Bf Newsletter May July

Newsletter of the Buddhist Fellowship • May 2009 - Jul 2009

Address: 9 Chwee Chian Road Singapore 117488 • Tel: 6278 0900 • Email: [email protected] • www.buddhistfellowship.org Office Hours: Mon-Fri: 10am - 8pm, Sat-Sun: 10am - 5pm • Closed on Public Holidays FREE shuttle bus from Vivo City, check website for details.

MICA (P) 065/06/2008

HIGHLIGHTS 13 May 7.45 pm Dhamma & Love: Family love, Romantic Love & Marriage by Ven Shi Chun Hui 16 May 5.00 pm Are You a ‘Drama Ma Ma? by Sister Tan Suet Lee 17 May 11 am Managing Emotions by Sister Angie Monksfield 20 May 7.45 pm Dhamma & Terminal illness/suicide by Ven Shi Chun Hui 23-24 May Vesak Concert at Jubilee Theatre, Raffles Hotel 24 May 11am What If I Don’t Get Enlightened? by Dr Wong Yin Onn 27 May 7.45 pm Buddhism & Happiness by Ven Shi Chun Hui 29-31 May Youth Camp 31 May 11 am Habits of Circle of Existence by Ven Rathanarasa 3 Jun 7.45 pm Ultimate reality is within you (Tilakkhana - Three universal characteristics) by Ven Rathanasara 5 Jun 7.45 pm Working on the Five Hindrances in Meditation by Ajahn Tiradhammo 6 Jun 2.30 pm The 7 Factors of Awakening 6 Jun 5 pm Youth Service: The Principle of Kamma in Buddhism by Ajahn Tiradhammo 7 Jun 11 am The Principle of Kamma in Buddhism by Ajahn Tiradhammo 13 Jun 5 pm Discussion on the Metta Sutta by Bro Tai Wee 14 Jun 11 am The Reality of Wisdom by Ven Palzang 17 Jun 7.45 pm Are you a Prisoner of a Religion? by Ven Rathanasara 20 Jun 5 pm Falling in Love by Dr Wong Yin Onn 21 Jun 11 am Think Without a Thinker by Dr Wong Yin Onn

Happy Vesak to our members and friends EXCO Members: President Angie Monksfield • VP - Administration Wong Tai Wee VP - Members Affairs Bita Seow • VP - Public Affairs Yap Kheng Guan VP - Resource Development Jerry Ong • Hon Secretary Poh Mui Hoon Hon. Treasurer Luar Ling Ling • Committee Members Henry Baey, Jayson Goh Chor Hong, Lim Ai Ling, Lim Soon Huat, Poh Joo Tung, Mathew Rickard, Tikki Gee & Dr. Henry Yeo Peng Hock

Centre Manager: Ms Ho Eng Chin • Centre Administrator: Wai Ling Manager Humanitarian Projects: Wang Pei Chong Designed by: Creative Services www.creativeservices.com.sg

27 Jun 2.30 pm Visit to Bright Vision Hospital 28 Jun 11 am What happen to living beings If the World Perishes by Ven Rathanasara Spiritual Patron: Ven. Ajahn Brahmavamso Patrons: Dr. Ang Beng Choo Dr. Tan Choon Kim Advisor Patron: Low Teck Suan

NEWS April 7, 2009

ST.com News: Paying monks contradicts Buddhist code AS A Buddhist group of 3,000 members, we are concerned when we hear of monks and nuns who have chosen the path of a renunciant only to accept a salary or payment for services rendered. Receiving a salary or payment is not in keeping with the spiritual pursuits of a renunciant, a path these individuals have chosen to take of their own free will.

As some argue that times have changed and that monastics must adapt, we should pose the question: Is it not better to be an exemplary Buddhist by observing the five precepts of not harming, lying, stealing, consuming intoxicants and committing adultery than to be a less than exemplary monastic who is unable to adhere to the monastic code?

The Buddhist code of discipline states that monks and nuns cannot accept money for themselves, or instruct someone else to keep it for them to spend as they like or to invest in businesses, financial instruments or properties. They are also not allowed to buy and sell things for themselves using money.

It is timely for Buddhists to take stock of how we need to support our monks and nuns to help them stay on the spiritual path while they serve the community. It is also important that monastics must not be above being questioned or challenged whenever they deviate from the code of discipline they have chosen to live by.

The intent of the rules was to set renunciants apart from the majority of people, and thus, become a constant reminder to all that a life based on materialism is not the only way to live.

Over time, monastic groups have relaxed many Buddhist rules and like all things, left unchecked, the relaxation may have gone a step too far, to the point where there is little difference between some monastics and lay-Buddhists.

If an organisation wishes to appreciate a monk’s or nun’s contribution, the honorarium or donation should be made to the monastery or supporting organisation.

Angie Monksfield (Ms) President, Buddhist Fellowship Singapore

VINAYA

But is this rule a minor one?... ‘Monks, there are these four stains because of which the sun and moon glow not, shine not, blaze not. What are these four? Rain clouds... snow clouds... smoke and dust... and an eclipse. Even so, monks, there are these four stains because of which monks and priests glow not, shine not, blaze not. What are these four? Drinking alcohol... indulging in sexual intercourse... accepting gold or money... obtaining one’s requisites through a wrong mode of livelihood. These are the four stains, monks, because of which monks and priests glow not, shine not, blaze not.’ [3]

Monks and Money Ajahn Brahmavamso (reprinted from BSWA Newsletter, January-March 1996) This is the second article in the series about the Vinaya, the body of monastic rules and traditions binding on every Buddhist monk and nun. In this article I will be concerned with the controversial issue of a monk’s or nun’s dealings with money. The issue has been controversial for over 2,000 years. Around 200 years after the Buddha’s final passing away, there arose a great quarrel in which “both endless disputations arose and of not one speech was the meaning clear” [1]. This dispute arose because a large community of monks were accepting money in defiance of the Vinaya. The proceedings of the dispute became known as the Second Council and it sowed the seed of the first great schism in the Buddhist world, which happened soon after.

Obviously, the Buddha thought that the rule prohibiting the acceptance of gold or money was, indeed, a very important rule. The non-acceptance of money has always been one of the fundamental observances of those who have left the world. Money is the measure of wealth and to most people material wealth is the goal of life. In the renunciation of money by monks and nuns, they emphatically demonstrate their complete rejection of worldly pursuits. At one stroke they set themselves significantly apart from the vast majority of people and thus become a constant reminder to all that a life based on the struggle to accumulate money is not the only way to live. Through giving up money they give up much of their power to manipulate the world and to satisfy their desires. Thus, as the Buddha once said when asked whether money was permissible to the monks and nuns: ‘ Whoever agrees to gold or money, headman, also agrees to the five strands of sensual pleasure, and whoever agrees to the five strands of sensual pleasure, headman, you may take it for certain that this is not the way of a recluse, that this is not the way of a Buddhist monk.’[4]

Then, as now, there is no excuse for uncertainty on this point, for the Buddha’s own words make it plain... On Monks and Money Buddhist monks (bhikkhus) and nuns (bhikkhunis) are not allowed to accept money for themselves. Nor are they allowed to tell a trustworthy layperson to receive it on their behalf and keep it for them (e.g. keeping a personal bank account). Such practices are explicitly prohibited in the 18th rule of the section of Vinaya called Nissaggiya Pacittiya. Nor may monks or nuns buy and sell things for themselves using money. This is prohibited by the 19th rule in the Nissaggiya Pacittiya. Some people argue that these two rules refer only to gold and silver but such a view is indefensible. The Vinaya specifically states that these rules cover “whatever is used in business” [2], i.e. any medium of exchange.

References [1] Book of the Discipline, volume 5, page 424. [2] Book of the Discipline, volume 2, page 102. [3] Anguttara Nikaya, volume 2, page 53. (my translation) [4] Samyutta Nikaya, volume 4, page 326. (my translation)

Other people try to get around this rule by saying that it is only a minor rule, inapplicable to monastic life today. Indeed, the Buddha once did say that the Sangha may abolish the “lesser and minor” rules.

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NEWS 3) AIDS Patients Patient Care Centre Address: 7 Jalan Tan Tock Seng Singapore 308440 Weekly, choice of Wed or Fri 7.30pm-9.30pm (Befriending, Counselling, Group outings for patients and their families)

BF Humanitarian Projects by Wang Pei Chong Local Projects

Would you like to enrich your life by befriending the aged who need a friend?

Other Overseas Projects - Nargis (Myanmar)

Buddhist Fellowship is launching two local community programs and would like to invite volunteers to join these programs. be part of them to touch someone’s life. All you need to do is to offer your listening ears, bring along a BIG Heart and lots of smiles!

The rebuilding efforts in the adopted village of Chaung Gyi (Dedaye Township) are currently in progress. An advance trip would be made in May 09 so as to evaluate on the feasibility of other projects.

1) Bedridden patients at Bright Vision Hospital Address: 5 Lorong Napiri Singapore 547530 Every Saturday 2.30pm-4.30pm (Befriending, Games/Activities)

Mission Step 4 is scheduled for early Jul 09. Trip Budget: $600. More details would be made available soon via email.

Kindly commit 3 months to provide continuity to the patients whose lives you would be touching. - There will be a special shuttle bus service at 1.45pm from Jurong East MRT Station to Bright Vision Hospital

10 ploughing machines were donated to Chuang Gyi village in Feb 09 BF volunteers providing befriending services to a patient

BF Volunteer Bro Tan Sek Kuan inspecting the corroding steel structure of the monastery building

The patients and the BF volunteers enjoyed themselves tremendously during enjoying a game of Bingo

To register your interest to volunteer or have questions, please contact Pei Chong [email protected].

2) Senior citizens at Geylang East Home for the Aged Address: Blk 97 Aljunied Crescent #01-439 Singapore 380097 Every 4th Saturday of the month 3pm-5pm (Befriending, Games/Activities & Meditation) 5pm-6.30pm (Pot-luck dinner for 40 people)

Thank you in advance for volunteering to make a difference to in someone else’s life!

- We would be sponsoring a pot-luck dinner every month and do call us to let us know the dishes if you would like to contribute. If you can’t visit but would like to co-sponsor the dinner, you may send in a donation to “Buddhist Fellowship” (please indicate behind the name, mobile number and indicate that it is for the GEHA dinner).

Various activities at the Geylang East Home for the Aged CONNECTION

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NEWS prevention, are conducted daily during lunch time. The same series of health programs are also brought to schools and to wider population around Bodhgaya through a mobile clinic.

Humanitarian trip to Bihar By Wang Pei Chong

A Buddhist Fellowship team (Bro Pei Chong, Sis Tushita and Sis Toni) was in Bodhgaya, Bihar from 16 to 20 Mar 2009. The province of Bihar was badly hit by floods last year that claimed lives of many people. BF members responded very well to the call last year to help the Bihar Flood victims. During this trip we visited the Root Institute for Wisdom Culture, our partner in Bihar for the distribution of humanitarian aid donated by BF members

The mobile clinic, comprising Educational drawings to teach villagers the importance of of a doctor and 3 medical personal hygiene assistants , operates 5 days a week. The team followed the mobile clinic on its trip to Ghonghawa, a village about 6 kms away from Bodhgaya. When we arrived at the village, 70 patients were waiting for the clinic to seek the medical help.

Root Institute Established in 1987, the Root Institute (affiliated with the Foundation for the Preservation of the Mahayana Tradition) is an established Buddhist Meditation Center based in Bodhgaya. It runs a free health program (the Shakyamuni Buddha Community Health Program) since 1991 consisting of an in-house and a mobile clinic that target to serve villagers living within a 10km radius of Bodhgaya. Buddhist Fellowship had previously (in 4Q 08) transported blankets (by courtesy of SIA) and other donation items to the Root Institute for distribution to the Bihar Flood victims.

The setup was fairly straightforward; the clinic is divided into 3 sections, (1) a waiting area for the patients, (2) a medical consultation area and (3) a pharmacy. Sis Toni interacting with the patients as they wait for their turns to see the doctor

The team met up with Trisha (director of Root Institute) and discussed on the further distribution of blankets to the victims of the Bihar Flood. As most of the villagers had gone back to their villages instead of living in shelters and in view of the approaching hot season (Apr to Jun), it was decided that any further distribution of blankets be deferred. Other forms of humanitarian work such as providing medical and educational needs were discussed. We visited the clinic set up under the Shakyamuni Buddha Community Health Program. Dr Sanjay, the clinic coordinator, gave us a briefing on the clinic operations. The clinic, occupying the ground floor of a two-storey building in Root Institute, serves about 100 patients with 2 doctors on shift each day, 6 days a week. The illnesses attended to include those affecting women and children, and long term illnesses such as AIDS/HIV and TB.

Dr. Khan, the doctor on duty for the day, giving a young girl biscuits after the medical examination.

As the mobile clinic had resumed its operations after a week’s break (due to Holi, a major Hindu Spring Festival), the clinic treated 87 patients on that day (on the average it would treat 70 patients per day). Almost all (but one patient) were followup cases. Entrance to the Clinic – patients waiting for medical attention

A clinical assistant takes the weight and blood pressure of the patients

Clinical assistant providing medication to the patients at the pharmacy

According to Dr Sanjay, many of the patients suffer from diabetes and anemia. The clinic runs a physiotherapy section which provides services to patients whose movement and functions are threatened by aging, injury or diseases. A small hospital with a women’s clinic, located on the second floor, has the capability of housing 10 patients that require urgent medical care. A series of health education programs, aimed at increasing the level of awareness of good personal hygiene and disease CONNECTION

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The BF team posing with members of the Mobile Clinic. The Buddhist mobile clinic team has a Muslim doctor and Hindu assistants!

NEWS Maitreya Project Universal Education School The team also visited the Maitreya School. Established in 1991, the school in Bodhgaya helps 350 needy students (ranging from Kindergarten to Class 10) in providing free but quality education. There is also an evening school for students who are unable to attend school during the day and a Vocational Training Center to train adults in various technical skills. The school (a 3-storey building) consists of 16 classrooms, a science laboratory and a library. It is also equipped with a kitchen and a canteen. From the visit, we found that the school needs help in: a) English Books for the Library The current books in the library (situated on the 3rd floor) are old. The school is looking for English books that are interesting and simple for children from Kindergarten to Class 4. Simple fiction or books with colourful pictures are welcomed. b) Sports Equipment Sports equipment such as cricket bats/balls, skipping ropes, badminton rackets/shuttlecock, footballs, table tennis bats/balls.

MCU’s Degree Programme to Singapore Bringing

By Fanny Foo The MCU - MAHACHULALONGKORNRAJAVIDYALAYA UNIVERSITY in full - is Thailand’s top university for the Thai Sangha. It was established in the 19th Century by King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) of the Chakri Dynasty for the higher education of Buddhist monks, novices and lay people, emphasising in Buddhist studies. The Brahm Education Centre (BEC) is honoured to be one of five educational institutions to be affiliated to MCU. The other four are Dongguk Chonbob College in Korea, Ching Chueh Buddhist Sangha University in Taiwan, Mahapanya Vidyalai in the Songkhla Province (Thailand) and the Buddhist Institute for Advanced Studies in Sri Lanka. BEC is currently working with MCU on a Bachelor of Arts Programme in Buddhism and Management to be conducted in Singapore.

Students showing off their art pieces while having their art lessons in the canteen

Front View of the school. Students playing cricket

To finalise plans for the degree programme, I was in MCU from the 16TH to the 18TH April 2009 to meet with Ven. Asst. Prof. Dr. Phramaha Hansa Dhammahaso of the university. I had a fruitful discussion with the Ven professor during my visit. I also had the opportunity to tour the impressive campus at Wang Noi, just outside Ayutthaya. The campus comprises of classroom facilities for 10,000 students, a Tipitaka Museum, IT facilities, hostels , an auditorium, and a temple that seats 4,000. MCU will be one of the venues for the UN Vesak Celebrations when it is held in Thailand from the 4th to 6th May 09.

Students (from Kindergarten to Class 4) enjoying free morning meals

Recommendation & Next Steps As a follow-up action to the mission, Buddhist Fellowship had provided funding to purchase 3 month’s medication for the in-house and mobile clinics. Buddhist Fellowship is also seeking donation for the following items: - A blood analyzer that is used to detect the levels of blood sugar (for diabetes) and haemoglobin (for anemia) - Donation of simple English books (standard should be between Kindergarten to Primary 6) for the school library - Sports equipment like skipping ropes, balls and cricket bats for the school

On the last day of my visit, a volunteer brought me to the ancient temples of Wat Chai Mongkul and Wat Mahathat in nearby Ayutthaya. The visit to this reputable centre of higher Buddhist studies has left a deep impression in me.

Anyone wishing to donate these items could contact BF centre (Pei Chong). Air tickets, accommodation and food were borne by the team members themselves. CONNECTION

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AJAHN BRAHM’s VISIT

“Making Sense Of What Is Happening In The World” A Talk by Ajahn Brahm on the 4th March, organised by the Buddhist Fellowship. By Evelyn Lim Before your birth, did you read the fine print in your life’s contract? If you have been going around lamenting about being in a crisis because of the current economic downturn, then perhaps you have not.

do you think you are eating? A pile of dog shit!

In a the talk on “Making Sense of What is Happening to the World” held at the Buddhist Lodge on March 4, he proceeded to relate the following story....

Is The World Coming to An End?

It is dog shit transformed. In the same manner, difficulties are “fertilizers” for gaining wisdom, peace and compassion.

Some religious teachers predict that the world is coming to an end, in the light of recent natural worldwide disasters or the current economic crisis for that matter. But here was what Ajahn Brahm said: The World is Not Coming To An End!

Ajahn Chah, a well known monk and teacher to Ajahn Brahm, had a Thai disciple. The novice monk got drafted into the army soon after. He returned home wounded after some time. Puzzled as to why he was not invincible, he went to look for Ajahn Chah. He asked the reverand “Why was I hurt”. Ajahn Chah looked at him and replied cryptly “Because you joined the army”.

History has shown us time and time again that we go through cycles. Economic downturns signifies the beginnings of a new period. Recessions and tragedies may result in a deterioration of our bank balances but they do not rob us of our light – kindness, peace and wisdom. Financial wealth is not equal to spiritual abundance. In fact, in times such as these, we have every opportunity to gather as a community, in assistance for one another.

This being the case, tsunamis, bushfires, loss of jobs and earthquakes are really part of the cycle of life. There is no point spending too much time asking ourselves why disasters happen. The difficulties in life often give us the opportunity to become stronger. If life has been smooth sailing, there really is nothing much to transform or learn from.

Opportunity To Do What We Love

As you walk to go home, you step onto a pile of dog shit. Don’t scrape it off, just yet. Consider wearing your shoes home and then scrape it off under the mango tree. A year later, you notice juicy ripe mangoes on your tree. You pluck and start to eat them, relishing every bite. But really, what CONNECTION

Hard times are really opportunities for us to move into doing what we will enjoy doing. Here was a real story shared during the talk....

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AJAHN BRAHM’s VISIT A businessman in Sydney picked up his telephone. It was a call from his doctor.

A Blessing In Disguise Another real life account that is probably better known is the Steve Jobs story. Steve Jobs, founder of Apple, was a millionaire by the age of 25. However, he got expelled from the very company that he built from scratch. After being fired, he was said to be in depression for one week.

The doctor said, “I have bad news for you. Your medical results are out. You have cancer of the blood. Your condition is basically untreatable. I am so sorry but you are in the final stages.” There was a pause.

In the following week, however, Steve bounced back to life! He started another two companies; NeXT and Pixar. He eventually sold NeXT to Apple and got himself restored to the board and also sold Pixar to Disney. Steve became wealthier than before!

The businessman asked in a cracking voice “How long more, sir?” The doctor replied, “Max 3 months.”

Happiness Before Success Upon hanging up, the businessman decided that he wanted to spend his remaining days with his loved ones. He had been stressed out for so many years while building his company. Upon learning that he had not much time left, the businessman sold his company at a price that he thought reasonable (not the highest though). He then bought first class tickets so that his family could travel to Europe, an idea that he often talked about but never had the time for.

Studies have shown that it is happiness before success rather than success before happiness. (I just read in an online newsletter that there are already more than 255 studies showing that money does not buy happiness. Happy people tend to be more fulfilled, peaceful and relaxed. They are Being Happy First rather than Having the Success. In one particular study, people who are happy generally earn $750,000+ more in their lifetime than others.) Hence, you have to be happy first before you can become successful. When you do what you love, you are happy. A positive attitude is an ingredient for success!

Then, while he was on holiday, his phone rang. It was the doctor on the other line again.

There have also been a number of tests by psychologists who wanted to find out what level of income would generate the most happiness. Apparently, it is not too much nor too little. Too little money is just as stressful as too much money. The best is still “the middle way”!

The doctor cleared his throat and then said, “I am not sure how to tell you this. But there has been a mistake. There is one other person with the same name as you. He is the one with cancer and not you.” The doctor waited for three seconds before there was a reply.

What Are You Remembered By Last but not least, some perspective into what is true wealth can help. In a funeral, when you are being remembered, others will speak of your kindness, love, and generosity in spirit.

The businessman said, “I am not sure how to thank you, sir. I am having the most amazing time here with my family. You are a great teacher! You have taught me an important lesson!”

Your eulogy is really “the bottom line of a human life”. Your life is not measured by the money you have made, but how you have lived and the lives we have impacted. If anything, building social capital is the best use of your time.

When the businessman returned from his vacation, he started another business with the remaining money. It was one which was far less stressful but one that gave him more time with his family. He was a much happier person!!

Choose To Respond Wisely The highlight of Ajahn Brahm’s talk can really be summarized in one line: “Rather light a candle than complain about darkness!” In short, the secret to weathering difficult times (such as an economic crisis) are to keep a positive mind, remember the dharma, do social work and always be happy!! Read also Winston Lim’s account of the talk that is posted on BF’s website.

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NEWS

The Sunday talk on

Cultivating a Compassionate Heart by Venerable Thubten Chodron By Dr Punnavo Yeo Ven. Chodron delivered a most inspiring and practical lesson on how to be compassionate to a full house in BF on Sunday 5 April 2009. Using humour and simple analogies, the Venerable brings home the message that we have to be personally responsible for developing our mind and the Dharma practice. Below is a summary of the main points the Venerable shared. • We need to remind ourselves of our purpose of learning the Dharma. • The purpose is to develop compassion and wisdom so that we can help ourselves and others to free ourselves from suffering and the problems of life associated with cyclical samsara. • The Dharma is NOT meant to be passively listened to but to be personally practised and experienced. • We must not depend on others to purify our mind, to bring us happiness, salvation or Enlightenment. • We must know the purpose of rituals and not be fixated or dependent upon rituals. If bowing, for example, is performed without the right motivation, it may be better off (from the point of view of physical fitness) for the practitioner to spend the same amount of time in a gym. • Holding a bowl upside down will result in the inside of the bowl not receiving any sunlight. Similarly, if we wish to learn the Dharma, we must be receptive like a bowl that is correctly positioned, right side up, so that it can receive the sunlight that is all around. • When we perform dana or make donations or offerings to the Buddha, we must do so with the right motivation and a purified mind, otherwise the act has no merit. • Performing rituals and going to temples on Vesak day do not make one a Buddhist. More importantly, one should practise the Dharma to transform one’s heart and mind. • Working and developing our mind is not easy. There is no “Enlightenment Pill” for instant Nirvana. We need patience, energy, effort, persistence and wisdom. • Working with the mind is not easy because it is easily distracted. The mind can be stubborn and resistant to change. It is not receptive to reason and change when it is angry. • Because of this negative state of the mind that may arise during meditation, there is a need for us to get guidance from a wise and experienced meditation teacher. • When thoughts arise during meditation, we should observe and note them without judgement and without chasing them. • The mind can be pained by thoughts of jealousy. We cannot change the situation of others who have material possessions, fame or power, so we might as well rejoice in their well-being, happiness and good fortune. • The Metta Sutta reminds us “May all beings be well and happy.” So, if someone is well and happy without our influence or effort, we must not feel upset. • The Venerable suggested we ask ourselves how destroying somebody’s happiness is going to make us CONNECTION

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feel better. She pointed out that it only creates suffering for us and is not in keeping with Right Thought and Right Speech. We are reminded that “You do not have to be the only happy person in the world; being with happy people makes you happy and a world with unhappy people makes you unhappy.” The Buddhas and Bodhisattvas have been trying (since time immemorial) to help us and all sentient beings by pointing the way for us. The Dharma transforms our mind and heart and makes our life meaningful and purposeful. Thus when we depend on external circumstances for success and happiness, we will be disillusioned. We should aspire immediately to be kind and compassionate to our family, fellow workers, colleagues and those who come into contact with us. When we learn the Dharma, we get to learn more ways to benefit others. By using Right Speech with our children, communication will be more effective and our relationship will improve. We should be mindful “not to talk down to our children like a sergeant major”. When talking to our spouse/children, the Venerable encouraged us to look for what interests them; acknowledge their strengths; appreciate their good qualities; give praise etc. This is Right Thought, Right Speech, Right Action. In closing, the Venerable reiterated that our task is not to change somebody else but to change ourselves.

Venerable Thubten Chodron has been a Buddhist for more than 30 years. She has been teaching Buddhism in many countries. Like Angie Monksfield, I have also been fortunate to have the Venerable as my first Dharma teacher. Venerable Chodron has written numerous books, and many of her booklets are for free distribution. The must read ones include Transforming Our Daily Activities and Working with Anger. When one wants to be compassionate, one must do so with wisdom. Venerable Chodron’s book ‘Open Heart, Clear Mind’ deals with this concept in great detail. Some of her works are in CDs and VCDs. Do visit her website for more information: www.thubtenchodron.org

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FEATURE

A section of the attentive audience

At the Vihara Jakarta Dhamma Cakkha Jaya Temple in Jakarta

BF members with host Sister Liliane Halim

Fellowship beyond our shores by Albert Lee K H President Angie Monksfield was invited by BFmembers in Indonesia to give 2 talks on Dharma in Business in Jakarta on Sat 25th April.

the end of the talk with good insights on how one can apply the Dharma in business. Executives Lunch Talk in Jakarta Angie showed tremendous energy to conduct 2 talks and discussions all in a day.

The first talk, in the morning, attracted some 50 young executives. It was a lively session with interesting Q&As. The morning’s session lasted over 2 hours and allowed us to interact with our Indonesian friends. Members who accompanied Angie are Bro Jerry, Sis Linda, Bro Henry, Bro Lawrence and myself.

The next day, we met with our Indonesian members to exchange notes and discuss future co-operations in a 2-hour session.

The second talk was attended by 100 professionals and high-level executives. The session also saw a lively exchange of questions and answers. The audience walked away at

The trip included a visit to a temple and a meeting with the abbot of the temple.

The Annual General Meeting

MONTHLY ANNOUCEMENTS Monthly: Meditation Courses by Bro Piya Tan Yoga & Tai Chi Classes Marriage Solemnisation, Free Counseling and Legal Advisory Services available by appointment Single Again Club is a pioneering support group in the Buddhist community - through the wisdom of Dharma, we sought to support anyone who is experiencing or who has experienced the pain and uncertainty of facing the future alone once more.

of the Buddhist Fellowship was held on the 29th March 2009. Two changes were made to the composition of the Ex-Co. Ms Luar Ling Ling, Jesilynn came on board as the treasurer, succeeding Ms Tan Suet Lee. Mr Tikki Gee joined the ex-co in place of Mr Albert Lee who has since joined Buddhist Fellowship as a full time staff.

CORE WEEKLY PROGRAM Sun: Tues: Wed: Sat:

President Angie Monksfield, on behalf of the Fellowship thanked both out-going members for their contributions while in office during the preceding year. CONNECTION

Morning Service, 11am - 12.30pm Sutta Discovery Classes, 7.30pm Evening Dhamma Talk, 7.45pm Youth Service, 5pm - 7pm

Join BF meditation session at Fort Canning Park at 6.45am every 1st Sunday of the month. Meet at Car Park B

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NEWS

Matthew in Thailand

Rahula College

The Rahula College provides young children Dhamma lessons in a fun and interactive way. We are fortunate to have several speakers who had spent their Sunday mornings with the kids telling them stories or engaging them in activities that teach valuable lessons. Many thanks to Brother Boon, Sister Rosalind, Brother Matthew, Brother Peter , Brother James Khoo and Sister Teng Lan who in their own ways inspired the students with their stories and activities. Also, to parents and PROs who helped made the outings, such as the one to the Marina Barrage for kite flying, so successful.

Role playing with Brother Peter

Gue

Bro Jame st speaker

Sister Teng Lan

s Khoo

Offerings at start of service

Our guest speakers Brothers Matthew and Peter

22nd Feb 09, Sunday. Rahula College was honoured to have 2 special guest speakers. They are none other than Brother Boon, Chairman of Poh Ern Shih Temple and Sister Rosalind (aka Madame Butterfly). Madame Butterfly

The students learnt a valuable lesson on impermanence as Sister Rosalind explained the life cycle of a butterfly as it goes through life from its beginning as an egg to adulthood as a winged beauty. After the talk, the students were taken around the temple. They were shown the plants that will make the temple a haven for butterflies. Indeed during the tour, the students caught sight of several butterflies and even a couple of pupa.

Madame Butterfly showing the kids around

Meanwhile Brother Boon showed the students around the temple, pointing out several green features within the temple. Brother Boon’s eco tour included a look at the solar panels, wind turbines and a rainwater collection system. The students were captivated by Brother Boon’s explanation on how the sun’s rays are tapped to provide electricity for the temple and the rain water collected for the watering of plants. In addition, Brother Boon brought the kids to the gardens dotted around the temple and explained the use of the plants grown in the gardens.

Brother Boon showing kids the solar heater

Power from the sun

Some quotes from the students: Michael – “Switch off all main switches of electrical appliances when not in use” Gregory – “Spend less hours in the shower so as not to waste precious water” Su Hui – “Recycle water after washing rice during my daily meals” Kimberly – “Spend less time watching television or playing computer games, read books or newpapers/magazines more often to improve oneself”

The lessons by both Brother Boon and Sister Rosalind were not lost on the kids. They shared their thoughts on the outing through their drawings which are currently on display at the Dhamma Hall.

CONNECTION

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MAY - JUL 2009

NEWS

Getting ready to fly

A message of love

As a parent, I enjoy telling my kids to pursue their dreams. So long if they can conceive a dream and feel passionate about it, they can believe that it will come true. After all, that has been the experience of my husband. As a three year old, he already had a dream of becoming a fighter pilot. He achieved his dream in the end, despite having to undergo some challenges.

Their memorable feat took place at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina on a cold windy morning. The Wright brothers are an inspiration, for it is more likely that most of us have given up our dreams by the time we reach adulthood. As children, we have had many dreams. We aspired to be artists, ballerinas, actresses or even the President. Not many of us pursued them as we got older. Perhaps it was that our dreams change. Perhaps we have been told that they were not realistic to begin with. Or that our dreams would not make us a decent living.

So it is with great enthusiasm that my kids attended the Kite Flying outing organized by Rahula College on April 5. It was held at the Marina Barrage, with the city skyline and the Singapore Flyer in the background. They had together with their classmates made their own kites over the previous weekend. On each kite, each child had written their dream or hope.

Millions of lives have changed, if not for the likes of the Wright brothers, Thomas Edison or Walt Disney, who all singlemindedly pursued what appeared to be the impossible at one time. More recently, a new singing talent found in 47year old Susan Boyle in “Britain’s Got Talent, 2009” lets us know that it is never too late to go for our dreams!

It was exciting trying to get a kite take off. Squeals were all that much louder with each successful launch, because many of the kids faced difficulty in getting theirs up. The wind was not particularly strong that day. It might also be that the material that the kites were made of. They were not quite as easy to fly, as I was later told. Grey clouds also threatened to ruin the day. Still, for a good while, it was lovely seeing colorful kites dancing in the wind across the sky.

Here is a quote that I really like.... “Dreams are like the paints of a great artist. Your dreams are your paints, the world is your canvas. Believing, is the brush that converts your dreams into a masterpiece of reality.”

For a while I stopped to watch, enraptured by the flight of dreams. I recalled what I read about - a time back in the 19th century. Two brothers had an idea which eventually became their passionate and consuming dream. On Friday December 17, 1903 at 10:35 AM, the Wright brothers (Wilbur and Orville) had their success. They flew “the world’s first power-driven, heavier-than-air machine in which man made free, controlled, and sustained flight.”

My younger daughter had written that “I want to be an artist when I grow up” on her kite. My nephew wrote about being a pilot, and my elder girl and niece just wanted to share love with the world, with their drawings of hearts. If these are the dreams they truly desire, I hope that they all come true.

First Aid for the Ki

In soaring spirit

CONNECTION

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MAY - JUL 2009

tes

NEWS

Valentine’s Day at BF By Teo Heng Bin , BF Youth Leader

Valentine’s day means different things to different people. For the happily attached couples, it could mean a ‘special’ day to celebrate that ‘special’ bond between the both of them. For those involved in the commercial line of roses, hotel suites, high-end luxury food and chocolates, it could mean an opportunist period to make a quick buck out of the romantic frenzy. As they say, love is “recession proof”. For the singles, it could mean a dreaded period where they are reminded of how they are missing that significant other, no thanks to constant bombardment from advertisements about the love festival. In fact, some of whom shun themselves away from the world cannot wait for that awkward day to pass. Of course the activities are endless when you take all into account. So, how did I spend my Valentine’s day? Well, I organized ‘justsupper’ at PES Temple.

own band members, namely Ronghan, Thow, August, Jiashun and Heng Hao, who crooned decent love songs like ‘That Thing You Do’. The video group, led by Eugenia, produced a video which covered different aspects of love such as friendship love, family love and romantic love. The writing group also put up a board which consisted of a list of shocking pick-up lines (some coming from themselves!), a love poem, and a story about friendship. A discussion led by Dr Henry Yeo and his wife ensued after this where they answered questions about love by bewildered participants. Brother Henry Baey also contributed words of wisdom from his vast life experience. When the session at the Dhamma Hall ended, the participants, each with a rose as a gift, headed to the rooftop for supper. Some of the youths put their baking skills to use. Xinhui and Weekee contributed cookies while Carene brought truffles and brownies. Topping all these goodies up with vanilla ice cream made a scrumptious combination.

Valentine’s day carries special significance to me. After all, my FIRST BF youth session was on Valentine’s Day 2007. I still remember vividly RESH (Dr Teoh Ren Shang) taking on the role of ‘love doctor’ as he hosted participants who shared their myriad of love experiences. The faces, the venue and the stories have changed since then.

Of course, not forgetting the romantic ambience under the starlit moonlight. We were grateful to be given permission from the temple to play music from speakers and light up the perimeters with small candles to create a dazzling twilight feeling. With the airy and spacious rooftop, it was extremely conducive for the participants to socialize across acres while enjoying the breeze. After having our fill of supper, we left the temple with satisfied bellies and wonderful memories.

Fast forward to 2009, almost 40 participants turned up on 14 February. The crowd included some guests from the NUS Buddhist Society as well as ‘old’ members who are working/studying overseas and dropping by Singapore for a vacation. We had a round of folding origami paper cranes and following that, we had a music performance by our very

From the Eyes of a Matripal Volunteer

attention and miss their beloved ones. It must be depressing for them to be confined to the four walls of a hospice room to bear the pain and suffering alone. A pair of listening ears or a gentle touch on the arm goes a long way to soothe the pain and suffering.

It takes a lot to be a volunteer at a HIV-AIDS hospice.

I am happy to be with fellow Matripal volunteers who are gifted in dealing with the hospice residents. They go about doing their work with the right etiquette as well as strict hygiene procedures. They contribute unconditionally, giving warmth and friendship.

By James Khoo

The idea of volunteering at the place of dying will put many off; let alone a HIV-AIDS hospice. But this is the place where volunteers are most needed.

The patients may not know our names but they are aware that there are kind hearted people out there who are ready to be around, just to be with them, just to listen to their regrets and worries, just to give a little attention and a little comfort.

Many patients at the hospice are disowned by their beloved ones. Some do not have the courage to reveal their conditions. Even when a patient is well enough to be discharged, some do not have a home to go back to. Some are not able to afford the cost of medication. For them the hospice is home till their final days.

Through loving kindness, we hope to brighten up the few remaining days of someone else’s life

As volunteers are anonymous, the patients share their thoughts with us very freely. Many spoke about their past and their worries for the future. They long for CONNECTION

Join us.

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MAY - JUL 2009

FEATURE

What Vesak Means To Me

By Piya Tan

Vesak Day is when my family and I would visit some obscure and uncrowded Buddhist temple (usually one we have not been to before), where we could enjoy the peace as we remind ourselves of this most sacred day.

our idea of imaginary things in which we are told to have faith. But the stillness of mind is something we can all experience, if we spend some quiet moments alone meditating, say, watching the breath.

In 1950, the World Fellowship of Buddhists (WFB) declared Vesak Day to fall on the first full moon day of May. In other words, it is an uposatha or precept day. It is a day when we put more effort to keep at least the five precepts, by spending quiet time with the family, or keeping in touch with the Dharma, or alone meditating.

When our mind is calm, it becomes clear. In that clarity, we will notice there are destructive as well as wholesome patterns of behaviour. Often getting angry is a destructive pattern of behaviour; so is being constantly sad or depressive. We should spend some quiet time, and question such mental patterns. Ask WHY, then some answer will appear in your mind; ask WHY again, and so on, until we come to understand what is really going on. This final part, we have to find out for ourselves.

It is a day to keep in touch with our own self, away from the madding crowd. Those who share the same ideal can gather together to do this, too, and have Sutta Study and other retreat-like activities. In this way we will taste the true spirit of Vesak.

Then there is the wholesome pattern that we should notice in ourselves. It makes us feel really peaceful and happy. And it is not dependent on anything outside of ourselves; for, such a state would be dependent on something else. We should seek for the non-dependent peaceful happiness within ourselves. Where does it come from? Seek and you will find it — in your heart.

Vesak celebrates the Buddha’s birthday. He was born a human being like any of us. This means that any of us can become Buddha if we want to, which is effectively becoming the most evolved of beings within a certain world-cycle. Or, it is like being the captain of a huge ship. If we cannot be the captain, it is good enough to be a good crew all journeying towards true liberation.

Be at peace with your breath. It has always been there, trying to keep up with you. Just let your breathing be this time; joyfully observe it like you would watch a sleeping baby or a happy kitten or a colourful sunset.

Vesak Day secondly marks “Buddha Day,” that is the awakening of Gotama to true reality and becoming the Buddha. What does awakening (bodhi) mean? Biological evolution brings us to the highest level of growth as a species or group. Then we have to develop as individuals, that is, go through the spiritual evolution. While biological evolution brings us beyond the animal and subhuman levels, spiritual evolution brings us beyond the human and the divine so that we are truly liberated from all suffering, human or divine.

The secret of Vesak is this: We can be truly happy by being emotionally independent: our happiness is not dependent on others or outside things or other people’s ideas. Buddhism, above all else, is about spiritual evolution. It is the transmission of stillness from the Buddha to us. Life’s storm may rage around us, but there is always this eye of stillness where we are. This is the true meaning of Vesak.

On the Buddha’s parinirvana (final passing away), which is the third significance of Vesak, he reminds us to be “an island unto yourself; make the Dharma as an island” (D 16). This means that we have the potential to be truly happy, and to be liberated from suffering. The answer to life’s problems lies within our minds. The answer is not “out there,” but in here (in our minds).

May the spirit of Vesak always be with you in the calm and clarity of your heart. (As this is a reflection, you are invited to read it again so that you can relate to it. You might like to highlight sentences that you like, and reflect further on them.)

The Buddha’s message is very simple: if we do not help ourselves, who can? Religion is mostly based on stories and

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MAY - JUL 2009

ADVERTISMENT