Dharma Talk: Where does true joy come from? preaching by Nun Thich Nu Lien Thao - Seventh day in Summer Retreat 2024

The morning of July 16th, 2024 is the Seventh day of the Retreat. All students gathered at the lecture halls to listen to a dharma talk: Where does true joy come from? preached by Nun Thich Nu Lien Thao, Lecturer of Buddhist Intermediate School in Tay Ninh province.

Sometimes we also have joy in life, but it is only fleeting, hidden deep inside is still insecurity and anxiety. True joy gives us a more positive life and more effective work. Therefore, how do we have true joy?

- Life criteria should be built up for each person. No one can choose their parents or family situation at birth, but no matter what situation we are in, we cannot avoid sadness, because the nature of life is suffering. We must solve our own suffering and pain by changing our perspective, transforming it into joy and happiness. Be ready to accept it, find ways to regain joy when joy runs away. That is, practice giving, bring joy to others, do what you like, always believe in a bright future, integrate with nature, appreciate and love yourself more.

Distinguishing two forms of joy is a measure of kindness: Joy in the pain of others is joy that leads to very harmful results; Having fun using other people's money, fame and fortune will not last long. True joy is when we have compassion for everyone.

Then, the Nun answered all of the listeners' questions about the lecture's topic and life's problems.

The attendees were able to exchange and say goodbye to the monks in the lecture halls and fellow practitioners in the afternoon before returning to their families, and seeing each other at the Summer Retreat2025.

In the evening, young participants chanted Ullambana Sutra to understand the gratitude of their parents.

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