NOBLE LOVE

A forest of apricot blossoms blooms,
A flock of swallows brings the news,
Spring has truly descended upon the world.

 

 

When the song echoes throughout the temple grounds, it signals the arrival of a new spring. Yet, this spring feels very different: it comes after a devastating pandemic whose consequences remain immeasurable. In response to this reality, with boundless compassion for all beings, our revered Master Venerable Thich Chan Tinh, who has always sought ways to ease suffering and bring joy proposed the idea of creating a Tet model clip. His intention was not only to recreate the spirit of Tet but also to spread the atmosphere of spring, dispelling the sorrow lingering in people’s hearts.

 

 

The monks then began decorating for Tet. The models and miniature landscapes were completed through the tireless day-and-night efforts of the community. Morning meditation sessions were temporarily set aside, and lunch gatherings grew less frequent, as everyone focused on keeping pace with the work. During this time, the Master was always present encouraging, guiding, and inspiring the community.

 

 

I recall one morning at breakfast when the Master compassionately reminded the community that practitioners must nurture the Bodhi mind, guided by the principle of “seeking enlightenment above and helping sentient beings below.” This, he taught, is the compass for one’s personal practice of Buddhism.

 

 

He further explained that the central tenet of Hoang Phap Monastery is the cultivation of both merit and wisdom in unison; neither should be pursued in isolation. One must not become so outwardly focused as to neglect the Bodhi mind. Instead, practitioners should remain mindful and be aware of every action, every thought, and every moment. Without mindfulness, Buddhist practice risks devolving into mere worldly affairs.

 

At the same time, he urged practitioners to speak with kindness and humility. Kind speech means using gentle, respectful words that inspire others to cultivate and strive toward goodness. Humility means treating everyone with compassion and respect, regardless of wealth or social status. True practice, he emphasized, is about making the ego ever smaller.

 

 

Hearing these words stirred me deeply. Why? Because I have seen the Master embody these teachings through both his actions and his speech each day. A person who is ever kind, who treats all with gentleness, and who greets everyone whether young or old with warmth and respect. Through the Master, I have come to see the Buddha, to witness His truth, and to recognize the virtue and moral conduct of the Sangha.

 

 

A person who not only lives a virtuous life but also embodies true moral integrity bringing joy and warmth to everyone they encounter, even the small creatures, like squirrels and birds, approaching them playfully and without fear. Thank you, our kind Father. Though advanced in age and burdened with many responsibilities, you continue to watch over and care for these young kids. You nurture the monks to uphold virtue, mindfulness, and wisdom, while also guiding lay Buddhists to preserve the Three Refuges and the Five Precepts.

 

 

This love is immeasurable and profound. I can only remind myself to practice diligently and work with mindfulness, so as to repay even a portion of your kindness. Forever grateful and indebted to my teacher.

 

 

“The teacher’s saving grace is remembered for life,
The teacher’s words of guidance are hard to forget through the ages.”

 

(Ven. Master Thích Chân Tính)

Sincerely,

 

An Tam

Translated into English by Thai Nhuoc Don