Master Says
Men's Deep Affection
Spoken By Supreme Master Ching Hai 7-Day Retreat Hsihu Center, Formosa
May 5-12, 1991 (Originally In Chinese, unabridged)
I know it's not easy for men to practice. They're more easily agitated,
more active and more competitive. They have more loving feelings. Everyone
thinks women are more affectionate. Actually, men are more affectionate.
Their affection is too deep to express. Shedding one or two tears, women
will be okay. (Laughter) They pour out their feelings, shed tears, "washing"
everything away.
However, men cannot cry. Men can't just say anything. Men are not so talkative.
They hide their feelings deep inside -- very deep and concentrated; so
they have more sensual desires. Their sensual desires are stronger, because
they keep all their feelings deep inside, never let go. Everything is collected
there. There are no outlets. That's why it's more difficult for men to
practice.
Everywhere it seems that female practitioners are more numerous than male
practitioners. Not because they are lousy. Why are men afraid of women?
Because their affection is so deep, not because women are dangerous. They
are not dangerous, anyhow. I'm a woman. I know it.(Laughter) Nothing dangerous.
Just a little bit imprudent. What I mean is, they just say what they want
to say then it doesn't matter anymore. If men get angry, their anger lasts
longer and is deeper. But it is seldom like this for females.
We should know our shortcomings, and try to improve ourselves. It doesn't
matter! It is good to know that. In the future, if you have something on
your mind, you can cry. (Laughter) Tell someone that you love her then
you will feel better, feel more comfortable. (Master laughs.) That's true.
Sometimes if you say it, you feel more comfortable.
Men Can Cry Also
Why do I sometimes have a lot of pressure? Because some things I can't
say to just anyone. If I tell you, I will only give you trouble. You won't
understand either. I don't have a partner to talk to, (Master laughs) so
the pressure is very great sometimes.
However, you shouldn't be like this. Men are human, too. They shouldn't
pretend they are "men". No crying, but still "boo-hoo"!(Master
mimic the way men cry. Laughter) You won't lose your face if you cry. It
makes you feel very comfortable. God has made this "system" so
that our inner resentments have an outlet.
Like a water tower, it has a hole. If the tower is too full, it will overflow.
The sink has a hole inside,too. If it is too full, even something clogged
at the bottom, the water still can run out. Any system is similar to this.
So, if you got something on your mind, you'd better find a friend to talk
to, or tell it to the one you like. No matter whether they agree with it
or not, just say it. I mean, for example, if you have a very strong feeling
toward someone. Just tell her but don't expect that she will accept it.
It's okay if she doesn't; you just say it. At least, you will know whether
she accepts it or not. If you just keep it inside, it is more troublesome.
When we get angry with someone, we feel too shy to complain. It's the same
when you are angry with your wife, just tell her. Sometimes, you misunderstand
her. Sometimes, she misunderstands you. If you talk it out then she will
understand better. Sometimes she doesn't understand right away, but afterwards
she might think it over, "Oh, you're right!" Then the situation
will change. You should give it a try.
Most men don't understand themselves, did you know that? They think they
are apathetic and have no feelings, because they can't cry and express
their feelings. No, men are most affectionate. People normally think men
are betrayers - easy to forsake their family. It's not true. It means it's
easier for men to leave the family. No! Mostly people who run away from
families and leave their children alone are not men, but women. (Master
laughs.) Just check the statistics. I didn't check, but that's what I've
noticed. Men have more sense of responsibility. Though they don't love
their wives very much sometimes, they still stay at home. Most women always
squabbled, are agitated and jealous. Their reactions are stronger.
Men's feelings are deeper. Mostly men are the ones who obstruct their wives
from practicing. Some women sneak out or run away at times. Their husbands
don't even want them to go out. Not because they are dictators, but they
love their wives very much. There is no husband who doesn't love his wife.
It's rare to find a man who doesn't love his wife lifelong.
Sometimes, they go outside to take a look at other women. Surely, if they
see a pretty one, they also fix their eyes on her; but they won't give
their love to her so easily. It is always the women who run back to their
parents, men don't. Very rarely men run back to their parents, always women.
(Laughter) It's not so?(A:Yes!) This means men's emotions are steadier,
deeper. He knows what he wants, but women are more imprudent.
You don't have to misunderstand yourself. Emotions are useful. You don't
need to ignore or hide them. If we are full of emotions, the power in us
will be enormous. Emotions are very useful. We can concentrate them on
practicing, and it would be very good. Therefore, most of the masters are
men. My destiny is bad. I don't know why. How come a person like me with
my female qualities can be a master? It's because I have male qualities,
too; not only female.
You, men, should try to understand yourselves more. Do you understand your
mind a little bit more now? (A: Yes!) Although I'm not a man, I do understand
you better. It is strange! Have you ever understood yourselves very well?
You have? (Someone: Not very often!) You wouldn't think you are so affectionate.
Those who run back to their parents' home are always women. Women get upset
easily(Master laughs), but men are more prudent and steadier. They know
they love their wife, why should they run away? They think it's no use
running away.
I've seen many wives who have ran away from their families, leaving their
children there. Their husbands still brought them up. It's very hard, but
they are willing to do that. Originally, we thought that only women could
take care of children. It's not true, as long as we have the loving and
caring affections, we can do anything.
Just like in the animal world, who teaches them to look after the babies?
We human beings can learn this by language. We also have nurseries or many
materials for baby-care. Some pregnant women go somewhere to learn baby-care
before they give birth; they learn what they should do. But animals don't
have this kind of system. They cannot print information books. They can
take care of babies very well, too, right? (A: Yes)
Some animals, like the apes, they keep holding their baby in their arms,
even after the baby has died. The mother keeps holding the dead baby until
the body is putrid. Then, the mother ape herself also gets infected and
dies, because they have love for their children.
So, do not think only women can look after children. Why do women look
after the children? After giving birth, she thinks it belongs to her. (Master
laughs.) Sometimes, she regards her husband as an outsider, the third party,
"There's only two of us." (Master laughs.) That's why when a
baby is born, the couple's relationship is affected. It is because the
wife loves the child so much that she forgets who is the most important
person. From day to night she only takes care of the child, and almost
forgets her husband.
Another reason is, men usually go out to work. They are very compassionate,
thinking their wife is frail after having given birth to the baby. So,
they should stay at home while they go out to work very hard to support
the family.
Therefore, from ancient time, it has always been women looking after children;
not because they are more capable. Most people misunderstand this. I know
that it is because men are more compassionate. No wonder most gurus are
men.
So, you don't have to despise yourselves. Men's love is not like women's;
women are apt to reveal their feelings. They do all the embracing, weeping,
wailing, making a lot of noise or something like that. But men have a steadier
compassion. It's just very normal, very common and very usual. Even men
themselves don't recognize their own compassion, because they originally
had it. So they take it for granted.
It is like we, practitioners, don't recognize our greatness either. We
only know that we make progress everyday. That's it. We just get used to
it. Except when someone talks to us, then we discover that their level
is far below ours. Then we realize - practice makes us different. Though
we know the difference, we don't feel arrogant.
Similarly, men's compassion is more natural. Because they already had it,
they don't feel anything great. When women have a little bit of compassion,
they exaggerate, talk a lot, and make it known nationwide. They only do
a little good, and everyone knows it. Just like me, I'm worldwide famous,
not only nationwide. Everyone knows I have compassion. (Master laughs and
audience applauds.) However, even if the whole country knows that, I myself
know nothing about it. It's different.
Attaining The Truth With The Spirit Of Sacrifice
So, I think since ancient times, most male practitioners have become gurus.
That's for sure. Today, our viewpoints have to change a little bit. We
should not always listen to what people say. That's how it is. Fewer women
sacrifice themselves and say, "Let me go out to work. You stay at
home and look after the children." They think their husband should
feed them. Even though some women are not yet married, they have this expectation
already. Getting married is being fed by someone, and having someone to
rely on, lacking the idea of independence.
It's not all their fault, either. Maybe it's because of the way they think,
their weaker bodies by nature, and their more frightened characters. Also,
they are brought up to think that a woman should be dependent on a man.
So, that is not only women's fault, but the system of the whole world makes
it like that also.
Actually, women do have this kind of attitude. They're used to it, perhaps
their thinking is more narrow. That's why you don't see a lot of women
sacrificing. It's rare for women to have this kind of thinking, "I'll
go out to work and let my husband stay at home and play with the kids.
He might be happier this way." Even though it is tiresome playing
with kids, it's also very comfortable.
So, sometimes we women think that looking after children is such a hard
job, and men go out working and are very free; but that's not so. Men go
out and work really hard! Sometimes they have to tolerate the boss's temper,
the pressures from the job, colleagues' jealousies, and so on. But when
we women stay at home taking care of babies, it is very comfortable; because
babies are so cute. Looking at them, you already feel very comfortable.
Babies are the ones closest to God -- their eyes are so bright; their faces
are so innocent; and their skin is so soft; the hands are so cute, so small
and so chubby. Every movement they make is so lovely. So, many people like
babies. We say that we sacrifice ourselves looking after the children at
home, but that is not true. We know taking care of children is a rewarding
and fulfilling job.
Very few women leave their children behind and go out to do something for
a long time; except, practitioners of the Quan Yin Method, we go away for
one or two weeks to attend 7-day retreats. That's different. But if she
meditates longer, she will also miss her children; and she won't be able
to bear it any longer, because she is used to looking after them. If you
men were asked to take care of the children, you would also become very
attached like that. They'd like this job. There is no one who doesn't like
kids.
So, I think men are more affectionate. That affection is the devotion for
sacrifice, not the affection for hugging. Men's love is different. When
a man loves someone, he will sacrifice for her to make her happy. Sometimes,
he doesn't even have many clothes for himself, but all the money is given
to his wife. Then, she buys cosmetics, hundreds of pairs of high-heel shoes
and fashionable clothes. He is happy when he sees her happy. He is very
delighted and proud when he sees his wife is very satisfied. Therefore,
his love is the real love.
Today, I know the difference. Strange! How come I can analyze things like
this? (Master and audience laugh.) I'm not a man. (Applause) Maybe I have
done the research -- researched inside, by sometimes being close to some
men. It is just for my research, studying their actions, studying their
states of mind. Then, I can take good care of you men; because I can't
always take care of those women. They have enough so I need take care.
They're happy that I'm a woman. 'Master is a woman!' They feel happy and
arrogant. So no need to say anything more. But, I feel that you men have
been neglected a little bit. I do not know how Shakyamuni Buddha cared
for His male students when He was alive. He was very strict. I am a woman,
perhaps I have neglected you a little bit. That's why I study so hard.
Maybe from studying so hard the answers emerged; just become enlightened.
Therefore, I realized some things today. The thoughts cross my mind very
naturally, as soon as I saw you. I didn't do it on purpose, nor did I do
any research. Everything is arranged. Do you understand that? (A: Yes,
we do.) Your love is very close to a Bohdisattva's. You have the spirit
of sacrifice. When you love someone, you like to see them happy. You are
willing to do anything that will make them happy. It means you really have
the spirit of altruism instead of egoism. When someone's happy, you're
happy. This is real love for others. It's called "altruism".
No wonder you get better results when you practice. It is no wonder that
most masters are men. That's nothing strange! Furthermore, there is a background
influence from society for men to practice, but your love is also an important
factor.
Mostly, men go out to work and support the family. Even before they marry,
they have to support their parents, family and sisters, too. It is men
who have the spirit of sacrifice.
Spiritual Practice Can Really Benefit Your Family
Besides, when the country is chaotic, men must go to war. They know that
maybe they won't come back, but they still go. They leave their wives,
families and parents behind for the country. Even though they're forced
to do it sometimes; sometimes, they are willing to go. Although men are
destined to do this, it implies that men's spirit of sacrifice is already
there. The love is very natural. It is already there. I don't know why
most men cannot recognize their virtue.
Very few men tend toward spiritual practice. Maybe it's because they are
so responsible. They think that they should work, support the family, take
care of parents and sisters...etc. Then they forget the most important
thing which is to take care of their souls. If we give our parents and
sisters millions and billions of dollars, or properties, it won't be better
than our one day's practice. It won't be better than our few minute's,
one hour of practice, not to mention one day. One day is too much!
Of course, we should give them a comfortable life if possible. If no one
can look after our parents or our sisters, we should perform our duty.
If someone can do it for us, we don't need to do the physical caring so
much. It would be better for us to take care of their spirit. If we practice,
they will get more benefit. Even their material life will be taken of care
by the Creator because of our merits.
It is said, "When one attains the Truth, nine generations will be
liberated to heaven." Anything the ancients said reveals wisdom from
their own experiences. Otherwise, why do people in every country say the
same thing? In China, it is said, "When one attains the Truth, nine
generations will be liberated to heaven." The same is said in Au Lac
and India. In India, they say five generations are liberated. They just
say a number, five generations randomly. Five or nine makes no difference.
Great Masters Think Alike
It means there are Truth seekers everywhere, and their attainment of the
wisdom is almost the same. That's why they all say the same thing. Great
minds think alike. It means people who have great wisdom usually say the
same thing. Sometimes, you study the scriptures. Reading the chapter that
Jesus said on the Mount Sainai is exactly the same as the Buddhist scriptures
about "the way of Bodhisattva". You may compare the Bible and
the Koran; they say the same thing. You can also check the Heart Sutra
scripture; all the same, nothing different. Shakyamuni didn't make a deal
with Jesus. (Laughter) They both didn't plan to say the same thing. They
didn't know each other. Also, they were born at different times and in
different places. Some people like Confucius, Lao-Tze, Socrates, and other
masters from different nations, they all said similar things. It is strange!
Sometimes, you read or listen to what I have said, which was not adapted
from the scriptures. But afterward I read the scriptures and find, "Ah!
It's exactly the same as what the scriptures have said." (Applause)
Most things I teach you are from inside. Like today, it is the first time
I have talked to you about men's affections, first time in the world. (Applause)
Is that not so? (A: Yes.) It is also the first time for me to hear about
it. (Laughter) I've never thought about these things. I've never spoken
about them before. Today I just thought about it while I was talking to
you. It was the first time. I have never heard of these before. It is always
said that women are more affectionate. Today, I didn't feel that way.
Most people say men are bad, I don't think so. That's because we human
beings are not easily satisfied. Our affection is very deep, especially
men's! How can it be so easy to give yourself completely to a woman at
first sight? So, we keep part of our affection and only give it a try.(Laughter)
When we feel that the partner doesn't suit us, we stop. We try another
one to see whether we can give her our whole love or not, but it's still
hard to trust anyone. We feel something wrong, and then go find another.
It's not that our love is ever-changing, but we haven't found the one we
can trust completely, the one we can give our deep and steady love. Is
that not so? (A: "Yes!" Applause)
It is not easy to find an ideal partner. Sometimes, someone looks right,
but after both of you talk for a while, you find it is a different story.
Sometimes, it is still not evident after the conversation. Because it is
not easy to express our feeling, so they still misunderstand anyhow.
For example, you ask your love, "Do you like red clothes?" And
she says she doesn't like red that much. So, you stop talking. Actually
,you should say that you'd like her to wear red clothes. (Master laughs
and audience applauds.) But you don't say it, you don't make it clear.
You just ask her whether she likes red clothes or not. Of course, if she
says no, then you think she doesn't like it. So, you don't want to force
her. Both of you are too polite (Laughter), and you feel unhappy for the
sake of this trivial thing. Then, you go out and look for the woman in
red. (Laughter) It is so silly! We should say what we want, no matter whether
they like it or not. Then discuss it later. Do you know how to express
it in the future?(A: "Yes!" Applause)
However, if families are not in harmony, it is also because of men; because
you always keep everything inside. You don't try to speak your mind and
you don't try hard to protect the affection and marriage. You think it
will get better by itself, because you are over-confident. You think that
it is enough for you to know that you love your wife, and think that she
certainly should know it! You think in this way, but how does she know?
Women have less of a sense of security. Do you know about that? Though
you've said it one hundred times, she still doesn't get it. (Laughter)
Sometimes, the reason why your wife doesn't treat you well is also your
own fault. You don't understand a woman's heart. That's why she always
complains. All because she wants you to say you love her, that's all. Nothing
more! If you can express that, she'll feel secure. You need not to do anything
else.
If Your Marriage Is Unphaay, You Can't Meditate Well
Why do I talk about these things -- marriage and affection? Someone may
think that I am over-doing my Master's business. No! If your marriage is
unhappy, if you don't get along well with each other, you can't be into
samadhi. Your heart is suffering. Everything is a mess. Those unhappy things
always trouble you, and you cannot recite the Holy Names, let alone get
into samadhi.(Laughter)(Yes!) At that time your wife is more important
than Master. (Laughter) I don't blame you for this. It is just a fact.
At that time you even throw away the samadhi. (Laughter) You may say, "I
don't care about it! I don't want it! I don't want that!" Even though
you want it, you cannot get it anyway, because of your bad mood.
I need to learn all these things, so that I am able to teach you. I've
learned those already. It's hard to avoid and control them. Of course,
for our practitioners, the more we practice, the better we can control
our affection; but there are some people who still are affected and suffer,
due to human affection. So it is necessary for me to address some so-called
mundane affairs to you by the way, because there is no difference between
mundane affairs and practice.
No matter who brings us the happiness, when we're in a good mood, we're
in nirvana. When we are happy, we're in nirvana, we're in paradise. When
we are happy, then we can love anyone, we can forgive anyone, and we are
willing to give anything. If we are in a bad mood, we don't like to do
anything, we don't want to take any responsibilities. There is no way even
if we want to. There is no inspiration. You'll throw everything away, including
the world. So we say Buddhist doctrines and the worldly laws work together.
That's it! So, you have experienced by yourselves.
News 65 Index
Supreme Art
Celestial Jewelry Exhibition
-- Spreading Master's Teachings
By Supreme Master News Reporters, Bangkok News Group, Thailand
(Originally In English)
The four-day Celestial Jewelry Exhibition held at the Shangri-La Hotel
in Bangkok attracted the attention of both local and foreign media. Fellow
initiates from Thailand felt very fortunate to have the opportunity to
appreciate Master's Celestial Jewelry at such a close range; and in great
numbers they participated in helping with the exhibition work on their
own initiative. They were sincerely grateful to have the good fortune to
show Master's perfect artistic masterpieces in front of their fellow countrymen.
During the show, many people, including jewelry experts, visited our booth
everyday. Fellow initiates helping at the exhibition, after appreciating
the jewelry for a while, could not help but purchase them themselves and
many thought that they were the perfect gifts, whether for others or for
themselves. When wearing the Celestial Jewelry, they all felt their hearts
fill with Master's blessing. When Master, in a new outfit of beautiful
and vibrant Celestial Clothes, ethereally graced the venue, everyone greeted
Her in the traditional Thai fashion, "Sawadee," to welcome the
most beautiful designer in the universe. Immediately afterwards, Master
came to the exhibition booth to admire Her own designs. However, She, Herself,
became the focus of the visitors attention. Her magnificent and elegant
clothing complemented Her peerless grace. Her classically elegant hairstyle,
in particular, which She, Herself, had created that day, made people acclaim
it was the epitome of perfection. People could not help but admire God's
creation is all manifested in Hiers daughter (Master). Thank You, Master,
for Your demonstration of beauty and blessings, granting us , worldly people,
the good fortune to enjoy a glorious and perfect impression from heaven.
Among all the participants in the exhibition, the S.M. booth had the best
business. During the first two days, several journalists had already come
to the booth upon learning about it through hearsay. Moreover, the latter
two days were holidays, and thus even more people crowded our booth, in
front of which was a constant stream of visitors being enchanted by the
S.M. Jewelry. Other exhibitors were very surprised to see this and were
attracted to our booth by its reputation. Some of them told us that they
had heard of Master's teachings and asked for sample booklets.
Many people who had an affinity with Master purchased the Celestial Jewelry
for themselves or as gifts for their wives; and they all believed that
by wearing the jewelry designed by Master, they could experience God's
blessing power. A couple of engaged fellow initiates came to the S. M.
booth especially to purchase their wedding rings. The local and foreign
journalists paid special attention to our booth because it continuously
attracted a great gathering of distinguished guests. The reporters carefully
collected a variety of information and materials about Master, especially
those relating to Her artistic creations, as well as brief introductions
to the Quan Yin Method, for subsequent reporting to the public.
A visitor from Sweden greatly admired Master's Celestial Jewelry. He viewed
it very carefully with a genuine smile of admiration on his face, and read
all the names of the jewelry with great thoroughness. After viewing "God's
Child" and "E.T.," he commented, "Your Master must
be a lovely, compassionate and humorous Master." A Western visitor
said that he had known Master for a long time, and took some sample booklets
to share with his friends.
The shimmering and gorgeous Celestial Jewelry, Master's sweet and pleasant
voice coming from the videotape playing at the booth, and the large poster
of Her hung on the wall, all attracted every visitors. They even stayed
there just to look Master's poster with admiration. Their interest in the
designer was obviously greater than in the jewelry itself.
The exhibition drew to a close! Yet, many people requested that the jewelry
show be extended. They felt that Master's Celestial Jewelry echoed their
own inner quality of perfection, and reminded them to accelerate their
pace to welcome the arrival of the Golden Age!
News 65 Index
Supreme Master Ching Hai News No. 65
Cover Illustration: Your Smile is as beautiful and brilliant as a blooming
lotus that comforts the withered and lonely hearts of sentient beings.
Pearls Of Wisdom
Keep The Middle Way In Spiritual Practice
Spoken By Supreme Master Ching Hai At 7-Day Retreat, Hsihu Center, Formosa
May 5-12, 1995 (Originally In Chinese)
When the karma has come, there is no use doing anything to make up for
it. If it has not yet come, then you don't have to force yourself. For
example, my clothes, they are very soft. Should they be caught by the thorns
of a rose, could I take them away immediately? They would be torn. I have
to disentangle them slowly and carefully; in that way, I can protect both
the rose and my clothes.
When the time comes we take all of them out. Everything will be fine, after
we have taken the last thorn out. There's no need to pull so fiercely.
Both would be destroyed, the rose and my clothes.
So, practice can't be too extreme. We pass through many stages in life.
We should do certain things at certain stages. Since we cannot avoid it,
it's useless to force ourselves in order to avoid it.
News 65 Index
Poem
Grandmaster In Chess Soaring Into The Azure Sky Peerless Queen
By Resident Disciple Fantastic Knight, Hsihu, Formosa (Original In Chinese)
Your graceful long hair
Is like a waterfall streaming down from the sky.
Your bright eyes
Are like sparkling, flawless blue shadows in the snow.
Your wonderful, soul-stirring voice,
Is like the relaxing wind meandering through the pine trees in the valleys.
Your fresh breath,
Is like a summer lotus adorned with pearls of morning dew.
Your light footsteps,
Are like a clear stream singing with joy,
That runs right up beside me.
I absorb this spiritual nectar of heaven and earth,
To nourish my soul and heart.
As days go by,
As if becoming a giant,
I soar through the clouds into the azure sky,
Reach out my hands to hold the sun and moon,
Only to see You, with golden light and silver powder,
Colorfully brightening the vast universe.
By Fellow Initiate Chen, Wen-Sen, Taipei, Formosa
(Originally In Chinese)
In the chess game that lasts many lifetimes,
It was I versus my brain,
It was I who was defeated, billions of times.
Across the wide river of life and death,
We once again face each other.
Every second in front of me,
I will be cautious, concentrated and absorbed,
Planning far ahead for a solid strategy,
Thinking deeply before I make each move,
In fear that one wrong move
Might lead to a defeat across the board.
I might only be a pawn,
Yet I could vanquish the king.
This lifetime around,
I can definitely take the king by surprise,
And capture his colors.
It is because Supreme Master Ching Hai is my
Grandmaster in chess!
By Fellow Initiate Chang Wei, Prague, Czechoslovakia
Listen to the angels sing in joy,
Behold the Gate of Heaven rumbling open,
Millions of golden rays burst forth,
For the good fortune of Earth they cheer.
A peerless Queen has come to the world.
Upholding a radiant torch that illuminates all,
Braving roaring waves of evil,
Innumerable souls are saved by Her mercy.
With blood and flesh,
She shoulders uncountable sins and shackles!
Demanding no worship or flowers,
She sails Her soul-saving raft.
Sincerity and love,
Are the emolument for Her teachings.
Behold the angels singing together in joy,
A peerless Queen has come to the world.
Comment: Deeply touched while reading a passage in the New Testament of
the Holy Bible, Matthew 12:42 that reads, "The queen of the South
will rise up as the judgement of the generation condemn it, because she
came from the ends of the Earth to listen to the wisdom of Solomon, and
saw someone greater than Solomon is here!" I, therefore, wrote this
poem to venerate our Master who has transcended the centuries to come here,
to rescue people from the abyss of evil.
News 65 Index
Master's Wonders
Good-bye, My Blue Days! The Incredible Magic Of Quan Yin Meditation
By Fellow Initiate Le Thi Xum, Australia
April 22, 1996 (Originally In Au Lac language)
Dear Master,
On behalf of my husband, I would like to thank You for saving him and bringing
him back to this life.
My husband, David Robert Brooks, had suffered from "stress" for
almost twenty years. We have been married for fifteen years, but I did
not know anything about his sickness because he talked calmly and worked
as any other normal person. However, sometimes he looked depressed as if
things were hopeless. This situation occurred every one or two weeks. He
used to see a psychiatrist very often and took a lot of medicine, but his
sickness did not diminish at all. One time, he told me that his doctor
worried that he may commit suicide someday or he may suddenly die because
of heartache. When hearing this I began to worry for him and advised him
to find a spiritual path to improve his situation. But David is very stubborn
and paid no attention to my advice. He said that he had no more interest
in religion or any doctrine.
I remembered that Master had said, "The Quan Yin practitioner, whoever
they like, Master's power will also bless and take care of them."
Once, I went to a retreat and while waiting at the airport, David suddenly
came up to me and spoke in a whisper, "You pray to Master to bless
me too, okay?"
My beloved Master! I was very surprised when I heard his request, and during
meditation I sent his request to You.
When I came home he unexpectedly told me that for two days, he received
Master's great power blessing him. Master's wonderful and omnipresent power
made him feel lively and his stress problem had also suddenly disappeared.
And the marvelous thing that happened to him was that he was able to solve
a problem that he had tried very hard to solve last month but was unable
to. David is a computer engineer in the research and development field.
Last year, his doctor advised him to give up this career forever because
of the stress. He did. However, he did not stay idle; we opened a business
at home. David designed computers and I helped him whenever he needed me.
Therefore, I have a lot of time to practice meditation. Thank You, Master,
for making the best arrangement for us.
David is now practicing the Convenient Method and hopes to be initiated
soon. He went back to see his doctor for the last time and to let him know
that his stress problem had been completely cured by Master Ching Hai who
had blessed him. He also gave a sample booklet to his amazed doctor who,
convinced of Master's power, promised that he would recommend his patients
to study Master's teachings.
Dear, beloved Master! I am deeply touch to see my husband practicing meditation
diligently. He listens to Your chanting tapes when he is working and meditating.
He wears the pin with Your photo all day long, even when he has a meeting
with other business persons. If anyone asks him who You are, he very proudly
explains to them about Your teachings.
We are very grateful to You, Master. You are our living Buddha, our omnipresent
Bodhisattva, our Almighty God. Only You, Master, could save David from
his stress problem while all his doctors had their hands tied for twenty
years.
By Brother Wong, Shen Xic Province, Mainland China
In practicing the Quan Yin meditation method, I could clearly detect all
the trouble spots in my body. One night, I felt sick to my stomach, and
had some difficulty with my chest, as if something was clogging it. Though
it was not serious, I felt very uncomfortable. When I did the Quan Yin
the next morning, I suddenly heard a dozen cracking sounds coming from
my chest, just like the sounds from a cannon. I felt very funny at that
time. But later, as I thought about it, I remembered that I had not felt
well the night before; and the vibrations from doing the Quan Yin, manifested
in the form of the cracking sounds, had unblocked my chest and soothed
my breathing. I felt very relieved then. This is a side benefit of doing the Quan Yin. I deeply realize that it's
not easy to describe in words what I have gone through while practicing
the Quan Yin Method. This reminds me of what Lao -Tze said, "Any practice
which can be written in words is not the Tao." Master gives us such
a marvelous method of practice. I shall cherish this blessed reward, and
will diligently practice to repay Her for Her grace.
News 65 Index
Live For The Truth
Spoken By Supreme Master Ching Hai
Group Meditation In Paris, France
April 28, 1995
(Originally In English, unabridged)
Each Enlightened Master Has Their Own Incredible Way To Deliver Sentient
Beings
The most important thing for you, is not to look at me to see what I'm
doing - whether I'm good or bad - but to see yourself, whether you're truly,
sincerely wanting to know your power or not. If you do, you will know it.
If you don't, doesn't matter how good I am. Even if I'm God, doesn't matter.
The most important thing is you, not me.
Even if I am God incarnated, I can't help you if you are full of garbage,
full of doubts, full of serious mental complications. If you don't want
to know how great you are, if you keep doubting me, that means you have
forgotten to try to realize how great you are, what kind of power you have.
As soon as you focus on anyone else, good or bad, you forget yourself.
You forget to concentrate inside and to find your home. That's a problem
with you, not me.
That's why Buddha came, Jesus came, Mohammed came, Socrates. Every great
master has graced our earth, but how many people were enlightened in their
lifetimes? Less than we have now; less than I have, you know, disciples.
They had less than I have. Why? Not because they were not good, not because
they didn't have power; it was the people themselves who were limited,
who obstructed themselves with their own mental garbage.
So, don't look at me. Don't tell me I'm good or bad. Don't criticize what
I'm doing. Okay if I'm bad; but that's none of your business, because your
business is to find out how great you are. If you ever doubt me, that I
have the power to take you home or not - that you may have - but then find
another master quickly before you die. It's none of my business whether
you stay with me or not. If you believe me, you stay. If you don't, go
find another master, similar one, better one or whatever you like; but
do it quickly before you die without enlightenment.
Every master has different things. If they don't dress up nicely, then
they have cars, or they have wives, or they have children. Everyone has
something for you to doubt. If you want to dig up the garbage in their
toilets, there's always something for you to dig up. If you really just
put your nose in such toilet places, all you will find are toilets. That's
no problem, I assure you; but that is not the main point in the house.
That's not the main focus of any master. Every master has their own way
to help people. The Buddha said that there are eighty-four thousand methods
of helping sentient beings, including being their wives, their officers,
the head of state, a princess, a beggar, even the slave for that person
in order to help him, her or that family; and also being co-workers, being
the same. Like, whatever you do, I do, to help you, to have the same ideal
as you; so later to make you see the light. First, I must win your confidence.
For example, doing the same work as you, wearing the same dress, acting
in the same way, perhaps; but all the way, I am different inside. I know
that, even if you don't know. My purpose is very clear. Even whatever I
do with you, I am not with you in that sense. Therefore, that's one of
the methods that Buddhas use.
Have Confidence In Yourself
You, the ones who meditate so little, the ones who have no faith in your
great Self and your fortune to meet a living master, you have so much degradation
for yourselves. You've so little respect for yourselves that you think
you'd never have the fortune to meet a living master. That's why you doubt
me! You understand what I mean? You don't doubt me, you doubt yourselves
that you are so little, you are so sinful, so ugly, that you could never
meet a true living master. You could not meet a true living master, a good
one, a loving one, a compassionate one. It's you! You have no confidence,
no faith in yourselves. You understand what I mean? It's you!
Look at yourselves, if you think you deserve a living master, then you
know me. If you don't, God can't help you, Buddha can't help you. You'll
transmigrate again and again and again, and it's no one's fault.
Make sure you really want my help, make sure you want it. I can die for
you, but make sure you want it. Make sure you really want to know your
greatness. Make sure you really want to know God, then I could die for
you.
I told you I could die for you and I meant it! This life of the physical
body, doesn't matter how good it looks to you, means nothing to me, absolutely,
if it comes to your liberation and your happiness. I swear to God that
I would die for you, anytime, if you truly need it! I more than die for
you everyday. I tell you, the death of the body is no suffering. It is
the mental anguish that you impose upon me. This is more than death.
Wake Up Before It's Too Late
I don't mean to complain to you. I must tell you the truth, so that you
wake up. Wake up now before it is too late. I'm anguished, I'm suffering
because I know your trouble, I can't help. I want you to be happy, but
you always make trouble for yourselves and make me suffer for nothing.
If you see any fault in my teaching, if I ever teach you anything bad,
harmful to yourself and to mankind, leave me immediately; don't have to
hang around.
I never bind anyone. I never said, "You must stay with me forever."
Did I? So, if you stay, make sure you know what you want because I know
what I want. I only want to help you, unconditionally. Whether you help
me or not help me to help other people is your business. The more you help,
the more your love expands and the higher the level of your consciousness,
that's all. It's good for you. Otherwise, you cannot damage me anyhow.
Money, I can always earn; reputation, well, mine is already bad and good
- up and down. It depends on who looks at me; depends on whether that is
a dog looking at me, a cat looking at me, a human being looking at me,
an angel who looks at me, or Buddha looks at me. Beauty is in the eye of
the beholder.
That's the same with spiritual understanding also. If you're beautiful
inside, you see me beautiful. If you are high level, you know I am high.
If you are not, doesn't matter how much I advertise myself, it's no good.
Remember The Vow You Made In Heaven
I'm never short of money; because God entitled me to have so much money
through different ways, through different talents to do my work on earth.
It's only a pity when you, yourself, don't help. You don't get the merit,
not me. And the people who don't know us also, they're lost in the sea
of suffering. You don't help me, no one helps them.
You can never really damage my work, even if you've finished all my money,
even finished everything, all my reputation and everything. I still don't
lose anything because I never wanted to gain anything in the beginning.
I will never hurt myself, or you will never hurt me. It's just that you
have not fulfilled your promise before the Father, before you came to this
world to do the work. You have forgotten. You let this ego interfere. You
let the people, the preconceived ideas, make trouble for you and you lose
the good opportunity for many decades.
You must have the courage of a mighty soul to say what is true, whether
you die for it or you live with it. If you are a coward, if you are a hesitating
person, who can help you? And who will help me? If you had helped me, we
could have conquered the world in these ten years.
But never mind, as long as you help yourselves, that's all I want. Even
if you don't help me, you must know what you want from me. Then, I can
give you accordingly. Only when you know what you want, and ask for it,
then I can give. Even a good thing, you can't force it on people.
News 65 Index
Selected Questions & Answers
Our Original Self Knows Everything
Spoken By Supreme Master Ching Hai, Formosa
March 17, 1990 (Originally In Chinese)
Q: A person knows nothing before he is born. After birth, because of having
the brain, then there is consciousness. After a person dies, he should
also know nothing. Why is it that there is still a world of eternal happiness
for him to go?
M: Well, why do you say that you know nothing before birth? If you didn't
know anything before birth, how did you know that you could live for nine
months in your mother's womb. Why did you not go up to the roof of the
house to live for nine months? You must have known, is that not so? (A:
Yes!) If you didn't know, how come you cried immediately after birth? You
also knew that you wanted to eat. It is not that when we are born then
we have consciousness. We have it when we were still inside. It is because
of the knowing, then we come to this world. Otherwise, we would have run
to the roof, the concrete floor or inside the house.
Before He was born, Shakyamuni Buddha already knew! Therefore, He walked
seven steps when He was born and said, Above and beneath the heavens, I
am the only Supreme. However, He forgot about it as He grew up. It took
thirty years before He woke up again. We are the same. Before birth we
have consciousness already. It is not that we know nothing. It is after
birth that we start to know nothing. If we knew only after we were born,
then we would not have forgotten the past, present and future. However,
we all forgot after we were born! Therefore, we should say we become "knowing
nothing" after birth. This is the correct way to say it.
News 65 Index
Letters Between Master And Diciples
I've Finally Found Myself You Are The Only Goal In My Life
Dear Master Supreme Master Ching Hai,
Before knowing You, I didn't know what was right for me. Most of my life,
I felt that I truly wasn't living within myself. My life was a mess. I
have tried a lot of spiritual paths; there are so many choices. It's not
always easy to find the path that is best for oneself, and the cleanest
way to go.
There are so many stones we have to pass by before we see a glittering
of light far away. I forgot to look inside myself, because that's the only
way to find out who I really am, where I have come from.
Dear Master! I'm so grateful to know You. My life has really changed. I
feel more happy, satisfied. I smile at the world in a more natural way.
I'm not a mask anymore, I'm me. Sometimes, I could kiss everyone who passes
by; and for me, the world is more clean.
I deeply feel and have faith that there is a way for all of us to go and
Master will help us to progress on our spiritual path. For sure, it's not
always easy, because of the ego; and I know that I still have lots of things
to learn. I'm trying to learn more at the present time. I say to myself,
"All the mistakes I have made in my past lives, I have to forgive
myself and learn from my mistakes." If I don't forgive myself, I can't
continue to live.
Dear Master, thanks for reading my letter. I would love to have Your blessing.
I hope to meet You one day. It would mean a lot to me.
Love,
Dorte
Dorte Bidstrup, Denmark
By Fellow Initiate Liu, Sichuan Province, Mainland China
Dear Master,
How are You? Have You been in good health lately?
I have been initiated for over six months, and have practiced diligently
everyday under Your meticulous care and concern. However, I have too many
preconceived ideas and garbage concerning useless knowledge in my mind,
as well as attachments to this world, and I don't know how to really get
rid of them. Consequently, I always feel that I am making little progress
in my spiritual practice, and hence am letting You down. I must try twice
as hard and practice with full concentration.
Master, how I miss You! Whether it's in meditation, reading Your books,
listening to Your audiotapes, watching Your videotapes, or in every little
thing in my daily life, You always let me experience Your boundless love.
When I'm by myself, I often become sad and shed tears; because I miss You
so much. Oh, my Master, when can I meet You in person?
Master, my shortcomings and attachments are still many, my love power is
not strong enough, and my level is not high. I don't know in the future
if it will be my destiny to renounce the world; but, You and Your ideals
are the only goals in my life. Beside this, I don't know if there's anything
meaningful for me to do. If possible, I will devote my body, mind and speech
to You; and plead with You to accept me, all right?
I'm from Sichuan, and currently attending school in Xi'an. When I visited
my hometown during the last Spring Festival, I introduced Your teachings
to my younger sisters and brothers. After reading the sample booklet, they
were determined to switch to a vegetarian diet, and applied earnestly for
initiation, especially my younger sister, who is very simple and pure.
After getting to know Your teachings, she went to our relatives to share
the information about You and Your teachings with them. Unfortunately,
one of the relatives wasn't ready; she couldn't accept You and even spoke
disrespectfully about You.
After going home, my sister felt very confused and upset. That night, before
going to sleep, she silently recited Your holy name. As it turned out,
You appeared in front of her right before she fell asleep. You held her
little hand and walked with her on a bright golden highway. My sister has
had many other experiences; but since You have told us not to tell our
inner experiences to others, I have forbidden her to speak about them.
I wish good health to my greatest, dearest Master Buddha's body, and smoothness
in spreading the true teaching.
News 65 Index
Between Master And Disciples
True Story:
Master, Please Do Take Care!
By Fellow Initiate Lee Mui, Munchen, Germany
Having left my rich home and beloved family members since childhood, I
have gone through many hardships in my life. I didn't even shed a single
tear when a doctor said that I was seriously ill. I called myself a 'tough
woman'.
I went to the Hawaii 4-Day Retreat after initiation. That was the first
time that I had ever participated in a retreat with Master. In just a few
days' time, my relationship with Master had become so deep that it was
as if She was my best friend and my closest family member.
On the last day of the retreat, I returned to my tent at midnight, after
the magnificent ceremony where Master had been awarded the World Peace
Award and honored with a Ching Hai Day. I thought about the next day when
we would have to take down our tents and go our separate ways. It seemed
as though we would not have another chance to see Master.
In Germany, I had to study and work hard at the same time to earn my living.
The difficulties with time and money would not allow me to go overseas
that often. After this separation, I did not know when I would be able
to see Master again. When I thought about this, I, the 'tough woman,' was
feeling so desperately sad that tears flowed non-stop like pearls running
off a broken string. Apart from feeling sad, I was also worried that Master
might go back to God's home sooner than me, leaving me behind alone, toppling
and falling on the long, long path of practice full of upheavals.
Just as I was so sad and could not fall asleep, and also was crying like
mad, suddenly I heard the consoling voice of Master's manifestation body
in the air, "Don't be like this! Don't be too attached to my physical
body. Inside us, we are one with each other. We cannot be separated."
I cried to Her manifested body and said, "I know the inner Master
is always with me; but since I have this body, I also have the human emotions.
I very much want to see Your physical body again, but I don't know when
I will be able to."
At that time, Master's manifestation body said, "All right, we still
have a chance." Hearing the promise of Master's manifestation body,
I fell asleep immediately.
Early in the morning, I was awakened from my deep sleep, "Master has
come. Go quickly to the meditation hall!" I immediately got up and
ran to the meditation hall. When I arrived, She had already started Her
enlightening talk. Although I did not understand English and did not know
what She was saying, tears kept streaming down my face and my heart was
full of love and gratitude.
After the talk, Master drove away in Her little car. The car was closely
followed by some people. When it passed by me, suddenly there was a gap
between it and the group of people behind. I naturally stepped in to join
the group, and luckily, was the one in the lead following Her. I was weeping,
wiping my tears without a word and running behind Her mini car. At that
time, Master was driving slowly and She turned Her head and said to me,
"It's all right! It's all right! Don't be like this! I won't leave
so soon. There is still some time and I will take good care of myself."
I wiped my tears and nodded my head. I was also very surprised. Before
that, I thought only the inner Master knew what I was thinking. I had never
imagined that the physical Master was so omnipotent that there is nothing
that She does not know.
After that, whenever I had the chance to see Master and shake hands with
Her, I could not help but say, "Master, please do take good care of
Yourself!" I always prayed inside to God to help me to practice diligently,
to give less trouble to Master's physical body; and prayed to Him to bless
Her health and asked Her to take good care of Herself!
Anti-Pollution Tips:
- Clean air-conditioners twice a month. There are anti-mite
air-conditioners.
(airborne termites)
- Cover nose with cloth or anti-pollution mask in polluted areas.
- Difficult breathing: covering nose with a wet cloth will help.
- Wash hands after coming home from outside.
- Grow as many trees as possible, in particular the Athyrium
pectintum -- a herb -- around your house or environment.
News 65 Index
Relief Reports
Sorry we lack this document at present
News 65 Index
Congratulation Letters
Sorry we lack this document at present
News 65 Index
Elevation Of The Soul
The Latest Videotapes Of Supreme Master Ching Hai
Retreat series
(In English)
Buddha's Birthday & International 7-day Retreat
Phnom Penh, Cambodia May 11 - 17 1996 (8 tapes)
* The Holy Golden Mouse (I) May 12, 1996
* Redeeming The Treasure You Possess Inside (II) May 11/12, 1996
* Stories Of Buddha's Previous Lives --
The Golden Goose (III) May 13, 1996
* The Side Effects Of A Non-vegetarian Diet (IV) May 14, 1996
* Cultivate Yourself And Become A Real Human (V) May 14/17, 1996
* The Mark Of A Great Saint (VI) May 15, 1996
* The Devoted Heart Of One Golden Elephant &
The Noble Golden Stag (VII) May 15/16, 1996
* The Golden Snail (VIII) May 16, 1996
(In English with Au Lac Subtitle)
International 3-Day Retreat Chicago, USA Feb 19-22 1994
*The Happy Practioner (Part IV)
(In Chinese with Indonesian Subtitle)
Dragon Boat Festival International 3-Day Retreat Hsihu, Formosa
Jun 2 - 4, 1995 (2 tapes)
* The Way To A Peaceful World (I)
* Renounce The Desire For The World But Not The World (II)
(Also in Au Lac subtitle)
Group Meditation Series
(In English)
* The Importance Of Keeping Pure Action, Thought and Speech
Group meditation in LA, USA Mar 12, 1996
(In English with Indonesian Subtitle)
* Follow Your Heart (I),(II)
Group meditation in Paris, French Apr 28, 1995
* Mystery Of Cause And Effects
Group meditation in Buddha Mountain, Thailand Jan 2, 1994
(In Chinese with Indonesian Subtitle)
* Follow An Enlightened Master With Total Devotion
Group meditation at Hsihu Center, Formosa Feb 6, 1992
Celebration Series
(With English, Au Lac & Chinese Subtitle)
* An Evening Celebration of the Buddha's Birth Day
Phnom Penh, Camboida May 17, 1996
Lecture Series
(In English with Thai translation and Chinese subtitle)
* It's Not Too Late To Get Enlightenment (I)(II)
Hat Yai, Songkhla, Thailand Nov 26, 1994
The Lastest Audiotapes Of Supreme Master Ching Hai
Retreat Series
(In English) ER007
X'mas International 7-Day Retreat In Hsihu, Formosa
Dec 24 - 30, 1995 (5 tapes)
* Shiva's 112 Ways Of Concentration No. 1-21 (1)
* Shiva's 112 Ways Of Concentration No. 22-39 (2)
* Shiva's 112 Ways Of Concentration No. 40-69 (3)
* Shiva's 112 Ways Of Concentration No. 70-112 (4-1)
* Shiva's 112 Ways Of Concentration No. 70-112 (4-2)
Group Meditation Series
(In English) EO51
* Let Others Believe God The Way They Want (I),(II)
Group meditation in LA, USA & Hsihu, Formosa Mar 9 & May 29, 1994
* 101 Funny Non-Saints Stories (I), (II)
Group meditation in LA, USA Mar 12, 1994
* The Spirituality Of America
Group meditation in San Jose Vegetarian House, CA,USA Jun 30,1994
News 65 Index
Master's Teachings
Watching Master's Videos
The Best Method To Calm The Mind
Spoken By Supreme Master Ching Hai, Hsihu Center, Formosa
July 3,1995 (Originally In English)
Watching videos calms your mind and answers many of your questions before
your meditation. It helps you a great deal. Don't think it's useless and
then you just run around or do something else. Listening to holy chanting
or videotape lectures will help you a lot. Even if you do not truly pay
too much attention to it sometimes; but sometimes you will, because some
of the sentences will shock you awake or calm your nerves.
If paying attention to the talk on the screen calms you, then it will help
you in your meditation. That's the purpose. It's not that you have to look
at me everyday on the screen for any reason. The group meditations also
help you a lot because of the collective energy. So, I hope you always
abide by my instructions, not abide by my body; because my instructions
will give you lasting good, not the body.
News 65 Index
Master Tells Jokes
Perfect Vision Golden Snail King -- The "Past Lives" Of Master And Disiciples The "Calm" Master
Spoken By Supreme Master Ching Hai At Hsihu Center 7-Day Retreat, Formosa
1995.5.5-12 (Originally In Chinese by Thong Kai)
There was an old couple, about ninety years old, who were very bored. They
had nothing to do. They didn't know how to kill time. One day, one of them
suggested, "Let's do something special today; otherwise, life is too
boring. How about taking off all our clothes and going for a walk!"
Both of them agreed, so they did just that. Both took off all their clothes
and went out.
Some old folks living next door, put on their convex glasses to have a
look. They looked again and again, and felt strange. They said, "No
matter what kind of clothes they are wearing, they should have ironed them."
Spoken By Supreme Master Ching Hai At The 7-Day Retreat, Cambodia
May 16, 1996 (Originally In English)
In one of the previous incarnations, the Supreme Supreme Master Ching Hai
was supposed to be a Golden Snail. One day, just before the Golden Snail
died, many of the silver-snail disciples came around Her Majesty, the Golden
Snail's death bed just to praise Her, to say good-bye, and to pay their
last respects. So, many of the silver-snail disciples made a lot of praises
just like, "We have never seen such a beautiful, glorious snail before!"
The other ones said, "Right, right, right!" All the snails clapped
their hands.
Another one made a more glorious statement like, "Wow! We have never
had such a merciful snail before in our lives!" All the snails clapped
their hands. The other ones said, "Yes, yes, yes."
Another one made a more glorious statement like, "Wow! Such a compassionate
snail we can never find in this world."
The other snails said, "Yes, yes, yes. Of course, only the Supreme
Golden Snail could be so compassionate!"
Then another one said, "Wow! You know what? I think our Supreme Snail
is the only one that can get in touch with God in one lifetime, and even
give us the opportunity to do so." So, everyone applauded, hurrahed,
and everything like that sort!...
The Golden Snail, the Supreme Master Ching Hai incarnated last time (supposed
to be,) was agitated and felt kind of restless. So, the assistant snail,
which was the color between silver and golden and had two horns a little
bit shorter than the horns of the so-called Golden Supreme Snail, she asked,
"Master, what is it that is making you feel so agitated. I feel that
you are not so restful. Didn't you hear the praises of your disciples,
the snails?" [(Master speaking on the aside: Well, I think it is suitable
for us because we go at such a slow pace. So, if I called you snails, it's
all right, huh? But by the way, I didn't call you. It was the one supposed
to be from the previous lifetime (Master and audience laugh) when we had
not developed sufficiently.)]
So, the attendant snail asked the Golden Master Snail, "Why is it
that Master is so agitated?" Because she knows that the Master Golden
Snail loves to hear praises, applause and things like that. So, the Master
kept silent for a while. Then the snail kept pressing further, the attendant,
"Master, didn't you hear the praises of your disciples? They said
that you are compassionate, you are wise, you are intelligent, you are
beautiful, you are glorious, you are God-realized, you are the one and
only in the whole world of snails. That's great!"
So, the Master Snail said, "How about my humility? They didn't even
mentioned it!" (Laughter and applause)
Spoken By Supreme Master Ching Hai At 7-Day Retreat, Cambodia
May 16, 1996 (Originally In English, unabridged)
There was another master, suppose to be the Supreme Master Ching Hai's
previous incarnation or something. She was born as a Golden Snail. She
was sitting with the disciples one day -- together with the silver snails,
the copper snails, the metal snails and the aluminum snails; the various
kinds of snails according to their inner development.
They were talking in the middle of dinner or lunch, and suddenly there
was an earthquake; very, very, very strong -- 9.9 on the Ching Hai scale.
Everyone was running as fast as a snail could; here and there, up and down,
in and out. They bumped into the glass door, and everything. It was all
very chaotic. The house of the snails was shaking like this and all their
horns were kind of twisted together. The earthquake lasted about three
minutes in these circumstances.
After the earthquake finished, everyone went back to their seats and said,
"Wow, thank God that's over!"
The Supreme Master Snail was sitting there with Her horns up. (They don't
have noses, they just have horns.) She just stuck Her two very long and
fat horns up in the sky, and was quiet for a while until the disciples
could not bear it any longer and asked the Master, "What is it?"
Because they knew every time the Master stuck Her golden horns like that,
She is about to make a very grand statement, some big lecture of how to
become Buddha in one second, things like that. So, they were very, very
nervous and expecting. But the Master kept on sticking the horns up and
didn't say anything.
Finally, the half-golden and half-silver attendant said, "Please,
be compassionate, oh Master. What is it? Tell us the great thing that You
have in Your mind now? Don't hesitate longer for all sentient beings are
thirsty for the Truth."
So, the Master slowly descended Her horns to an ordinary level of consciousness
so that all the disciples could understand. If Her horns were too high,
I don't think the ordinary sentient snails could ever have caught up. Now
She lowered Her horns up to here, like this and said, "Did you see
I was very calm during the earthquake?" (Laughter and applause)
All the snails said, "Oh, yes, Master! Oh, yes!"
The Master continued further, after a pause so that people felt more appreciative,
"Did you see that I didn't run here and there like all of you fools?"
The disciples said, "Of course, of course." And all their horns
clapped together in unison to praise the Master.
Now the Master Snail said, "Did you see that I calmly sat here, sipping
tea while you were running here and there like that?" The disciples
said, "Yes, we saw You calmly sitting here drinking, but that was
the soy sauce that You drink, not the tea." (Laughter and applause)
News 65 Index
International Reports
Poland France Hong Kong USA Korea Macao Canada Thailand
Such A Precious Method Should Have Been Propagated Ealier
(Kielce) On a beaut day, after a long, cold winter, Polish fellow initiates
were excited and enthusiastic to attend a festival in Kielce, situated
in the southern part of Poland. The exhibition this time was held in the
city's cultural center.
On the day of the exhibition, the weather was warm and the keen citizens
of Kielce thronged to the festival with high spirits, as if their intuition
had alerted them that Supreme Master Ching Hai's holy love had arrived.
The Supreme Master Ching Hai booth was beautifully located in the middle
of the hall. A television, displaying Master wearing an extraordinarily
magnificent dress and with a loving voice, drew the attention of the visitors.
Many people revisited the booth many times.
There was one young Polish man who, after receiving the sample booklet
and reading only a few pages, happily said that his longing had now came
true; he immediately registered to learn the Convenient Method. The next
day, he came back with a friend who also registered to learn the Convenient
Method.
There was another Polish person. After having received the sample booklet,
he was so happy that he almost shed tears, and emotionally exclaimed that
the Quan Yin Method is so good and precious but why did it take so long
to come to his country. There were also many young girls and boys, so cute
and innocent in their parents' arms, staring at Master's picture as if
they had known Her for a long, long time.
The festival organizer also happily came to purchase Master's tapes. From
the loud speaker, the voices of disciples' singing their own spiritual
songs in praise of Master could be heard, touching people's hearts. After
that, a lot of people came to purchase Master's tapes and pictures, and
also registered to learn the Convenient Method. Master's beauty and graceful
appearance leaves a perfect impression in the heart of the Polish people.
Almost all of the visitors went home feeling contented, having received
the sample booklets.
Thank You, Master, for Your loving blessings and for bringing the heavenly
message -- the Quan Yin method -- to Poland. Polish fellow initiates sincerely
hope to spread Your teachings more intensively. We also hope that, under
Your guidance, all sentient beings will get out of the suffering cycle
of transmigration and be liberated.
Master's Holy Love Awakens Numerous Souls
(Paris) The Paris International Book Fair is one of the major events for
the Paris cultural and communication circles at the beginning of each spring.
It attracts more than a thousand publishers from all over the world to
come and exhibit their books. Among the visitors, many of them are professionals
in the publishing field such as publishing agents, librarians, writers,
journalists, etc. Book lovers all gather here and the atmosphere is exciting
and full of activity. There are quite a few radio and TV interviews amid
many other activities -- receptions, autographs, prizes, etc. In just a
few days, it attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors.
Our fellow practitioners took advantage of this opportunity to exhibit
Master's books to this big crowd. We established direct contact with many
communication professionals interested in spiritual cultivation and also
are connected with reporters from "Book Fair Magazine" to disseminate
Supreme Master Ching Hai's teachings.
Many people visited our booth daily. Many also asked the same question,
"When will Supreme Master Ching Hai come to France?" Obviously,
Master's power has attracted these people. Young and old, different racial
backgrounds, cultures and nationalities, they are all longing for Master's
coming. Our neighbor, Amnesty International, was especially keen on this
and later became our good friend.
There were many touching interludes during the Book Fair. A young man named
Marc accompanied a blind lady to our booth. After carefully reading Master's
sample booklet at home, he was so deeply moved by Her teachings that he
visited our booth a second time. He told us how wonderful it would be if
his blind friends could hear Master's voice, and that he would like to
become Master's instrument for this purpose. (Several years ago, Marc founded
an association that focuses on promoting art, literature and movies for
the blind.) He is now waiting to be initiated. We sincerely hope that his
dream will come true soon.
There was another gentleman, working in the 'French Culture' radio station,
who visited our booth almost daily. He purchased many of Master's books
and videos and even took some issues of the Supreme Master Ching Hai News
magazine; he was deeply impressed by Master and Her teachings. Later, we
contacted him and learned from his colleagues that he has been continuously
introducing Master to his audience in his broadcasting programs. He is
longing for Her visit to France. Meanwhile, some publishers requested to
publish all of Master's books. There was one publisher who is highly interested
in Master's book "I Have Come To Take You Home". Furthermore,
the American Library in Paris became familiarized with Master's publications,
thanks to the Book Fair. It now has "I Have Come To Take You Home"
in its collection for the public to appreciate. Quite a few radio and TV
station reporters have asked us to inform them when Master comes to France
next time.
At the conclusion of the Book Fair, many people came to ask for issues
of the Supreme Master Ching Hai News and to register for the Convenient
Method, to join our big Quan Yin family. Even though Master was not here
in person, Her heavenly love awakened many souls. Our fellow practitioners
are all joyful and grateful to Master for giving them this precious opportunity
to learn the holy lesson. We all deeply appreciate Master's heavenly love.
Hong Kong, a modern commercial city, was like a cultural desert until God
showered it with blessed nectar rain. In the middle of May, fellow initiates
held an exhibition of the prints of Master's paintings at Hong Kong's Art-Land
Stationary Limited Inc.'s gallery.
In the prosperous commercial area of Hong Kong, it was difficult to find
a place to hold the exhibition. Even if there was a place available, the
cost for renting such a place would be too expensive. However, under God's
miraculous arrangement, a special art exhibition called "Become One
With the Universe" was held. This exhibition caused a sensational
stir among Hong Kong's circle of artists. Art-Land Limited Inc., located
in a prosperous area of Hong Kong, is the largest company for canvas painting
equipment in Hong Kong. Aside from those who admire Master and friends
of fellow initiates, a lot of professional advertisers and artists attended
the exhibition as well. Everyone who attended could not help being drawn
to Master's paintings because of their extremely bright and luminous appearance,
invoking in them the feeling of being one with nature. They were full of
Zen. From time to time, people asked when would the next art exhibition
of Master's prints be held. They kept requesting the fellow initiates to
inform them of the next art exhibition so they could attend it also. In
the newspaper, the art critics commented and praised Master's harmonious
painting techniques that reflect this great practitioner's inner feelings
and high level.
During the exhibition, a lot of people inquired about Master and the Quan
Yin Method, especially the owner of Art-Land Limited Inc., who sincerely
wanted to know about Master's teachings in great details. After having
seen Master's paintings, some people applied for initiation along with
their children.
In the bright and clean gallery, with Master's celestial music playing
in the background, the atmosphere was peaceful and uplifting. The three
dimensional effects of the paintings were very vivid and eye-catching.
The fellow initiates who were on duty at the exhibition felt Master's grace
and enjoyed the feeling of merging into the universe, like entering a beautiful
heaven.
Spreading Master's Teachings And Promoting Vegetarianism At "Picnic
Day"
(Davis, CA) The University of California, Davis hosted its biggest annual
event, "Picnic Day". The people of Davis and visitors from all
around the Bay Area came to enjoy the parade and live entertainment. The
student initiates of U.C. Davis have recently come together and formed
a student organization called the "Quan Yin Meditation Association".
In this way, the Quan Yin Method's message could be brought to the public.
Luckily, our organization was randomly selected among the several organizations
from hundreds that had applied, to hold a food booth. So, in joint efforts
with the Sacramento and San Francisco disciples, Master's teachings, as
well as vegetarian food, were introduced to this audience for the first
time.
When the organizer of the event heard about our need of a long electrical
cord to reach our booth to play Master's videotapes, he allowed us to put
our information booth next to our food booth. This way, the public could
conveniently visit the information table and get their food at the same
time.
Our intention, besides introducing the Quan Yin Method, was to introduce
to the public the variety of vegetarian products that are available which
one can cook by oneself. The food cooked this time were splendid in flavor,
looks and aroma, attracting an enormous crowd, to the surprise of the cooking
team. While in line, Master's sample booklets were happily distributed
to the visitors. Many people with affinity immediately became interested
in reading it.
Some people, after learning that Supreme Master Ching Hai's noodles were
free, came back for more with their friends. Even cooks from the other
booths came over for some. During these hours, we supplied more than a
thousand servings of noodles, more than what we had anticipated previously.
There were a few that loved the food so much that they asked if we offered
any cooking classes. Initially, the people were attracted by the vegetarian
food, but later many became interested in Master's teachings and signed
up to receive the free bi-monthly Supreme Master Ching Hai News magazine.
Master has often said that through meditation and work, we learn, grow,
and mature into wiser people. All the brothers and sisters who participated
know this to be true. Not only that, throughout the entire project we were
amazed and surprised to experience these things, no matter how big or small.
Then, we knew You were always there, Master!
Whole Life Expo -- Spreading The Message Of The Golden Era
San Diego, CA > At the Whole Life Expo, a visitor stopped by the Supreme
Master Ching Hai International Association's booth. He watched the video
lecture, and suddenly asked, "Who is the lady on the TV? Her lecture
made a lot of sense." The San Diego disciples in attendance informed
him about Supreme Master Ching Hai and Her wise teachings, as well as Her
charitable works such as helping the ill, the homeless and the disaster
victims, etc., all over the world.
Another woman stood motionless in front of the TV set, holding a booklet
on immediate enlightenment in her hands, nodding, "A very beautiful
lecture! Who is that lady?" Since she was so sincere and want to know
more about Master that a disciple explained to her the Quan Yin method
of light and sound, and the correct way of keeping a vegetarian diet, spiritually
as well as physically.
There were also two small children; one, together with her parents, listened
attentively to the briefings on Master's teachings by a disciple, while
the other focused on the TV, listening to Master's lecture, and later asked
for a complete set of Master's News magazine. Another man, as he was reading,
nodded his head repeatedly, "It makes sense! It makes sense!"
Those were some typical responses of the people visiting our booth at the
Whole Life Expo in Del Mar, a seaside resort.
Having received some information regarding the "Whole Life Expo,"
the San Diego disciples quickly made their decision to participate in this
exhibition. They believed this would be a good time to disseminate Master's
teachings and love to those who, unfortunately, had not yet come to know
about Master and Her spiritual work to help mankind, as well as to spread
the message of the Golden Era.
The Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association's booth displayed
Master's books, News magazines in multi-languages, handicraft decorations,
as well as some of Her paintings. Master's lectures and the special video
programs on Ching Hai Day were played on the TV the entire day. A picture
of Master in the traditional Au Lac costume, radiating Her loving grace,
drew the attention and admiration of the Expo goers.
We were very pleased when even one more person understood or became aware
of Master's teachings. Grateful for the chance to serve others, we sincerely
thank You, Master, for Your guidance. We hope we can become useful instruments
in disseminating Your teachings to those with affinity.
Master's Love Graces The Prisons
egu> Recently, the Taegu Center held a vegetarian buffet for the instructors
and guards in the Kiong Chu Prison. Normally, the nuns and monks in Korea
do not keep a vegetarian diet, the prison authorities thought that our
practicing group was also non-vegetarian; therefore, the fellow initiates
wanted to hold a vegetarian buffet. The results were beyond their expectation.
Afterward, many people decided to become vegetarian because this buffet
gave them a lot of different examples and showed them many methods of preparing
delicious vegetarian food. They wanted the fellow initiates to give them
the recipes, and also inquired at length about our group. The prison officials
were so impressed that they were able to open up and express their friendliness.
The instructors and commissioner also asked us to provide some of Master's
videotapes for the prisoners.
Recently, religious groups and government organizations sponsored a sporting
event for the prisoners; so the officials and commissioner asked us to
provide another opportunity for them to taste the vegetarian food. In addition,
on the same day of the sporting event, we were also invited to show Master's
videos and provide another vegetarian buffet for the public. As a result,
all of the Korean Centers decided to come together to prepare the meal
for the prisoners. Thanks to Master's arrangement, an initiate from Hong
Kong happened to be at the Korean Center and was able to teach the Korean
initiates more ways of cooking vegetarian food, thereby providing additional
help.
After showing the public Master's videos and providing them with a vegetarian
meal, fellow initiates then went to the prison to prepare the vegetarian
buffet. During their work, all the initiates felt Master's great blessing
energy and love, and hundreds of guests felt astonished that they could
eat such delicious vegetarian food. They asked us if we had a professional
chef or cook, and if we were willing to teach them how to prepare vegetarian
food. The officials were grateful and said that because of our group's
assistance, they often get encouragement and praises.
After the meal, fellow initiates did not feel tired at all and even played
a soccer game with the prisoners in which the initiates won. After the
game, the fellow initiates gave their prize to the prisoners -- the prison
was full of Master's blessing power and great love.
In the Chong Shong Prison, dozens of prisoners were fortunate enough to
have heard of Master's teachings before. There was even one prisoner who,
after being a vegetarian and practicing the Convenient Method for a while,
felt very healthy mentally and physically. He was truly touched and wished
he had known of the method earlier.
From that moment on, he decided to live a life according to Master's teachings.
He also wished that this would influence people to help others know and
realize how good Master's teachings are. Currently, many people in the
prison have learned the Convenient Method, and the rest are trying to become
vegetarians. They all wish to join the Quan Yin family.
"Free Of Charge" Quan Yin Method
Master's art treasures have never before been exhibited in Macao. Through
a Supreme Master Ching Hai Art exhibition, fellow initiates in Macao shared
Master's heavenly works of art and spiritual teachings with the public.
They also prepared tasty vegetarian delicacies to promote vegetarianism.
The feedback was tremendous.
On the first day of the exhibition, some newspaper reporters came to inquire
about Master and Her teachings and requested interviews with Master. On
the second day of the exhibition, television stations also requested interviews.
During the exhibition, fellow initiates told the press that Master's merciful
action was admired by the leaders and people in various countries. Master's
bronze statue, awarded during the World Spiritual Leadership Ceremony,
was also displayed along with photos of Ching Hai Day celebrations, and
the fans, pottery, lamps, Celestial Clothing and Celestial Jewelry designed
by Her. In order to do a report for the public, these reporters kept asking
for more information, as if they had been in the desert for a long time
and thirsty for the seasonal rain.
Though not having a big population, Macao has a lot of local people who
are sincerely longing for the Truth. Master's blessing power was very strong
in the exhibition hall. The guests kept praising Her talents when they
looked at Her photos and painting. After viewing them, they also had the
opportunity to taste delicious vegetarian food and watch Her video lectures.
They all had delightful smiles on their faces when they left the exhibition
hall. They even asked us when the next exhibition would be.
Some of them even told us that they missed yesterday's showing because
they were unaware that an exhibition was being held. They felt sorry since
they could only see Master's videotapes for two hours. In order to satisfy
their inquisitiveness about Her teachings, fellow initiates gave them the
address of the Center. Fellow initiates also invited them to go there whenever
they felt like watching Master's videotapes; free of charge, of course.
Contented, they finally left. However, they kept repeating, "How strange!
Why is everything free?"
Selfless devotion is Master's deep teaching to the Quan Yin family. We
hope more people can have the opportunity to join this "free-of-charge"
family.
Joyfully Spreading The Truth
(Vancouver) After a seemingly long winter had passed, the spring, in the
form of Master's teachings, gracefully descended onto the vast prairies
of Canada.
Winnipeg, Manitoba was the first of the locations designated to hold conferences
about Master and Her teachings, because this place has many disciples who
attend group meditation and who have already spread the Truth to others.
After advertising the event for several days, fellow initiates held their
first conference at a university. Most of the participants had been practicing
other meditation methods, but they all showed great interest in the Quan
Yin Method.
Next, we went to Regina, Saskatchewan the hometown of a fellow practitioner.
His parents were not initiated, but they had come a long way to help with
the preparations for the conference, which was to be held in a church.
The participants were all sincere and open to new ideas.
After Regina, we then went on to the beautiful city of Saskatoon, also
in Saskatchewan. A large river passes through the city, and the residents
there are kind and polite, eminating a peaceful and comfortable atmosphere.
In a very short period of time, fellow initiates found a location for the
conference, and distributed many pamphlets and sample booklets to create
affinity with the local people. Being able to share Master's holy teachings
with these kind people, everyone's heart was filled with joy.
Master Awards The Sincere Disciples
(Bangkok) There was an International Jewelry Fair held in Bangkok. Master's
masterpieces -- the S.M. Celestial Jewelry -- brilliantly radiated the
heavenly glory, attracted the eyes of every visitor. As they were enjoying
these rare and precious works of art, the Thai practitioners truly hoped
that the designer -- Master, would pay the S.M. Celestial Jewelry booth
a visit.
Due to the disciples' sincerely longing, Master appeared at the exhibition
and the Bangkok group meditation to satisfy the disciples' longing hearts.
She cordially spoke with the Thai fellow initiates. When She learned that
some fellow initiates had to take many hours to come to the group meditations
everyday, because their homes were quite far away, She was really touched
by their sincerity. For example, the entire to and from trip takes one
disciple six hours. Master rewarded her perseverance by giving her the
silver bracelet from Her own arm.
All the disciples were very moved by Master's kindness and love. That lucky
sister respectfully bowed to Master and said that the Master's manifestation
form comes to see her at home everyday. Master laughed and said, "The
Master doesn't need three hours to travel because it is the transformation
body of the Master." The disciple whose home is far from the meditation
place, was given the very rare opportunity to sit with Master in Her car.
Master answered all their questions cordially and intimately. And later
treated them with a vegetarian dinner in a famous hotel.
Because of the sincere eagerness of the disciples, a few days later, Master
also kindly came to visit our fellow initiates at the group meditation
again. This time, She wore the bright red embroidered blouse and a traditional
Thai long skirt. She looked so beautiful, just like a heavenly Queen. Master
talked with the disciples, answered their questions, and gave them many
helpful tips on how to practice in their daily lives, reminding them that
they should always introspect themselves and put the teachings into practice.
She continued to say that, we should not fear anything and we should have
faith in God, that all the things that we receive are the best for us.
Whenever we have problems and need God to guide us, we should be calm and
pray in silence. Then, we will receive the answers. Sometimes, we will
feel that we suddenly know the answers by ourselves. These are the answers
we should follow.
We thank You, Master, for Your kindness and for fulfilling the longing
desires of the Thai disciples. You've suffered for the traffic jam in Bangkok.
Your motherly love and patience deeply touched Your Thai's children.
News 65 Index
Aphorisms
By Supreme Master Ching Hai (Originally In English)
You must have the courage of a mighty soul to say what is true, whether
you die for it or you live with it.
God sends us into this world not without any instruments to remind us of
the Kingdom of God. It is just that we have forgotten that these are the
reminders only. We just love the copy and forget the original. That's what
makes our life miserable.
Everything in this world is just a reminder of the true happiness, the
true glory and the true life that we should have and that we should know;
because we have forgotten.
Enlightened people are very happy. They accept the situation whatever it
is. I have very positive knowledge that if all people were enlightened,
then we wouldn't need to make India become rich, we wouldn't need to change
communism into capitalism, because everyone would be contented under whatever
circumstances they were in.
News 65 Index
While On The Path
The Mahayana Method Of Practice The Method That Nurtures A Loving Heart And Enchances Self-Confidence
The Pure Land That Is Full Of Real Love
By Fellow Initiate Xiangen Wang, Shinchu, Formosa
Although I am the only person in my family who has been initiated, Master's
grace have been bestowed upon all of them.
Ever since I got initiated and began practicing with Master, the atmosphere
in my home has become more and more peaceful and positive. My parents have
also become more loving and open than before. My mother was very stout.
When she needed surgery for her eye disease, she found that she had serious
diabetes and her blood sugar was twice as high as the average diabetic.
Even her doctor was surprised that she had been well. However, after a
very short period of time, her blood sugar came right down to the level
of a normal person. Of course, this was due to Master's help. The more
interesting thing was that her weight was also reduced during this very
short period of time to almost normal. The effect was so positive that
even the most famous weight-reducing organization was also surprised and
amazed. Recently, my grandmother, who lived with my uncle, had a spinal
nerve injury due to an accident and checked into a hospital. She could
not move the lower half of her body. When I went to the hospital to visit
her, her mind was not clear and her face looked withered and yellow. She
looked like she was about to die at any moment. After checking out of the
hospital, she moved into our home to be nursed. Only several days after
she had moved in, grandmother's face regained color and her mind became
very clear. She not only recognized me, but also remembered our little
puppy's name.
There are too many other miracles to tell. For example, Master warned my
sister at midnight to turn off her gas stove, because the water in the
kettle had already completely evaporated. Also, once when I was riding
a motorbike, it slipped and I almost fell into a water ditch. However,
a hidden power suddenly set my bike upright so that I escaped disaster
without any injury. Another time, as I was planning to go to a fellow brother's
home far away in Wushe for some medicine, he miraculously appeared in front
of the Center's meditation hall, bringing with him the herbal medicines
that I needed.
These stories are all based on my external experiences. As far as my inner
experiences are concerned, directly or in making use of external objects,
Master, in Her transformation body, always reminds me of my many shortcomings.
She lets me see clearly my unconsciously formed habits. Once, when I was
in anguish and feeling helpless, Master's transformation body appeared
in my dreams almost every night to comfort me; She even went for a walk
and talked with me. One time, I remember She sat on a crescent moon, singing
an English song to encourage me, "If I can overcome the obstacles,
you can do it in the same way." Before the song was finished, I had
already woken from my dream crying.
Since my initiation, each time that I have remembered that, I have gradually
changed from a person who was selfish and arrogant and did not care about
others, to one who is loving and understands how to self-cultivate. I feel
that I am very, very fortunate, especially when I see that the people around
me have gradually changed through Master's power and have become more noble
and loving. I am very thankful to Master for letting me have an opportunity
to help others, and to come to this world to learn and witness God's loving
light. Although on the journey of my spiritual practice I often encounter
setbacks and tests, as long as I think of my progress and the people that
can benefit from it, I feel that everything is worth it. Thank You, Master.
By Fellow Initiate Leung, Man-Kin, Hong Kong
Many years ago, I was greatly interested in searching for the meaning of
life. My mind was often occupied by insolvable problems like: Where do
I come from, where am I going to, etc.
After passing through the ups and downs from days to months; tasting the
innumerable happiness, sourness, bitterness and difficulties in life; seeing
the disasters brought on by wars, extinguishing numerous lives; I yearned
for the real meaning of life. I thought that religion would give me the
perfect answer. However, I have attended so many sermons, Buddhist study
seminars and courses in the past years; and also after meeting some spiritual
persons, the questions in my heart were still unsolved.
One day, by chance, I went through the Master's whole sample booklet non-stop
and in one breath, and watched several of Master's videotapes. There was
a sudden enlightenment in my heart. It was just like this. At last, I found
it!
The fantastic explanation of the vast universe by Master is really flawless.
Master is a true living Buddha, to save ignorant sentient beings like us,
so that we can return to the original Kingdom of God or Pure Land. I have
such a strong feeling towards Master that I asked myself why did I not
meet Her earlier.
Ever since I have received Master's compassionate initiation and participated
in the retreats, I realized more and more that the Quan Yin Method delivered
by Master is really supreme and wonderful. With a truly sincere heart in
practice and in action, I feel as if I have entered a different world --
a world full of real love.
By Fellow Initiate Chang, Yu-Zu, Taipei, Formosa
After initiation, I followed Master and practiced sincerely. There were
a lot of experiences. I have changed a lot, both within and without. There
was also the development of more intelligence and talents. However, there
were still some bad qualities disturbing me that made me feel unhappy.
The more mischievous the mind was, the more I strengthened my faith and
consolidated my eagerness for the Truth, and convinced myself that the
only one that I could trust is Master! Through days and months of grinding
effort, I have changed! The rejecting and disgusting sense of hatred has
changed into concern. Preconceived ideas became understanding and forgiveness.
I deeply understood, by experience, the loving reminder from Master: Use
love to dissolve karma and hatred. To love your enemy is real happiness.
It is really not easy to have this loving heart and wisdom! When I was
most disappointed and helpless, Master always expressed Her infinite care
and understanding to console, encourage and stand by me through the excruciating
difficulties to wait for the answer to come; and to make me stand up again
and keep my dignity and confidence.
Having lived through frightening events, the soul was simply too tired.
However, Master's love and wisdom changed the fate. Thank You, Master,
for giving me back my treasure in the Kingdom of God and the dignity of
life. To embrace the omnipotent Master is the one and only method to nurture
a loving heart and enhance self-confidence. The
News 65 Index
You May Not Know
The Importance Of Purity Master Is The Most Lonely Person
Since Ancient Times, An Enlightened Master Preaching The Truth Is Always
Lonesome
Spoken By Supreme Master Ching Hai Hsihu Center, Formosa
June 30, 1995 (Originally In English)
There was a story about a monk. I think it was in America, also an American
monk. He wrote a book about his experiences as a monk in a monastery before.
When he was a monk, in that monastery, he abided strictly by the rules
of that place. Just like what time to do what, you know, working in the
garden, time to eat, time to pray and time to sleep again. Any kind of
thing he abided strictly by the rules, and was always concentrated. He
didn't think of complaining and wanting to change the policy of the monastery
of that order.
When he ate, he was not used to the food in the monastery; it was kind
of simple food. Sometimes the monks, mostly bachelors, young and didn't
know how to cook, so the food was awful. He had to admit it. But then later,
as he lived there longer, he tried to accommodate himself and ate without
thinking. He ate whatever food was in front of him, and that's how he felt
more peaceful within his heart.
Then he had really some spiritual elevation, even without initiation, the
master or anything like that. Perhaps that's how many secret Catholic or
Christian orders attained their enlightenment to some degree. So, he had
attained sainthood in some degree by surrendering entirely to God and completely
accepting whatever fate brought him. Therefore, his mind never wondered
about whether it was good or bad, whether to change the habits or the monastery's
rules, anything like that.
He wrote some very, very good experiences. So, I just mean to tell you
that the purity of the heart is very, very important for spiritual practice.
Spoken By Supreme Master Ching Hai, Hsihu Center, Formosa
June 4, 1995 (Originally In English, unabridged)
I have to be father, mother, judge, the policeman, angel and Yama King
at the same time. The king of the nether world, you don't know him. My
friend. If you are not behaving yourselves, I'll send you to him, saying,
"Well, take care of them." The king of the nether world, the
lord of karma, he takes care of our give-and-take so that we will be clear
when we leave the world. If we are not clear, we can't leave. We have to
come back.
The master sometimes takes on the role of that kind of lord karma, part
of it; so that he can immediately cleanse the karma of the so-called disciples
-- doesn't matter how painful it is for both sides -- so that he is clean
so he can leave this world easily. It's very, very difficult.
I'm very happy for you and for myself that you have always understood and
forgiven me, even though you don't understand what I do sometimes. You
don't understand why I scold that person, why I send that person away,
or why I treat that person more special than you. You perhaps don't understand
all the time, but I'm very grateful and happy that you always forgive me.
Even you don't know it's right or wrong, you forgive me. That's already
very good for me and good for you because that means you are very generous,
you are very tolerant, you are very gentle, very wise inside. That means
you have matured in wisdom and spiritual practice. That's very, very good
for you. Of course, if you forgive me, I feel very relaxed and no pressure,
no misunderstanding, bad energy. That's good for me, too. But above all,
it's very, very good for you. That's why I'm happy. I hope you continue
in this spirit, trying to understand things at a deeper level of consciousness
and not from the outer appearance.
If you didn't understand me, I would be the most lonely person in this
world. It would also give you a lot of pain in your heart; because you
are harboring this kind of misunderstanding, this kind of negative energy
towards me. That also hinders your spiritual practice. So, for either side,
it's no good.
Sometimes I feel very, very lonely, because surrounding me are not always
good and forgiving people. They always have their negative traces, maybe
from last life, or maybe from this life, they learned from society.
Even children, very, very unforgiving. Sometimes, when they see me at work,
if I scold someone else, they get scared, too, and then they don't like
me. That, sometimes, makes me feel very painful. Not because I've lost
them, but because it always happens that you can never do your job without
having side effects to some degree. You cannot, with so many people. I
cannot always avoid unpleasant moments for everyone or for the children.
So, sometimes when I see people have misunderstood me or shied away from
me, I feel hurt also. I feel very lonely. But nevertheless, my job has
to be done. So, whatever the price, I pay.
Eventually, when we all go up to a very high level of consciousness, we
all look down together, then we'll all have a good laugh; because we were
all very stupid then, taking theater for real, looking at the reflection
in the mirror for the true image. So, we will be laughing at ourselves
at the final moment when we join together at a very, very, very high level
of wisdom.
For that very noble and high goal, I sacrifice everything and I can go
through any hardship, misunderstanding, negative thick fog of energy because
I know eventually there is nothing there at the other end. There's only
brightness, beauty, grace, love and harmony at the other end. That's how
I can continue. Otherwise, to be a teacher of any kind is a very lonely
position. When all the students have graduated, grown up, have a good job,
and understood and appreciated you, you will probably already be in the
grave or have suffered a lot of psychological pressure, sickness.
Why is an enlightened master so lonely? It is because, even though there
is someone who understands the Truth, he doesn't understand it completely;
he can only understand after he has practiced for a period of time -- which
could be a very long time. The enlightened master must educate and care
for him painstakingly and laboriously before he attains this fruit. Before
reaching this attainment, this person is still not stable. He may believe
today, but he may change his mind the next day! That is why it is so arduous
to be an enlightened master.
When we read Milarepa's story, we know how his master (Marpa) treated him,
very unkindly and sternly. However, by doing so, this master also felt
very pained. Even his wife didn't understand him and was always on Milarepa's
side. She even help him to cheat the master -- her husband, because he
refused to impart the method to Milarepa at that time.
Milarepa was the greatest and most prominent enlightened master of the
Esoteric Sect. Before meeting his master, he had practiced many methods
-- heretical paths and magical powers. He harmed many people and so incurred
very heavy karma. He followed Marpa with strong faith. Dreading his heavy
karma, he was very earnest in seeking the Truth. He was very anxious and
agitated, and pressed his master to impart the method to him. However,
his master refused, because Milarepa was still impure then. His karma was
so heavy that even if he had been taught the method, he would not have
been able to practice it.
Therefore, Milarepa's master tested him for seven years before transmitting
the method to him. In these seven years, the master had a bitter life.
Everyday he had to punish Milarepa, tell him to build houses and then to
demolish them. To his master, whatever Milarepa did was wrong and bad,
and he was rewarded with scoldings and beatings.
The reason was not that his master was vicious by nature, but that Milarepa's
karma was exceedingly heavy. Therefore, the master had to first cleanse
his karma thoroughly by instructing him to practice ascetically; by imposing
humiliation, scoldings and beatings on him; and by letting him work laboriously.
In this way, his heavy karma and vicious character was cleansed, after
which his master transmitted the method to him.
However, Milarepa felt extremely painful during these seven years. Anything
he did he couldn't please the master and make him impart the method to
him. From the views of outsiders, it seemed that Milarepa's master was
very cruel.
The truth is, his master was also in great pain himself. He didn't like
to punish his disciple; but, to cleanse Milarepa's heavy karma, he had
to use very stern methods. Though very pained within, he had to carry on.
Even his wife did not understand his ways and blamed him everyday. She
said, "Milarepa works so hard, and is so pious and good. Why do you
still refuse to transmit the method to him, and treat him so severely instead?"
Here, we can see how lonely an enlightened master is.
Marpa's wife spent her entire life with him and they practiced together.
We would think that she should understand him, right? (A: Yes!) In the
end, even she couldn't understand, not to mention the outsiders or the
other disciples.
Therefore, Shakyamuni Buddha said that only a Buddha can understand the
wisdom of a Buddha. Even a Bodhisattva cannot understand; only a Bodhisattva
of high level can understand a little.
Jesus Christ also said, Don't give pearls to swines. He told His disciples,
To you people who understand, I'll explain clearly in words and ways; I
won't tell the people outside. I'll only tell them stories to help them
understand, but I will not tell them everything. Therefore, Jesus Christ
was also lonesome.
Shakyamuni Buddha said that only a Buddha can understand a Buddha, but
how many Buddha's can you find in this world? So, He was really lonely.
Only after He had practiced for a very long time did He then find His first
disciple -- Mahakasyapa. He trained him for a long time to make him a Buddha,
and to succeed Him. Other people simply didn't understand.
Ananda was closest to the Buddha by attending to Him for over twenty years,
yet he didn't understand the Buddha. He didn't achieve the great enlightenment.
Only after Shakyamuni Buddha had left, and he was scolded by Mahakasyapa,
then Ananda practiced hard to reach enlightenment. So, even Shakyamuni
Buddha's closest disciple didn't understand Him; no one did.
I read from the scripture that, when Shakyamuni Buddha was dying, only
Ananda was by His side. Shakyamuni Buddha told him, I will soon enter nirvana!
Quickly tell the five hundred disciples outside, so that they can come
back to see their Master for the last time. Ananda hurriedly went to summon
them. At that time, these five hundred disciples were having fun outside
and doing their things, unaware that their Master was to leave the world
soon. He was about to leave them! Receiving the message from Ananda, they
hastily went inside to bid farewell to Shakyamuni Buddha, and then went
out to play again. They were really like children, ignorant of everything.
When reading this scripture, I almost shed tears. A very great Buddha,
famous even today, had only Ananda by His deathbed. He summoned the disciples
to come back, but they soon went out again!
Shakyamuni Buddha told Ananda that He could stay in the world of samsara,
but Ananda didn't understand His implication and so didn't request the
Buddha to stay. Since Ananda didn't ask, the Buddha could not stay; so
He had to leave the world.
From this we know that, even the closest disciple cannot understand the
master, not to mention the people outside. Therefore, it is natural for
a spiritual practitioner to be lonesome. However, we have never thought
about this. We think that attaining Buddhahood is the greatest happiness,
the most glorious position. It is true that they are happy; but as long
as there are sentient beings in pain, the Buddhas cannot be happy. They
are happy when they enter nirvana. In this world of samsara, they can never
be happy, because when sentient beings suffer, I suffer; when sentient
beings are ill, I am ill. It is stated clearly in the Vimalakirti Sutra.
Originally, the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas have no pain or illness; but because
sentient beings have illnesses, they are ill, too.
When reading the scriptures, we fail to catch the main points or grasp
the profound meanings in them. We only worship the Buddha and pray for
His help and blessings, and so on. We never pray to Him to give us Buddha's
wisdom, and that is why we have not gotten it. The Tao Te Sutra also mentions
that the Truth is not to be explained in words. Though Lao Tze understood
it, he could not explain it to many people, only to a small group. Therefore,
Lao Tze was also very lonely.
When the Master Dao Sheng gave lectures, no one listened to him. It was
said that not more than fourteen persons had listened to him. Therefore,
he went into the mountains and talked to the rocks. Have you heard of this
story? Do you know about it? (Someone: Yes!) People said that he was a
heretic. Master Dao Sheng lectured to the rocks on the mountain, and then
asked them whether they agreed or not. The rocks nodded. (Master and audience
laugh.)
Therefore, do not think that we, humans, are the cleverest. Sometimes,
rocks are smarter than us. We, humans, are not enlightened; but a dragon
girl became enlightened. We learned from the Buddhist scriptures that only
humans can become Buddhas, isn't that right? However, in the Lotus Sutra,
Shakyamuni Buddha told us a story contradictory to this. He said that a
dragon girl had also become a Buddha, and immediately -- that quick (Master
snaps Her fingers). The dragon girl was not an adult; she became a Buddha
at the age of eight!
The Truth Is Always Lonesome
Spoken By Supreme Master Ching Hai, Taitung, Formosa
May 27, 1988 (Originally In Chinese, unabridged)
Sorry we lack this document at present
News 65 Index
Supreme Master Ching Hai News No. 65 Supreme Master Ching Hai News No.
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