand what you mean." Oh! 'Green Pig' are the words he used. 'Green Pig.' (Master laughs.) 'Green' and 'Pig.' (Laughter)

So, after that day the big brother always said to him 'Green Pig,'and the small brother always giggled. After some time, the big brother one day scratched his head, sighed, and said, "You know what? I think after all, it's easier to say 'I love you!' " (Master laughs and all applaud.) The brother just said, "I told you." (Master and all laugh.) Okay, Good night. 'Green Pig!' (Laughter and applause.)

Deja Vu

By Fellow Initiate Wang, Hong Kong

During my stay in Hsihu, I had the good fortune to attend an extremely beautiful party that Master gave. When She announced that She would give us a pleasant surprise, Her words brought to mind recollections of the beautiful nights that Master and disciples of various countries had spent together several years ago. The scenes and romantic atmosphere remained so vivid that they are unforgettable.

Following other disciples, I reached the garden in front of Master's residence. Flowers and trees were luxurious and well-placed. The surrounding hills were emerald green. The beautiful setting was just like the land of the immortals, and I felt so nice and completely free, physically and spiritually. With food and beverage, I sat at an angle on a white chair. Small lights of many colors flashed among the tree branches as though they were twinkling stars. I was having a deja vu. I had seen it somewhere before.

The next day at noon, as I was sitting on a chair by the Nectar River, surrounded by shady trees, as it happened, a sun beam penetrated through the leaves. This was another deja vu for me. Earnestly searching my mind, I suddenly recalled that ten years earlier, before I knew Master, I had dreamt of a beautiful garden on several successive nights. The scene of the garden in those dreams was exactly what I saw now by the side of the Nectar River and the previous night at the tea party in the hill-top garden. This was incredible!

Parents' Grace Is Beyond Measure

By Fellow Initiate Okawado, Tokyo, Japan (Originally in Japanese)

Beloved Master, thank You very much for allowing me to come to the three-day retreat at Hsihu Center. Also, thanks to the brothers and sisters of the Center and to the other initiates for treating me so kindly during the retreat.

At first, I had no intention to go, but then suddenly, I felt that I really wanted to, as if some great forces were drawing me there. I felt that I should take this rare chance and go to the retreat along with my husband.

In the end, my husband could not go because of work-related matters, and I, unfortunately, arrived one day later than my fellow Japanese initiates. I arrived at Hsihu Center in the evening, right in the middle of Master's talk. The atmosphere in Hsihu Center at night gave me the feeling that deep in my heart I knew this place.

The next morning, we started meditating to the morning chorus of a multitude of birds gathered in the trees above our heads. It was an experience that I will never forget. It certainly made me feel that heaven was close-by.

Master appeared at noon in an orange colored dress, which really fitted in well with the summer sunshine. She looked very elegant. The next day, She appeared wearing a vivid green Thai dress, which enhanced Her wisdom and brilliance. Master said to us:

" When you go back, take better care of your family members than in the past. Be patient with them. It is all right even if they do not pursue spiritual cultivation..." When I heard this, I was deeply moved by Master's great love and my eyes filled with tears.

When the three-day retreat ended we decided to stay one more night. We wanted to stay close to Master for as long as we could, even just a little longer. The soft moonlight enveloped me just like the warmth of Master's love, and I slept safe and sound.

On the departure day, the brother who drove us to the airport was playing Master's Buddha chanting tape in the van. I listened to it, just as if Master were singing right beside me. The idea came into my head that Master felt sorry that we were leaving, and suddenly my eyes filled with tears. I thought how we, Master's children, are always causing Her worry. It is said that the children do not know the parents' hearts. I deeply felt that a parent's heart is beyond measurement and cannot be known.

As I was leaving Hsihu Center, I realized that the atmosphere of the Center was one of awareness of all these things, and that love itself is something that comes from Master. Through outdoor meditation, we learned to become one with nature. We realized the value of a primitive existence is that it is a simple life. Hsihu Center is our spiritual fortress, and Master is my spiritual Mother.

I will never forget the taste of the fruit there which was infused with Her love. I will never forget Mother Master's Center.

Master, thank You very much. I have become a little stronger. I pray for Your health from the bottom of my heart.

Relief Efforts

Rescue Work At The Sampoong Department Store Disaster In Seoul

By the Seoul Center, Korea (Originally in Korean and Chinese)

It was the last Thursday in June, and everyone was looking forward to an enjoyable weekend when terrible news about a disaster arrived from Seoul -- the Sampoong Department Store had collapsed! Thousands were injured or killed. While the fellow practitioners in Seoul were still discussing how to render help, Master called on the telephone directing them to launch relief actions immediately. The most important item on the agenda was providing timely spiritual comfort and help to the victims, who had suffered enormous trauma, especially those who had been severely injured, and whose families had lost their vital support. Master ordered that as much financial help as possible should be given to them, and grateful to Her for the proper guidance, fellow practitioners started their relief work in high spirits.

A banner bearing Master's name was erected at the scene of the disaster to indicate our service area. Thousands of rescue workers, police, and military personnel worked persistently on the rescue day and night. Observing that they were extremely hungry and exhausted, fellow practitioners quickly prepared sushi meal boxes, and delivered them to the scene each morning and evening for several days. The Police Special Task Force and the 119 Rescue Team were most grateful to the fellow practitioners for their sincere service. They were also thankful for the practical and prompt assistance rendered by the Suma Ching Hai International Association. In return, they promised to help our group promptly should we need assistance in the future. Of course, the efficient performance was a result of Master's arrangement.

Fellow practitioners visited some twenty hospitals in Seoul, extending comfort to over three hundred injured victims. They also conveyed Master's deepest consolation, and presented flowers, cash, and nutritious food to each of them. Using the relief fund sent by Suma, fellow practitioners gave cash to the more seriously injured patients or to those with financial problems. According to the degree of their injury, each received 100,000 to 500,000 Korean dollars. They also hired nurses' aids to look after patients whose relatives could not attend to them. Fellow practitioners even took turns caring for patients who had no designated nurses' aids. As a result, several critically injured patients recovered very quickly, which amazed the people around them. All fellow practitioners understood that it was Master's tremendous love that had healed their bodily and mental traumas in such a short time!

Many incredible incidents occurred during the rescue operation, which made the fellow practitioners deeply appreciative of Master's love and almighty power. Upon receiving an encouraging message by Her, they were again touched by Her boundless love. Here are some touching stories gathered while visiting the victims.

One person was so grateful to Master for Her love and the relief money, that he called the local center to express his appreciation. Another patient expressed his longing to receive materials about Master. Seeing Master's photo, his relatives were deeply impressed by Her magnificence and majesty.

The only Chinese person among the dead was the Director of the Overseas Chinese Society in Seoul. At the onset of the disaster, without regard for his own safety, he anxiously warned his colleagues in the restaurant to flee. Consequently, he could not escape in time and was killed. The Korean news media covered this touching story of self-sacrifice for the sake of saving others. Hearing the news, we immediately presented flowers and condolences to his family.

A female victim could not open her eyes because they were swollen with congested blood. Observing her agony, the fellow practitioners could not help shedding tears of deep sympathy. Standing nearby was her senile old mother, who was totally helpless under such a heavy blow. When they received Master's spiritual consolation, wordless gratitude was shown on their faces.

In the hospital, an infant only a few months old was lying in bed with a fractured lower leg, and was the youngest of the casualties. The infant's elder brother and mother were also injured, but to a less serious extent. On the bed sat a consolation flower basket from the fellow practitioners. Suma Ching Hai's loving spirit thus shined and blessed both the mother and her children. Fellow practitioners sincerely wished that they would soon recover both in body and mind.

One of the casualties was a student of a fellow initiate. When the department store collapsed, he was completely covered by rubble, and fell unconscious. He recalled that as he was being buried, his body seemed to be flying. After some time, he regained consciousness and saw a beam of light. Slowly he crawled in the direction of the light, which eventually led him to the way out. He made it to the exit, and was discovered and rescued. However, those buried with him were all dead. He said that he had read Master's sample booklet before the disaster, and that as he was being buried, he clearly felt a power protecting him, and helping him to survive. This was a great blessing to him in the face of this incredibly unfortunate disaster!

Aiding The Virginia Flood Victims, U.S.A.

Photo by: The Washington Times

By the Virginia Relief Team, Virginia, U.S.A.

When we received Master's instructions to help relieve the Virginia flood victims, it happened to be a few days before the U.S.A.'s national holiday, the 4th of July. The whole country was already in a festive mood. Following Master's instructions, disciples from several states on the East coast promptly organized rescue teams to start the relief work. People who arrived there first were divided into two teams. When they went to inspect the afflicted areas, they learned that the heavy rain, which had lasted for a whole week, had caused severe damage to the middle and western parts of Virginia. All of the area's large and small rivers were flooded. Torrents of water had rushed down the mountains and destroyed many houses, farms, and roads. Several people were injured or killed and the damage amounted to several million U.S. dollars.

The most severely flooded areas were Madison and Rockbridge Counties. Learning that disaster relief centers had already been set up by the government, we quickly contacted the coordinator of the centers, explained our purpose, and conveyed Master's concerns about the flood. We also inquired about the state of the disaster and what kind of manpower or material aid was most needed. The coordinator was very grateful for our concern, briefed us on the flood situation, and informed us about the most needed materials, cleaning tools, and the like.

At the Madison County disaster relief center, charitable organizations such as the Red Cross and Salvation Army had already sent in needed clothing and personal cleaning materials. But in Rockbridge, there was only one relief center, which had just been set up by the Red Cross. It was short of many necessary materials. Very early the next morning, fellow initiates immediately purchased cleaning supplies. Also after visiting victims and considering the views of relief center coordinators, they found that the most needed materials were indeed cleaning supplies. For the benefit of the flooded areas, we tried to purchase everything locally as much as possible. We all understood Master's usual way of doing things: when others are hungry, She feels hungry too; when others are sinking in the water, She suffers as if She is sinking too. We all hoped that the victims' suffering would immediately be eased.

Thanks to Master's subtle arrangement, a cleaning supply company was holding a half price promotion sale at the time of the flooding. In addition to offering lower prices than regular wholesalers, customers who bought one item got one free. The company also made free deliveries to the Virginia Meditation Center for distribution. Aware that we were helping out in the flooded areas, some companies also tried to accommodate our time schedule. Usually in the U.S., when large orders are placed, delivery is seldom made on the same day. But with Master's incredible power, the impossible became possible. Fellow initiates made use of the July 4th holiday to gather and put Master's picture and name on all the cleaning gloves, wanting to provide an opportunity for the victims to get a glimpse of a living Master so as to obtain blessing from adversity. Accompanied by Master's Buddha chanting tape, a dozen disciples completed the job unwittingly. Shovels and detergents were also delivered to the Virginia Center, and were distributed as soon as some family was found to be in need of them.

The relief workers visited a few seriously afflicted families, giving them relief items and Master's love. In their door-to-door visits, they gave solace and relief materials, and at the same time, provided Master's materials for the spirit, such as sample booklets and News magazines. The victims were grateful and interested in Master's booklets. Fellow initiates tried their best to deliver the relief directly to the victims and the remaining items were given to the Red Cross and other relief and charitable organizations. Thanks to Master, we had this opportunity to learn and share our love. We deeply experienced the dictum: "To help others is the primary source of happiness."

<< Relief Work Anecdotes >>

A Bad Thing May Not Be All Bad

Because of the flood in Virginia, many people in that region got a chance to know Master. The areas most affected by the flood were the middle and western parts of the state. Being in the countryside, they were far from metropolitan areas, which took hours to reach by car. Since the flooded places were quite a distance from the Virginia Center, it would never have occured to the disciples in Virginia to go into that hilly countryside if no disaster had occurred there. Because of the landslides caused by the heavy rains, disciples communicated Master's love to this thinly populated area so that the victims got their share of Her great love. Besides distributing cleaning supplies, fellow initiates also gave Master's sample booklets and News magazines to the victims.

After distributing the supplies, on our way back, we saw the victims enthusiastically reading Master's books with full attention. We were really happy for them because they had obtained blessings through this disaster. After reading Master's sample booklet, an elderly woman told us that its contents were truly enlightening. We hoped that Master's love and blessings would give her enlightenment as soon as possible. We also hoped that the spiritual seeds that Master had sown among the victims would grow quickly.

Blessings From God

As we visited the families in the disaster areas, the first words we said were always "God bless you," because our great Master had already bestowed God's blessing on the hearts of each victim. People always asked us what kind of organization we were; how we were different than the Red Cross. We told them that in terms of material aid, we were not different. Nevertheless, what we offer is not limited to material items alone. More importantly, it is spiritual aid that we offer.

When we worked jointly with other relief organizations, we also encouraged each other. Members of these groups were happy to receive and read about Master's teachings. Their goodwill and wholehearted devotion to the relief work also moved us.

Concern For The Flood

Disaster Victims In Nepal

Nepal, a Kingdom in the Himalayas, was recently hit by destructive mountain currents and landslides caused by heavy rainfall. The currents flushed away many houses in the country. There were many casualties, and those who were missing had little hope of being rescued. The situation was most serious in the southern province of Khotang.

As the news of the disaster broke, Suma Ching Hai immediately instructed the headquarters' staff of the Suma Ching Hai International Association to send a consolation telegram to the royal government of Nepal. The Association wished to know more about the development of the disaster, and probed for possible channels to provide relief. Upon contacting the Foreign Ministry of Nepal, the responsible official, Mr. J. B. Singh, told us that information about the disaster was available from the Nepal Social Welfare Council. The Council provided us with detailed and accurate information on the number of victims, materials urgently required in the affected area, and other factors, which helped us to gain a better picture of the disaster.

While communicating with the Welfare Council, according to its representative, the Suma Ching Hai International Association was the first international organization to have provided aid for the disaster, for which they were very grateful. Suma Ching Hai instructed that a remittance of US$5,000 be sent as a badly needed relief fund for purchasing materials for the victims. She also conveyed Her condolences in writing to the King of Nepal, extending Her deepest sympathy and blessings.

Condolences and Concern

For The Quake Victims In Greece

Knowing that an earthquake had struck Aegion Greece, causing the deaths of over ten persons and injuries to more than a hundred, and that dozens more were missing, Suma Ching Hai immediately instructed the Headquarters Center in Hsihu to urgently contact the relevant international organizations, to find out whether manpower support was required. The news received was that the Red Cross in Greece had already despatched relief teams to manage the disaster area, and to distribute necessary items to the victims. To offer timely and warm concern to the disaster victims, Suma Ching Hai promptly directed a donation of US$5,000 to be used as a relief fund.

An amount of 36,000,000 Au Lac dong was donated by Suma Ching Hai of Formosa.

As instructed by Suma Ching Hai, an amount of US$40,000 was contributed by the Suma Ching Hai International Association; US$4,084 was contributed by Korean fellow initiates.

Canadian Letter
Note: A copy of this letter was also sent to Mr. Ronald J.L.Berlet, the Director of the Canadian Trade Office in Taipei.

Note: A copy of this letter was also sent to Mr. B Lynn Pascoe, Director General of the American Institute in Taipei, Formosa.

Details Of Expenditures Of The Sampoong Department Store Disaster Relief, Seoul, Korea

Description Amount in Korean Won

Purchase of tents, blankets, clothing, food and other daily necessities 7,096,120

Money given to the injured victims 15,600,000

Money given to the families of the deceased victims 10,000,000

Total amount: 32,696,120 (US$44,084)

Breakdown Of Expenditures To Aid The Virginia Flood Victims, U.S.A.

Description Credit(US$) Debit(US$) Remark

Donations from the Boston, New York
& Pennsylvania Centers 4,251.88

Donation from Hsihu Center, Formosa 5,000.00

Purchase of shovels from INDUSCO Company 2,136.81 Appendix A

Purchase of detergent from National Pro. Corp. 3,228.00 Appendix B

Purchase of gloves from TransAmerican Ports Co. 728.00 Appendix C

Purchase of blooms, mops, sponges, buckets and other cleaning supplies from supermarkets 3,159.07 Appendix D

Total: 9,251.88 9,251.88

Suma Ching Hai's Donations And
Disaster Relief Activities In Various Countries (From March to July, 1995)

Description Credit Debit Balance Demarks

Donation from Suma Ching Hai 414,199.88

Donation from Suma Ching Hai International Association 44,084.00

USA
Donation to the American Veterans' Association, VA Medical Center, Loma Linda / JCHV 100,000.00

Donation to the American veteran's Association, VA Medical Center, West Los Angeles 100,000.00

Donation to the Gay Men's Health Crisis, New York 5,000.00

Donation to the Coalition for the Homeless, New York 5,000.00

Donation to aid explosion disaster victims, Oklahoma City 5,000.00 Appendix 1

Donation to aid flood disaster victims, Virginia 9,251.88

Chechnya
Donation to the UNHCR Fund Raising Division in Switzerland to aid the refugees in Chechnya 100,000.00

Cambodia
Donation to build a school 10,000.00

The Philippines
Donation to “The Organization of God's Love for International Children? United Christian Church, Philippines 10,000.00

England
Donation to Fashion Acts Ltd., to help people affected by HIV/AIDS 5,000.00

Bangladesh
Donation to aid flood disaster victims 20,000.00 Appendix 2 Formosa
Donations to destitute families in Formosa 7,620.00 Subsidiary fees for road construction
at the entrance of Hsihu Village 17,328.00 Appendix 3

Russia
Donation to aid earthquake disaster victims, Sakhalin Island 10,000.00 Appendix 4

Greece
Donation to the Hellenic Red Cross to aid earthquake disaster victims, Greece 5,000.00 Appendix 5

Nepal
Donation to aid flood disaster victims 5,000.00

Korea
Donation to aid victims of the Sampoong Department Store disaster, Seoul 44,084.00

Total US$458,283.88 US$458,283.88 0

THANK LEETTER

Letter of Appreciation

Chinh-Nghia Private Chinese School in Long Minh Village, Xuan Loc county, Dong Nai state, Au Lac, has received Au Lac Dong $36,000,000 kindly donated by Suma Ching Hai for two classrooms. Suma Ching Hai is asked to be the Highest Honorary Adviser of the school.

THANK LETTER
An Appreciation Letter From Cho Soon, Major Of Seoul, Korea (Originally in Korean)

How are you? I'd like to express my deep thanks for your warm love that you extended to those who lost their beloved family members, and to whose who were injured by the sudden collapse of the Sampoong Department Store. We all felt at a loss and hurt but have been encouraged by the help of many people in Korea and from abroad. We will make every effort to comfort the victims' souls, to lessen the pain of the injured, and of the people who lost their beloved family members. Also we will do our best to restore the collapsed building, ensuring comprehensive measures for safety in order to prevent any possible disaster in the future. Your kind help and love will be of great hope and courage to the people at a loss from this accident. I would like to express my deep thanks to you again.

Cho Soon
July 7, 1995

News Magazine NO.48

Photo: Always inexplicably happy and moved in Your presence.

1. International Reports

   Formosa/Indonesia/Singapore/Mainland China/USA/Canada

2. Master Says

   Power And Finance

3. Letters Between Master & Disciples

   Experiencing God's Love A Seed Of God

4. Special Reports

   Our Gratitude To You! Dedicated To All Father's Maturing With The Buddha's Children Master's Love Surpasses A Father's Thousand Words Practice Happily As A Father With A Mother's Duty The Change In My Father A 'New' Father

5. Aphorisms

   True Love Can Clean Anything

6. Pearls Of Wisdom

   The Quan Yin Method Is All Encompassing

7. While On The Path

   Master Reveals My Wife's Goodness The Bless-ing Of Keeping The Precepts Zen Is Inherent In Daily Life

8. Spot Light

   Fighting The Spiritual War

9. Poems

   Supreme Matriarch To Mother - Queen Of The Universe The Almighty Father's Love

10.  

    God Almighty Takes Care Of Everything

11. Spiritual Interludes

    The Really Happy Princess The Amazing Magician Be Humble And Flexible A Barbecue Picnic

12. Media Reports
13. Master's Words

    Methods of Healing Illnesses

14. Master's Wonder

    One Person's Spiritual Practice Benefits His Entire Family The Story Of A Little House Lizard A Lesson The Marvelous Buddha's Chants

15. Front Line

    Free Ourselves And The Earth

16. Center Events

    Cooperating To Create A Paradise On Earth

17. Relief Efforts

    Rescue Work At The Sampoong Department Store Disaster In Seoul

18. The Supreme Art

    Suma Ching Hai's Holy Musical Melodies That Exist Only In Heaven

19. Between Master And Disciples

    A Beautiful Way To Meet Master Break Through The Habits Of The Mind

20. Feature Reports

    Welcome Home! Enjoying A Summer Vacation With Mommy Master Exploring The Treasure Hills At Hsihu Heaven On Earth Dream On A Starry Night Secret Words Of Love Deja Vu Parents' Grace Is Beyond Measure

21. A True Account Of A "Big Brother"

    The Reforming Of A "Natural Born Killer"

22. A Little Message
23. Elevation Of The Soul
24. Our Liaison Practitioners Throughout The World

The Supreme Master Ching Hai News No.48 Published: July. 25,1995
Published by: The International Supreme Master Ching Hai Meditation Associations

International Reports

Report from Hsihu, Formosa

Master Cut The Ribbons For
The New Renovations Of Hsihu

Hsihu was back to its quietness after the Mid-Autumn Three-Day Retreat, until one day when the sounds of gongs and drums echoed, and the place was overwhelmed with a joyful atmosphere. Suma Ching Hai was to cut the ribbons at the ceremony celebrating several newly finished renovations.

Master, in bright colored clothes and a broad-brimmed hat, greatly vivified the autumn afternoon. Amid the applause and music, She dance and strolled; pretty and charming as She greeted residents lined along the way.

Through the joint efforts of fellow practitioners, the renovations, which were instructed by Master, were completed in quick succession before the Mid-Autumn Three-Day Retreat. Fellow initiates from overseas and Formosa who attended the retreat marvelled at the new beautiful scenes in Hsihu. They deeply thanked Master for Her consideration in making Hsihu a more beautiful and spacious environment for meditation and other activities. Besides appreciating the external beauty, fellow initiates practiced more earnestly to reach their inner beauty and to elevate their spirituality in order to be worthy of Master's meticulous love.

The International Garden, half way up the hill, is the place for Master to meet guests. Inside, there is a red tiled roof log cabin with large doors and windows on both sides. The cabin is bright and cozy and the sun shines through all day long. All kinds of blossoming flowers and chirping birds add more beauty to the garden.

After cutting the ribbon to the garden, Master blessed it to be everlasting and serviceable for the whole universe and to make all be happy forever. Later, when Master sat on a traditional imperial style throne, all the resident disciples rushed to prostrate to the holy Emperor Master with all the great courtesy of a royal court. Master responded accordingly to the royal courtesy from the disciples by joking, "Speak up now, or the office will be closed." The hearty laughter echoed in the garden. Even the grass and flowers seemed to celebrate this long expected moment.

The old meditation hall also took on a resplendent and magnificent new look. Displaying Master's reproduced paintings, Longevity lamps, books, cassettes and video tapes and other publications, it's an important place for fellow initiates and guests to get their spiritual food during Sunday group meditation gatherings.

Master cut the red silk ribbon to the cheers of people. "God bless the place to be safe! The world, to be peaceful! All will be liberated, but this hall shall remain long". Master's humorous words were followed by warm applause.

The Book Circulation department, the kitchen, the dining hall, the maintenance area, the children's corner all took on a fresh new look. Master happily inspected each place with satisfaction and cut one ribbon for each place, one by one. She said that all of these efforts should be offered to God and She blessed everyone saying, "Eat well, drink well, live long. Be beneficial to others and yourself. Be thankful to God. Everything here is good. The renovations are long-lasting as well as our love."

The main entrance with the elegant streamline posts are painted in fresh, mild colors. To the fellow initiates, it is a home door that they are most eager to come in. Master blessed this door of great importance as if it were the entrance of a country with, "Guard carefully; let pass the good and keep away the bad".

By the time everyone reached the new park beside the Dragon Boat Lake and the ancient style zigzag bridge winding through the center of the lake, dusk was approaching. The lake looks charming with the rosy clouds at dusk reflecting upon the water. People sat under the pavilion or beside grass enjoying the blessed food offered to God. As Master put it, "They are to be offered to God and to us, Hiers children".

Master considerately instructed that light background music be played. Soon disciples were all intoxicated by the melody flowing in the breeze. Master remarked that the bamboo dancing in the wind looked very beautiful. She asked everyone to enjoy it together. It's whirling moves seemed to express sentimental appreciation to Master's holy love. A wonderful day of celebration passed in the perfect harmony of love between Master and disciples.

Report From Chiayi, Formosa

A Heart Warming Trip Of
Spreading The Truth - An Invitation To Give A Speech In The Chiayi Women's Prison

It is not exaggerating to say that a prison is a place where laughter is rare. However, this trip to spread the Truth at the Chiayi Women's Prison was filled with the roaring laughter of several hundred inmates. Fellow practitioners took to the inmates Master's overwhelming love and concern, which immersed the whole venue in an ocean of love and bliss.

To make this prison preaching assignment a successful one, the Chiayi fellow initiates reached a unanimous agreement to meditate every day at the local Center. As permitted by their family situations, several practitioners even held a retreat and prayed for a few days.

Early on the day of the visit, working members assembled at the home of the liaison practitioner. They worked with oneness of mind, each executing their assigned duties. Some of them helped with transporting the decorations for the venue, others prepared exquisite meals and snacks for the inmates to enjoy. In perfect harmony, they accomplished their jobs promptly and reached the prison punctually.

When a Prison Officer came out to count the number of visitors, he was amazed to find that so many people had come. The liaison practitioner explained that many fellow practitioners were eager to participate in this meaningful activity. The Prison Officer was touched.

Therefore, in cheerful spirit, practitioners arrived at the lecture venue where the inmates were already waiting. After a brief introduction by the M.C., the fellow brother giving the lecture went on stage to tell the story of how he previously wallowed in criminal circles, and how the Buddha eventually appeared to him and directed him to find an enlightened master. He also talked about some fantastic stories encountered on his spiritual path after following Master. His speech was lively and amusing, so inmates often roared with laughter.

After that, fellow practitioners distributed Master's sample booklets and News magazines to each inmate, together with a rich portion of a delicious meal. Then, they started teaching the inmates to sing holy songs. The distribution went on as they sang, "Tears of the Holy Mother". The place was filled with bliss, and did not look like a prison at all.

When fellow initiates asked whether anyone wanted Master's photos, everyone eagerly shouted, "I do! I want them!" It seemed that everyone had raised their hand, asking for the photos. Joy and laughter masked the faces of the inmates, and the whole place was flooded with indescribable bliss and warmth.

All the initiates who participated in this assignment were very happy, and were grateful for Master's omnipresent power, which blessed them and made this preaching trip a great success.

After the lecture, a fellow brother who is a secondary school teacher said, "When I was listening attentively to the lecture in the venue, suddenly I noticed there was a halo above each of the fellow initiates who came to help with the work, just like the halo we usually see above the heads of saints. When everyone was singing the holy songs, a great light appeared on stage, and then went down and spread to each corner of the venue. A vibratory current of love made it hard for me to hold back my tears." For several days after the trip to the prison, this brother excitedly told whoever he met that he was always fully charged with bliss whenever he meditated.

*Note: Appendix see page 13.

Report From Taoyuan, Formosa

Rejoicing The Move To The New Center

The Taoyuan group spent five years trying to buy a piece of land for the new Center, but without any success. Just when the number of new initiates quickly grew and the hired venue was no longer big enough, a miracle occurred. They succeeded in buying a piece of land next to the downtown area of Chungli, and at a much cheaper price than the market value.

Enlightenment Comes With Work

Fellow practitioners immediately volunteered to join the construction work, reinforced by many initiates who had professional skills. Within a hundred working days, the main hall, publication circulation office, children's room, recreation ground, kitchen and gardens sprouted up from the vast wasteland of grass and reeds.

Each initiate who participated in the work was equipped with the 'magical power' imparted by Master - concentration and a serious attitude to learn. In a short time, they learnt work which was totally unfamiliar to them, and even excelled the professional fellow practitioners. The more work they participated in, the greater was the enlightenment that they derived. Therefore, they deeply recognized the almighty wisdom power that Master has helped them open from within is truly omnipotent.

Making use of the summer vacation, a fellow sister came to help at the Center's kitchen, where delicious meals were prepared for the working members every day. She had a deep apprehension: despite very detailed plans, it was not certain that she could buy the required food at the market. However, acting according to her own inspiration and prevailing circumstances, the outcome was always perfect. Subsequently, she could better utilize her latent abilities in creating unique dishes, which very often met the exact demand of the fellow practitioners on that day.

Master Is Always The Chief
Engineer Behind The Scene

Whenever a new task is being launched, Master always makes fantastic arrangements for some relevant professionals to appear at the right time. Furthermore, the number of professionals is always just enough for the job. It is clear to the fellow practitioners that Master is the chief engineer behind the scenes coordinating everyone. Each time when set-backs or obstacles are encountered in the work, some timely and professional opinions will always be available. During these discussions, Master always gives them the best inspiration, helping them to accomplish every job perfectly and efficiently.

The boss of a steel-plate company had seen Master's videos on Channel Four, and coincidentally he was helping with the construction of the local Center this time. Deterred by thunderstorms and rain for several days in succession, progress of the work was behind schedule.

One afternoon, he decided to stay behind so that he could resume the work immediately when the rain stopped, because he firmly believed that Master would give him enough time to finish it. Eventually, the rain completely stopped, so everyone grabbed hold of the opportunity and worked at full speed. Just as they had laid the last piece of steel plate, the rain poured down again.

Maintain Good Relationships
With The Neighbours

While Savouring The Sweet Result

On one holiday, environment-cleaning day, more than a hundred fellow practitioners came to tidy up their 'new home', the new Taoyuan Center, and cleaned the vicinity as well. Fellow initiates, including males, females, the elderly and children, swept and cleaned the streets. Some of them cut the obtrusive tree branches and some picked up litter. In a short time, the streets assumed a new clean look. Neighbours came later to express their gratitude. Fellow practitioners told them it was Master's teachings of love that brought such a pleasant and blissful atmosphere.

A Considerate Innovation

In the past, when signing-in at the group meditation sessions, fellow practitioners had to fish out their names amid a crowded list of names and numbers. This was a difficult task for illiterate or elderly fellows whose eyesight is bad. Even if they managed to find their names, they often marked the wrong date. However, it is all different now; only a small table and a digital code reading machine are required, saving time and space, while improving accuracy. The tiny digital code reading machine can store thousands of bytes of data, saving the heavy record papers and conforming with 'green' ideals.

The new method can also accurately handle the enrollment and screening process for retreats in a very short time. All the complicated problems of the past are all solved by using this digital code reading machine.

Reports From Bodh Gaya, India

Spreading Suma Ching Hai's Teaching At Bodh Ashram

The teachings of Suma Ching Hai were introduced amidst the swarming mass of tourists and pilgrims busy venerating the Bodh Ashram where Shakyamuni Buddha attained enlightenment.

When many of the tourists and pilgrims saw the beautiful pictures of Master, they simultaneously asked who She was. Tour guides even brought tourists to enquire about Master's sample booklet. A curious atmosphere developed and people wanted to know exactly what Master taught. How different was She from others who taught enlightenment? How could She confer immediate enlightenment?

A video show was arranged by fellow initiates at a local monastery; they chose "The Mystery Of The World Beyond," Master's lecture at the United Nations. The audience consisted of an Australian Buddhist monk, an Indian Catholic priest, some western pilgrims, and Indians. Master's talk was highly appreciated and everyone laughed at Her jokes. People hoped to read Master's books for further study and reference.

Report From Hong Kong

Hong Kong Food Fair:

New Style Vegetarian Food

The Food Fair is the most popular among all of Hong Kong's grand fairs. This year, the Hong Kong Vegetarian House used the slogans, 'Total vegetarian - the first step to compassion and giving alms', and 'Total vegetarian - the first step to saving Earth'. The name of 'Suma Ching Hai' on the banners brightened the whole venue.

Fellow practitioners especially chose Master's talk in the United States called, 'Appreciating Life Begins from Enlightenment' to be distributed together with the sample booklets to those people with affinities with Master. Although there was a typhoon during the fair, the crowd was still very large. Fellow practitioners had to continuously transport additional sample booklets to the venue so as to have enough to distribute to the tens of thousands of people striving to get one.

The exquisitely printed leaflets gave a concise introduction of the Quan Yin Method, initiation, the Convenient Method and information about the Hong Kong Center. In the section about vegetarianism, it also introduced the Vegetarian House and the free vegetarian cooking classes. After the fair, many people interested in the various activities called the Center to obtain further information.

The event was held close to the Mid-Autumn Festival. The vegetarian egg yolk moon cake promoted by the Vegetarian House was supplied for the occasion. It was widely welcomed at the venue and was sold out very quickly. Various kinds of healthy vegetarian food and new style vegetarian dishes like vegetarian lobster, vegetarian egg yolk and so on, were displayed by a company of fellow practitioner's. The food received a variety of good reviews. 'Hong Kong Today', the popular Hong Kong TV news program came especially to cover the event. The program introduced the benefits of being vegetarian and the method of making vegetarian moon cakes.

Report From Singapore

The Banquet Of Spiritual Food

Academics of Singapore recently raised up a heat wave. Reputable publishers from all over the world gathered together at Singapore's largest exhibition center - the World Trade Center - for the International Books Fair. This year's fair was the largest ever. It attracted tens of thousands of people daily and it injected fruitful, spiritual food into the rich, material life of Singapore.

Due to the blessing of Master, fellow practitioners fortunately obtained a very spacious stall at one corner of the fair. Besides displaying books, Master's exquisite and unequalled artistic works also appeared for the eyes of the public. The book shelves were positioned such that they could be moved easily according to the degree of crowd congestion. Tables and chairs were also thoughtfully placed to let many people who were reluctant to leave enjoy spiritual meals in comfort.

Although the inner level of practice is invisible to the eyes, the respect for Master could be seen in facial expressions. The person in charge of the Raddha Soami stall, immediately brought over a cart full of authentic Indian nan bread when he learnt that we were the disciples of Suma Ching Hai. The next day, he again warmly brought over various kinds of vegetarian food. It amply showed the open-minded approach of spiritual practitioners.

When our fellow practitioners passed by the stall of a very famous Yoga practitioner, the person in charge told fellow practitioners that they were a meditation organization. When fellow practitioners said that our Guru was Suma Ching Hai, she immediately replied in a very respectful tone, "I know Her", and indicated that she had already visited Master's stall.

The manager of a Sri Lankan book store repeatedly came to visit our stall. He was yearning for a chance to meet Master in order to further resolve his problems with practice. But because of work commitments, he had to return to his country when the fair was over. Thus he left his address in Sri Lanka with us so he could receive Master's news magazine.

After coming into initial contact with Master's teachings, many people were yearning to understand more deeply the Truth of life and the true nature of the universe. They all came to the Center with their friends and families to buy books and to discuss their doubts. Before the book fair was over, there were scores of people registering to learn the Convenient Method. One of them who had learned a meditation method similar to the Quan Yin Method and had practiced for more than ten years, still remained at the initial level. But when she learned that the would-be initiates who had just started to practice the Convenient Method were having very high level experiences and were enjoying bliss daily, it made her very envious indeed.

There was one traditional Chinese medicine doctor from mainland China who had heard of Master and the Quan Yin Method on the mainland. He also possessed some of Master's books and had been a vegetarian for a long time. He yearned to practice but did not know how to contact us. The Heavenly Lord does not disappoint those who strive. Unexpectedly it was a joyous meeting at the fair. He immediately bought many books to prepare for further, deeper studies.

Report From Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Sharing Master's Wisdom and Love at The International Book Exhibition

Under the watchful eyes of the public, the annual international book exhibition in Malaysia raised its curtains. It was a very meaningful event, and many renowned academic and cultural organizations participated.

Our booth was located in a corner, so it was like having a double front. With smart decorations, especially a large photo of Master meditating in the Center, it was the focus of attention. Both men and women, young and old, regardless of nationality, race or religion could not help stopping to admire it.

Master's aphorisms in Her lecture shown on video injected a cool stream into the souls of those who were eager and thirsty. Many people stood there for a long time, reluctant to leave. Some even put their ears next to the screen, in order to listen more clearly to the eternal and constant Truth of the Universe. Noticing the enthusiasm displayed by the guests, fellow initiates hurried to find some small stools for their convenience.

A sister initiate went to buy some books at another booth. As she went to pay for the books, she found that the person in charge of the booth was absorbed in reading one of Master's news magazines. Then she noticed that Master's reference materials were to be found in almost every booth. So all the participants of the exhibition had come to our booth!

All the guests who visited us were naturally attracted by Master. For example, when a couple of very healthy, active young boys saw the various photographs of Master, they suddenly quietened down, looked at the photographs attentively and then spontaneously put their palms together and bowed to pay respect.

After looking at Master's photographs for a while, a middle aged lady, who brought four children with her, said to herself, "This is a living Buddha."

The moment a Hindu yogi saw the photographs of Master, he said, "I like this Master very much. I know that She has attained perfect enlightenment!"

A fellow initiate asked him, "How do you know that?"

He replied, "I can see Her light." (At the same time he made a hand gesture of waving light.)

The yogi continued to study Master's teachings in front of the booth, and repeatedly said that it was the happiest day of his life.

Another Hindu especially brought his Sikh friend over to watch the videos of Master's lectures. The Sikh friend kept putting his thumbs up, and both of them praised Master's teachings highly.

Some Malaysian compatriots from afar invited their friends to buy Master's books, but they did not know their way to the exhibition. When they asked a passer-by for directions, it turned out that the person was our neighbour. Our neighbour took them to our meditation Center, where they bought the books they wanted. As long as one is sincere in one's search for the Truth, Master will definitely not neglect them.

After reading some information about Master's lectures, one of the guests began to discuss the problems on his mind. Through the video that was showing, Master coincidentally answered his questions, and this made his very happy. It also verified that Master's teachings are living scriptures.

The security personnel were also attracted by the laughter and humour in Master's lectures, so much that they forgot their duties. There was one cleaner, who stood before the booth, bathed in Master's loving power. Not until he was hurried by his partner did he reluctantly leave.

Some friends from the U.S.A. repeatedly praised Master, saying She was dignified and beautiful. Friends from nations such as Monaco and India requested more sample booklets to take home for their friends. They also said that they would contact their nearest Centers immediately after they returned to their countries.

Report From France

The Deep Affection Between

Master And Disciples In Paris

After Her trip to Africa, Master passed through Paris, France. Hearing the good news, fellow initiates immediately assembled at Terminal One at De Gaulle Airport to welcome their most beloved Master.

Wearing a traditional Au Lacese gown, Master stepped out of the airport with Her attendants, and greeted the waiting fellow practitioners. She distributed packets of candy and biscuits to them and also to some tourists and airport staff who were attracted to Master.

After a brief rest at the hotel, Master went to the Paris Center to visit the fellow practitioners as per their earnest request.

Situated in the suburbs of Paris, the Center was only purchased early this year. After the renovation and reconstruction, the residential compound was transformed into an ideal place for spiritual practice and for spreading Master's teachings. The Publications Office was originally a garage; the front block has been turned into a meditation hall; two rooms in the rear block serve as the office and computer room; and a toilet and storeroom have been built in the courtyard. The more complicated renovations were completed by professionals, while the remaining tasks were all done by fellow initiates. In choosing building materials and in the process of building the new Center, fellow practitioners have personally experienced Master's guidance and blessing.

Upon entering the courtyard, Master observed the neatly planted trees and flowers, the pond, and the water-lilies. She was delighted and said, "You have a beautiful Center!"

The Publications Room displayed Master's books, video tapes, audio tapes, photos, and News magazines. There were even handicrafts from Hsihu hanging on the walls. Master was glad to see such a beautiful Publication Room serving the disciples.

Ever since the new Center was completed, the fellow initiates in Paris had been expecting Master to come and bless the place. Now, Master has fulfilled their wish by going all that way to see the initiates, despite the arduous journey.

After She had viewed the new Center, Master said with deep meaning, "Now that you have your own Center, you have your own home." Fellow initiates understood very well that it was Mother Master who built this home for Her children, so that they can savour the warmth within the Quan Yin family. Through loving concern and humble toleration towards each other, they will learn to love their neighbors and even their enemies, and to love the world and the universe.

The Paris Center has been set up for over two years, and each fellow practitioner can notice the changes in themselves. Besides developing their compassion, they are also more disciplined and compliant.

In Her discourse, Master again stressed the incredible benefits of group meditation that will come to each spiritual practitioner, the immediate surroundings and even to the whole world. She said that any person, in doing anything, will need spiritual support and encouragement. To the spiritual practitioners, group meditation provides a gigantic vibrational field and power. It is also an opportunity for them to learn from, to support and to encourage, each other.

The next evening, a group meditation session and an initiation were held at the Center, where Master personally blessed each of the new initiates.

On the third day, when initiates were meditating in the hall, Master again appeared at the Center. She did not disturb anyone, but sat quietly on Her seat and meditated with the disciples. Graced by Master's blessing, everyone was immersed in a sea of loving vibration. After the meditation, Master gave an explicit speech; expounding profound teachings with light and humorous words. Everyone laughed happily, and then sank into deep reflection.

Master then left the meditation hall and walked into the courtyard, followed by the disciples. No worldly language could describe their reluctance to part. The air was a little bit cool that late summer night. In contrast to the revelry of Paris at night, this place was quiet and peaceful. The tranquillity made Master's low whisper especially clear. The words She whispered were: "I love you all", which transformed into shimmering stars overlooking the Parisian night sky.

Report From Hungary

Put Down Magical Powers

And Seek Help From Master

Almost every day the branch Center in Budapest, Hungary receives phone calls from people everywhere wanting to enrol to learn the Convenient Method, or receive initiation, or for more information about Master's teachings. It is interesting that usually whole families want to learn, or at least couples. Even children want to become vegetarians. These people are very sincere, and almost all of them have had visions of Master's transformation body.

The number of people wanting to learn the Convenient Method in one remote province is especially large. So the Quan Yin messenger and fellow initiates went there, taking with them Master's video tapes and books, to introduce Master's teachings to people. Due to their sincerity in their search for the Truth, these people all felt strong blessings from Master, and they all had very good inner experiences.

In Hungary, almost all spiritual practitioners can heal people with magical powers. There is one would-be initiate, who could also heal people using spiritual powers. After coming to know Master's teachings, he strongly believes that only Master's power is the supreme one, and so he put down his magical powers. Whenever people come to him to be healed, he only prays to Master in his heart to bless the patients. Now he feels more at ease and much happier. Many others who healed using magical powers have been influenced by him and do not use their magical powers to heal any more. They have also begun to keep a vegetarian diet and are waiting to receive Master's initiation.

Report From Ohio, U.S.A.

Witness Master's Loving Power
At A Health Expo

A recent health expo in Columbus, Ohio featured many exhibitors involved in various areas of health enhancement. The booth representing the Suma Ching Hai International Association was well attended by visitors to the expo, and featured two impressive pictures of Master, a variety of Master's publications, and delicious vegetarian spring rolls made by fellow initiates. The joy and enthusiasm that the working initiates showed as they interacted with the visitors was infectious.

One man, who was gifted with psychic abilities, said that the initiates at the booth all had very positive energy, were very peaceful, and were of an advanced spiritual level. This, all the fellow initiates knew, was due to Master's love and blessing power. Many of the visitors were amazed at the positive power emitted from Master's pictures and some even came back repeatedly to the booth to share their extraordinary experiences with the fellow initiates.

One man commented that, as he looked at Master's picture, he felt a strong tingling sensation in his head, and that if he kept looking at Her, he felt as though he would float away! This man had been practicing meditation in another tradition for many years, and could recognize an enlightened Saint when he saw one. He asked for a sample booklet and showed interest in starting to practice the Quan Yin Method.

Another woman, a physician from mainland China said that she had recently had a dream about a spiritual master, and when she saw Suma Ching Hai's picture, she realized that it was She who had appeared in her dream! This woman was strongly attracted to Master's teachings, and stayed at the booth for a long time, asking questions about initiation. She said that she liked Master's personality and style very much, felt a strong affinity with Her, and indicated that she would seek initiation.

The delicious vegetarian spring rolls made by fellow initiates were extremely popular with the visitors. One man, another exhibitor at the expo, said that he had eaten twenty of the rolls in one day, and asked if we would ship him an entire box of them via overnight express. After tasting the flavor of the rolls, a professional caterer, was amazed and was highly impressed that vegetarian food could be so delicious.

Another visitor, a physician from the Ohio area, said that she was immediately attracted to Master's picture and marvelled at Her incredible beauty. As one of the initiates spoke with her about the benefits and positive experiences he had gained through practicing the Quan Yin Method, the woman felt a wonderful energy. She had been raised in a Catholic family, had been seeking the Truth for many years, and had practiced numerous meditation methods, but never felt satisfied. She believed she had finally found the path she had been seeking all those years. She bought Master's book, and expressed interest in initiation.

The experience of the participating initiates was extremely rich. They learned a great deal through sharing Master's love and teachings, and all thank Her from the bottom of their hearts for giving them the chance to work for Her and witness the greatness of Her blessing power at the expo.

Report From Pennsylvania
And New Jersey, U.S.A.

A 3-day Camp-fire Retreat In The Eastern States Of America

When the heat wave in the eastern States was receding, fellow practitioners in Pennsylvania and New Jersey used the three days of a weekend in mid-August to convene a unique camping retreat. Over a hundred initiates from New York, Maryland, Virginia, Massachusetts, and even from the far away states of North Carolina and Indiana came to the beautiful site at Parvin State Park in New Jersey.

The camp site was on Island Point in an isolated camping area in the southern part of Parvin Lake. The island is connected to the shore by only a small bridge. Hanging high was a photo of Master smiling. Beautiful flowers and rich green shades make the natural forest an ideal place for meditation.

The abundant activities of the 3-day camping retreat were tightly arranged. Besides the diligent group meditation sessions, the afternoons were set aside as free time. Fellow initiates engaged themselves in swimming, boating and hiking so they could savor the refreshing and blissful natural atmosphere. In the evenings, there were barbecues and cheerful camp-fire parties. Under the blessing of Master's love, everyone enjoyed a 3-day camping holiday featuring rich spiritual experiences, delicious food and great fun.

Report From Canada

Spreading The Gospel Together
In Edmonton

After the one-day retreat in Vancouver, the Quan Yin messenger and fellow practitioners set out for Edmonton to spread Master's teachings. This beautiful and peaceful city is located in northern Canada. The local residents have an open mind and are very hospitable. Although there were not many local fellow practitioners, practitioners from Formosa, Eastern Canada and Western Canada joined the work group and helped smoothly organize a Quan Yin seminar at Alberta University. The event attracted a lot of professionals, researchers and young students. Most of these people were genuine spiritual seekers so they were very attentive during the seminar. Some even came to the venue much earlier to wait patiently for the seminar to begin.

Fellow practitioners involved were all very happy to be able to spread the Truth in this new city, because not only were they allowing more people to hear about Master's teachings, they themselves also benefited a lot from the work experience.

Appendix Of The Report From Chiayi, Formosa

[Let Truth Cleanse The Souls Of The Prison Inmates] [Peace And Harmony Pervade The Lecture By Suma Ching Hai International Association In Chiayi Prison]

[Reporter Su Tai An from Min Xiong]

Fifty members of Suma Ching Hai International Association went to the Chiayi Prison yesterday about 1:30 pm to preach to the inmates. Practitioner Wu told his story and described his feelings during his conversion from an evil to a virtuous life, and emphasised that "Doing good deeds is the greatest happiness".

At the gathering, a monastic disciple led a discussion to exchange ideas and insights in life with the congregation, and taught them how to meditate. Finally, they sang some holy psalms together. The gathering was full of peace and warmth, and concluded successfully at 4:15 pm.

The branch Center of the Suma Ching Hai International Association is situated in Jiang Tso Dian of Min Xiong Xiang. Yesterday, fifty practitioner 'bodhisattvas', hoping to uplift society by injecting a timely cleansing current, entered the Chiayi Prison for a Truth spreading event. As arranged by the Prison authority, about two hundred and fifty female inmates gathered at the event hall to attend the lecture.

To begin, brother Wu gave a detailed account of his early years in crime circles. He was classified by the police as a Class-A villain, and had spent eleven years in prison. Heavily loaded with karma, he was tortured by agonizing illness. By complete coincidence, he got to know about the credibility and greatness of Suma Ching Hai. Eventually, the prodigal son returned, and put down his slaying knife to follow Suma Ching Hai, to practice the Quan Yin Method, and ultimately realized the Truth about human life.

After him, a close fellow disciple went on the stage to expound the benefits of practicing the Quan Yin Method, and the greatness of Suma Ching Hai. Through a question and answer session, he exchanged ideas with the inmates, and then taught them a meditation method. After the instruction, the place was stark silent as the inmates started to meditate in their seats. The meditation has benefited them greatly.

At the gathering, members of the International Association distributed free booklets and Master's photographs. Finally, they sang the song, "Tears of the Holy Mother" together. Both parties melted into one, and the atmosphere was incredibly touching. Upon leaving, the association members served each inmate with some western snacks. After over two hours of edification, silent gratitude was present in the eyes of the inmates as they reluctantly bid farewell.

Letters Between Master & Disciples

Experiencing God's Love

By Fellow Initiate Lawrence, Liverpool, U.K. (Originally in English)

Dearest Suma Ching Hai,

I wish to give You my heartfelt gratitude for revealing to me the Quan Yin Method. I have searched deeply to find in my life, to find a permanent, real experience of God's love. I have looked for and had different experiences - Tantric Yoga, the Eight-fold Path, Chi-kung, Spiritualism, Christianity, Shamanism, New Age methods, and various meditations. I have gained numerous experiences and felt the same One guiding spirit wherever I went. But I always felt that I had to move on. The spiritual power I gained was not strong enough to give me the power to change some deep-rooted negative belief patterns. I would experience some peace, but not permanently. The power of maya was quite strong.

Now, since I met You I believe and feel that I can rest. I learned the Convenient Method and practiced for several months before getting initiated by You in London. I feel a deep inner peace now and a deep well of love from which I can draw. Many amazing miracles of love happen very spontaneously in my relationships. Many things happen without the maya of the mind knowing.

Your loving grace has awakened my True Self. Each day, Your presence draws near and I can talk to You, which gives me great comfort. When I was in London, I wanted to ask questions, but none came. I enjoyed Your company and wanted to remember well that moment in life and absorb energy from your spirit.

A Seed Of God

By Fellow Initiate Lee, Portugal
(Originally in English)

Dear Suma Ching Hai,

From the depths of my heart, I thank You for Your love, Your teachings, and Your guidance. I thank God for granting me the privilege of having You as my spiritual guide, and I thank You for incarnating at this time in history.

Please accept my gratitude from Portugal, so that You know that You have planted a seed of God, of the Quan Yin Meditation Method, in one more part of the world. And this seed will do its best to grow well, strong, and beautiful, so that with Your help, Master, and God's help, it will become a strong tree. With my eternal gratitude and all the love that You allow me to give,

Your Portuguese Child,
Seed

Between Master And Disciples

A Beautiful Way To Meet Master

By Fellow Initiate Richard, Indiana, U.S.A. (Originally in English)

Although I have read many of Master's works, seen her numerous times on videotapes, and heard Her voice on tape recordings, the experience of seeing Her in person at the New York S.M. Celestial Fashion Show was truly breathtaking.

I felt a sense of electricity and anticipation as the Show progressed and the gorgeous models presented Master's celestial clothing with inspired grace and beauty. I had only been an initiate for a few weeks at the time of the Show, and felt like a newborn baby among all the older practitioners as they watched in anticipation of a visit by Master.

When She finally appeared after the models had displayed Her glorious creations, the sudden rush of energy from the crowd as people tried to get near the stage area to see Her up close was really overwhelming. I have never felt such spiritual upliftment in the presence of a master, although I have attended many conferences and meetings with teachers and masters from around the world. The power and inspiration that I experienced from the mere sight of Master will never leave me. Her tiny frame seemed larger and more glowing than the tall, beautiful models around Her as She emerged from backstage at the end of the Show.

She projected a unique quality of humility combined with total naturalness and mastery of her surroundings as She spoke to the crowd. This first image of Master in person as She expressed her feelings and humorous impressions will be with me as long as I live. She has a great sense of humor and down-to-earth nature that make me feel at home with Her, as though I've known Her for many lifetimes.

This feeling was carried over into the group meeting for initiates and guests held at the New York Center the day after the Fashion Show. I was lucky enough to sit right near Master in the front row as She spoke; and before She sat down, She walked just a few inches from me as She greeted the crowd. All the while, I felt a warm sense of brotherhood with Master, and identified with Her humorous and friendly style.

Never before in all my years of pursuing spiritual Truth have I met a teacher quite like Her! She is a "Master for the Ages" in the truest sense of the word, and I felt like crying as I saw Her in the flesh for the first time. Even now, as I write this report, I feel moved to tears knowing that I have finally found a master who can lead me to the Truth that I have been seeking all my life. I have tried many paths, but none has been as powerful and spiritually rewarding as practicing the Quan Yin Method. I thank Master from the depths of my soul for introducing Herself to me after a long and seemingly endless quest for the Truth, which began in the Catholic Church and has culminated in the path of a true Buddha, Suma Ching Hai.

Break Through The Habits Of The Mind

By Fellow Initiate Wu, Taipei, Formosa

In the past, I have been truly negligent about courtesy. Master once said in a lecture that sometimes when we see each other, we greet Her as if we do not see Her at all, and this makes Her sad. Since I heard these words of Master, I have kept them in mind... I must greet Master when I see Her as though She is a good friend.

Once, when Master passed us, I was standing nearby. When She turned Her attention toward us, I was happy and very nervous. But when Master looked at me, I "greeted?Her with a blank face, which caused me to grieve. I repented in my mind to Her: "Master, I did not mean to do that; it is only that I forgot again. It's hard to change a habit; please give me another chance."

Recently, when I was working at Hsihu Center, Master suddenly appeared. I instantly put my palms together and nodded my head to greet Her and She responded with a nod. Master is very busy and has to take care of many things. But She does not neglect what other people regard as 'trivial.' In fact, the impact of such 'trivial things' on others is far-reaching.

Formerly, when I saw Master, I struggled in my mind because I felt that I was lousy. I did not know whether I should smile, repent seriously, or sneak away. I really did not know the most appropriate way to respond. This time Master's lesson about such a subtle matter bestowed on me a positive force so that I could break through my ingrained mental habits. I believe that Master's intention is to urge us to make courtesy a way of life so as to add a cooling atmosphere to the world, which is restless with anxiety.

Aphorisms
By Suma Ching Hai (Originally in English)

Very important to keep your place wholly clean for yourself and also for the sake of this world, for the sake of the universe. It is a corner of the universe. We live in it. Even if we live in heaven, it's also only another corner of the universe. Why don't we respect the corner that we now stay in?

Do everything for your family, your society, for yourselves. Don't wait for people to make your life better and brighter. Make your life yourself. You can do anything.

The only means that can provide security is to obtain more inner protective power and wisdom through meditation.

Try our best to pray for this world, for ourselves, to protect ourselves, our morality, purity and the eternal power within ourselves. This is the only way that can save ourselves.

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Media Reports

From Elle Magazine,Taipei, R.O.C. July 1995 No. 46

S.M. World-Wide Celestial Fashion Shows A Poetic Celestial Feast
In New York, London, Paris And Milan

These words reflect the wholehearted admiration of a designer in Milan toward the great artistic master -- Suma Ching Hai: "I have seen fashion shows by all the famous designers, but I have never observed any who could create poetry with fashion like Suma Ching Hai."

Suma Ching Hai, a great artistic Master, who is the embodiment of Truth, virtue, and beauty, complying to the earnest requests of numerous people, staged four international fashion shows that swept through New York, London, Paris and Milan in mid-April and May like a hurricane. Her fashion and jewelry designs, displaying unique style and color coordination, have brought an unprecedented shock to the world of fashion.

Suma Ching Hai noticed that the modern trends in clothing were drifting away from the elegant and classical, and often overlooked the brilliant colors bestowed upon us by nature. Therefore, Her fashions, from cotton casual wear to glamorous silk and velvet evening gowns, are all dignified and graceful in appearance, and elegant and comfortable to wear. She designs clothes in a way similar to an architect designing a building; meticulous consideration is always given to the safety and comfort of the wearer with respect to overall design, and appearance and quality of material. Suma Celestial Fashions require that every garment be absolutely delicate and soft to the touch. Any parts of the clothing that come into contact with the body, such as linings, are made with the utmost care. All fabrics used have been personally selected by Suma Ching Hai in the United States, Hong Kong, Thailand, Formosa, India, Italy, France, and various other countries, with strict requirements regarding quality and color. The finished clothes can be cherished as works of art, as well as offering comfort and beauty to their owners.

According to Suma Ching Hai, the Heavenly Kingdom is a magnificent and glorious place. This beautiful paradise is truly reflected by Her Celestial designs -- luxurious silk skirts, rich gold and silver colored evening gowns, dresses decorated with moon and star appliques, and of course matching jewelry. Suma Ching Hai says that Her Celestial designs are more than a fashion trend, they also let people experience the richness of spirituality. The message that She wishes to convey is: "Fashion and spirituality can go hand in hand instead of conflicting with each other."

Each Celestial design considers the needs of modern women at work, at home, during leisure time and while entertaining, as well as at special occasions. The working dresses with high splits are attractive and lively, suitable for fast- paced life styles. The evening gowns with multiple layers of overlapping fabric, made of luxurious silk, chiffon, velvet, and other fabrics, create a three dimensional effect, highlighting the charm and nobleness of women.

Suma Ching Hai sometimes contracts colors in a daring and brilliant fashion, and at other times uses gentle tones that match and compliment each other. Nonetheless, both styles are pleasant to the eye. With a great sense of humor, very often, surprising and ingenious ideas emerge from Her designs, for instance, the small holes near the hem of the trousers for ventilation, patch pockets just for decoration, pieces of cloth randomly overlapping one another, and so on. Her methods are not conventional, but the results are extremely original.

Some of the clothes even reflect a profound touch of Zen. The inspiration for Her Lotus dress came from a lotus pond behind Suma Ching Hai's residence during Her short stay in Thailand. The sleeves and the dress skirt look like lotus buds, representing our original pureness within. Her Midriff dress with strings of pearls covering the abdomen represents "emptying," which means 'delivering all sentient beings.' Adapted from traditional Thai costumes, Her 'Happy Princess' dress reminds us of the ancient golden era when every woman was a happy princess.

One of the most revolutionary innovations of the S.M. Celestial designs is the daring effect of exposing bright inner linings, which provide a strong contrast to the outer fabrics, and are even more attractive. Thus, the whole garment looks more unique and refined. Suma Ching Hai's idea is that the brilliant colors of the linings symbolize the purity within, which is more lasting than the superficial look outside.

An 'S.M.' logo in gold and red is embroidered on each Celestial design. Red symbolizes our physical body, while gold denotes our noble spiritual nature. A large eye-catching S.M. logo about the height of two persons was displayed on stage as background to the fashion shows.

Among Suma Ching Hai's world-wide fashion shows, only the one in Milan was a small, traditional fashion show, the other three being grand occasions attended by thousands, including many local VIP's, such as Mr. and Mrs Holtermann, the German Embassador in New York, and elite members of the fashion industry and media. Apart from savoring a feast of beauty with their eyes, the audience also experienced spiritual elevation brought to them by the exotic splendor. A designer in Milan praised she as 'composing a poem with Her fashion show.' Transcending time and space, She has combined the aesthetics of ancient and modern times, and presented an invaluable treasure to the women of today.

In recent years, besides Her fashion designs, people are greatly attracted to Her simple and natural paintings, and Her exquisitely designed lamps and fans. Recently, She has even designed a collection of 'Celestial Jewelry,' consisting of earrings, necklaces, bracelets and brooches for women, and rings, cuff links, and tie pins for men, made of the finest gold, diamonds and other precious gems, and by imperial artisans. Apart form their incredible workmanship and incomparable magnificence, each piece of jewelry also bears a profound meaning. Suma Ching Hai wishes to highlight people's underlying beauty and wisdom with these beautiful works of art.

Liberty Times, Formosa, July 7, 1995.

Suma Ching Hai Renders Help To
The Building Disaster Victims In Seoul

[Central News Agency reporting from Seoul, July 6,1995]

The Suma Ching Hai International Association, with headquarters in Formosa, has donated US$40,000 to the victims of the Sampoong Department Store disaster in Seoul. The members of the Association's branch center in Seoul even look after the injured victims day and night in the hospitals. This is an exemplary deed talked about by many regarding this tragedy.

Central Daily News, Korea July 7, 1995 (Originally in Korean)

Spiritual Practitioners From Formosa Volunteer To Help Sending spiritual comfort to those who have lost family members. Pray for the early recovery of the injured victims.

The Formosan followers of an International Association established by Suma Ching Hai, an enlightened Master from the Himalayas, recently volunteered to help the Sampoong Department Store disaster victims. The Suma Ching Hai International Association crossed international borders to aid the injured and relatives of the deceased. Suma Ching Hai means and is the name of a Master who has achieved the hightest level of enlightenment. Her headquarters in Formosa was founded in 1983. The Quan Yin messenger who came to Korea on this trip emphasized that they not only offered the victims material relief, but more importantly, spiritual aid was given. Fellow practitioners from all over the world all pray for the victims early recovery.

After hearing the news about the Sampoong Department Store disaster, a Quan Yin messenger from "Suma Ching Hai International Association" in Formosa volunteered to help the victims. On July 6th he arrived at Kang Nam Si Rip Hospital to visit the injured, bringing with him relief money and flowers. (By Reporter Kim Sang Sun)

Master Says

Power AND Finance --
Striving To Earn Money Is A Duty, Not A Sin

Spoken by Suma Ching Hai to the foreign initiates, Hsihu Center, Formosa (Originally in English) June 3, 1995

What you should detach is the attachment for power and fame, not to be detached from money and fame.

The thing is that we had better strive, strive to have a better life all the time, not because we are materialists but because life should have joy and abundance in all things and in all aspects. We do not have to give power and finance to the negative class of people. You understand what I mean? If, for example, the good people don't strive to make income for themselves or to have some power within a society then all the power and the finance go to the negative power, all the bad people. They will in turn control the good people and the good people can do nothing; can not even spread goodness. So to me, to earn money, to make a business, to strive in your life to earn a good standard of living for your family, yourself and your country is a duty, not a sin.

I do not encourage my people to stay in poverty, and to give all the power and finance to the negative system that has no morals, to people who have no morals, who have no responsibility, no feeling, and who have no sense of sharing with other people. For example, we who are practicing moral standards, if we have money we always share with other people. We help people in disasters, we help the victims, we help the refugees, we help the poor, we help the needy, we help the sick and the orphans and things like that. So, it's very good to have money, very good. It's not capitalism. It's the power of finance that we must have and also the power, sometimes, of social activities.

If you are a politician, you should stay in politics and be a good politician and fight for your country and for the standard of living of other people. If you are a businessman, you must be a successful one. Always strive to be successful. Earn as much money as God gives you and then you can share. Money is very easy to use. If you don't have it then you can say, "Oh well, I don't care about money. I'm a practitioner. Money for me is untouchable." You can not do that, you know? Can not have such an attitude like, you don't have then you're lazy to achieve and then you say,"Oh, no, I don't care. I renounce everything." It's not true.

In the old times, the so-called practitioners, they always renounced many things. It's okay. You can do that for a while. But I don't think you should do it all the time. No? Well, I think you can, why not? Everyone becomes monks, we eat the air (laughter) and drink the dew in the morning and afternoon. That's it. What do we need? Actually, the practitioners don't need so much. What we eat is just vegetables and what we wear doesn't have to be always beautiful, truly. We don't really care for outside appearances, we really don't.

Sometimes, I put some make-up on, wear some clothes, and after three or four days, I'm so happy just to go next to the river and wear nothing, just be alone and be natural. Sometimes, the make-up and the clothes make you feel tired. The outer requirement of beauty and decency sometimes makes you tired if you are not used to it. Especially for the practitioners, we just like to feel natural. Sometimes we even feel that having no hair, no clothes, and things like that would be very, very relaxing. But if we want to do it for the sake of beautifying the world or to work in the society, it's also okay.

So for us, the so-called practitioners, we really don't need material comfort. We really don't. And that's why it's easy for us sometimes to think,"Oh no, why should I earn money, I don't really need anything anymore." It's a very easy way out. But when we come to think about it, if we still live in this world, many people depend on us, our family, our children, our parents, relatives, and friends. Sometimes they need our help. If we are not in a position to help them, who will? Because only very rarely do people in this world want to help the poor and needy.

Truly the people in this world very rarely would give anything, even in ordinary circumstances. So that is the way of working of the negative power, to make the people become greedy and grasping. Whatever they have is mine, mine, mine. They never let go. Even when they have more than enough, more than they can ever count, more than they can ever recognize how much they have, they still want more. No one else can have it. Therefore, if the so-called good persons, positive people, like the practitioners of moral standards, the practitioners of the Way, the Tao, the Truth, don't have money, who will help those needy people? That's it. That's the difference. That's why we need to earn money and make good business. Not because we need it but because in this world we can make use of this useful equipment, money, power or political standpoint, then we can help the people.

Make The Best Use Of Power To Work For God

For example, if I am a president of the United States -- if, huh? (Laughter) -- then I would have taken in all the refugees a long time ago. The Au Lac people, the Cubans, the Haitians, the Chechnyans and the Bosnians, whatever. Then I would tell my people how to take care of them. I would tell you. (Applause) You would. Even if each one of us just take one of or two persons, that'd be fine and we'd take care in no time. It's just because we are not allowed to do that even. We don't mind any of us, any country, all of us, the practitioners, my fellow practitioners. I believe all of you, if I'd say one word, "Please take care of this person or this family," everyone of you in Korea, in China, in Au Lac, in Formosa, in America, in France, in England, anywhere, you would immediately do that. Is that not so? (Everyone answers,"Yes.") (Applause). And then we'd have no problem, really. Instead of feeding them in the camps, we would give them the money to start their businesses or training and then they'd be on their feet in no time. Later they'd help other refugees. Then the world would have no more problems, right? Yes, really no problem.

That's one issue, the refugees. Another issue is abortion. We don't have to kill babies. I have written to the United Nations and other countries and said that we don't have to do that. We can create a special social care system, let these children be born and then give them to those who have no child. At the moment, there are so many difficulties in adoption, so much red tape and bureaucracy. Many childless couples long to have children, not one but two, three, four adoptions; and any race, they like it. So why are we killing this rare species?

I think as long as we go on like this, we are killing ourselves. Later it's we, the human species, who become a rare species that must be protected. Now birds, many jungle creatures like lions, tigers already have become rare species. Later, human beings will become even rarer, because now no one can have two children, for example, in many countries. It's forbidden to have more than one child or more than two children, etc. And any other children have to be wasted. Kill them. This doesn't have to be, right! We can just exchange. You don't have children, I have too many, you take some. Very easy. Why not? That's two issues. Now, at the moment the world's two worst issues are refugees and abortion. I think it's very easy.

Suppose I am the president of some powerful country. I just want to tell you one example like that so that you know that social power and financial power are not to be renounced, as long as you live in this world. Not because we want them. Just because we don't want them, we have to have them. (Applause) If we give these powers to the people who want them, they always abuse them. Just because they want them so much, they will always abuse them whenever they get them. Just because we don't want them, so we can use them in a very fair, peaceful, and useful manner for the whole world. You understand what I mean?

So, the problem is that many of the so-called practitioners, they like to renounce. It's the easy way out. Like for me, it's also easy not to have to teach people or not to have to receive you here, having problems, etc. I do know. What shall I do? I don't always take the easy way out. You see what I mean? For example, I'm your teacher. I don't have to work. No, I don't. I don't really because I don't eat that much. So, wherever I want to go, I say, "Look, if you want to invite me, give me a ticket, give me a hotel, give me this and that." You'd do it immediately, right? (Audience: "Yes!")

Master Sets An Example, Practicing What She Teaches

Well, I don't take that easy and cheap way out, I do it myself. I earn my own money and I do it myself. Whatever really, really, truly I need, then I ask you, but just small things. For example, like a disaster somewhere. "Please go and check for me because I'm in another country now, I cannot go there. Go and have a look and if there is anything we can do, alright. Or if you can help them, help them. Or if you don't have enough finances or manpower, we will help you." It's always like that, right? It's actually asking you to help yourselves, to help your people, also to demonstrate your loving power and the wisdom that you have acquired through your daily meditation. That is all I ever ask of you.

I never ask you to do anything for myself, even though I could do that anytime. Is that not so? So, whatever I do, it's just like a teaching for you. I don't always tell you, "You do this, do that." You just look at my actions and that's enough lessons already. There's no need to teach you anything really. It's just because you come here now and again so you expect me to tell you things, talk to you about stories, and explain to you this and that. But actually, you don't need to ask me to say anything. I don't even need to tell you anything. Everything I do is just what I teach you. Everything I teach you, I do.

It's very easy to say, "Oh, I'm a master. Why do I have to do work? I don't touch money. I'm pure. I'm above all things. I never touch money -- let it contaminate me or pollute me." I can do that. All excuses are welcome. Most of the so-called gurus mesmerize the whole congregation of their so-called disciples, and tell them whatever they want, and they do anything. But I don't do that.

Whatever I teach you is really good and pure, and good for you, good for the society. And whatever I do is what I teach. What I teach I do, right? (Audience answers: "Yes.") (Applause) I just want to tell you that even I myself can have it easy. I don't. Just because I believe that I must have the power and the finance to help the world, not to take the power and finance of the world for myself. I have to give them the power and the finance they need, not that I take the power and the finance from them, for my own personal benefit and glory. So in that case, I work for my ideals and beliefs. That's why I also ask you to do the same, if you can and if you want to. Only if you want to, because I believe there is logic; but of course you don't have to do anything. If you believe the same ideal and you think it's logical then you do it. I just want to explain to you why, why we cannot shun money, why we cannot despise political positions, because they are good tools, they are good instruments to work for God, to work for the betterment of the world at large. Understand now. (Applause)

Many people think because I'm a Master, why do I still make money and all this? Of course, I know they say that, but because they're ignorant, because they're stupid. Otherwise, they can see why I do it. I don't have to. If I were to take just one hundred dollars from each of you, I'd become a billionaire in one day. No problem. I don't have to work. (Applause) So, because I am not a materialist, because I don't care for position and money, that's why I work. Not the opposite. If it were the opposite, if I cared for position and money, I'd always control you. I'd make each of you give me some money every month. Everyone would be willing to do it, is that not so? (Audience answers: "Yes.") (Applause) You'd give more than that, not just $100. Even if I took one dollar from each person, that's all, from all my followers, in one day I'd collect millions of dollars, understand or not? One day only. (Applause) And everyday everyone would give me one dollar only. What would I have? Do you know?

Okay. Now. If anyone asks you why I make money, you already know why. Just because it's the right thing to do. It's the correct way to live our life honestly, earning our money with the sweat and labor of our own talent and our own endeavor. We put our labor, our talent, our work, our time into the production and then we can earn the money and then we can give it away. If I really want money, oh, this is the stupid way to do. This is a stupid way for a Master who has millions of followers, to go and paint a picture for many days and blind Her eyes with oil colors or to cut materials to make clothes and then go all over the world to advertise in such a stupid way. You know what I mean? It's a stupid way. Most of the masters in the world never work. They don't have to, only me. I'm the most stupid one.

So, truly, if they think I am materialistic and want money and position, they're stupid. The people who think like that really misunderstand very, very, badly. Is that not so? Just in Formosa would be enough. I want everyone to give me one day one dollar. Formosa would be enough, I don't need all you foreigners. I don't. I can buy hundreds of Rolls-Royces. I could build a paradise for myself anywhere I want in no time. I can buy, no need to build, building takes too long. Who does that? Masters don't build houses. Can not touch these material things, right? I don't even need to touch money, just tell the disciples buy me a house or buy me a palace over there. Immediately, it would be done. No need to stay in Formosa, in Sweden, in Switzerland, in France. Any castle I fancy, I'd have it right away. Is that not so? Don't have to talk about foreign disciples, Formosa's enough, for example, yeah!

So it is stupid that I go and try to make money this way and then people think I will make money from you. This is a stupid way. If I'd try to make money from you then I'd just put it here. I don't have to go around the world like that, doing all kinds of things. So, now you know. If you still have any doubts in your minds, cut them out. It's no good for you, it will make cancer inside, a lump. It's very, very bad for your health, for your spiritual health.

The world is upside down. All the masters who don't work, who don't do anything, their disciples just offer to them anything and they praise them, "Oh, holy, holy, holy man. Never touch money, no material, nothing." It's not true. It could be. But this is just one of the ways, it's not the only way. It's not all the masters who like to do that. It's not all the people who don't touch money, who just sit there and let people feed them, who are holy. It's not that way. But actually, I think I'm doing the things a little bit stupid in people's eyes, because all the masters don't do that. The disciples feed them enough, really. Why do they have to work and do anything. But I want to give you a good example of all perfection development. You don't only develop a moral standard and wisdom but you also make use of that moral standard and wisdom in daily life. Express it.

Use Your Talents

To Beautify The World

If you have talent and wisdom, then you can do all things. You have to beautify the world and make money for yourself. Take care of your own living so you don't burden other people. And if you have really good moral standards, then of course you have compassion and love for all the needy and desperate beings. And of course, you would lend a helping hand to anyone, regardless of race, color, creed, beliefs, and religious system, even your own enemies. So, that's how we know. That's how other people know that we truly have wisdom and moral standards. Otherwise, how do they know? And how do they teach themselves? You tell everyone to do good things, to have wisdom, and then you yourself don't show anything.

Just like an English teacher. If you never speak English, you never write English, and you keep telling all the students, "You must yourself speak English. From today, whenever you see me that is when you learn from me. And then you just speak English by yourself because everyone knows how to speak English." But the teacher never shows any examples, never speaks even ABC, never writes down any English words, never speaks any words. So how do the students know that he is an English teacher at all. Maybe he's even deaf and dumb -- can't speak anything. Maybe he can not even read nor write. So, a teacher is not only as good as his word but must be as good as his actions. Is that not so? (Applause)

At least you understand me. Many of the people in the world they don't know. They think the opposite. If I sit here pretty and you all come with flowers, food, everything around me, and bow to me really flat on the floor, things like that, then I am a holy person. Because I don't do anything, I don't touch money, that's when I am holy. Really useless holy, yes. (Laughter) And the people who strive to do good for the world, with their own hands and efforts and work hard for it, then many people scold or criticize them, thinking they are materialistic and they want power and things like that. Power, I have enough already. Materials I could have anytime; don't say one day. Just one hour, one minute is enough. Just the time for people to take to put the money in, that's all. Each person one dollar I have enough to live my many lifetimes of reincarnations. Not only one life. I put money in the Swiss bank and then when I reincarnate again as the next Tulku (a high Tibetan lama), living Buddha, Rinpoche (another Tebitan term for a high lama), whatever, (laughter) I know where my money is. Other reincarnated lamas supposedly know their last lives, so they know everything that belongs to them from the umbrella to the beads. They are supposed to, no? You know, huh? Okay. It's very nice that I just put money in the Swiss bank, and if I remember that account number, it will help me a lot. (Laughter)

Don't Let The Negative Power Control You

We must work. God has sent us here with equal opportunity, power and talent. So, if we don't grasp the finances and the power from the world then all the negativity will grasp it. We are under their control. The negative power wins, and then we can't do anything, we can't complain and say that God doesn't help us. God does, God sends us here, sends you here and even gives you opportunity to study like everyone else, the same as the negative power. This is just like a competition, you know what I mean? Both have opportunity, talent, and ability to take the same thing.

So, if you renounce it, of course, then the negative power will take it. They said, "Sorry, we don't want it." And then in this world, if we have no power, no money, what will we become? Beggars, of course. That everyone can be, but mind you, nowadays, even beggars cannot survive. Many governments don't like beggars, you see, even if you want to beg. If you renounce everything that doesn't mean you are safe. You got it. Many put beggars in a home and you are not free to do anything that you want. You can't have this and you can't have that and you have to do many things not according to your will. And in the home you must eat meat and you cannot eat vegetarian, etc., etc. So, what do you do?

So, it's not that you renounce everything then the negative power will leave you alone or will give you peace. It's not true. Fight. You have no choice really. Take away your wrong conception about money and fame. What you should detach is the attachment for power and fame, not to be detached from money and fame. You know what I mean? The desire for it, that's what you should renounce, not the money and the fame, just the desire. (Applause) Now so many people who practice spiritually have this wrong conception. So now you should not have this kind of wrong conception any longer since I have already taught you and showed you why logically. Not that I force you to believe me talking nonsense, but it's really logical. Is that not so? Okay. Now you know.

Renounce The Desire Not The World Itself

So, don't laugh at our brothers and sisters who are in Parliament or who are in Congress. They are doing their jobs. They're doing fine. Many of our brothers and sisters are in high political positions, as well as very famous and successful businessmen. I never tell them to get out of them. If they get out, I even say,"Why, are you crazy?" Yeah! Some of our brothers and sisters, just after initiation, renounce. Don't become Congressmen anymore, don't run anymore, and don't do anything. I say,"What do you want to do now? I don't need such a useless person around me. I have too many already. (Laughter)

We renounce the desire for the world, not renounce the world itself. Because the world is a part of us, a part of our relatives and friends, brothers and sisters, so we can't renounce the world. That is the wrong word. We renounce the desire for anything in this world, that's all we must renounce. Then you do anything you want. Earn as much money as you can, be in as high a position as possible, and use your power and finance to help the needy people. That's the right thing to do.