The 4th day of Summer Retreat 2026 with theme "Life's slopes".

On July 9th, 2026 was the fourth day of the retreat. The mass began with the chanting of the "Lesson of Gratitude," followed by a Dharma talk and question-answer session preached by Junior Thich Khai Thanh; a public speaking competition between Groups; learning to the Three Refuges and Five Precepts before the upcoming Refuge Ceremony.

Starting at 5:00 a.m, the monks instructed the chanting of the "Lesson of Gratitude." Then, Junior Thich Khai Thanh had a Dharma talk on the topic "Gratitude for Growth." In reality, a child might have ever asked someone: "What have you done for me?" while an adult might have self-examination "What must I do and how should I live to repay life's kindness?"

Quoting the Buddha's teachings on two rare and noble types of people in life —those who are grateful and those who repay kindness—the preacher emphasized the gratitude is the foundation of true maturity, not measured by age, wealth, or qualifications but by awareness, a way of life that shows consideration for others, and a sense of personal responsibility to society and the country. Indeed, no one can mature or achieve success alone; all are thanks to the combined efforts and contributions of many people.

 

There is a question that "why do people become less grateful as they get older?" The monk explained that we often think about what we have for granted, only seeing what we lack and failing to recognize how much more fortunate we are than others. Furthermore, our ego prevents us from being content with what we already possess. Thus, the monk hopes after this Dharma talk and summer retreat, young attendees will be steadfast on their journey to maturity, knowing how to speak words of gratitude from the heart instead of complaints and moaning. Indeed, gratitude will be fertile ground for nurturing and developing the best qualities of human beings.

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Hoang Phap Pagoda

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