|
The luggage I brought with me when I attended the International 4-Day Retreat in Formosa comprised of three small suitcases. Little did I know that it would be all my possessions when I became one of the resident disciples at Hsihu. Recalling the days prior to coming here, my life, which was full of stress and uncertainty, became very clear. I was able to see and say good-byes to friends and family, whom I rarely got to see. I also paid all my bills. My deepest gratitude goes out to Master for Her blessings that silently made the best arrangements for my becoming a resident disciple at Hsihu, and enabled me to look forward to a brand new life ahead. After my arrival at Hsihu, I was put up in a comfortable guest room. It was close to the bathroom and the blessed candy, and I like it very much. However, when I was accepted to become a resident disciple, I was told to move to the back mountain and live with other resident disciples. I really didn't want to move; but since I had decided to put my life in Master's hands, I did so the next day, together with several Au Lac American sisters. |
After we got settled in, they told us we would have to hike up and down the mountain to do chores in the main meditation complex. I took one look at the stairs and mountain I had to walk up and thought, "Has Master really taken a good look at me? I am in poor shape, haven't exercised in months, and am getting up there in age." Nevertheless, that was my challenge and it was quite a challenge. The first few days I was trying to look for people who might know C.P.R., in case my heart gave out on me half way up. Well, since I am writing this article, my heart didn't give out, my lungs got stronger, my body is getting firmer, and I am losing weight. Every time I climb that mountain, I am reminded that in life we will have our mountains to climb; and if we give up, or don't at least try, how will we know what we can accomplish in life. I know now there isn't anything that I wouldn't try. With Master beside us every step of the way, how can we fail if it is Master's plan. When a person fails at something, it's when they are trying to run the show themselves. It was much easier for me, turning myself over to Master and letting Her direct my life. |
|
When coming to the 3-Day Retreat last year at Hsihu Center, I brought along many supplies for writing and painting, thinking that I would write and paint inside my tent in between meditation sessions. But after arriving at the center, I instantly knew that it was really unnecessary. The sight of Hsihu Center at night was so serene and holy, as if it was a heavenly experience. The bright, colorful tents in different sizes in the Bamboo Forest like giant flowers, filling it with the happiness of the New Year. I was helped delightfully by the residents there with every little thing, and also taken care of with each meal. I asked myself: I have just been initiated a little more than two years, haven't yet done anything beneficial for anyone, why does Master love me so much? I looked around at the camp area of fellow initiates from around the world. Ah! They were also taken care of like me. That put my mind at ease. I silently thanked Master and could not help but shed tears. The blissful feelings rose like the surging tide could not be stopped even if I wanted. During the 3-Day Retreat, Master's teachings filled Her disciples with awe and wondrous amazement. Even all of the |
literature and poetry in history
put together could not carry the same impact! Each golden word spoken by Her
poured sweetly into the souls of each of the listeners, penetrating deep
into their bones and body cells. All of a sudden, I could see the
astonishing colors of the lights and the wondrous sounds of the Word that
were so indescribable. Thank You, Master, for Your grace that has given each
one of us the desire to return Home.
Suddenly, I felt a close connection between human beings and nature, between the movements of stars and the leaf just fallen on my shoulder or the one already asleep on these pebbles. I could perceive from inside, the door that had been tightly closed for many thousands of years, now opened, and all the lights shining brightly. Everything became so clear and comprehensible. I knew that Heavens existed on this earth and inside each one of us. I also knew very clearly that all the things that we have affected in a positive way in life, due to keeping a vegetarian diet and the five precepts, are helpful to ourselves and others. If we are able to do something beneficial for others on the road of our spiritual practice, it is all due to Master's tremendous power. Without a Master, we can not live, neither can we accomplish anything! |
|
I have truly learned a lot from walking on the spiritual path. I feel that spiritual practice is not merely sitting cross-legged and meditating. In fact, it also involves a practice in everyday life, which makes me more loving and forgiving; and not just paying attention to and analyzing how high is my spiritual level. Prior to my initiation, there were many things that caused me to be unhappy. Although in others' eyes I was both independent and strong, and often praised; but there was a dark corner in my heart which people did not know. However, after receiving initiation, my life changed drastically. On one hand, I have more love and patience for my family; on the other, |
having
blended Master's teachings into my everyday life, I can experience life with
a different view and philosophy, and savor it with a peaceful attitude.
Whilst doing so, I truly have come to appreciate that as long as I exert an
effort to follow what Master says, I can easily obtain happiness and joy.
This happiness is given to me, not by others, but by myself.
Now, I like the way I am because I know every person's Self is great and noble, including mine. My life is not perfect or trouble-free, but I have received strength in my heart and know how to deal with the various problems in life. What a wonderful feeling that is! |