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.