My husband, Mario Suangco† and I were both seekers of truth. We have been to different religious groups looking for our identity, mission, and the true meaning of life.
Mario was first introduced to Buddhism in 2003 at the Universal Wisdom Foundation, from where he found out about Ocean Sky. At that time, Ocean Sky was just new. He attended the evening class and discussed things with the Abbot, talking about different subjects and aspects of Buddhism. Mario was always close with the previous Abbot, and was in constant communication with him even after his term in the Philippines ended.
Ocean Sky Chan Monastery transformed Mario into a better person. Through his meditation classes, chanting of mantras, and recitation of sutras, he got the answers he was seeking for. His faith became even deeper. He became humbler, and more appreciative, and grateful. He was calmer, more forgiving and kinder to everyone, especially our children. He recited the Heart Sutra and meditated everyday. He became more detached from material things. He also ate less meat afterwards, him being a bodybuilding advocate who was so used to a protein-rich diet filled with meat.
Mario had always been a helpful and trustworthy friend to his classmates, business partners, and co-workers. Every time someone asked for his help, he would go the extra mile to assist without expecting anything in return. Even during our family’s financial crisis, he still used his free time to do volunteer work and attend classes in Ocean Sky. He was present in every activity and even pitched in on short notice for other volunteers who could not come. He never complained of hardships or indifference. Mario often told me that he loved to be at Ocean Sky because it was where he found peace and joy in volunteering.
If he has a bigger and more important role to accomplish in his next life, I think he has prepared himself well for it.
Life and Time are the world’s two best teachers. Life teaches us to make good use of time, and time teaches us the value of life.
He will always be in my heart.
To a great friend and husband, and father to our children, Mario, peace be with you.
Amitofo.