Inmates joyously partake of the delicious vegetarian foods prepared by San Jose fellow practitioners. [San Jose] Before Christmas 2002, initiates from the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Association of Costa Rica, together with a Quan Yin messenger, visited the San Sebastian Jail in the city of San Jose to conduct a video seminar for a hundred-and-fifty inmates. Jail staff members and several inmates welcomed us with love and timely assistance, wishing to see the program succeed. The sincerity and harmony shown among the Quan Yin practitioners warmed the atmosphere of the occasion.
To begin her talk, the Quan Yin messenger spoke to the inmates about the rainbow she had seen while on her way to the Jail, which she thought was a symbol that God was going to bestow on the inmates boundless hope. Next, she shared some funny mistakes that she and her classmates had made while trying to learn Spanish. As the prisoners listened, they looked like children laughing heartily. The messenger made use of the example of studying Spanish to encourage them, saying that we all learn from our so-called mistakes so that we can gradually become perfect. And actually we are all Saints with the perfect inner God Nature, but what we need is a Master to help us recognize the perfect Real Self.
Inmates at the San Sebastian Jail wholeheartedly listen to the instructions and learn the Convenient Method. Immediately following the messenger's talk, the audience watched a video of Master's teachings with great attention and interest. Then after enjoying a simple yet delicious vegetarian meal, about one third of the inmates stayed to learn the Convenient Method. And although the surroundings were very noisy, most were able to meditate well and experience the inner Light. After the Convenient Method meditation session, all the new practitioners radiated happiness, and asked the Quan Yin initiates for further opportunities to learn about Master Ching Hai's teachings and practice group meditation.
At the end of the seminar, a group of Quan Yin initiates, including a sister dressed as Santa Claus, distributed clothing as gifts to the inmates, one of whom asked the Quan Yin messenger to especially thank Master Ching Hai for Her love because he had almost died recently, and at this difficult moment in his life, God had sent us there.
The seminar was a beautiful spiritual event and a wonderful experience for the initiates. We thank Master and the inmates and staff of the San Sebastian Jail for giving us the opportunity to share this Christmas celebration with them.
Report from Costa Rica
