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. (TOP)

Caitlyn Domingo (10 y/o)

I have been here in Ocean Sky Chan Monastery for more than 2 years now.

The first Sunday that I saw my mom all dressed up going somewhere without us, I asked her if I could come. She told me that she would still have to find out if I could be allowed. Upon coming home, she gave me the good news that kids like me are most welcome, so I looked forward to my first visit and experience the place she visited. The truth was I didn’t have the slightest idea where I would be going.

When I arrived at Ocean Sky, I was overwhelmed and very shy and didn’t want my mom to be out of my sight, so I told her “I am never coming back. Period!”

Every Saturday morning, I would pretend to be asleep. My mom didn’t buy all my tricks and whining. She had her way and forced me to attend the Bodhi Star classes, even if it meant carrying me to the van. According to my mom, she strongly and faithfully believed that Buddhism would be very good for my life. The truth was I didn’t know what she was talking about at that time.

As a compromise, I asked her to become an AT, so that I could see and be with her every time, to which she obliged. I was surprised that she was good at inventing games for children.

I became more relaxed as I personally experienced the warmth, sincerity and kindness of all the Shifus and the sweetness of Teacher Marita and Teacher Lolita in particular, most especially the compassionate and subtle mentoring of the former Abbess Jianding, as Bodhi Star Adviser then. With her most warm and reassuring smile, I felt very secure; but of course I love all the ATs and all the volunteers.

After more than 2 years, I truly and really do understand what my mom meant. Now, at age 10, I feel that I totally understand what Buddhism is all about. I realize that we have to take care of our thoughts because everything starts with our thoughts.

As I attended the beginners’ and intermediate classes, I learned the deeper reason why we have to calm our minds and the importance of meditation which we routinely do in the Bodhi Star classes.

I have observed that there are many similarities between the Catholic and Buddhist teachings and that makes me even happier, because I am not torn apart. They complement each other.

Whenever there are activities and ceremonies at the monastery, I always happily volunteer to come along. Although this time around, if we came in late, it’s because I really overslept. It’s not intentional anymore. When I would surprisedly tell her “Mom, we’re late!”. She would calmly say “I know…”

Having said so many things, it’s just the tip of the iceberg or a drop in the vast ocean, because I know that many beautiful things are still bound to unfold with the passing of time in our study here in Ocean Sky.

To our elders here, we know that what matters to you, the most, is that, your love, dedication and sacrifices do bear beautiful fruits in the Bodhi Stars’ lives. (TOP)

Cristina D. Manejero

Whenever I tell people I’m having meditation classes here in Ocean Sky, the usual response I get is “Why?” I give out many reasons such as to be able to have a clear mind without attachments, but many of them don’t understand. It is really hard to answer this question because a person needs to actually be here to hear and understand the lessons to feel that the real question is not why, but why not.

Before coming to the temple, I cannot say that my attitude had been very pleasant. I was moody and easily got stressed. I was not mindful of other sentient beings, either I ignored their suffering and sometimes I even added to their suffering. I was aware that my attitude was bad, but I found no reason to change it. When my friends asked me to come to Ocean Sky, I realized the need to change my life for the better.

After two semesters here in Ocean Sky, I have learned many things: the purpose of being mindful and how it can help everyone to escape the cycle of rebirth. It has changed my outlook in life. I have learned to take care and tolerate other sentient beings. I don’t look down on others but help them improve their lives. Helping others attain our common goal is satisfying not because this might attain some good karma in the future but because it is heartwarming to see their smiles. These are just some of the things I was missing out by acting selfishly in the past.

I have also learned that everything happens due to karma. All bad things are caused by my bad actions and all good things are due to my good actions. So whatever happens in my life, I just accept it because all of it was due to my past deeds. Accepting everything and thinking that they are impermanent prevents me from doing further harm to others and to myself as well. Still sometimes, I forget and return to my old ways, but I try to do everything one step at a time. I cannot change overnight, but with practice, I can slowly be a person that might someday be able to do what I have not yet done in my past life and be enlightened.

I am so thankful that I had the chance to be here and had finished two classes in Ocean Sky. The first step to be a better person is to realize one’s wrongdoings. The lessons in Ocean Sky can help in realizing them. After realizing them, one should make sure not to repeat them. The practice does not end today with this completion exercise but must continue onwards and must be applied in my life. I also hope that we could all stay here and learn more because there is no end in learning. Even if we think we have known everything, there are still many things out there that we are not aware of. Let’s all help each other in attaining our common goal. Amitofo! (TOP)

Edward Chua

We all have our reasons for attending the beginners’ meditation classes here in Ocean Sky Chan Monastery. I geared myself not to expect anything and wholeheartedly immersed myself in understanding what Chan meditation is all about.

What have I learned and gained from Chan (Zen) meditation? I have yet to start regularly practicing meditation and yet, I have already felt that one, my concentration and reasoning have improved a little; and two, I sleep more soundly now and my blood pressure is lower. But this is not the main reason why we do Chan meditation. We meditate to see things as they really are. My meditation experience is very personal and what I can share is indescribable in words. I would say that the path to awakening and enlightenment is both easy and hard depending on one’s frame of mind, determination and persistence to learn. At the end of the day, meditation helps us to become more compassionate and wiser.

The Four Noble Truths to me is a very profound teaching and not easy to comprehend. The first one is the hardest to accept and realize but once accepted, you’d be on the road to enlightenment. Understanding the First Noble Truth may take a lifetime of examination and an attitude of awareness and alertness over a long period of time. I may say truthfully and frankly that I have yet to digest the First Noble Truth, to absorb it in my mind and heart. Chan meditation is a way of understanding this Noble Truth.

The Eightfold Path to me is a way of life. Intellectual understanding of the Eightfold Path is inadequate. Reflection is a must on these teachings. We have to consider what they really mean. Reflective understanding and acting should be a way of life.

Over the course of 12 weeks, there was a gradual change of attitude and outlook in my view towards life in general and people in particular. I have learned to accept things as they are, to be careful with my words and actions, to realize the cause and effect of words and actions upon others and its consequences, to be more compassionate towards others and to be a little bit more patient with people and situations. The change is neither transformational nor sudden but gradual. Contentment is my objective and enlightenment in any degree is the final goal.

With the adept assistance of Ocean Sky Chan Monastery’s Abbess, Shifus and Dharma brothers, we all hope to learn and understand, and be on the right path to enlightenment. (TOP)

Justin Abainza

I started here as a reluctant volunteer this past summer. I admit that my first time working here surprised me because of the hectic schedule, but every muscle ache was worth it after the 5-day Bodhi Star Summer Camp. Who wouldn’t be inspired when you see fellow volunteers working tirelessly, uncomplaining, but still grateful for their chance to serve? It was also my first time to hear lessons from a Buddhist monastery, so together with the children I listened to every lesson taught, and the wisdom I gained was enough to last a lifetime.

The nuns of Ocean Sky are the epitome of their teachings. They are the reason why I keep coming back here. Every second that I observe and work with them is a moment of learning. They offer a wealth of knowledge, asking for nothing in return. It’s like having an Olympic gold medalist as your personal trainer, or your grandparent opening your eyes to the joys of living.

I was tasked to teach Wushu to the kids that summer camp. From then on, everyone has been fondly calling me a Wushu Master, even if I am still just memorizing San Lu (a basic form), when at this age, I should be doing Chang Quan (a more advanced form). The amount of recognition I have experienced here is truly heartwarming. Everyone’s help and talent is very much appreciated here, no matter how small one contributes. Plus the food is endless.

I will gladly take the Five Precepts formally as soon as the opportunity arises. Not because of the food, not because of the recognition, not because of the exotic cultural experience, but because for once in my life, my purpose has become clear, my values have been confirmed, and my beliefs have been rectified. I could not have come to Ocean Sky Chan Monastery at a better time. Buddha has shown me the vast and true nature of things and I will continue to learn what I can while I can. (TOP)

Lualhati O. Abainza
I came to Ocean Sky at a time when I was thinking of what to do with my life. But before that, there were some areas in my life that I needed to put back on the right track, to put in order. I was aware that my inner self was going to be my source of strength and stability before starting anything new. I started taking important steps to do this and things seemed to do well until I faced the biggest and most difficult task: learning to forgive. Yes, I sought help but it seemed that the pain would remain forever in my heart. That was my state of being before I entered Ocean Sky.

Since the first session, Zen meditation became my daily source of strength and stability. The lectures clarified what areas in my life needed some attention and became a source of deep reflection for change. I became more alert, more positive in my thinking and feelings. And yes, the emotional pain that made it difficult for me to forgive has started to lighten up. My mind became more alert, even my own son noticed moments of distraction are now gone. Creativity and enthusiasm have come back, and I am really happier now.

In my three months of study, there were two high points that I would like to share with you. While I gained many benefits from the classes, the next step was to explore the other activities offered at Ocean Sky. On February 12, I attended the half-day retreat. Since this was my first time to attend the activity, I carefully followed the instructions and made sure that I stayed silent. While standing before the formal meal, as we silently said our vows, a subtle, gentle, yet powerful feeling of self- respect embraced my whole being. Then I became aware that I have not respected the sentient beings in the way that I was experiencing at that moment. I was moved to tears. I silently made a vow not to eat anything that is killed. When craving to eat meat comes, as it had been a habit for many years, I just go back to this powerful experience. This also brought healing to my broken relationships in the past, the return of my self- respect and my respect for them.

Another high point happened in the next
half-day retreat in March 25, 2012. I realized that each and every activity that we were doing then, the chanting, prostration, the silences, and the meals are done with sacredness. That made me aware of the kind of life we have outside Ocean Sky, that everything we have, material resources, relationships, skills, time, our very life is sacred and have to be treated as such.

My being here is not an accident. It was meant to be. The new learning and realizations, and putting them into practice will be easier while being in this supportive community, the Sangha. (TOP)

Matt Baluyos

I have been here in Ocean Sky Chan Monastery for almost a year now. At the start of our advanced class, I was asked to be the class coordinator. I was very reluctant to accept it, not sure if I would be able to give my time. I was also asked if I wanted to try to volunteer as a Bodhi Star assistant teacher (AT). Then, knowing that the Mandarin class would also be on Sunday, I thought, “why not also sign-up?”

All those commitments, plus the fact that I just got a new job and had other side projects, would have been a very crazy idea back then.

But being here now for the completion ceremony, I could say these past three months have been the most fulfilling so far in my journey here at Ocean Sky.

The experience has taught me to be grateful to all the volunteers that give their time, effort, and talent to the monastery. Before, I didn’t really mind the volunteers that much. I was just satisfied to receive. Being a volunteer opened my mind and heart to be grateful and appreciative to all the people that make Ocean Sky run.

As a new volunteer, I felt humbled and learned patience especially from the elder volunteers. Whether it’s teaching the Bodhi Star kids or playing the Wooden Fish during the Heart Sutra or teaching Mandarin, the volunteers are very good and very patient with the juniors. Thank you!

Lastly, by becoming a volunteer, I have felt closer to the people at the monastery. The volunteers, the students, the other coordinators, kids, Shifus, they have become friends and family. I hope to be with them more in the next decade of Ocean Sky.

I have only been with Ocean Sky for less than a year. But without a doubt, I will definitely continue to support the monastery as I go along my journey. Amitofo! (TOP)

Pedro Cesar C. Ramboanga, Jr.

I discovered Ocean Sky Chan Monastery through a flyer on free meditation class, distributed at the Tai Bun coffee shop, which is just around the corner. Emphasis is on the word “free, no expenses.” I thought that since it was free, I might as well see how a monastery taught meditation.

At first, I really felt like a stranger here, because I am neither a Buddhist nor Filipino Chinese, and because I could not understand their language. Perhaps beginners do feel insecure, or afraid to open up. It was only the Dharma Masters Jianqiang, Jianyin, Jianjun, and of course Abbess Jianshu, with their smiling faces and the ever helpful receptionists on duty like Lolita, Grace and Ben who made life easy for me.

This was the first time I attended a formal class in meditation. Just imagine doing it inside a Buddhist monastery! All along, my idea of a monastery was an enclosed compound with hundreds of priests and nuns. But then, in Ocean Sky, we only have four.

I also joined the Mandarin Class every Sunday. That way, I could understand what the others are talking about in Chinese. But mind you, I was a poor Mandarin student. I was just learning to read the Chinese pinyin and to count.

My three months here at Ocean Sky is one experience I cannot forget. It has changed my life. The lectures on Buddhism have rekindled the aspect of our relationship with our fellowmen and our standards of morality.

Christianity’s Golden rule—do not do unto others, what you do not want others to do unto you—really reminds me of the Four Tenets of Chung Tai: “ To our elders be respectful; To our juniors be kind; With all humanity be harmonious; In all endeavors be true.” The Five Precepts are also similar to Christianity’s Ten Commandments.

The Four Noble Truths about suffering and how to eradicate suffering with the Eightfold Path are topics which really needed more understanding. More so, when we encountered the Buddhist concepts of emptiness, dependent origination, no-self, causality, karma: good karma and bad karma, reincarnation, etc., the more I needed serious thinking. Sutras say:

If you want to know what you have done in the past, just look at what is happening in this life. If you want to know what will happen in the future, just look at what is being done in this life.

I never knew this free meditation class would lead me to more serious thinking about life. It rekindles in me the thirst for knowledge and more information. My new found activity has led me to keep borrowing books from the monastery’s library and keep surfing the net for things I cannot understand. I still have to a lot more to learn. Last, but not the least, I have turned vegetarian. I am now changing my life style, thanks to our Abbess and other Dharma Masters, and to Ocean Sky Chan Monastery.

(TOP)

Randy Villanueva

In May 2012, I came to attend my first Zen class in order to learn meditation and how to control my mind. But was control necessary? My answer was a resounding “YES,” as my unruly mind kept manufacturing mostly negative and painful stories which made me suffer. It had so fed my fear, anger, guilt, greed, frustrations, and doubts that I felt the need to switch it off fast.

As the old saying goes, “as a man thinks in his heart, so is he.” Our mind is so powerful that it can make or break us. Trying to keep it still was not easy either, with its resistance to change. Nevertheless, I persevered. Putting my faith and focus on my Buddha Nature, I fairly overcame its stubbornness.

I have come to appreciate the Abbess’ Dharma talks as she explained the Buddha’s teachings in the most simple and compassionate way, making it easier to understand. The Law of Karma and Causality made me realize my present situation and to take responsibility for all my actions. Now, I am more conscious as I try to perfect my dealings with my fellow men and sentient beings. It opened my mind to the deeper understanding of my real purpose in life.

The lessons on suffering and liberation were an eye-opener. I realized that we are our own enemies as we keep ourselves bound by the preconditions of the material world or our society at large, while in truth we are really free. And we can only call ourselves categorically free if we follow the Enlightened Path, both in theory and most importantly in practice. There is no other way.

As we anchor ourselves on the Buddha’s teachings and take our refuge in the Three Jewels—The Buddha, The Dharma and The Sangha—we must become the Path. As stated in an ancient scripture, “In order to tread the Path, One must become the Path Itself.”

Finally, To the Venerable Wei Chueh, the Abbess, the Masters and all the volunteers, for the heartfelt compassion and sincerest dedication to enlighten all sentient beings and those who come your way—Thank you beyond words.

Amitofo! (TOP)

Veronica V. Dacillo

Advocacies and Buddhism

I have been relatively consistent in attending classes here at Ocean Sky Chan Monastery (OSCM), but I discovered that I am not a diligent student. I have not been practicing meditation at all (except during classes), not done extra reading, nor attended half-day retreats or any other ceremonies, nor have I formally volunteered in any activity here.

My standard reason is that I have no extra time. In my experience, I should have been a dropout by this time. Yet, week after week I look forward to Saturday, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon. Then, I would sit enthralled at Abbess’ Dharma talks about compassion without the passion, vegetarianism, compassion contemplation where one wishes one’s enemies good fortune, and attaining samatha and vipassana.

When Lally, my friend, was sidelined as coordinator this semester, I had no choice but to fill in her shoes. I’m sure I made hilarious mistakes as my focus was now divided between listening and concentrating on Abbess’ words and fumbling with the hand bell and the protocols. But time has a way of easing up these difficulties.

I am confused. More than half of my life has been spent on advocacies. While I think that is the bodhisattva nature in me, my limited knowledge of Buddhist teachings has spawned questions like can advocacies and Buddhism go along together? Underneath all the questions is the fact that I have held for the longest time a different worldview which has shaped my life radically. This worldview has similar observations of phenomena with the teachings of Buddhism, yet both come up with diametrically opposing conclusions!

So, I think these are the reasons on what’s holding me back to fully embrace Buddha’s teachings. But I am only a beginner here, not even a year into studying Buddhism. This reflection on my experiences here helped me see where I am now and how to proceed from there. This means I am really practicing meditation. I want to pursue studying here and at the same time cultivate my Buddha Nature and become a member of this community. Amitofo! (TOP)

Tricia Denise C. Zafra

I first enrolled in the beginners’ class last year but failed to complete the course due to conflicts in schedule. This time, the timing was so perfect for me to re-enter the monastery when the beginners’ class was opened on a weekday, and I had just broken up from a relationship three months prior.

It was as if the entire universe conspired to have me back in Ocean Sky again, to let me mend my wounds under the guidance of Buddhist wisdom and to finish the course.

Looking back, I’ve realized that what matters most is not what was lost from my relationship, but what has been left for me to nurture. Taking Buddhism classes and practising meditation aided my recovery. The lectures were theories that I could apply to my emotional problems. It goes with the saying that “you easily learn your lessons when you are going through difficulties.”

With enough compassion and peace of mind, anger and bitterness naturally disappears. The need to talk about your anger is diminished.

I have grown so much in the past three months and learned to seek wisdom from those who truly possess it.

The past three formative months moulded my character to become a better individual. (TOP)