Master Says
The Method of Improving Our Practice 

Aphorisms
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In speaking of God, or the Supreme Spirit, Master instructs us to use original non-sexist terms to avoid the argument about whether God is a She or a He. She + He = Hes (as in Bless) Her + Him = Hirm (as in Firm) Hers + His = Hiers (as in Dear) Example: When God wants, Hes makes things happen according to Hiers will to suit Hirmself.

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Only when we are empty, can God then fill us with wisdom and love.

~Supreme Master Ching Hai~

News No. 101
Contents

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A seminar in Czech  >

Fellow initiates introduce Master's teachings to the visitors at a Vegetarian Food Fair.

Earnest souls leave their addresses, hoping to receive more information about the Quan Yin Method.

Soon after the Quan Yin messenger arrived in Prague and announced that he wanted to hold a seminar, the local contact person coincidentally saw a magazine advertisement for a vegetarian food and gift exhibition scheduled only two days later (from November 11 to 13, 1998). She contacted the exhibition sponsors and received the good news that one last booth was available. Thus came our first ever opportunity for the Czech initiates to participate in a vegetarian food fair.

Although the last-minute decision to participate in the fair and the lack of experience of the Czech initiates caused confusion, we worked all night to prepare the vegetarian dishes. In addition, a brother who had ordered some vegetarian ham for a fast-food store offered it for our use.

The fair attracted large crowds on each of the three days of the exhibition, and although the initiates' booth was in a remote corner, Master's beautiful picture inspired countless visitors to stop. Many attended the seminar that was held on the 26th following the food fair. The feedback was very favorable.

Through practicing the Quan Yin Method, latent talents of fellow initiates have emerged.

In the late fall, the Seoul Center holds an annual art show. This year, initiates from all the Centers in Korea, as well as some overseas fellow practitioners, gathered to display their paintings and sculptures, recite their poetic works, and play their musical compositions. To conclude the event, Master's poems were read and were a cherished aspect of the performance. Each performance imparted a sense of beauty and conveyed a message of profundity that won bursts of applause from an appreciative audience.

London Center initiates have held many seminars, in English and Chinese,
as well as participated in some Open Houses and Exhibitions
throughout last year.

Public Video Seminar

Monthly seminar in London, Ontario, Canada

Approximately once a month, the London Center holds a seminar in the city's Public Library. Although the events are announced to the public via most of the popular media, we have found that most responses come from local newspapers and the library.

We first introduce our organization and purpose in holding the seminar. Next, we address questions that audiences in the past have asked most frequently and include the information that Master is self-supporting and we fund our own activities while the meditation methods are taught free of any charge. Then we introduce Master and show the mini biography followed by an introduction to the Quan Yin and Convenient Methods of meditation. Next, one of Master's videotaped lectures is played and the seminar is concluded with a question and answer session. The seminars' agenda has gained many positive responses from the audiences and has been shared with other Canadian Centers for use in their seminars.

Many people have commented on how impressed they were by Master's talks in the videos shown. Almost each time, many people of who attended the seminar have requested to learn the Convenient Method of meditation. Some are also interested in initiation. We have rented a community center to accommodate the increasing number of Convenient Method practitioners. Most of our activities, such as the Open House events and celebrations are held there.

Our increased experience has shown us ways to improve the seminar presentations. For example, we now print the information on the posters more concisely and use better quality and a larger size color photo of Master, so that She appears clearer and more attractive. The announcements of the seminar are mostly concentrated in local magazines and newspapers and the events are held during the week instead of on the weekends.

Open to the Public

An Open House was held to share Master's teachings as well as to introduce some vegetarian dishes. This provided an excellent opportunity for the Convenient Method practitioners to sample a variety of delicious vegetarian dishes. For others, it was an occasion to learn about Master and the Quan Yin Method while subtly receiving the message that to be a vegetarian is not as difficult as they thought because of the many delicious vegetarian foods that are readily available and also easy to prepare.

As well, we invited the Convenient and Quan Yin Method practitioners and their families to celebrate all kinds of festivals together. These events were also announced in the local newspaper. After every Convenient Method Group Meditation since New Year's, we have provided simple vegetarian cooking classes that all of us have enjoyed. We also prepared box dinners for fellow initiates to share with their families.

Exhibition

Participating in the "Sharing Inner Peace Day" exhibition.

In addition to our local activities, the London Center also participated in other exhibitions such as the Natural Life Festival, Sharing Inner Peace Day, etc., held by organizations in nearby cities.

We also conducted a seminar in Windsor, which is about two hours from London, and received very positive responses from the people there. After the seminar, people have continued to call requesting additional information about Master and the Quan Yin Method. Some are preparing for initiation. Following the seminar, we rented a room in the library for them to hold Convenient Method group meditations.

Through sharing Master's teachings, we have learned many precious lessons that have helped us to grow stronger morally and spiritually. We have also realized the difficulties in pursuing spiritual practice and have seen the many obstacles that arise to prevent a practitioner from keeping faith and continuing along this path. We deeply appreciate how fortunate we are to know Master and follow Her teachings to practice the Quan Yin Method. We will continuously try our best to nourish these spiritual seeds not only inside of us, but also by sharing them with all our brothers and sisters, who are sincerely longing for the Truth.

Report from Montreal , Canada
Ching Hai Day Celebration

Fellow initiates from Montreal gathered on Sunday, February 21 after Group Meditation to celebrate Ching Hai Day. Amazingly, a woman who had been looking for Master since 1996 just happened to arrive at the Montreal Center right on time for the Ching Hai Day Celebration. After sharing a meal and talking with us, she asked to learn the Convenient Method. Also after lunch, we distributed Master's loving New Year's gifts to our fellow initiates and also enjoyed songs and instrumental music performances.

From November to early December each year in Khon Kaen of northeast Thailand, an annual Silk Exhibition is held, other commodities are promoted, and pictures depicting historical events prepared by city districts are displayed. On the opening day, a Miss Silk beauty pageant is held. Parades of cars with beautiful women, attired in exquisite silk costumes, and enhanced by dancing and singing form a spectacular sight that entertains the crowds.

Visitors are enchanted by this "charming lady" in the videotape.

Since booth rentals were very costly, we were fortunate to find an emporium owner who was willing to share his booth with us. The only setback was that the television showing Master's videos had to be set up inside and consequently fewer people got to view Master. Although many passersby thought that we were playing an ordinary video, some people were attracted by Master on the video dressed in a golden Thai costume. Wondering where this charming lady was from, they accepted the sample booklets that were provided free of charge. Looking at Master's charming photo on the cover, they could not help but praise Her beauty.

On the third day of the exhibition, a miracle occurred. A neighboring booth was vacated, and our booth partner suggested that we move to that location. Thanks to God's arrangements, we obtained a booth by the aisle where more people could have an opportunity to learn about Master's teachings. In addition, we were reunited with several fellow initiates who had lost contact with us, and we were all delighted at the way things turned out.

Group meditation is held every evening at the Khon Kaen Center with a major group meditation on Sundays for both initiates and Convenient Method practitioners. All practitioners also shared a vegetarian lunch prepared by fellow initiates. Fellow practitioners in Khon Kaen feel very happy to finally have a permanent Center.

From December 4 to 6, initiates from the Oregon Center participated in the Whole Life Exposition held at the Convention Center in Portland, Oregon.

People who attend the Exposition usually have some spiritual knowledge or interest, and most of the people who came to inquire about Master had already heard about Her or seen Her on TV. Some had even met Master personally. The responses to Master and Her teachings were all very positive.

We were amazed by Master's perfect arrangement after we did the bookkeeping. We had made enough money to pay for the sample booklets we had recently ordered, plus our regular expenses for helping the homeless people in our area. Even more important, we had given out more than one thousand sample booklets so that many more people could learn about our precious Quan Yin Method!

Fellow initiates from the Perth Center participated in the 10th annual Consciously Live Expo in Perth, Australia. Many spiritual aspirants attended this four-day event and searched among a variety of spiritual paths presented at the venue.

This year our booth was located near a stage where many activities took place. Many people were drawn to our display, taking much delight in watching Master's videotapes and talking to our fellow initiates about Master's teachings. They took sample books and News magazines and all left in smiles. The exhibitors next to our booth even lowered the volume of their video program so that they could hear Master's lecture more clearly.

Fellow initiates from the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association played Santa Claus and fairy to begin the celebration party.

A special Christmas celebration was held in Hsihu County at the community library on December 25. The sponsor for this event was the Catholic Holy Church; other organizations that supported the activity included the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association, Great Mercy Charity Society, Buddhist Compassion Relief Tzu-Chi Foundation and many other charity groups. Disciples from the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association provided delicious vegetarian food, that people really enjoyed. Together, in a very joyful atmosphere everyone celebrated the birthday of an ancient Master, Jesus Christ.

The uniquely designed exhibition booth of the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association Publishing Co. Ltd. at the Taipei International Book Fair.

Publishers from almost fifty countries participated in the International Book Fair held at the Taipei World Trade Center from February 7 to 12. The exhibition booths, which numbered in the thousands, attracted hundreds of thousands of spectators. It was indeed the most significant cultural event of the year for Asian publishers. The exhibition booth of the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association Publishing Co. Ltd. looked uniquely artistic, with its futuristic and cosmic features that attracted many visitors.

Distributed free of charge at the venue were some exquisitely designed bookmarks printed with Master's aphorisms and Her dream of the Golden Era. The rest and snack vending area, amply furnished with many tables and chairs, was directly opposite our booth. When people tired, they would retreat to this area to take a rest and enjoy a snack, and naturally watch Master's lecture videos that were played continuously throughout the day. Two computers were mounted on the walls inside our booth, each displaying the Quan Yin Internet web pages in Chinese and English that introduced fully and concisely all the information and services related to the Quan Yin family. This multimedia system allowed the audience, with just one touch of a finger, to have immediate access to sound clips of Master's lectures, stories told by Master, the News magazines, and lecture collections. This fantastic system attracted a large crowd of people who could not wait to get on-line and browse our web sites.

Apart from the younger generation, there were also many scholars and professionals among the visitors, including psychologists and professors of art and commercial design. They were very interested in Master's teachings and artistic creations.

<In English>

The Meaning Behind Master's Art Creations
International Jewelry Exhibition (Bijorcha) Paris, France
January 24, 1997

The Karmic Bonds of Love
Group Meditation in Costa Rica
May 26-31, 1998

The Purpose of God's Creation
Group Meditation in London, U.K.
March 10, 1998

To order Master's publications, please contact: The Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association Publishing Co., Ltd. Taipei, Formosa.
Tel: (886) 2-87873935 Fax: (886) 2-87870873
E-mail: smchbooks@Godsdirectcontact.org
ROC Postal Remittance Account No:19259438(for Formosa orders only)
Postal Account: The Supreme Master Ching Hai Publishing Co., Ltd.

Please visit our bookshop's website to download our catalogue and summaries of the contents of Master's latest publications:
http://smchbooks.com/(in English and Chinese)

Master Says

International 4-Day Retreat in Washington D.C., U.S.A.
Spoken by Supreme Master Ching Hai, December 26, 1997 (Originally in English)

There are some things I want to share with you, but these things I have told you a lot of times. Some of you seem not to have understood or not to remember so I will try to remind you again about how to sit for a better, peaceful meditation. Number one, you meditate in a group. You do group meditation either in your house or in the Center, the official Center. It is always helpful when you sit together in meditation. Some of you, if you find sitting face to face is stronger or more assuring, then you could do that. And before that, you should wash your face with cool water, then you'll be more awake during meditation. Before or after washing your face, you could walk around for a while, preferably in the fresh air. For many of you, my teachings verbally are still very, very useful, so please try to watch more videos or listen more to the tapes, and put them into practice.

The reason many of you don't have the desired result in meditation is that you do not put my teachings into practice. Many times, I have seen that. For example, I tell you that when you come here, put everything else behind, forget your families for a while, forget everything else for a while. But then the next minute, you come and tell me, "My kid is like this, my mother is like that, my father is sick, I am sick"; everyone, you bring the whole village here. (Laughter) I mean some of you, not all of you, thank God. But just one or two persons are enough to spread dust around here, make trouble for me, and then in turn I infect you with my temper - the "Lion Roar" method.

You have read in the Buddhist Bible that the Buddha sometimes used the "Lion Roar" method. He was supposed to have used eighty-four thousand methods to teach the disciples, and one of them was the "Lion Roar" method. A lot of people keep asking me, "Master, why don't You use that method on us? You seem to be missing something, like You teach only one method." No, I teach eighty-four thousand methods. And the "Lion Roar" method, you often experience, so don't ask me anymore. The Buddhist people think it's some mysterious method that I don't teach, and keep asking me all the time. They read too much of the Bible, the Buddhist Sutra that says "Lion Roar" method. Didn't you experience that during all these fifteen years? Yes! You still want some more of that? (Audience: No!) Okay, enough. I don't want to teach it often, either; it's energy consuming.

The reason why I talk a lot is not because I like to talk. If you know some of my friends from before, some of my colleagues or some people who studied sometimes with the same teacher or in the same class with me, they know I never talked. And if people tried to talk to me a lot, I would tell them off. "This is not the place to talk, especially during eating," and all that. Yesterday I saw one of my old "fellow practitioners" and she reminded me that I used to tell people not to talk to me during eating or meetings, unnecessarily. I remember that is true; I didn't talk. I was a very quiet person. Not only in the family, but in any ashram or in any gathering I kept to myself. She said I used to meditate 24 hours. She remembered me, but I did not remember her yesterday. She invited herself to lunch with me (laughter) and that's how I came to remember her. But I do remember her now, because she was very lovely. She didn't talk much, and she was a very good fellow practitioner. After she reminded me, then I remembered. I don't remember them because I don't talk or interact too much with them anywhere. I apologized to her for not remembering her, because I really didn't notice people. I've told you also that I don't notice you so much unless you have worked with me for a long time, and then of course I remember you. I apologize again, sister. You should call me "sister" not "Master" because we used to have the same teacher at one time. I have had many teachers, as I've told you.

Be Concentrated, One-pointed and
Respect the Master's Teachings

She said to those at lunch that I used to meditate kind of 24 hours and I didn't talk. That is the truth, and this is the way you should be if you want to be like me. If you think I'm your idol, your idealistic woman or practitioner, that is what you should do. There is no secret. You have to be concentrated, one-pointed, and respect the teacher's teachings as long as you are still with him or her. Suppose one day you think that I am no good, or for any reason you walk out, this is fine. But as long as you're here, you should be concentrated, one-pointed, and pay attention to what I instruct you to do. Then you will have a good result. If, after you do all this and you don't have a good result, I don't blame you if you walk out on me - anytime. But if you don't put my teachings into practice, you do not pay attention to what I advise you, then if you walk out on me, I will feel sorry for you. And you should feel sorry for yourself because you did not do your homework properly and you missed out on the great opportunity to grow and to achieve what you so much desire to achieve.

If I teach you anything bad at all, you should tell me right away. If you doubt me, ask me; that is correct. These days, some of you have expressed your doubts and your opinions about me, and I have not gotten angry about that. I have explained to you why. Any criticism, I welcome; any doubt, I understand. And after I explain to you and if you still do not believe me and don't understand, it is all right to go. But if you believe me, and you want to try, then you must try all your best in order to get the best result for yourself. Since you have come already, you spent so much time, effort, money and hope, then you might as well do the best. That is all there is. It's not that it is a must for me, or if you don't do it, it is a sin or anything. No. It is a sin to you, yourself; you have wasted your effort and money.

Should you think it is not worth it, then don't come; don't bother in the beginning. Spend your time and your energy pursuing something else, someone else that you think will be more beneficial to you. It is all right, because everyone has affinity to different teachers. Different levels of understanding will meet different people, different teachers. If you meet a bad teacher, that is your own karma, your inner quality that attracts this kind of Master. Your inner aspiration doesn't deserve a better Master, so don't blame the teacher; blame yourself. Anytime you find some teacher is wrong, you change, and know that was you, who attracted this kind. (Applause)

If Obstructions Occur During Meditation

If you should have any obstructions at home, like you feel some invisible being disturbs you and that you cannot meditate very well, or if you feel restless or agitated, you have two kinds of solutions. You can put on my chanting, music, or teaching tapes, in the background - not at the back of your "ground," but in a low volume in front of you. Never put anything behind you because your attention will be pulled backward and it will be more difficult for you to concentrate in the front. It is not that you cannot do it; it is just not favorable for you. Put the tape, TV, music, everything, in front - whatever you want to hear anytime, even the telephone, fax machine, anything. If you have to sit in an office, face the machine. In case it rings, it will ring in front of you, and doesn't pull your attention backward. That would make it very difficult to pull it back to the front again. And when you listen on the phone, listen with the right ear. Make it a habit; don't listen with the left ear. Everything that pulls the attention to the left or behind you is not advantageous to you. Remember. That is one thing. Another thing is that you can recite the Holy Names loudly for as long as necessary, or an hour every day, until the situation improves.

This is another prevention method for you, if you are fearful, sometimes you feel invisible beings around you or behind you, or if you were possessed before you came to me and you're still fearful. You can put my pictures around you like a circle. You have plenty of pictures; they don't have to be big - just small. It's not the size that counts, it is the person. Even with small pictures, just make a circle around you. The Tibetan tradition of the mandala is a leftover from this kind of practice. They always drew a circle. That was the beginning of it when the teacher taught them to sit in a circle with some of the artifacts that the Master had blessed and given to them for souvenirs. Full of the Master's love and blessing, they just surrounded themselves. Later they got more fanciful. They added all kinds of things - flowers, incense, sand, color, and so forth.

You can do anything else you want as long as you feel good - as long as you feel safe, secure, and protected. Put my pictures around, put flowers as well if you want, incense or whatever, candles also. But don't make too much smoke and then you cough all the time. (Laughter) The incense or smoke from the candles, even though it's romantic and it looks spiritual, many times it can cause irritation. Then you will have a sore throat or some congestion in your chest later. It is a long-term side effect and no good. But if you can tolerate it, it's okay. I don't forbid anything in our practice as long as it makes you feel good. You can even do the beads or recite a rosary, whatever; but then you become too attached to those beads and that habit and you forget to concentrate here. (Master points to Her wisdom eye.) It's difficult to call back again.

Every day we are already attached too much to the outside world. In the morning, we get up, we have to wash our face, clean our teeth, and put on makeup or put on a tie. That is already too materially conscious. In the job, we put our consciousness on money and even when we go home, we still think of money. So, every day we meditate on woman, man, ties, jewelry, make-up, or money already. That's why when we have time for ourselves to meditate, we should put our attention inward. It is not that any master or I, myself, forbid you to do this or do that because we are fanatic, because we are authoritative; it's not true. We should just forget everything else; just concentrate inside the wisdom center. But when you concentrate, you look right in the front.

When you look right to the front, that is physically speaking; actually, when you look with the wisdom eye, it is inside. Besides, we are not inside, we are not outside; we are not anywhere. It is just a matter of speaking so you know how to do it physically. Otherwise, when you close your eyes and shut your ears, everything else is inside. Then you have no contact with the physical world that much. You will be inside and alone with yourself, and then know yourself, realize yourself again - that you are the spirit, that you are God, that you are the Buddha. That is why all the rosaries, beads, etc. at that time will be more detrimental, more obstructing, to our concentration. It's not that it is no good. Everything that reminds you of God is good - a picture, a rosary, a cross, a Buddha statue, anything is welcome. Except when you meditate, it is better to put down everything absolutely, because you are the Buddha, you are the cross, you are God. There is no need for any other reminders.

But the mandala is just to protect you when sometimes some of the people, some rare individuals, fear the invisible beings that disturbed them before and the haunted memories that still disturb them, or they fear the darkness. That is why in the old time, they lit a candle to meditate, so that person did not feel fearful. So, sometimes I advise some of you that you can leave the light on, and that is all right. However, it doesn't mean that we have to do it all the time or everyone has to do it. But then, one learns from another and says, "Oh, I feel good after the candle is on," and all that, and everyone does it. It just becomes a habit. It should not be that way.

When you sit, you should be alone - no need of any artifacts, no need of candles, no need of flowers, no need of incense. Everything is distracting anyhow. The candle flickers, flickers, flickers; the incense smells and, "Ahchu!" (Master pretends to sneeze.) (Laughter.) And you sit there and think, "This is frankincense. I don't like it; I like sandalwood better." (Laughter) You argue with yourself back and forth, and then two hours are gone. Next time, you put some other flower, "Oh, roses! I'm allergic to roses. I prefer chrysanthemums," and blah, blah, blah. Then you spend all your time going out to buy chrysanthemums just because the neighbor told you that when he meditated, he put chrysanthemums and it looked like Master came, it felt so good, he meditated better, and so forth.

Blind faith is a detriment; it is detrimental to your practice. Everything everyone tells you, including my speech, you should prove it. You should analyze it, whether it is logical, before you accept it. I think you accept most of my teachings or all of my teachings because they are logical to you; they don't defy your intelligence. They're in accord with your intelligence, with common sense, with the most logical thinking you can think of, and that's why you accept them. Should they not be logical to you, you are free to deny them, or tell me right to my face, write a letter to me, or whatever, and let me try to explain to you if I can. If not, and if you still don't accept them, then that means you think differently. That is okay. We all have different choices to live our lives and different choices of thinking. That is all right with me, but don't waste your time if you already know it is not for you. And if you're here, try all your best to do it, so that you get the best out of your money, your effort, and your time.

You can also massage your wisdom eye with a little oil, or alone. If it's too dry, then with the oil, it goes smoother. It also helps with the wrinkles in some old persons, like me. (Laughter) I don't do it often; I just do it when I put on make-up. If you have difficulty in concentration, you could massage a little with your thumb or with your fingers up to the wisdom eye, and then you stop right there. (Master points to the area just above and between the eyebrows in the middle of the forehead.) Stop like this, or you just massage it, and then stop afterwards.

Love and Practicing

When you come to a retreat or group meditation, it's better not to look around too much. I know I told you if you don't look at women, you are not normal, (laughter) but that is for that guy only, just to let him know that he is normal. He is single, a bachelor, and, of course when he sees beautiful women he looks. But the less you look, the better for you. Especially when you are already married or have a girlfriend, or have a husband or boyfriend. The less turbulence, the more you can concentrate to work on your relationship, and you will derive much more benefit and happiness from that relationship. It will boost your confidence and your enthusiasm to go on with everything in life, including the practice of spiritual meditation. Just don't indulge in all these physical pleasures too much and then you'll be too tired to sit in meditation, too little time to devote yourself in spiritual practice. That is why everything in moderation is fine.

If you need to go find a boyfriend or girlfriend, if you feel lonely and want someone to talk to, to accompany you everywhere you go, then it's all right. But don't look around anymore. Once you find one, stick with it and work for it because that is how you'll be happy. The more partners you have, the less happy you are, believe me! That is why all the Masters advise you to take only one spouse. It's not because they're jealous of you or tell you anything else. It's not about being moral, even; it is for your own sake that you should be married or only have one partner. Apart from being immoral, of course, it causes harm, hurt and injury emotionally to other people if you're flying around too much, hitting everyone in the heart. It creates unhappiness when you do that - very, very unhappy. You will feel empty.

There is a difference between making love and having sex. I am sorry to have to tell you straight. There's nothing wrong with that, is there? Making love is that you are involved - emotionally, spiritually, bodily, mentally - together, to be one, to be united with your partner, sharing all this love and affection you have. All of your being is involved in it.

Having sex is just satisfying this temporary lust for a while, and then you will feel very empty. Sometimes you will feel very guilty and get sick from it, and get terrible diseases also. Because you do it as a habit, any partner will do, you'll forget to be cautious. And your body resistance is not there to even combat the disease, should it be there, because you're low in moral standards, in emotional fulfillment, low in spiritual guard, and low in mental preparation. Everything is low at the time when you just have casual sex. Your body's weak, your mind is weak, your spirit is weak, and so when you catch a disease, you're finished.

Making love to your partner is different. You feel blissful; you feel loved; you feel affectionate; you feel togetherness; you feel trust. Everything is high: Your emotions are high; your mind is high; your spirit is high; your passion is high. Your love is full. That's why you are a different level being. Nothing can touch you. You're equipped with all resistance. Should any little disease come to you, your body repairs it. It doesn't even come to you, because the whole being is prepared for this supreme act of love, dedication, and unification between two persons. You become like one, so everything is all right. Everything is pure. You don't feel filthy; you don't feel guilty; you don't feel empty afterward. You don't feel exhausted. You might be a little tired but just from happiness. This is not like the exhaustion and the emptiness, the sucked-out feeling, when you abuse the act of sexuality just for your own satisfaction physically. That's entirely different. That's why we have to be faithful, to work at our relationship, because it will bring us happiness. For us, it is number one, and everything else is number two.

Any precepts that the Masters in the old time gave to us are the ocean of wisdom. They are not restrictions; they are not a controlling method; they are not a dictating kind of statement. They are for our own sake and happiness, and it would be very, very wise to follow. So, if you don't want any trouble, stop looking around too long. You can be polite and friendly, but don't deliberately look for trouble - especially someone else's. If you know it, don't look. Of course, sometimes you don't know and you look, then you have trouble. But that is something else. If you already know, don't start. It is bad enough that you don't know and you start. Then later you have to take care of it. But if you already know that they belong to someone else, you had better never, ever start because you will get into deep trouble.

Once you have someone else already, the past one, you should just put behind you. It doesn't serve you. Normally when we look at the past, it is always better. We forget the bad parts; we only remember the good parts. But the present is the best. When you look after your present situation, your present relationship, it always brings you immediate benefit. If you always look at the past, or the future, it brings you nothing but worry, sorrow, regret, and illusion. So, always look to the present, whether it is in business, in spiritual practice, in retreat, or in personal relationships, because that is the only thing that brings you benefit right now. The past cannot do anything.

We always have illusions about the past - that it is good. It is not good. The problem occurs when you go to retreats, you cannot put down everything the way you should, the way I always ask you to do. That is why you come up to the stage and ask me all kinds of nonsense. I am patient until I burn out. If you ask a very low-level question, you can bring the atmosphere to a lower level, too - throw dirt on everyone. Somehow, we would be all affected, and I have to clear it in a different way. Please forgive me if I use a "Lion Roar" method sometimes. I could use another method - the "Tiger Roar" method. If it will make any difference to you, I'll change. (Laughter) All right, that is about bettering your meditation.

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Master Says
The Method of Improving Our Practice 

Aphorisms
Aphorisms

~Enjoy Color Pages~

Copyright and Reprint Information

To obtain the best results, we suggest using Microsoft Internet Explorer 4.0 or better, and setting your monitor to 800 x 600 resolution to view the News.

A Little Message:
In speaking of God, or the Supreme Spirit, Master instructs us to use original non-sexist terms to avoid the argument about whether God is a She or a He. She + He = Hes (as in Bless) Her + Him = Hirm (as in Firm) Hers + His = Hiers (as in Dear) Example: When God wants, Hes makes things happen according to Hiers will to suit Hirmself.

Download E101 Files Only when we are empty, can God then fill us with wisdom and love.

~Supreme Master Ching Hai~

News No. 101
Contents

Spoken by Supreme Master Ching Hai (Originally in Chinese)

Our bodies are created life after life from desires. Strong desires repeat themselves again and again, forming certain fixed habits that cannot be changed. This is what is called being tied down to karma. Karma is habits cultivated through many lifetimes. Regardless of whether it is good or bad, it ties people down.

I f one could deal with matters according to the situation at the time, in a manner, whether soft or hard, bitter or sweet, all from one's heart, with sincerity and honesty, without any complicated concepts, then the world would be fine.

We must be honest with ourselves. Since we already have started our spiritual practice, we must make it a success.

If we sense in ourselves any ego, any motive that is not pure, stop it immediately, do not go on with it, or make some change instead. In this way, there will be no problem.

(Originally in English)

If we truly seek the Truth, we won't mind any surroundings, and we can go through anything.

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Liberated Souls behind Bars

For many years, fellow practitioners from the Tainan Center have been visiting the "victims of our time" in the Tainan Detention House, the Tainan Ming-Teh Open Prison, the Tainan Juvenile Detention and Classification House, and the Tainan Prison.

Four years ago, at a spiritual seminar held at the Tainan Prison, an inmate broke into tears as he raised his hand to speak. He said that he had been in jail for several years. Before his imprisonment, he had attended one of Master's lectures in Tainan, but had failed to grasp the opportunity to be initiated. Instead, something happened and he was put in jail for committing a crime. Extremely frustrated, he wrote to Master requesting that an initiation be held for him in jail, but unfortunately, this was impossible due to prison regulations. In addition to comforting him with a reply letter, Master also agreed to send someone to teach him the Convenient Method, hoping that he would practice diligently during his imprisonment. During this time, he diligently kept the vegetarian diet and practiced the Convenient Method. As a result, he has had very good inner experiences that have further strengthened his faith in seeking the Truth.

Although there are thousands of inmates in Tainan Prison, the Prison Authority permitted only 300 to attend the seminar. This initiate-to-be happened to be one of the rare lucky ones! He was so overjoyed to see the Quan Yin messenger and fellow practitioners that he cried and wholeheartedly thanked Master for Her arrangement. During this spiritual seminar, several dozen inmates in the audience learned the Convenient Method of meditation.

This initiate-to-be was indeed very pious; he even used his own money to purchase a complete set of the Key of Immediate Enlightenment books to donate to the prison library, in the hope that his fellow inmates could also be blessed by God's love and realize the Truth. Inside the prison, he worked quietly, sharing the message of Truth with other people. Due to his excellent conduct, he is now completing his term in a Detention Center, and has been able to receive initiation.

Some time ago, Hsihu Center received many letters repeatedly requesting initiation from another inmate in Tainan Prison. In the form of a prisoner-visit, we went to Tainan Prison to meet with this Truth aspirant and found that he had been sharing a cell with the brother initiate mentioned above. Inspired by this brother, he had read all of Master's books and had been a vegetarian for eight years! He had missed the seminar held four years before because of the limited number of prisoner audience members allowed.

Even though he missed the opportunity of learning the Convenient Method, he has had many wonderful experiences and very good communication with the inner Master as well. Knowing that he must grasp this opportunity to find a living enlightened Master, he was determined not to miss learning the Method again even though he is behind bars. According to him, among the inmates who learned the Convenient Method four years ago, some have been transferred to other prisons and others have been released. However, there are still many prisoners in Tainan Prison quietly practicing the Convenient Method of meditation.

Although our visit was a short one, only about fifteen minutes, he poured out all his aspirations to us. During the conversation, he respectfully addressed the initiates-to-be in the prison as "fellow brothers" or "fellow sisters". After a dozen years of being with our spiritual group, we have become so used to addressing each other as "brother initiate" or "sister initiate" that we do not feel anything special about it. However, in the prison, it was heartbreaking to hear him say "brother initiate" or "sister initiate". We suddenly became aware that we have some unfortunate "siblings" of the Quan Yin family trapped behind those bars.

Later, as we met with officers in the Prison Education and Reformation Section to explain our purpose to them, a young correctional counselor lamented: "Everything is extremely difficult in prison. Here we only have team life, team actions, and team routines. An individual meeting is out of the question, not to mention conducting an initiation." Touched by our repeated efforts on behalf of an inmate with whom we had no relationship, he said that originally it was the responsibility of the Education and Reformation Section and not ours, yet we expended much effort for the inmates, and this really impressed him. Perhaps due to God's blessing, this officer lovingly comforted the inmate and earnestly recommended our group to his superior and peer officers.

Since the aspiration of this Truth seeker was so sincere and earnest, after we learned more about the prison procedures, we were able to determine the fastest way to satisfy his request: a Quan Yin messenger taught him the Convenient Method of meditation when paying him a prison visit. At the same time, we also received a request from the prison authorities to submit an official application to hold a group education and reformation session in the prison. Therefore, we decided to convene a "Love Feast" in the Tainan Prison on December 29, 1998.

The correctional counselor who coordinated this activity with us expressed his surprise that he had had to submit the application three times before it was approved, while for activities held by other groups, he had only needed to submit a written report. Apart from being grateful to this officer for his help, we also understood that hindrances were inevitable if we wanted to help these souls behind bars to achieve liberation. Although many complications occurred during the process, there were also many very supportive people inside and outside the prison who helped to eventually bring about this meeting.

At 1:00 p.m. on December 29, about thirty fellow practitioners, including performers, entered Tainan Prison. Famous for its strict discipline, we had to go through four or five barriers before reaching the venue, while being led by officers on full alert.

The first half of the Love Feast consisted of an entertainment program, and our performance gained thunderous applause from the inmates. Although part of our intent was to share joy with these inmates who are under prolonged confinement, our main hope was that they could come to know the Truth and find eternal tranquillity from within. Next, a fellow initiate introduced the Quan Yin Method. This brother initiate, who had spent decades studying scriptures, has followed Master for many years. He introduced the Quan Yin Method profoundly yet in an easily understandable way, and subtly conveyed Master's love to these friends in prison. He pointed out that Master had generously given them the greatest convenience so that they could practice the Convenient Method in prison thereby developing their latent God Nature and finding inner peace hoping that they could cultivate themselves under the difficult circumstances in prison. They can thus attain the full Method later when they are released.

At present, in all prisons in Formosa, Juvenile Detention & Classification Houses and Youth Correctional Centers, all inmates are required to meditate for half an hour each day. Many correctional counselor and officers unanimously agree that meditation is very helpful in stabilizing the emotions of the inmates. The prison authority was delighted to learn that we had included teaching of the Convenient Method of meditation to inmates interested in the program. However, to maintain the principle of team life inside the prison, the correctional officer asked that all the inmates present learn the Convenient Method, so as to improve their routine of meditation.

After the Quan Yin messenger had explained the Convenient Method to them, everyone meditated together in the room, while the saints from all directions and times came to bless them. The inmates with their shaved heads, sitting there very dignified, resembled statues of liberated saints.

The endeavors of this one aspiring Truth seeker resulted in this prison congregation of Convenient Method practitioners. He is now serving in the prison sickbay taking care of inmates while sharing the doctrine of Truth with them. These inmates, already living a difficult life behind prison bars, are further tormented by illnesses; thus, they are in greater need of God's comfort. The correctional officer told us that the inmates may be very strong and energetic outside, but once inside the prison, they become very vulnerable and easily fall sick. And once they fall ill, all possible complications tend to follow. To further worsen the situation, many inmates do not receive visits from their relatives.

The stories of these inmates reminded us of Master's words: "Some saints come to Earth playing the roles of refugees, beggars, homeless wanderers, and others, just to give us a chance to develop our compassion." So, are these friends in jail also saints who sacrifice themselves for us? Master has also told us: "When we occasionally go to visit those unfortunate people in hospitals or prisons, it is also a way of spiritual cultivation. When we go home afterwards, we will better cherish our lives, our blessed rewards, and our freedom. We will be more compassionate to people, cherish our neighbors, good friends, our spiritual Method, and our Master. If we are always too happy and comfortable, we might become lax."

"Love Feast"
at the
Juvenile Center  

Tainan News Group, Formosa
The director of the Tainan Juvenile Detention and Classification House
offers words of encouragement
to the residents

.

 >  

To celebrate the arrival of the Chinese New Year, the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association and the Great Awakening Association jointly sponsored a "feast of love" providing a vegetarian meal to those detained at the Tainan Juvenile Detention and Classification House. For more than two years, fellow practitioners have paid regular visits to the home and consequently, many of the residents have become familiar with Master's teachings and some are practicing the Convenient Method. The meal and the karaoke sing-along provided entertainment for the youngsters in this joyful Spring Festival, but more importantly, it was an excellent opportunity for them to learn about vegetarianism in a natural way.

Fellow initiates from the Hualien Center show their love and respect to the parolees.

Care for Parolees

Report from Hualien News Group, Hualien, Formosa >

In cooperation with the prosecutors of the local court in Hualien County Formosa, local fellow initiates conducted a series of activities before the Lunar New Year to show loving care to the parolees. On February 8, 1999, at the assembly hall of the Yulee Town Council, initiates presented New Year's gifts to parolees. Later, in their responses to a questionnaire prepared by the prosecutors, some expressed their gratitude for our care that made them feel less forsaken by society.

On February 11, an activity was held at the Shuiyuan police station, which is located at the foot of a mountain. Officers from the police station prepared tables and chairs for our meeting so that the parolees could talk comfortably with our fellow initiates. All the parolees were warmhearted and high-spirited native people, some of whom had to come from faraway places. They were happy to talk to us and answered the questionnaire with enthusiasm. Some gratefully commented that, although they had made mistakes, they were well cared for while in prison, and after their release, their parole officers regularly asked after their health and welfare with great concern. Now that we had come to present New Year's gifts to them, they were deeply touched and did not know how to convey their appreciation.

On February 12, initiates hosted another event in the auditorium of the Hualien County Court. When the parolees entered the auditorium, each was presented with a bouquet of flowers. They spoke with their parole officers about what they faced in society and their joys and sorrows in daily life. Later they were then given gifts out of Master's love, wishing them a happy New Year. Some were so moved that they were speechless. We found that everyone has a tender and sensitive part inside of them. We have come to realize that as long as we act according to Master's teachings, the innate kindness in each soul can be awakened.

On another occasion, we visited a center for parolees where the residents were mostly elderly people who have difficulty earning a living and do not have anyone who to care for them. With best wishes for the coming New Year gifts of love were also presented to them from Supreme Master Ching Hai.

Report by a Quan Yin messenger >

It was by chance that I joined a trip to share the Truth with prison inmates in 1995. The location was the well-known Green Island Prison off the coast of Formosa.

When our big group of initiates arrived on the outlying Green Island after having to take two planes to get there, we were met by the prison superintendent. He was a very nice man who regarded the prison as his home. He took care of all the inmates as though they were his own children and this reminded me of the compassionate spirit of the Bodhisattva Ksitigarbha.

The superintendent told us that only the most serious offenders were sent to Green Island to be disciplined. They fought and caused disturbances even in this prison. They were so-called the most stubborn and difficult ones. (Although I had twice accompanied Master to prisons, what the superintendent said still frightened me.)

The prison authorities require that inmates meditate in the hope that they will become more peaceful, but no specific method is used. The Green Island authorities were therefore only too happy that we could teach the inmates a proper method of meditation.

To begin our presentation, a fellow brother eloquently related how he had joined the underworld when he was young. He told how, after he was imprisoned a few times, he had turned over a new leaf, he became a vegetarian, and began to practice spiritually. When he finished talking, there was almost no response from the audience. Perhaps the inmates felt that he had not been bad enough, or perhaps he did not speak well enough. When another fellow practitioner went on stage to introduce Master and the Quan Yin Method, the cold atmosphere made him nervous and he failed to express himself well. When he asked how many persons wanted to learn the Convenient Method, only one hand was raised. This situation was very embarrassing, especially when compared to previous occasions in other prisons when more than half of the audience eagerly wanted to learn our meditation method. We looked at each other questioningly, not knowing what to do.

Then it was my turn to go on stage to teach them the Convenient Method. Suddenly I felt that I should talk a bit more to help them understand that in being a vegetarian we love all of God's creatures and are their true brothers, which is an act of a real man and not just something women would do. I also discussed Master's teachings about the true meaning of freedom, which liberates us from material attachments so our spirit can be free to roam the universe. Finally, I said: "Since you have to meditate anyhow, today we will teach you the highest method of meditation in the universe. It will let you experience the inner light, giving you a sense of freedom and allowing you to play in Heaven. This is the best, quickest, simplest, and safest method. There is no reason why you shouldn't learn it!" Thinking that I had done pretty well, I asked again: "Now, how many persons want to learn the Convenient Method?" Two hands were raised. How thankful I was to this brother who had saved my reputation. I had no other choice but to start teaching the Convenient Method. Since it was a group activity, those who did not want to learn had to remain where they were. After going through the explanation, I said: "Good! Now close your eyes and start meditating." Wow! Everyone closed their eyes!

We wanted to help the Convenient Method practitioners more, so after the meditation, we said: "If you want to understand Master's teachings better, or if you have questions on meditation later, you can write to us. Please write down your names." Amazingly, more than half the people signed up. The blessed food packages, lovingly packed by fellow practitioners, were placed one by one in the hands of the inmates. Immediately the heavy atmosphere lifted and everyone cheered and was delighted. As some of the inmates had questions, we sought the authorities' permission to speak to them further. After some consideration, the authorities complied: "Okay, those who have signed their names can stay. The rest will have to leave." Reluctantly leaving the room, those who were not allowed to stay kept looking back at us with faces that expressed the longing in their hearts. Even today, I cannot forget the yearning look on their faces.

Ego and concern about losing one's reputation truly are very big obstacles in spiritual practice! After meditation, through inner communication with the power of love, the brothers in prison recovered their child-like hearts and regained their innocence. Some inmates wanted to be vegetarian; some asked about problems related to meditation. An inmate who was soon to be released expressed the wish to visit us at the Center. We were all very touched. Everyone felt delighted in the warm and fragrant power of love. At that moment, worldly suffering and torment seemed to have disappeared altogether.

After the event, we arranged for vegetarian food to be sent to the Green Island Prison for those who wanted to be vegetarian. Later, the prison authorities arranged for a car to take us on a tour of Green Island. The island was beautiful, calm, and serene. On the tour, we met some prisoners assigned to beautifying the environment who were resting by the roadside. A common thought arose in the minds of everyone on the Truth-sharing team: This beautiful islet will truly be heaven on Earth if it can be transformed into a place for spiritual practice!

The passage of time has not erased my memories of this trip and they continue to move me deep in my soul. Master has said, "In this world, there are no such things as good people or bad people, only enlightened or ignorant ones. Every saint has a past, every sinner has a future." If only we can change ourselves today and turn to the virtuous side wholeheartedly, the future will surely be good, and the past will be compensated for naturally. Just one bad thought can sometimes bring endless suffering. We must try to open our hearts, and give ourselves one more chance! A beautiful and good future is awaiting us.

A certificate of merit from the Supreme Prosecutors' Office of Formosa.

Fellow initiates share Master's love
with prisoners on Green Island.

In accordance with the government policy of spiritual revitalization, fellow initiates hold frequent activities to offer group instructions on spiritual development to prison inmates around Formosa. Our services have received affirmation from the Ministry of Justice, which accorded us the recognition of being a group of probation officers. Because of the excellent feedback from prison inmates on Green Island whom we visited four years ago, our request to again extend our services was warmly welcomed by the Education and Reformation Section Chief, Mr. Chen.

Inmates in the Green Island Prison serve longer sentences and live under harsher conditions than those in other prisons. Maybe, they are more eager for spiritual nourishment than prisoners are elsewhere, so, in spite of the long journey, fellow initiates flew to Green Island to share their love and care.

Unfortunately, we were unable to play Master's videotaped lectures for the prisoners because of the inadequate facilities. Instead, we distributed the News magazines and sample booklets to the prisoners, who immediately began to read them with great enthusiasm.

Since the inmates on Green Island usually remain behind bars for a long time, their instructors demand that they meditate in their spare time. But, although meditation may be highly beneficial for body, mind and spirit, it may just as easily be harmful if one uses an incorrect method. Therefore, all the prisoners wanted to learn the correct form of meditation. At their request, we introduced the Convenient Method to them.

Their concentration was amazing. The room was extremely quiet and the atmosphere was almost like that of group meditation at our Centers. Master's benedictory power was obvious and touched every one of those who were present. After the assembly, Education and Reformation Section Chief Chen introduced us to Mr. Cheng, the prison Superintendent, who thanked us for our visit and invited us to visit the inmates again.

By sister initiateYuan Yuan,Taipei, Formosa>

Before I came to know Master Ching Hai and practice the Quan Yin Method, I did not understand the purpose of my life. I always thought that it must be a joke that God let me be incarnated as a human being. For twenty-seven years, I wandered around, having neither learning nor skills, and leading a befuddled life. I thought of myself as someone who was an unnecessary person neglected by God. I really did not know why I was living in this world.

Having no courage to face the real world, I used cigarettes, alcohol, and drugs to cheat myself and harm my body. I hated daylight. Only at night did I feel alive. Dancing, gambling, using drugs, and making trouble became a way of life for me. And because of that, I was put into prison many times. Even so, I did not change my dissolute way of life until one night when I awoke from a nightmare. Suddenly, I came to realize that I was standing on the edge of a cliff. A slight bit of mindlessness would result in my falling into the bottom of a valley in darkness without any chance of liberation. I was so frightened that I broke out in a cold sweat; I began crying and praying for God to give me guidance.

Tired of my meaningless, fast life of degeneration, I was determined to end the relationships with all of my friends and say farewell to my old environment that was full of desperation and darkness. There was a strong longing in my heart that I wanted to be a new person, I wanted to find my real self, and I wanted to be my own master. I could not bear any longer to live like a dead person without knowing the purpose of my life.

Fortunately, when I resolved to change my life, God answered my prayer. Under Hiers guidance, I got to know a sister who brought me to the Quan Yin family. When I saw Master, I was so overwhelmed by the love in Her eyes that tears kept running down my face. Afterwards, I became a vegetarian and got rid of my heavy addiction of smoking two or three packets of cigarettes a day and all of my other bad habits, such as drinking, gambling, and using drugs.

On the day of my initiation (September 17, 1995), the sister and I planned to take a train to Miaoli. There were many people in front of the ticket office that day, and with only a few minutes remaining before the departure of the train, we still had not been able to buy our tickets. In the end, we decided to board the train first and purchase the tickets later while on the train.

However, as we were rushing to the train, it started moving. The sister got on, and then I tried to jump onto the train, too. But I failed and fell under the train. As a sharp pain struck my stomach, I called Master Ching Hai for help, "Master, save me! Master, save me!" After dragging me for several dozen meters, the train suddenly made an emergency stop. At that time, my entire shoulder was under the train.

When people lifted me up, they thought that I was dead because, in their experience, under such circumstances, nine out of ten persons would die and the one left would be paralyzed. Fortunately, I only had some minor scratches on my body. To make sure that I was not injured seriously, they sent me to a hospital to have an examination and take x- rays to see if I had any fractures or internal injuries. The results of the examination showed that everything was fine. Surprised, everyone remarked that I must have been blessed by God; otherwise, I could not have survived this deadly accident. They also predicted that there would be good luck waiting for me after my narrow escape from death.

Only I knew that it was Master who had saved my life. I also understood that She was using the little injury I got to burn up some karma that I had to repay. On the other hand, Master was enduring great suffering to clean up the remaining greater part of that karma. Probably, having the opportunity to be initiated by Master was the best luck that awaited me.

After initiation, I found that I learned to love myself, to help others, and to respect others more. As a result of practicing meditation and keeping a vegetarian diet, my health has improved greatly. Because I always focus on the positive side, even if I run into difficulties, I can adjust myself quickly without being trapped in the situation. I feel that I have been reborn. Now I am a completely different person. Those who used to know me are surprised by the changes that have occurred in me. Just as Master says, if everyone practiced the Quan Yin Method, the world would be in peace, and I am a very good example of that.

Before I met Master, I used to visit mediums that could see my spirit guides. One day when I went for a reflexology treatment, the lady started to open and close her eyes very fast. She was talking to my guides and told me that I was surrounded by a number of spirit beings and one was a being of unbelievable beauty. I could see she was amazed by "seeing" my guide and found it difficult to express the beauty of this presence. I asked her the name of this guide, and she replied, "She gives me the name Running Water; and when you are sad and lonely, sit by the stream and cry, and are by yourself, She is always there with you."

I was amazed at what she was saying because I often used to go to a nearby forest, rest by a stream, and contemplate. After hearing this, I had tears in my eyes and was deeply moved. However, I went on my journey, determined to find some answers, but also very confused. I knew that there was always someone guiding me, but at times, I still felt so alone. I was very emotional and used to cry a lot, sometimes so deeply like a powerful thunderstorm.

Then one day I was invited to attend one of Supreme Master Ching Hai's video lecture seminars presented by a Quan Yin messenger and fellow initiates. At that time, I was a reflexologist and one of the initiates had seen my advertisement and invited me to this talk. When I saw Master on the video, I felt this beautiful, unconditional love moving through Her. I thought She was just like Jesus, because He, too, was called the Supreme Master. I wondered if She was Jesus reincarnated. I now know that it is not the person that reincarnates, but it is the Supreme Master that returns to awaken us to our hidden Supreme Inner Truth.

However, I was greatly reluctant and troubled by inner struggles. Although I felt a love that was so pure and unconditional, I still had my doubts. In addition, I did not want to give up the delicious cheesecake with eggs in it. At that time, I would rather have cheesecake than enlightenment - how foolish one can be and how wasteful of precious time! I almost missed a once in a lifetime opportunity to meet a real living Master and to receive initiation. At that video showing, I did not apply for initiation, but tried to follow the precepts as much as I could to help my spiritual progress.

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By brother initiate Wayne Martin Cape Town, South Africa (Originally in English) While on the Path

Then one day I went to a holistic life-style fair to give reflexology treatments, and I was placed next to the Quan Yin booth. I felt so at home next to this group, and as I gave reflexology treatments, Master's videos played. I could feel Her love moving through me and helping me with the treatments. When I had a moment, one of the brother initiates came over and we started to talk. Looking at him and another sister initiate, I was amazed at the pure and clear sparkle in their eyes. I wanted to receive initiation but still had such strong doubts and difficulty in making the decision to follow this most pure path. However, I halfheartedly began practicing the Convenient Method. During my attempt at the Convenient Method practice, I felt terrible backaches and it was difficult for me to sit in a group. I felt so heavy laden and burdened that I complained to the contact person, and stopped going to group meditation.

I continued to give reflexology treatments at the monthly spiritual fairs. However, this practice became dangerous for me because during one session I experienced sensations of being taken to a very dark and confusing place. Also, my back continually ached with pain, but I tried to persevere and remain focused. Although in my heart I was ready for initiation due to my feeling of unconditional and pure love from Master, the forces of maya are very powerful and it took a long time for me to finally decide to receive it.

At a later fair, the contact person introduced me to another Quan Yin messenger, who came over to watch as I performed the reflexology treatments. As he stood there, I could feel the power emanating from him so strongly that I was distracted and almost lost focus. When we spoke, he seemed so carefree, without any worry in the world. He was so calm, but I could sense that he wanted to give me initiation. I waited for a week before I decided to take the initiation. When I phoned the Center, they were just about to fax the applications for initiation, so I guess I phoned at just the right moment. A couple of days or maybe a week passed before I had confirmation for initiation. I was happy and surprised to see that the messenger was still around. On the day of my initiation, I asked him why he hadn't left yet. He replied, "Because I was waiting for you." Touched, I felt more loved than ever before. During initiation, I felt very heavily burdened and uncomfortable. The contact person and the messenger asked if my reflexology treatments were like spiritual and psychic healing. I must have had a lot of ghosts around me at that time. I now no longer do reflexology treatments, and feel much lighter and more creative.
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I was very fortunate because fellow initiates met for group meditation in the early morning at a house within walking distance from me. Every morning I would go to meditation from 4-7 AM, and afterwards we would have breakfast together. I was often so energized and received so much love from the initiates that I was almost always in tears. During one breakfast, a sister initiate gave me a picture of Master when she was much younger. In this picture, Master's hair is long, dark and flowing. Her face is soft and innocent, and her eyes wise, pure, and confident. So beautiful - just the woman I had seen in a dream I once had long before initiation. One night I had gone out partying and just before I was about to pass out on the bed, I asked God, "Who is the one for me?" I dreamed of a beautiful Indian squaw with long dark flowing hair who came to wake me up. I awoke wondering if I was ever going to see this beautiful woman. I am a very romantic person and wanted to marry her. One day I would find her.

Truly, Master is the woman of my dream! When I saw this picture, I could hardly believe it; my inner being started to feel joy like never before. Then this sister began to describe the Australia Retreat in May1997 to celebrate Master's birthday. Always filled with tears when speaking of Master, she was trying to describe one of the dresses Master was wearing. She said, "It was so beautiful, like... like... (she searched for the best word) ... like running water." I almost flew out of the room when I heard this name again "Running Water". It is impossible to describe how I felt. These are not coincidences; they are true experiences that actually started to awaken me. I thought I would never meet my spirit guide, Running Water, while I was still on Earth. God works so beautifully; Supreme Master Ching Hai is my "Running Water," washing away my pain and helping to cleanse my sins. She was my guide before I was initiated, and She is my guide now. Whenever I doubted Her, even after initiation, I was always shown the Master in Her most beautiful, sincere, compassionate, and loving form.

What I would like to say to all fellow initiates and initiates-to-be is: Master Ching Hai is your guide before you receive initiation, your guide while you are initiated, and will continue to be your guide as long as you need Her. Whenever you are sincere or whenever you doubt Her, She will appear to you in the form that is most beautiful and magnetic for you. This is my story of how I met Master, and this is my destiny. I am married to the Supreme Master inside of me, now and forever.  

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By a brother initiate in U.K. (Originally in English)>

My battle with my passionate thoughts has led me through a journey of discovery into my own weakness. Passion and the desire for sensual pleasures have been flaws in my personality since a very early age.

When I first married, my relationship with my wife was very spontaneous and natural; we were like children enjoying the natural and innocent love that suffused the sensual and passionate relationship between us and made it pure and happy.

Several years later, I was given some x-rated videos. These made my mind go crazy with desire. Over the course of time after watching these movies, my relationship with my wife deteriorated and became empty of loving kindness. The sexual act degraded to mere exercise done for intellectual satisfaction and relief of frustration.

Controlled and trapped by sensuality, I would regularly watch the movies at least once a day. One day when the desire arose in my mind, I rebelled, thinking, "No, I won't!" Then an irresistible impulse forced me to watch the movie. It was as if something outside of me was using my body to watch the film. At the time, I thought that this was strange.

Some time later, I was initiated by Master Ching Hai, and on that day, I burned the x-rated tapes as soon as I returned from the initiation. They hissed and spat as they melted into a black pool, giving off acrid poisonous smoke and I thought that at last I was seeing their true nature.

I practiced for about year without this problem, and then occasionally the passion began to arise in my mind again. I would then recall with some effort a sequence from the films and deliberately let down my guard to "enjoy" this sensual pleasure. Or sometimes when I saw some playing cards or magazines with x-rated images, I would pick them up just to see if I had become immune yet, but my mind would go crazy with lust. However, all the time I felt forced and I knew really that this was not a pleasure but a poison.

Something I noticed regarding my meditation practice was that each time I reached a stable point in it when everything was smooth and almost uneventful, I'd allow myself to be tricked. I realize now that this sublime state is a sign of progress and occurs before a breakthrough into a deeper realization. If you are sublime then just stay there!

My flaw raised its ugly head again through the Internet. Each time I looked at the images, the loving kindness that had built up over months of careful practice just spilled away and was replaced by a nasty cruel, selfish, negative energy. I'd become angry easily and get remorseful and my mind would be filled with passion. After this sort of event, I would want to have sex with my wife, but this would leave us both tired and drained of our good energy. We'd become irritable and angry for several days. Meditation would be almost always impossible with my mind focused on the x-rated images and wrapped up in the passion and fantasies. I'd always fall asleep as if something was preventing me from doing the Quan Yin. When I'd finally exerted a supreme effort to fight the tiredness and burden and meditate, it would still feel like something was hanging on my arms. It would take about a week to remove this extra burden, but still my inner being had been polluted and my fine energy body had been damaged. Only when I went to group meditation, with the help of Master's blessing power through the group, could my inner body become clear as crystal again.

After the last time I succumbed to my flaw, I went to do the Quan Yin and I sort of passed out. Suddenly I felt very tightly confined, as if something were sitting in my lap and clinging to me. Initially, I thought that it might be my son, who also meditates with me. But then I realized that he had gone to bed and that I was the only human being in the room. When I finally realized that this was some sort of negative energy being, I felt like running and screaming but not a single muscle in my body would move. Instinctively, I carefully and deliberately recited the Holy Names and the being slid away. I felt very thankful for Master's power, but I was also very concerned that I had been so naive as to endanger my soul in this way.

I know now, after many failures, that there is no cessation of desire on the path of sensuality; this path takes one exactly in the opposite direction that we wish to go. We wish to go within to discover the most sublime secret of the universe whose value is beyond conception. When one is attacked by a negative desire, there are two options:

1) We can indulge. Unfortunately, this is like digging a hole; the more one digs, the bigger the hole gets. The passion leads one to lay down all the precepts and become like an animal for several seconds of crazy desire. Moreover, it must then be repaid by months of precious spiritual energy.

2) One can do the Quan Yin, the sound meditation, for at least two hours, balanced with the right proportion of light meditation. This will clean away the negative energy.

This morning I feel very good. I can feel the harmonious atmosphere in my house; I can feel the gentle currents of love flowing from my daughter, son, and wife. My inner being is singing, dancing, and is happy. I am actually pure; every bad thought that tries to arise in my mind, I check instantly and do not allow it to develop.

My new inner phrase is this, "If I allow myself to accept this trick, then I will never overcome this weakness." I apply that to many situations that require greater self-control.

Spoken by Supreme Master Ching Hai
Los Angeles, CA, USA, March 12,1996 (Originally in English)

When you look at a naked Indian holy man, you feel elevated; you feel no shame, no desire, no lust, nothing. Nothing steals into your mind about lower levels of thinking about that man, and you just have veneration. If you don't have even veneration, at least you have nothing, not even curiosity. But the scenes in the movies are differently motivated. They mean to provoke people, and that is why it is kind of selling the body cheaply. That is not supposed to be so, because the body is the temple of God. That's the only thing that is the matter. That is what is not correct about the movies. I don't mind looking at people without clothes; I have looked at them before.

Spoken by Supreme Master Ching Hai
Keelung Cultural Center, Formosa, October 27, 1988 (Originally in Chinese)

The street posters of 'poor' ladies (Master says jokingly) who have only a few clothes on should all be removed. Don't post them, so as not to destroy other peoples' families, degrade people's spirituality and morality, and ruin youths and girls who are in a period of growth. Have you ever thought that the very ones that are harmed may not be others but your own relatives, your husband or wife, and your children.

Spoken by Supreme Master Ching Hai
International Four-Day Retreat, Washington DC, USA
December 26, 1997 (Originally in English)

In America lately, the president, government, and the congress have asked that violent or sex movies, late-night movies, x-rated, y-rated, whatever they are, be banned from TV because the kids might watch them. It is no good for them. That sounds good, but then some of your judges said, "No, that violates constitutional rights." So, that was not done. Even if there is a good president, good government, or good congress, it is not always powerful enough. There are too many laws, too many catches, too much red-tape, too many loopholes somewhere.

Things cannot be done the way we want - don't talk about world peace. We may pray for it because that is what we want. We can ask for what we want but whether it will happen or not, let's see. If enough people want it, it might happen. But there are not enough people. Most people still cling to their own opinions. Let it be. In our small group, at least, we are unified in our idealism, in our desire for peace and happiness in this world.

We have various options in this world. The universe is not as rigid and dull as you might think. So, it's really up to you to decide what you want to do and how much of a load and responsibility you want to handle. You can do it as long as you don't hurt other people. God has a few wishes, but we make the choices ourselves. Otherwise, it would be too boring if everything were predestined. We can change things, but we must make good changes, and then it is okay.

For example, this package of tissues in my hand, I can keep it for my own use, or I can toss the tissues to people in need - two or three of them. I can toss them in different directions. I can also discard the packet in the dustbin and then no one can use it. If I keep it, I am the only one who can use it; however, people can make use of these tissues if I put some everywhere. In this way, I have many choices. It's up to me to decide, and that's all right. It's impossible to say that God has arranged for me to throw this packet of tissues to a designated person. It can't be like that. The universe isn't that monotonous; we have many choices.

All kinds of religions talk about free will, which sometimes brings harm to many people as well as ourselves and makes us transmigrate. If we make a good decision, the result will be good, and we'll reap the benefits. Otherwise, we'll have to shoulder a heavy responsibility that makes us feel uncomfortable and is very tiresome. Even worse, we'll have to come back to amend the things we've done wrong, compensate for the harm that we've done or the losses that all those people have incurred. That's just the way it is.

It's true; nothing is really good or bad in the universe, it's only a cycle. Everyone plays his or her role, and we go back to rest when the time comes. However, this is not an excuse for us to act irresponsibly. Certainly, we must choose to do good things because they will benefit us and others, too; and we won't have to exhaust ourselves with transmigration. There are many obstacles each time we come here. It's not definite that we can fix the things we've done wrong within the periods of time that we're back. Consequently, we have to carry on this way until all has been amended, and sometimes this takes thousands of years.

Spoken by Supreme Master Ching Hai
International 7-Day Retreat; Formosa October 29, 1995
(Originally in English)

Please remember to do the Quan Yin according to the proper proportions. The Quan Yin is the one to clean. Sometimes people sit there and they don't do the Quan Yin. In that case, they cannot progress very quickly. Also, try to check your thoughts. If you check your thoughts, there is no bad speech and there are no bad deeds. If one thought arises and you check it immediately, it will not come out of your mouth or result in action. So, thought is important. Don't follow your passion or your thoughts, in your mind. You remind each other. The precepts begin from your thoughts. Purity begins from your thoughts. So, check your own thinking.

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Selected Questions and Answers

Q :This question is picking up on something You mentioned earlier about sexual energy causing problems. Could You explain how that happens and what we should do to deal with it?

M :How it happens? Do I have to explain that? (Laughter) I think you should buy a book like the "Kama Sutra" or something like that. It explains better than I ever could. (Laughter)

There are many kinds of energy, different levels, which we possess. Sexual energy most resembles the ecstasy that we have during samadhi. Some people enter samadhi and experience the ecstasy, so they are able to control the sexual energy. Most people, when they have not reached that level and they experience the sexual energy, it feels so good that it makes them off balance. Their body cells react kind of differently. Just like after initiation or when you come out of samadhi, your body feels sometimes weird, shaking, or something. That's the way it is. That is why when people are in love, it is just like walking on the clouds, and they are cuckoo sometimes. Because of the sudden change in chemistry with the chemical reaction and the side effects of it, it puts the mind off balance. They become either overly happy or agitated for no reason, and they cannot reason with themselves or with the partner anymore. That is why people in the old time advised you not to do anything until your marriage. Not only because of the old-fashioned concept to keep the virginity and all that, but just to let you both have time for the body chemistry to get used to each other so when you finally experience that ultimate feeling at the pleasure center, you don't offset your balance. You can continue to be friends and get on with each other, much as before you had sex.

If you have sex too soon, your mind hasn't got the time to assimilate and to know each other; and the chemistry of the body, of the cells, is not trained to be with another person with a different chemistry and a different program, DNA and all that. So when you contact too soon, intimately, the sexual energy will kind of explode and make you both off balance. That is why people say if you have sex too soon, your marriage will not be very good. It is not because the sex is a sin or anything, it's just that your body is not used to it; it's just that your mind is not used to it; your spiritual body has not been programmed so soon to be so intimate. When two persons' powerful energy meets together, it is like a bomb. So, nothing is bad; it is just the way you handle it.

For most people, when you don't have enlightenment to go with it as well, and the whole society tells you that sex is sinful on top of it, psychologically, physically, mentally, and emotionally, you feel guilty. That is bad for your relationship. That is how relationships go wrong. People condemn sex too much in the society, and on the other hand, they don't explain and they don't program people into accepting sex as a part of life or part of the relationship. Then from the psychological effect alone from the society, from the moral standards from your background, you feel already off balance and guilty and that's why you struggle within yourself. You can't handle it. Also, the sexual energy is very strong; it's almost like samadhi. For mortal people, it is just too much for them.

Q :So how should we handle it then if it seems like it's too much for us?

M :You have to understand the nature of sexual energy. But to understand is one thing and to accept it is another thing because we have been brainwashed for thousands of years that sex is bad. I can't even change that. If I go out and preach to everyone that sex is good, sex is okay, they would kill me. (Laughter) So all I can do is tell you to take it easy, reduce it; slow it down if you can, if you want to and if that makes you feel good. If you can't handle it, then the only thing is to reduce it or cut it off until you're strong enough and can decide what to do. And if you want to experience the fire, then you have to take the consequences. Even if I sit here and tell you sex is not sinful or it is okay, you still cannot accept it. Even if you trust me, your mind cannot accept it so quickly.

Q : Thank You, Master.

M :You're welcome. You see, nothing is really bad. It's just the way we are programmed. For example, I say to you, "Don't gamble." Many of you probably wonder, "Why? It's harmless. You just play a few paper cards and bet one or two dollars. What harm can it be?" It is no harm, but it's the side effect. Sometimes you lose, you become a bad loser, or the other person loses, he becomes a bad loser, and this produces a bad energy between each other. You lose a friend and hate each other, and things like that create bad energy, negative energy that you have to bear. You feel choked, you feel pressured. And if it comes to the worse case, you'll be addicted if you win. If you lose, you'd want to regain it. If you win, you want to continue. It's the human mind. It keeps training and training, and after a while, you get used to gambling and you want more. You go to bigger places and you might lose bigger time. Then you hurt yourself - you lose your job, you lose your family, you might sell your wife and kids, even. Some people do that. You see, it is the side effect that is bad. It is not truly gambling that is bad.

Suppose I sit here and do some gambling - would you think that I'm very bad or sinful? No. It might not be so because it means nothing to me. I could play the whole night, I could play my whole life, and it wouldn't mean anything to me. It would not affect me at all. I would not sell you to make more money. But for most people, they can't handle it - just like sex, they can't handle it. They are too weak for these powerful addictions. Like cigarettes, you smoke one, tomorrow two, next day you have the whole package, and then you can't quit. Or alcohol - how many people start with one glass. That's all they start with, even half a glass, or even a sip. Cocaine, anything, is the same. They start with this much, and that's how it grow into trouble. That is why I say stay away from them, even though I do not condemn anything. I know the soul chooses its own path, but whatever you have chosen, whatever you want to choose, you have to know the consequences and choose wisely. If you want to go Home quicker, if you decided that this time you want to go Home, stay away from these distractions. It costs you too much, mentally.

Report by the USA News Group

From February 13 to 16, fellow initiates and their families from around the world gathered at the Florida Center to joyfully celebrate the Lunar New Year with Master. Coinciding with the Lunar New Year holiday were the United States Presidents' Day, St. Valentine's Day and the Indian Shiva's Night. Incidentally, a major car race was also being held in Florida at the time. Therefore, all the flights to Florida were fully booked well in advance; nevertheless, fellow initiates tried all means to reach the Florida Center. Many U.S. and Canadian fellow initiates drove long distances while some Asian fellow initiates flew to other U.S. cities such as New York and then got a ride to Florida. Everyone wanted to be present at this reunion with the Mother of our souls.

The Florida Center is located in a beautifully scenic area where serenity prevails. Its main entrance, dining hall and many trees were decked with colorful balloons, ribbons and other Lunar New Year decorations. Initiates and their families received a warm welcome from the working staff, who promptly helped them to get settled in. The kitchen team worked nonstop to provide a continuous supply of warm and delicious food and everyone experienced the joy of the holiday season in a warm and cozy atmosphere.

As compared to other retreats, this gathering was very informal and relaxed with no fixed schedule. Group meditation was held in the early morning, followed by free activities during the day and campfires in the evening. A timely shower had prepared a lush green lawn under an azure sky and gentle breezes flowed. Fellow initiates and their children delightfully enjoyed the beautiful scenery under the shining sun.

At noon on February 13, Master, whom we had been longing to see, appeared in front of the dining hall, and like a magnet, immediately drew all the people to Her. Extending a hearty welcome to everyone who had come to usher in the Lunar New Year at the Center, Her relaxed (carefree) and humorous words brought waves of laughter and applause. She also patiently answered questions raised by fellow initiates concerning their spiritual practice, work and life.

A fellow initiate asked Master if he could go to the fifth level with Her, and She elaborated: "Everyone will go to the fifth level one day. To go there is easy, but to stay here is hard." "We are distracted on the way. There are too many important things to do, like gossiping and calling here, calling there on the phone, checking the internet to see who's saying what and who's killing whom, reading the newspaper or even watching television. These are very important things to do, and so sometimes, we forget what we really want and what is really important. Otherwise, we can go to the fifth level anytime. As soon as you put your attention inward, one hundred percent, you are there."

We always hear big talk like, 'This world is illusionary; we have a real world, and everything is better up there' - out there somewhere. But it is truly like that. If we know the other world, we don't want anything in this world anymore. Moreover, we do not really care. We try our best to do whatever we have to do in that situation, but if we cannot succeed, it is okay. That is truly renunciation. Sometimes we forget to let go of the illusory things. If we do not let go because we know there is nothing to let go of, then it is okay. However, if we are still very attached and cannot let go, then we know we are not okay. The more we cling to this outer world, the less we can go inside to the inner world, and the inner world is where the inner happiness begins."

One Au Lac initiate mentioned that there was a person who, during a heart operation left her body and went somewhere "up there". She saw Master Ching Hai, and that She was very big and strong. Master was giving a lecture to many disciples that were a golden color. Coming back, as she neared her body, she perceived that her body was very smelly. She didn't want to come into it, but she had to. After she came back, she kept smelling her body all the time and thinking, "Stinky, stinky." Master pointed out that this is true. In the Buddhist Sutras, it is mentioned that when the saints from the higher worlds look down on this world, it is like a filthy cesspool. So, they are not really tempted or enticed by this world, except when they have the great compassion to come down to answer the call of the sentient beings to help them go up to their real Home. Otherwise, no saint likes to stay here.

A physician said that he is trying to bring in a new paradigm in medicine with more of the spiritual principle, an "east-west" type of medicine. Master pointed out that the job of the physician is truly to remind each patient that after he is cured of his disease, he should also go back to the Source of healing. Otherwise, just to rely on temporary relief, sometimes, is not always the answer.

When night fell, countless bright stars glittered in the clear sky and the tropical temperatures plummeted. After dinner, we lighted campfires by the lake and nestled around them to keep warm as we enjoyed delicious Indian tea and cakes. Conversation was interspersed with joyful laughter. When Master arrived, clad in bright orange casual wear and a hat, the warm and romantic atmosphere reached its peak. Master invited the Western fellow initiates to join Her around a campfire and addressed their questions with answers that were right to the point.

In response to one question, Master mentioned that most people have fear when they go into the unknown, and they also fear leaving this stable planet. She illustrated the point with an example of someone who has been imprisoned for a long time and is afraid to go back into the free society. Freedom, to him, is a great and frightening new adventure.

It is the same with us. We have been imprisoned for a long time in this body. When we go out, it's so free, so "nothing" and we're floating, so we feel scared. Some people are scared, and thus they can't have that experience again for a long, long time. Just tell yourself, "Don't be scared." Call the Master to help you, and then let go. It couldn't be worse than dying a physical death. It is similar to that. That is why when people die, they're also afraid to let go. They don't know what is going to greet them. But the people who know already what death is will exchange for the better environment, a better kind of life, and they are eager to. It's not that they are miserable or hate life; they just love life on a grander scale and in a freer state.

On the second day of the New Year's gathering, more fellow initiates arrived at the Center. The crowd grew to large proportions when Master arrived at noon dressed in white casual attire. Addressing the difficulty of obtaining vegetarian food when traveling, Master commented: "You can write to all the different types of hotels and restaurants and request that they include a vegetarian diet on their menus. Send them a recipe book and say, 'This is vegetarian. It is not just green salad or celery sticks.'" It is obvious that Master makes use of even small matters in life to teach us how to actively express our opinion when it is appropriate. This is also one way to improve the world.

A Moslem brother recounted the saga of his flight to Florida: "My flight was cancelled, and there was no flight to Orlando, so I took a plane to Atlanta. I stayed in a hotel there one night, but the next day, there was still no flight. So I prayed really hard; I prayed to God, and Hes said to me, 'You will have a ticket. You will be on the plane, and you will be in Orlando.' As I was praying, I saw the golden manifestation of Master with angels all around. Then the airport public address system announced that a plane had landed, but could not take off because of technical problems. The next flight would be in four hours time. I began meditating again, and then in my vision I saw that another plane had already landed. Suddenly the announcer said, 'A plane has just landed. We are refilling it, and it will depart in twenty minutes.' I leave everything in God's hands and Hes does the rest. Without faith, we have nothing; with faith, we can break all barriers." Master replied, "The Muslim people have very strong faith. Thank God that they have faith in the right things."

When a fellow initiate requested to take some blessed food home with her, Master answered, "Everything here is blessed - the grass, trees, sky, stones, people. Take yourself home; that is the best already.

That evening, the sky was clear and it was still very cold. Again, we lighted campfires by the lake and in this cozy atmosphere, we barbecued a wide assortment of vegetarian foods and enjoyed all kinds of hot drinks. Master, in white casual wear and a red shirt and hat, walked around and kindly greeted each group of fellow initiates and their families and warmed our hearts even more. Later, She invited the fellow initiates to sit around the fire with Her. Sharing jokes and casual conversation, we spent another unforgettable night with Her.

In the afternoon of the third day, we gathered with Master in the meditation tent to enjoy the performance presentations. The stage was decorated with red lanterns, colorful fireworks, fresh flowers, and mountains of candies and cookies. Amidst the resounding of gongs and drums, Master arrived at the hall driving Her white golf car. She looked elegant and beautiful in a white dress and cream-colored shawl. Next, fellow initiates from around the world presented a wide variety of performances, including dances, choruses, solos, and a harmonica presentation. Young fellow initiates from Los Angeles won the loudest applause with a passionate and energetic dance that they had choreographed and directed. In a sonorous voice, a brother initiate from Indiana presented a solo performance of a song entitled "My Hometown". "How can a vegetarian have such a loud voice?" Master wondered humorously and the tent rocked with laughter. Although some performances had to be hastily prepared, Master praised the performers for their courage.

That night, Master came to the gym to talk with fellow initiates who were leaving and again to try to appease their questioning intellects. She also invited those who had had no inner experiences during their meditation to sit around Her and meditate. She blessed them by touching their wisdom eyes, upon which a sister initiate immediately saw inner light and a brother initiate had better light and sound experiences. Master also blessed other fellow initiates and the working team.

However, Master commented: "I don't want to give you too much of the 'so-called blessings'. It is because I don't want you to look upon me and rely on me for spiritual survival. I want you to be strong and be a Master. It is not important for me to be your Master. It is important that I cultivate a lot of Masters. So don't always ask for baby stuff, pacifiers, and all that. I'm very good to you. When I scold you, I'm good to you; when I neglect you, I'm good to you. Love has many ways. If you really need that, I am willing to help you, but don't always think, 'If Master doesn't touch me, I cannot become a Buddha.' That is nonsense."

Some fellow initiates also shared their experiences of other spiritual groups and commented that since they were able to make comparisons, they cherished our group very much. At midnight, a fellow initiate said "Happy New Year" to Master. Then, Master and all the fellow initiates sang "Happy New Year". Everyone was reluctant to leave and lingered until two o'clock in the morning.

On the 16th, the last day of the gathering, Master again met with fellow initiates in the gym. She said that She knew many people had to overcome difficulties and hindrances in order to come to see Her, and they had trouble with their families, work, colleagues and friends as well. Master said, "The trouble is there so that you can clean up your "stuff," so that you can bring love and blessings into every corner of the world. If they were not binding you there, you would not go back. Then you would only bless Florida, and maybe Florida would become Heaven and the rest of the world would stay where they are. So maybe God arranges it that way, so that we can stay where we are."

Master patiently answered questions from fellow initiates about their spiritual practice and then walked a group of fellow initiates to the door to see them off. When She returned, She blessed those who had hindrances in their meditations, and meditated with fellow initiates for a long time before She left.

Later that night, Master stopped by the gym again to see those fellow initiates who were still there. She blessed each one and said with a smile that since we all loved to be blessed by Her, She would bless us right in the beginning of the next retreat and "kick open your wisdom eyes". Then She recited the Holy Names and meditated with us for a while. Fellow initiates continued with their meditation until midnight, and thus ended the beautiful Lunar New Year celebrations. We returned home, our hearts filled with joy, and just as Master said, the freedom that we gained here during these few days will be enough for us to enjoy for a year!

It seems to me that every person has a dream as a child. My dream seems to be like a fairy tale, but it has always been this way. I wished for a place where people could trust each other, where people were able to smile and say hello to anyone and get a smile back, where people didn't lock their doors and always stayed happy. Well for me, I actually saw this dream become a reality recently at the Florida "retreat". To know why this means so much to me, there is my past to understand as well. I have been practicing for six years now and was initiated when I was 11 years old. At that time, I was really sincere and took everything extremely seriously.

About three years ago, I was in a car accident during the winter and the car flipped over twice. Thanks to Master my entire family was saved without sustaining any serious injuries except for me, because I wasn't wearing a seat belt at the time. From that day on, I have had serious problems with my back and have not been able to meditate very well, and from there I seemed to have moved farther away from meditating. My belief in God was brought down by wondering how Hes could allow this to happen to me. I began not to worry about my spiritual development anymore, although my parents kept telling me how important it was. It just seemed that the more people mentioned spirituality, the more I moved further away from it, questioning what physical proof there was.

A few months ago, I had a talk with one of my friends who is extremely religious and I questioned her about the same thing . What she told me made me realize a lot more than I expected to learn from a 17 year old. She told me that the Master or scriptures can only cultivate your beliefs to a certain point, but at that point one must take the leap of faith into the unknown if one wants to believe what is there. She said that you must not only trust the Master but you must be able to trust yourself to get through your doubts. Well, when I came to the Florida "retreat" I walked around and things felt very good, with everyone working as a group helping each other as a true "family". The love I sensed from everyone had a great power over all the other feelings that I had at the time. The disciples were able to accept one another and gave a helping hand wherever needed.

During the first night at the campfire, I met someone who had driven across the country to get initiated but because of some complications, missed the initiation. As I was talking to him, it occurred to me that at one time I was as sincere as he was and I began to question myself about why I hadn't kept on meditating after the accident. Was it really because of my back or was it because I had begun to get lazy and used it as an excuse. I felt as if Master had given me a test of faith, as to the leap of faith and I had failed it. Those at my campfire and I kept telling him that if Master comes by he should ask about his situation; and when Master did come by, he immediately asked if he could get a late initiation. With Master's caring heart, She said, "Of course you can; it's New Years, anything can happen." With these few words I looked at his face as it suddenly burst with happiness.

From this experience alone I felt it was worth every moment I had spent there, but there was more. As I sat there with people I had never even met before, it felt like I had known them for the longest time and I had spent my life with them. It felt like we were really a family of Master's children. As the night went on, more questions arose in my mind and I began to think about what I was doing to myself, denying how important my spirituality was. Things in that Utopia just felt so right, and every single detail felt good in my eyes.

I had recently moved from a place where I lived almost all my life, and when I left there, it felt as if the whole world around me had crumbled and that I had to start over again. I never thought anything could surpass that feeling of sadness, yet when the day came that I had to leave this Utopia, I was sadder than anything in the world, leaving a place and people I had only known for a few short days. I didn't only feel love for one person at that retreat, but I felt love for all of Master's children. I had learned that coming to my Utopia wasn't just having fun and meeting friends, but it was Master calling me back, giving me a second chance to come back. I have never had such feelings inside of me, and I just wished that not only the people there felt the same as I did, but everyone around the world understood how I felt about Master's undying love for each and every one of Her children.

Poem

NATV President, Dr. Bob Lee personally wrote the invitation
to Supreme Master Ching Hai.

Following the recent spectacular success of the musical performance "One World ... Of Peace Through Music," some American-based television stations promptly requested an interview with Master. However, because Her schedule would not allow it, She suggested instead that they interview representatives from Her International Association. One television station, NATV - North America TV - was sincerely inspired to broadcast information about Master's noble ideals and Her charitable deeds, and accepted this proposal.

On January 14, 1999, the day of the interview, we met with the television station's top managers: the President, Dr. Bob Lee, Planning Manager, Ms. Susie F. Wu and the News Manager, Mr. Andrew Zhao, all of whom gave us a very warm and loving reception that made us feel truly welcome. The interview subsequently took place in such a relaxed and natural atmosphere that we even forgot about the cameras.

Report by LA News Group
(Originally in English and Chinese)

"Happenings in Los Angeles", NATV.

The following is excerpted from the interview that took place on the evening of January 24, 1999.

Q: (Andrew Zhao):Can you tell me something about Supreme Master Ching Hai's life, and the message She wanted to convey through "One World ... Of Peace Through Music"?

A: Yes, Supreme Master Ching Hai, as many of you know, is a renowned spiritual teacher and a humanitarian. From childhood, She expressed a love for all creatures; and from a very young age, would take in small animals and help them, heal them, and then set them free. She also would volunteer Her time and energy to the Red Cross or other volunteer associations to offer Her selfless service to them. And I think it has been Her childhood dream to find a solution to the suffering in the world.

You can see within Her poetry the very sincere nature with which She searches out a solution to find contact with God or a way to appease the suffering in this world. In this concert, Supreme Master Ching Hai's poems, accompanied by the music of world-renowned composers, offered a chance for all people to enjoy Her love and compassion for the world. All of the money and proceeds from this concert and other concerts are then contributed to children's funds and hospitals, etc. to help those who are in need. It is one of many efforts put forth to try to appease the suffering of the world, and to help people who are less fortunate than we are.

Q: Yes, we hope that everything, everywhere is peace. But right now, for some places, it's all war, and a lot of poor children living in very low conditions. Right now, Master Ching Hai goes to lots of places around the world to send Her love to the people, especially the children. Can you tell me something about that?

A: Master Ching Hai sees no difference between Herself and the people around Her. She, in fact, feels the same suffering that they feel, so She cannot help but help them. It's just a natural response, the same as when you put your hand over a fire, you would react. It's something innate within Her, something that just flows out naturally.

Q: She also travels to different countries to do that?

A: Yes. She has made many contributions: to the volcanic victims of Mount Pinatubo's explosion in the Philippines, to flood victims in China and America, and to leprosy victims in Hawaii. All around the world, Her work is constantly going on. We're constantly trying to solve these problems. However, we feel that even as much as She gives, it's still never enough. It's very difficult to try to put out the many fires that have started around the world. If there were more people practicing spiritually, then this is the only way to solve the problems, from their roots.

Q: Yes, we know there are different religions. Some like Buddhism, some like Christianity. Can you talk about Master Ching Hai's teachings? What is the Quan Yin Method?

A: The Quan Yin Method is not a religion. It is a very simple method of meditation, which can be practiced by people from all walks of life. In our Method, we just sit in silence, focus our attention inwards, and experience the beauty within ourselves. With the Quan Yin Method, we learn to listen to the sound, a beautiful inner sound, which is like the heavenly music. This is the high level vibration of the universe, the language of the universe. It communicates with the wisdom, the almighty power inside all of us. Through the vibration of inner light and sound, our soul can be purified and our God-nature within can be reclaimed. This is the inner experience of enlightenment that all the Quan Yin practitioners have.

Q: Very good, but how do ordinary people recognize who is the true Master?

A: I think, basically, there are two ways by which the public can easily recognize a true Master. First, from the outer actions of a Master: A true Master manifests the God-quality that he or she has within, bringing only beauty, love and compassion to people. He or she will never have selfish purposes or motives, and his or her heart and mind are totally devoted to the well-being of other people. Second, through inner communication with a true Master. A so-called truly enlightened Master must also give you the proof of enlightenment. Take, for example, a cookie company advertising that it has good cookies. At least when you go to the company, they should give you some samples to taste, so you know how delicious the cookies are. Similarly, when we follow Supreme Master Ching Hai's teachings and practice the Quan Yin Method, at the time of initiation through the so-called spiritual transmission, the person who receives initiation will immediately observe inner experiences of enlightenment. That is why "Quan Yin Method" is also called the method of "Immediate Enlightenment".

(At the end of the program, a film of beautiful natural scenery superimposed with Master's voice expressing Her dream of World peace was shown.)

Postscript: In another broadcast on February 7th, NATV also aired Master's mini-biography, "Walk the Way of Love" on the program "Happenings in Los Angeles."

Before and After the Interview

About NATV President, Dr. Bob Lee

NATV President Bob Lee remarked that he had the pleasure of enjoying a meal with Master at Hsihu Center in Miaoli, Formosa. He has watched Her videotapes before and has great respect for Her. When he learned about Her charity concert, he personally sent an invitation to Her to appear on NATV for an interview, and even invited Her to give a lecture on his program.

About NATV News Manager Andrew Y. Zhao

NATV News Manager Andrew Zhao (second from right) interviewed representatives from the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association.

After the "One World ... Of Peace Through Music" concert was held on December 18, 1998, NATV News Manager Andrew Zhao followed up on President Lee's decision to air this magnificent concert on the program, "Happenings in Los Angeles." He quickly laid out the program and informed us that it would be aired on December 27th so that fellow practitioners could tune in to the program. He also gave us a videotaped copy of the program immediately after the broadcast. From the excellent interview coverage, Mr. Zhao's wholehearted love and sincerity were obvious. Deeply touched by Master's charitable deeds, he decided to continue reporting about Her ideals and teachings.

News Manager Zhao contacted us many times, suggesting ways to introduce Master's teachings and Herself to the multitudes. "Footage of Master must be taken to give the best-quality picture. Only then would it correspond to the superlative level of the Supreme Master."

About Ms. Susie F. Wu, NATV Planning Section

Before the concert, Ms. Susie Wu was busily preparing for the annual commerce and industry exhibition. Each day, she went home very late from work only to face the many household chores awaiting her. She also had to take her two children to and from school. However, despite her extremely busy schedule, she took the initiative to compile a list of important Chinese figures for us. From among her well-known media and Chinese acquaintances, she selected more than one hundred names and provided us with their telephone numbers and addresses, which must have consumed an inordinate amount of her time.

At Ms. Wu's suggestion, we prepared a news release about the concert, which she then revised and sent by electronic mail to well-known newspaper and TV reporters and editors with whom she was acquainted. As a result, several TV stations and newspapers - including American Chinese TV, Chinese Daily News, Worldwide Liberty Times, Chinese L.A. Daily News, and International Daily News - carried public announcements about this uplifting concert of the century that sought to bring peace to the world. As a result, many Chinese viewers and readers made reservations to attend the concert.

To more widely disseminate information about the concert, Ms. Wu invited us to the commerce and industry exhibition, where we were permitted to distribute fliers and sell concert tickets at the NATV booth.

Again, with Ms. Wu's assistance, a special report about the concert was aired on NATV on the "Happenings in Los Angeles" program, evoking a tremendous response. Ms. Wu did everything she could to help promote the concert! Several well-known figures, impressed by the concert and its splendor, spoke highly of Master's charitable deeds. Mr. Chen Jing Ji, chairman of the Elites' Club and American Chinese TV advisor, told Ms. Wu, "This is the best concert I have ever been to in all my life!" Other individuals who expressed only superlatives about the concert included Mr. Liu Ri Xing, chairman of the Formosan Alumni Association.

On our January 14th visit, Ms. Wu added finishing touches to the interview scene by placing a bouquet of fresh flowers in front of Master's picture in the studio, decorating the site and making us feel very much at home. She also proposed a long-term program to share Master's teachings through the collaborative efforts of NATV and our Association. She devised the plan and then arranged for the program content, style and scheduling.

We were curious about the reasons for Ms. Wu's selfless assistance. "I like Master very much. I admire Her, especially Her teachings. Even in the earlier years, when some Formosan people criticized Master for Her attire, I argued that a spiritual practitioner has to be beautiful on the outside as well as in soul and mind. Truth, perfection and beauty apply not only on the inside but also on the outside to please people's eyes," she said. "I was immediately moved by Master's great love when I came close to Her. She is equally beautiful within and without. I was touched even more deeply after I watched Her videotapes."

During our many conversations, Ms. Wu once mentioned that she was the Director of a kindergarten when she was younger. Zealous about her career, she bestowed all her love on the children, even to the point of spending her own money on long-term care for several disabled children. She often visited the homes of the children. If she noticed a dirty child who always had a runny nose and wore the same trousers for days, she would make a home visit.

One time, the mother, on the verge of mental collapse, poured out her grief, "My husband never comes home; he has left us. I want to die, but I can't because my child would be left with no one to care for him. Now I am torn between life and death. I really don't know what to do...."

Ms. Wu noticed that the mother wore her hair in braids, a drab colored nun's robe, and incessantly chanted the name of the "Amitabha Buddha." Ms. Wu told her, "I am also a Buddhist. I, too, chant the Buddha's name, but I wear make-up, dress up, and have a sweet family. You, too, are a layperson. Who would want to love you if you make yourself look like this?" Ms. Wu, giving her Master's photo with a contact address and telephone number, advised her to go to Master for help.

Some time later, she observed that the child had become very clean and lively, and through the child's father, she learned that his wife had found Master and become Her disciple. The husband said, "She used to dress so shabbily. Who could love her? Now that she has become a spiritual practitioner and a brand new person, our family has become a sweet one."

After a series of contacts with Ms. Wu, we came to realize her profound spiritual orientation, and that all of her actions and speech were in accord with the Truth. When we bade her farewell after the interview, we told her that she had great affinity with Master, which she seemed very delighted to hear.

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Mass Media Broadcasts Message of Truth, Beauty and Virtue (Continued)

(The article below was excerpted from the Viet Economy Daily,
Issue #1368, January 2, 1999, U.S.A. Originally in Au lac Language)

"ONE WORLD OF PEACE ...
THROUGH MUSIC"

-- CHARITY CONCERT FOR LESS FORTUNATE
CHILDREN

On Friday evening, December 18, 1998, "One World Of Peace ... Through Music," a benefit concert organized by the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association, was held at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles. The event was hosted by actress Debbie Reynolds and actor John Moschitta.

The two above-mentioned performers are tireless humanitarians. Ms. Reynolds is a supporter of Girl Scouts and Thalians; Mr. Moschitta has raised more than four million dollars for charity organizations. All proceeds from the evening's benefit concert went to charities serving children with disabilities and terminal illnesses. Starlight Children's Foundation, presided by Mr. Marc Cohen, received $100,000. Ms. Shoshana Grammer and Mr. Mike Driebe, representatives from St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, accepted on behalf of their organization a $150,000 contribution from the Supreme Master Ching Hai.

Accompanied by a 60-piece orchestra, the program included the performancers of singers, composers, and actors from Hollywood, such as Samantha Hunt, Shep Lonsdale (from Gaelic Storm), Kerry Walsh, Anne Marie Ketchum, Mel Kubik, Steven Cooper, Bill Conti, Peter Boyer, Fred Karlin, George Thatcher, Maria Newman, Nicole Campbell, and the Pasadena Boys Choir, just to mention a few.

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Mass Media Broadcasts Message of Truth, Beauty and Virtue (Continued)

CHARITY SCORECARD >

Ching Hai, center, presents donations at the "One World" event, with Debbie Reynolds, left, John Moschitta, Marc Cohen and Mike Driebe.

Debbie Reynolds and John Moschitta, former "fastest talker" record holder, hosted the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Assn.'s "One World ... of Peace Through Music" benefit concert Dec. 18. About 6,000 people attended the event at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles, which featured the Beach Boys Family & Friends (led by original Beach Boy Al Jardine, accompanied by his sons, Matt and Adam; Wendy and Carnie Wilson, daughters of Brian Wilson; and Owen Elliot, daughter of the late Mama Cass Elliot). Composers-conductors Bill Conti and Fred Karlin, and Gaelic Storm, the Irish band from "Titanic," also performed. Composer Maria Newman presented a piece conducted by George Thatcher, featuring soprano Anne Marie Ketchum, and Kerry Walsh sang a song composed and conducted by Peter Boyer; these compositions were musical adaptations of the poetry of Ching Hai, the supreme master of the humanitarian organization. Ching Hai, a poet and religion and meditation teacher, donated $250,000, which will benefit St. Jude Children's Research Hospital and the Starlight Children's Foundation.

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Mass Media Broadcasts Message of Truth, Beauty and Virtue (Continued) Media Reports height="60">

Mabuhay News, Philippines, January 1-15, 1999
L.A. Snoops & Scoops
By Romy P. Borje (Originally in English) >

As we close the curtain and bid good-bye to the old year, we usher the New Year (1999), with optimism and high hopes. Wordsmiths will coin words and phrases that rhyme with 1999: "It's Mine 1999, A year to Opine," "Let's Have More Sunshine in 1999," and all that jazz.

Forecasters, newsmakers, writers and opinionmakers will dramatize intriguing oddities of the year, perhaps illuminating our journey toward the challenges that beset us for our quantum leap towards the next millennium. It's a deep subject!

It was a cold and windy afternoon. We witnessed a unique show at Shrine Auditorium one of the high profile theaters in town. Of course, this is the venue of many, many high budget, upscale and well orchestrated and publicized shows. We came to reminisce the first concert of Sharon Cuneta here. It was SRO!

As dusk gathered blustery winds made us uneasy waiting at the door. By charter buses, automobiles and limos, people from near and far began arriving. All came to see the show for Ching Hai, the Supreme Master of a global group of various nationalities and cultural backgrounds. It was impossible for us to interview the Master during this historic presentation.

Ching Hai adorably hailed as a Supreme Master is a gifted lady. She's visionary, writer, poetess, painter, entertainer, fashion and jewelry designer. She is very unassuming. She is the ideal Asian mold of a tiny and petite person. She is a linguist: she speaks French, German, Vietnamese, Chinese, and of course, a good English speaker. Her works are acclaimed all over the world, especially in Europe.

The cavernous edifice was packed to the rafters. We have brushed elbows with the heavy hitters in the American entertainment industry. Using the Master's poetry as the centerpiece of this holiday extravaganza with a humongous cast of entertainers, performers: The Beach Boys Family and Friends, Gaelic Storm, who performed at the hit movie "Titanic," The Pasadena Boys Choir, and the 60-Piece Orchestra from the American Federation of Musicians, with renowned soloist artists, and narrators, not to mention the team of most sought after composers and conductors: Bill Conti, Fred Karlin, Maria Newman, George Thatcher and Peter Boyer.

Interestingly enough, DR, the emcees were Debbie Reynolds and John Moschitta, Jr, a vivacious lovely star of more than 30 motion pictures, two Broadway shows and various television appearances from here and abroad.

At age 47 she was youthful and lovely during that evening. John Moschitta, Jr was in the 1996 Guinness Book of World Records for speaking 586 words in a minute. The duo made a sparkling, humorous, witty and lively control of the program.

Here comes the star of the show. Her poems were musically interpreted and showcased. Simple, yet pregnant prose which captivates and captures the vision and theme of the this legendary heroine, dubbed as an icon of philanthropy. A humanitarian through and through.

She donated $250.000 during the show for the Starlight Children's Foundation and St Jude Children's Research and treatment of potentially fatal childhood diseases. The Philippines was the recipient of her donation in connection with the Mt. Pinatubo eruption.

"Small but terrible" but Supreme Master Ching Hai is a helping hand to attain one world with her humanitarian pursuits. The best minds in the entertainment industry converted the evening into a roaring success worth the attention of Hollywood and the world.

The producers said: "Like a river carrying the pure mountain water into the valleys below, the language of music holds universal secret to the inner depths of our love, creativity and existence. Weaving the tapestry of life in an intricate dance of harmonic creation, the listener becomes the listened, the player, the played Life has seen few constants and music is one of them, and it is this musical life - force that can carry us through to peace throughout the world."

But Master Ching Hai got all the raves. Thunderous standing ovations. How a simple frail woman, but brilliant intellect, can change the course of world events. At the end of the show, many bouquets of flowers were presented to her. She jestingly quipped: "I don't need flowers; I'm a flower myself." To which the audience once again roared with thunderous standing applause.

Indeed we like to remember the old year like this.

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Mass Media Broadcasts Message of Truth, Beauty and Virtue (Continued) PEACE Media Reports height="60">

Weekend BALITA, December 18-24, 1998

<THE ROVING EYE>

By Romy Borje (Originally in English)

One world:

We had the privilege of getting the details of a concert produced by Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association to be held at the Shrine Auditorium on December 18th at 8:00 p.m. Trang Vo, a staffer of the producer, provided a very impressive cast of the show. However, the background of this humanitarian and producer showed in the past performances that in 1991 Mt. Pinatubo Volcanic eruption; 1993 Southern California fires; the Oklahoma City bombing; the 1994 Northridge earthquake, including numerous charities and causes like the American Cancer Society, the American Foundation for AIDS research, the International Red Cross, the Salvation Army, Department of Veteran Affairs, Health Education Alternative Liaison (HEAL) the Cotonou Infant's in terms of cash donation and manpower in implementing its relief capabilities.

The curtain raisers:

Supreme Master Ching Hai, the founder of this foundation is a gifted poetess.

By popular demand she has agreed to have her poems set in music by the Oscar and Emmy Award-winning composer Fred Karlin for the symphonic portrait The Peace Seeker.

 Beach Boys Family &Friends:

The Group is under the guidance of the original member singer/songwriter Alan Jardine, the lead vocalist of "Help Me Rhonda," a new exciting incarnation, of the Beach Boys, who will begin touring this fall.

Fred Karlin:

He has many film scores to his credit. But Peace Seeker was specifically written to be set around the beautiful lyrics of Supreme Master Ching Hai which reflects the inspirational message of the evening.

The foundation is composed of a diverse group of people from different professions, religious, cultural backgrounds and world regions. Through their sponsored concerts and performances they strive to make a difference in the world by acting with love and compassion. Ching Hai believes that "compassion is the key to bringing peace on earth and attaining peace a visible reality."

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Mass Media Broadcasts Message of Truth, Beauty and Virtue (Continued) Media Reports

The Sunrise Morning News, Australia, January 16, 1999

Excerpt from Hollywood

Attending the Gala Concert
"ONE WORLD OF PEACE ...
THROUGH MUSIC"

Report by Vuong Tung, Ph.D. (Originally in Au Lac language)

In the midst of a chilly winter, the sky at the years end was filled with sparkling stars, all roads leading to the entertainment capital of the U.S.A. suddenly became increasingly busy as a mass of people from around the world and across the U.S.A. harmoniously flowed to the grand Shrine Auditorium. A site where the prestigious Hollywood Academy Awards and Emmy Awards ceremonies are held, it is world-renowned for its elegance.

On the evening of December 18, 1998, an unprecedented event made its mark on the prestigious grand Shrine Auditorium. A musical gala organized by the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association entitled "One World Of Peace ... Through Music," was made possible by the contributing performances of musicians, vocalists, movie stars, and legendary composer-conductors who have made headlines for many years in the entertainment world.

Music and poetry lovers and well-known artists gathering in the heart of the world's capital of light demonstrated harmony among performers and audience, and the glorious creativity and boundless compassion that allowed them to merge into moments of sympathy and spontaneity. The concert was not produced for sensual enjoyment alone, but also to reach out to children suffering from disabilities and terminal illnesses. The proceeds from the concert were not directed to a certain geographical area or country, but extended to the entire world for these suffering children.

Promptly at 6:00 PM, after formal welcoming procedures, guests and audience members gathered in the lobby of the Grand Auditorium to tour the exhibition venue displaying art creations by the saintly artist Master Ching Hai. People were highly impressed by the wealth of Her creativity and Her multi-faceted talents. The artwork instilled uplifting feelings and peaceful inner joy that prepared one for the uniquely created entertainment of this special evening. By 8:00 PM, more than 6,000 audience members had filled the spacious grand auditorium that fronted a giant stage lavishly decorated with butterflies in bright and shimmering colors enhanced by a lively lighting system to convey a soft and uplifting atmosphere.

In today's world, peace is the ultimate longing of humanity. "The Peace Seeker" a combination of verses from one of Supreme Master Ching Hai's poems, was subdivided into three sections. It was interpreted by the legendary composer/conductor Fred Karlin and was uniquely presented and transformed into a highly creative musical performance with the supporting voice of The Pasadena Choir, the most highest acclaimed and oldest boys choir in the United States. This performance was described as the greatest and most laboriously composed one conducted by the magic wand of Peter Boyer, who held the audience breathless while following the transition of musical sounds. The entire scene was enhanced by the sophisticated background and supporting lighting.

Next came the moment when Supreme Master Ching Hai was cordially invited on stage to present checks to the Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital and Starlight Children's Foundation. Program host John Moschitta solemnly proclaimed: "We have heard of Her fame, enjoyed Her perfectly written poems, and known Her deep visions. This is the moment we truly meet our revered Teacher. Please welcome the VIP of this evening, the Supreme Master Ching Hai." Like a shining star, clad in a white evening gown, Master Ching Hai gently walked onto the stage amidst a standing ovation, and said: "I greatly appreciate what you have done for us, for God, and for myself. This is indeed a pleasant surprise. I am surprised at the greatness of the program. I was invited to enjoy a musical performance of some songs composed from my poems, but I am totally surprised and exhilarated. On this occasion, please allow me to send a small contribution on your behalf to these two noble organizations. They have cared for disabled and unfortunate children unconditionally without thinking of any return, but God will know. God will be fully aware of their efforts. This gift is donated from the audience. I will only sign it on your behalf."

Two checks were presented. A check for $100,000 was presented to Mr. Marc Cohen, Chairman of the Starlight Children's Foundation, who said: "It is my honor to represent the Starlight Children's Foundation on this pleasant evening. Over the last 15 years, the Starlight Children's Foundation has never stopped in its efforts to brighten the lives of children with terminal diseases around the world. We are greatly honored to have known of the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association and to have received this gift from the Association. Each year, the Starlight Children's Foundation extends help to over 500,000 children with terminal illnesses. Each month, over 57,000 children receive help from the Foundation. Currently, we have over 400 recreational centers at hospitals throughout the nation to assist children with critical illnesses who are unable to move. In addition, in Los Angeles, we have three centers, one at Long Beach Memorial Hospital, one at USC, and one at UCLA. All children and volunteers at the Starlight Children's Foundation are very excited to be part of this magnificent, joyful day."

The second check, for $150,000, was presented to Mrs. Shoshana Grammer and Mr. Mike Driebe, representatives of the Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital. Mrs. Grammer was unable to control her emotions as she read her statement: "On behalf of thousands of children around the world, who are fighting against cancer, AIDS, leukemia, and other terminal diseases to regain their lives, this evening we are thankful to Supreme Master Ching Hai and you, who have opened up compassionate hearts to help children at the Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital. Thanks to your generosity, we are able to come one step closer to finding the cures for these illnesses. The founder of the Saint Jude Children's Research Hospital, actor Danny Thomas, once said: 'It is impossible to leave a child dying at an early age.' He also believed that children around the world should all have the same opportunity to receive care and benefits from the Hospital's research work. Like the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association, the St. Jude Hospital is also an international organization. This year, children from over 60 countries have been brought to Memphis, Tennessee for medical treatment. We serve the children without national boundaries or regard to political systems. The Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association and the St. Jude Hospital have a similarity, which is love for children and the mutual love we maintain for each other. Hence, we are able to work miracles, and this evening you've enabled a miracle to perfectly take place for these fortunate children. I greatly appreciate it, and on this occasion, the Chairman of the Los Angeles center, Mr. Mike Driebe, has a plaque of appreciation to present to You. Thank You."

After the presentations, program host Debbie Reynolds, along with conductor Peter Boyer, invited Supreme Master Ching Hai to return to the stage for a joint performance with the orchestra conducted by Mr. Boyer. An unplanned event, it was a joyful surprise when Master Ching Hai accepted their invitation. In a modest and gentle manner, She began singing "Farewell Song," with the music and lyrics written by Herself. The entire auditorium was in complete silence as the audience attentively listened and thousands of hearts overflowed when the singing ended amidst a standing ovation that shook the auditorium.

After the performance, a reception at the exhibition venue was held by the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association for the evening's special guests and performers. An atmosphere of closeness and openness was created through the loving presence of Master Ching Hai. Many actors and artists expressed their admiration and were touched by Master's love and compassion as they exchanged intimate talk and commented that the evening was a musical event that had left them with unforgettable impressions. Many people remarked that the musical gala was an extraordinary event and beyond all their expectations. Duly deserved compliments go to Hollywood's great performing actors and super vocalists, but what also deserves consideration and made a deep impression is the work of the organizing staff - the erection of such a magnificent stage, proper and orderly arrangements for many thousands of people, and a courteous reception for each guest.

However, these are the outer appearances. As far as the deeper meaning is concerned, the adventure into Hollywood's world of fame, wealth, and social status left untouched the compassionate love, noble deeds, and clemency of the participants, who reached out to the poor of the world. It was a message promoting love, a bell rung to awaken and save people from indulging more deeply in the lavish, gaudy, and worldly life. The highlight of this gala will further echo throughout Hollywood and remain in the hearts of many people, not because of its magnificence, but because of the message of Master Ching Hai's boundless compassion and love.

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Philippines Weekend Balita, U.S.A. The Sunrise Morning News, Australia
Mass Media Broadcasts Message of Truth, Beauty and Virtue (Continued) A. "Aesthetic Literature and Art- Drama - Women" No.50 February 1999 Canada (Originally in Au Lac language) B. "The Arts" No.59 February 1999 Canada (Originally in Au Lac language) C. Fine Literary Work's in Spring 1999 - the year of the Cat, Viet News , U.S.A. (Originally in Au Lac language) D. "The Times" January 10, 1999, U.S.A. (Originally in Au Lac language) E. Viet Economic Daily News, Celebration of the year of the Cat 1999, U.S.A. (Originally in Au Lac language) F. Irish News, U.S.A. (Originally in English) Media Reports

Mass Media Broadcasts Message of
Truth, Beauty and Virtue (Continued)

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Mass Media Broadcasts Message of Truth, Beauty and Virtue (Continued) Letters of Appreciation

By Composer:
Maria Newman,
February 4, 1999
(Originally in English)

Dearest Supreme Master Ching Hai,

Please forgive the very long delay in writing to you! My husband, George Thatcher and I were blessed with a baby girl very recently and we are just now coming up for air! She is wonderful and healthy! Thank the Lord!

We were so very honored to have been a part of the benefit concert at the Shrine back on December 18, 1998. We are inspired by what you have done for humankind and can only learn from such an outstanding human being such as yourself. On behalf of George and myself, thank you from the very bottom of our hearts.

I loved writing music to your lovely poetry as I found it as inspiring as you are...

I am hoping to professionally record "The Prince," and look forward to working with you on this should it be of interest to you!

Thank you again for your belief in my music and thank you even more for what you have done for the children of the Starlight Foundation and St. Jude's! Mankind will be forever in your debt...

Report from Formosa

A series of "Heartwarming Winter" activities were held in Formosa lately. Those cared for were families with low income or difficult situations, the homeless, physically and mentally disabled people, abused women and children, prison inmates and parolees. The ways of caring also varied from monetary contribution and New Year's gifts to free medical treatment, free haircuts, entertainment and food service. Enclosed are some representative activities. Please see details in the "Heartwarming Winter" activity financial statements at the end of this column.

Love in Action

Fellow initiates from Taipei paid numerous visits to the street people.

On February 4, Ms. Jin-Mien Wu, Director of the Wanhua Welfare Service Center, accepted $50,000 NT from the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association to be used for homeless people.

[Taipei] In concert with officials from the civil department of the Taipei municipal government, a series of events entitled "Heartwarming Winter" activities was organized by fellow initiates from the Taipei Center. In early February, a cold front suddenly moved into the Taipei area and temperatures dropped abruptly. Freezing wind blew through the sparse clothing of the street people who were unprepared for this sudden change in weather. However, even before the arrival of the cold front's first wave, dozens of fellow initiates had responded to an emergency call from the Taipei Center. After preparing hot and tasty vegetarian meals, we went to places that already had been identified as favorite haunts of the homeless, including the Wanhua Railway Station, the Taipei Railway Station, the Bureau of Public Transportation, the Taipei Municipal Social and Educational Hall, and various locations in the surrounding areas. God's love and warmth were thus sent in a timely way to the local street people. Seeing their expressions of gratitude and shyness, a sense of love welled up in us, with a feeling of contentment that we had had the opportunity to serve these needy souls.

In January, the Taipei Center contributed more than one hundred sets of underwear and one hundred lined wind-resistant coats to the Wanhua Welfare Service Center of Taipei's Bureau of Social Affairs, hoping that these supplies would meet the emergency needs of the homeless. In an earlier investigation, fellow initiates from the Taipei Center and officers from the civil department went together to areas where homeless people usually gathered. At present, the Taipei Center is considering the purchase of a bath-truck, a bathroom on wheels, for the civil department to use in providing services to the homeless. Although some technical problems must first be resolved, the hitherto unknown bath-truck is on its way to fruition.

1. Contributing the underwear and wind-resistant coats to the Wanhua Welfare Service of Taipei's Bureau of Social Affairs.

2. On February 12, Mr. Ying-Jeou Ma, Mayor of Taipei (left), presented a banner of appreciation to the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association. He praised the Association's volunteers for the love and care they showed toward the homeless.

3. Mr. Ying-Jeou Ma, Taipei's Mayor, personally helped a homeless soul put on a jacket donated by the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association.

Love in Action

Madam Chang Wen Ying, Mayor of Taichung City, extends her thanks to fellow practitioners who were giving free haircuts to the homeless.

[Taichung] On January 31, a major drive to provide care for the homeless people in Taichung was jointly convened by the Taichung Municipal Government and civil charity groups.
The loving concern and meticulous care shown by these volunteers really deserves our praise. Clothes and shoes were distributed on the spot, and many services were provided such as bathing, haircuts, health education, free medical care, personal interviews and meals.

After a haircut and a bath, and changing into new clothes, the homeless people looked completely new. The sick were taken care of by medical, surgical, dental, and dermatology experts. At the same time, health and social workers took the opportunity to persuade the homeless to move into accommodation homes, while giving them guidance about health in daily life.

This activity was convened by the Taichung Municipal Government and was cosponsored by the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association, Buddhist Compassion relief Tzu-Chi Foundation, Ci Xin Charity Association, and the Volunteer Team from the Veterans General Hospital. Several days before the program began, fellow practitioners of the Taichung Center began combing the streets and lanes at midnight, looking for the homeless, and giving them invitation cards and gifts. On the day of the event, fellow practitioners were responsible for receiving the homeless, giving them haircuts, and providing bathing facilities for them.

Initiates share Master's love with mentally handicapped children.

[Ilan] In January, two activities were held by Ilan Center initiates to extend love and concern to the needy.

They presented Master's love gifts of jackets and vegetarian food to the homeless, and visited the St. Camillus Center for mentally handicapped children where they presented gifts, daily necessities, and red envelopes of money.

Love in Action

Initiates visit the Chankuang Children's Home representing the international Quan Yin family.

[Hualien] The activities of "The Spiritual Journey of the Quan Yin Family" drew the enthusiastic support of disciples, both young and old. Initiates, laden with gifts that area children truly needed, received a warm welcome from both children and teachers upon arriving at the Chankuang Children's Home on the evening of December 5, 1998.

On February 8,1999, fellow practitioners visited "AN-TE Center" founded by a French priest. It is an education and cultivation center that specializes in taking care of mentally handicapped children. The priests and nuns who work there train the older children to do craft work, but it usually takes the children six months to learn one task. The love and patience of these devoted priests and nuns is truly touching and admiring.

  > Sharing of Love

Love in Action

Fellow practitioners from Taitung form groups to extend their love and concern to destitute households in rural areas throughout the county.

[Taitung] In addition to the monthly activities of helping the poor, fellow practitioners from Taitung expanded the scope of their work before the Chinese New Year. To share Master's love and demonstrate concern for families in need of urgent help, fellow practitioners donated blankets and used clothing, much of which appeared brand new. They also distributed food, red envelopes containing lucky money, and New Year gifts to destitute families so that they could enjoy the New Year's Festival.

Love in Action

Sending warm blankets and beds to local youngsters on a mountain.

[Taoyuan] Miss Momo Mashaw is a native craftswoman living in a mountainous area of Formosa. Seeing that the local youngsters with handicaps usually have few opportunities to find employment, she began a program to teach them traditional crafts and provide them with psychological counseling services so that they would have a chance for a better future. To accommodate these students with her limited finances, some daily necessities were much needed. Upon learning about this problem, fellow initiates visited her to help provide the needed things, while some initiates helped to make work tables and repair the house.

Love in Action

Fellow practitioners in the medical profession (both Chinese and Western) from all areas of Formosa gathered in Hsihu County to provide free medical care and to conduct health seminars.

Visiting low-income families and lonely elderly people.

[Hsihu] The 99' "Delivering Loving Warmth in Winter," activities held in Hsihu County were sponsored by the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association and assisted by the Hsihu County Medical Clinic, Sanitation-Promotion Committee, Security of Hsihu County, and local village governments.

The activities consisted of two parts. The first, free medical check-ups and treatment were rendered by doctors that were fellow-initiates specializing in traditional Chinese or Western medicine. They came from major hospitals located throughout the Province. The second part included loving visits to disadvantaged elderly and low-income families in the various villages. The visitors included fellow initiates, staff from the village government, and members of the Security Committee of Hsihu County.

On that day, even before the preparation stage was completed, villagers began to come in to register for check-ups and treatment. After they were finished, some returned home to tell their family and friends about the activities, who, in turn, stopped their farm work and rushed to the venue to take advantage of this rare opportunity. Their big hurry even caused temporary increases in heart rate and a rise in blood pressure, adding more fun to the event.

Free topical presentations were given along with the treatments. The professional lectures on health maintenance given by the doctors were welcomed warmly by the villagers and a pleasant and harmonious atmosphere pervaded the venue.

As the free check-ups were being conducted, another activity was occurring simultaneously. Guided by village government staff workers, fellow initiates visited thirty-seven low-income families and twenty-three disadvantaged elderly persons, giving each one a special Spring Festival present of NT$1,000 and some articles with which to combat the winter cold. During the visits, when initiates discovered that senior citizens or family members needed treatment, they transported them to and from the free check-up and treatment area. The needs of everyone were assessed and conscientiously met.

Central Daily News, Formosa February 1, 1999

County Government official Ms. Yang, Hsiu-hsia visited each site and expressed her thanks to the fellow practitioners and staff. She also invited the doctor disciples to stay in the Hsihu County area to work. At the conclusion of the event, people thanked each other and Master for this beautiful "Delivering Loving Warmth in Winter" activity.

  Free Treatment
with Love;
Warm Visits with Care Love and Medical Care Delivered to Homes

Love in Action

A voluntary medical team formed by fellow practitioners visited low-income people
and the elderly.

[Taichung] From February 2 to 12, the Taichung Center participated in a series of activities convened by the Taichung Municipal Government, referred to as "Express Courier of Warmth," "Love in Winter" and "Love United". A total of NT$50,000 was distributed to households suffering from financial difficulties due to sudden disasters last year. Also, a medical team was organized to visit low-income people, including forty-one elderly living alone in the Taichung area, showing loving concern for them and providing medical treatment free of charge.

Fellow initiates - the most efficient volunteers.

[Taichung] In accordance with the repair work on Industry Road in Bu-Tzu Koln, Taichung, on the afternoon of Sunday, November 22, 1998, fellow initiates from the Taichung Center gathered to clean the nearby road. With hoes and sickles in hand, fellow initiates (young and old, male and female) and some local residents swiftly made the weedy and messy roadsides clean and tidy.

Love in Action Love Knows No Limits

Love in Action

Letter of appreciation from a child in Nantou who receives regular financial aid from fellow initiates.

[Nantou] In addition to visiting poor households in our regular assistance program, we recently called at the home of an elementary school student, bringing with us the Supreme Master Ching Hai News magazines and some relief cash. The boy's parents were alcoholics and did not have a steady income. It was thus not unusual for the boy to miss a meal. We explained the reason for our visit and promised his mother a cash subsidy every ten days as well as a monthly allowance for the boy. We also expressed our readiness to purchase any daily necessities they required. The mother was profoundly grateful, but we promptly explained that we were acting in accordance with Master's teachings: rich or poor, noble or low, all people are God's children. Therefore, when someone is in need, we should do our best to help him. We pray that they will soon overcome their mental and material ordeals.

Love in Action

[Chiayi] Currently in our society, many youths have fallen into poverty and discontinued their academic studies because of family disruptions such as parental divorce, injury or death. Lacking the love and care of parents and the skills needed to earn a living, they are direly in need of societal intervention. Thus, a group of non-governmental organizations and enterprises in Chiayi, Formosa, sponsored a benefit entertainment party entitled, "Love in Chiayi - Show our concern for the Youth" to raise funds to help these youngsters return to school. Upon learning of this meaningful activity, the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association in Chiayi provided volunteers to help, and also contributed NT$10,000.

Love in Action

Fellow initiates from Chiayi and members of other organizations entertain senior citizens with singing and dancing.

[Chiayi] With the support of the Chiayi municipal government, fellow initiates from the Chiayi Center invited community organizations in the area, including the International Tong-Jee Society, the Chiayi Lions Club, and the Seeu-Lan Culture and Education Foundation, to cosponsor an activity entitled "Heartwarming Winter - Love on Earth." Together, they paid visits to senior citizens in the Home of Love, the Home of Compassion, and the Home of Jee-May Care. Lucky money was presented to the seniors as gifts for the Lunar New Year. Through songs and dances, initiates entertained the seniors with warmth that preceded the coming spring.

Love in Action

Initiates at the Kan Da Halfway Home

[Kao-Ping] On February 26, Kaoshiung and Pingtung initiates visited the Kan Da Halfway Home, established by the Missionary Sisters of the Immaculate Conception of the Mother of God (SMIC), to bring Master's love and comfort along with some money, food and daily supplies, etc., to its residents.

Warm Love Thaws the Winter Chill Report form USA

Love in Action

Homeless people at the Drop-In Center, a shelter in Cincinnati, enjoy vegetarian meals prepared by fellow initiates on New Year's Day.

On New Years' Eve, Midwestern disciples from Indiana, Kentucky, and Ohio gathered at the Ohio Center to prepare vegetarian food and gifts for more than 200 homeless people. As we began the work, everyone was filled with enthusiasm, especially the initiated children, who were eager to participate in filling gift bags for the homeless.

As soon as we arrived at the Drop-In Center in Cincinnati, Ohio, some of homeless people in the area recognized us immediately because of a similar project we had conducted last year. They jumped with joy and yelled, "You are with the organization of the Spiritual Master!"

As the homeless people enjoyed our delicious vegetarian dishes, it gave us great joy to listen to their stories about the help they had received from Master through the sample booklets.

When it was time for us to leave, some asked us not to go, and one homeless woman hugged a female disciple and cried. Both of them were in tears as Master's love overflowed in their hearts.

Love in Action

[Denver] Initiates from the Colorado Center assembled on November 15, 1998 after Sunday group meditation to distribute hats and gloves to the homeless in the City Park, the 16th Street Mall, and areas adjacent to the Catholic Mission for the Homeless. They provided hot chocolate and baked goods as well as sample booklets, hoping to bring both material and spiritual food to the needy.

  Thanksgiving  

Love in Action

[Seattle] The Sunday following Thanksgiving was a cold and rainy day, but the hearts of fellow initiates from the Seattle Center were full of joy and love. We were setting out to distribute food to the homeless and hungry of downtown Seattle.

Carpooling from the Center, we resembled a caravan heading for the downtown area. Distribution of the blankets, food, soft drinks, and the spiritual food, The Supreme Master Ching Hai News magazines, was greeted with joy and friendly conversation. Their happy smiles, like the sun, helped to warm our hearts as we sought to bring some sunshine into lives of the hungry and homeless.

We are very thankful to Master for this opportunity to feel what Thanksgiving is all about, and we also are thankful to be able to give to others.

Love in Action

Master's video lecture programs, posters, and free sample booklets and News magazines draw a crowd to our booths at New Year's exhibition.

Distribution of New Year's gifts to each needy family.

Report from Canada

[Montreal] This year, the Montreal Center participated in two New Year's exhibitions, one on January 30 & 31, and another on February 14, and distributed New Year's gifts to the needy Chinese and Aulac familes.

Unlike prior years, the news about Master's New Year's gift distributions to the poor and needy Aulac families was announced repeatedly on the Aulac radio channel almost every Sunday leading up to the New Year's celebration. This good news also was carried in two local Aulac magazines, which helped to inform most of the Aulac community in Montreal.

Master's love, through Her New Year's gifts, once again permeated and warmed the hearts of the Aulac people living abroad in this cold country, easing somewhat their loneliness and nostalgic feelings while reminding them of the animated and lively atmosphere of the Tet celebration in their native land.

Letters of appreciation from the Au Lac people who received the gifts.

Expenses for Helping the Poor during the 1999 Spring Festival Montreal Center/Canada Items Amounts (in CAN $) # Receipt Red envelopes (with lucky money) 980.0   Rice 616.0 A Lotus Candies, Teas, Cakes 631.31 B Daily Necessities 545.17 C Miscellaneous 351.20 D Exhibition booth & panels location 360.00 E Total Expenses : (in CAN $) 3,483.68   Equal to the US$ 2,300.00  

Photocopies of the Receipts

The receipts of the relief work with the needy in Montreal, Canada
during Lunar New Year

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Love in Action

Sao Paulo initiates distribute food to the homeless on New Year's Day.

Report from Brazil

Setting off fireworks and lighting colorful lanterns began the New Year's celebration and a brand-new future in Sao Paulo, Brazil. Whereas a festive mood prevailed everywhere, fellow initiates did not forget the poor and needy, including the homeless. Since most of the local stores and restaurants were closed during the holiday season, fellow initiates chose New Year's Day to distribute food to the homeless who lived under bridges and on the streets.

Sao Paulo is a huge city, and the amount of food distributed on New Year's Day of 1999 was almost twice as much as that of previous distribution efforts.

Visiting an Orphanage

In February, fellow practitioners from Brazil carried Master's love to a small orphanage, also bringing with them a monetary contribution for the orphans. In the beginning, the children were shy, but their shyness soon melted in the warm love of the initiates. Some held onto the initiates' shoulders for a prolonged time, not wanting to let go. Such a scene made us sad as we realized how desperately these orphans are in need of love. May Master's love bless each of these souls!