Report from Formosa

Following in Master's Footsteps

 

[Hsihu] On Sunday, February 18, 2001, Formosan initiates gathered in Hsihu to celebrate Ching Hai Day in advance. During the celebration, a festive atmosphere pervaded the Center, which was decorated with colorful lanterns and streamers. At the gate was a huge poster specially prepared for the occasion and bearing this Chinese couplet: "Be fresh, and at ease in observing the world. / The oceanic rhythm soars above the universal sound." (The couplet begins with "Ching" and "Hai", and ends with "Quan" and "Yin.") The verse was set against a background formed by paper cuttings of little glittering Bodhis and dazzling angels.

Posters at Hsihu's Ching Hai Day celebration record Master's recent humanitarian activities around the world.

Posters hanging from banyan trees lined the path from the main gate to the Zigzag Bridge. These posters recorded Master's worldwide charitable acts since 1990, footnoted with letters of appreciation from the relevant governments and organizations. These records told many stories about Master's infinite compassion and concern, and encouraged and reminded readers to follow in Her footsteps, for spiritual practice should not be confined to sitting cross-legged and enjoying Nirvana; it should also include transforming our love into action to help our suffering brothers and sisters around the world.

In the morning, initiates gathered for group meditation in the Bamboo Forest, to recharge themselves spiritually and pray for world peace. In the afternoon, Ching Hai Day celebrations formally began. As the master of ceremonies recounted, Ching Hai Day falls on February 22, a day specially selected in 1994 by six Midwestern US state governors to express gratitude to Master for Her long-standing dedication to humanitarian aid, and to praise Her unselfish and divine mission to benefit all beings.

Formosan initiates express their infinite love and longing for Master through melodious singing.

The Tainan Choir then led all initiates and guests in singing such songs as "Mother, You are So Great," "The Little Lambs Want to Go Home," "Sing Hallelujah to the Lord," and "Go! Go! Go!" The choir also shared two very special spiritual songs, whose harmonious tunes, unique rhythms, and musical flow of feelings touched the heartstrings of every listener. We hoped that these melodies so sincerely played and sung would convey to Master this inner message: We will try our best to follow Your example and translate Your teachings into action.

 

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