Beau dela Cruz
Before I came to Ocean Sky, my understanding of different religions, except Catholicism, had only been through text, research, and analysis. Only two months ago was I able to immerse myself in a new religion, that being Zen Buddhism. At first, I thought that Buddhism might be a cult, or even something else. But through Shifus’ instructions and my meditation, I arrived at the conclusion that Buddhism is the search of the “True Mind.”
As for my personal experience, I found myself lost after my honorable discharge from the Philippine Marines, and my abruptly suspending Flying School for a year. I was a recluse during that time, dealing with daily and hourly suffering. I simply became an urban hermit, avoiding social and even family contact. I finally reached out to a hypnotherapist three months ago. I thought maybe I should immerse myself in the promise of liberation through disciplined Buddhist practices. Through the internet, I found Ocean Sky.
Let me share what I learned from the lessons in the monastery. One, Buddhism is both thoughtfulness and thoughtlessness, and thus, is empty. Second, attachment is a cause of suffering. After a long ride in the desert, we must also let our camel go. Third, meditation is not only done by sitting down or walking around clockwise. It is also done in every present thing we do. Whether we breathe, jog, swim, or swing a sword like the samurai or even in anything we do, we can meditate simultaneously. Lastly, one cannot regret or miss the past. This is because we have no control over the past. One cannot also be worried or anxious of the future. This is because we cannot plan for all known and unknown circumstances we will come across. What we can only do is excel, appreciate, focus on, and live in the present.
For all of this help, kindness, and the generosity of knowledge and charity, I thank you dearest Abbess, Shifus, and all those who keep coming to and supporting Ocean Sky. It is with great gratitude and humility that you have already guided me this far.