When
a severe earthquake devastated Osaka and Kobe three years ago, Master
immediately formed a relief team. Emergency provisions and relief
workers were sent from Formosa to assist Japanese fellow initiates
rendering spiritual comfort and material aid to disaster victims.
Today,
three years later, memories of this incident returned when fellow
practitioners learned that the S.M. Celestial Jewelry was to be displayed
at the International Jewelry Exhibition in Kobe. Thrilled by this
upcoming event, the initiates were thankful for Master's remarkable
arrangements and love for the people of Kobe. The relatively few initiates
in Kobe were joined by fellow practitioners from Shikoku, Osaka, Gunma
and Tokyo, whose enthusiasm was not the least dampened by their long
tedious journey. Some drove to Kobe, some traveled by train, and others
came after office hours on night coaches to join the work team. Their
air of elation and heartfelt support added to the warm, jubilant atmosphere
at the exhibition.
It
was the rainy season in Kobe. However, while fellow practitioners
were cheerily on their way to the venue on the eve of the exhibition,
the gloomy weather cleared up, giving way to a blue cloudless sky
that was unusual for the season. The showcases in the exhibition booth
shone in splendor. For many fellow initiates, this was the first time
that they had beheld the Celestial Jewelry they had long heard about.
Visitors passing by the booth were captivated by the dazzlingly, brilliant,
ornamental items radiating an indescribable power of blessedness.
Large crowds gathered before the showcases, appreciating every one
of the masterpieces and listening to the explanations by the working
staff. Many visitors could not resist the temptation to hold the Celestial
Jewelry in their hands. Eager to share their blessings with everyone,
fellow practitioners greeted each visitor enthusiastically, sharing
with them Master's love that is as boundless as the blue sky over
Kobe.
The
exhibition was a rare opportunity for fellow practitioners to meet
and exchange their insights in spiritual cultivation. Going home,
each one felt honored to have learned and gained so much from the
event. Every moment of the day turned out to be exciting and delightful,
and deep down, they were grateful to Master for giving them this precious
opportunity.
Kobe
is on its way to recovery from the great earthquake. While rejoicing
on behalf of its residents, initiates pray that through this Celestial
Jewelry exhibition, the seeds of spiritual renaissance will sprout
and flourish in this land. As Quan Yin practitioners, the initiates
vow not to look back, but to look forward bravely, practice diligently,
and advance toward their Homeland. 
