My trip to HsiLai Temple                                       -Robert Brown

Recently I had the opportunity to attend the BLIA North American Executive Training Seminar at the Hsi Lai Temple in Hacienda Heights California.  Though I have been to Fo Guang Shan temples as far away as London England, I had never been to the His Lai Temple. The architecture and ambience alone are inspirational. I felt a renewed sense of our history as a Buddhist. 

 Being there gathered with the monastic and BLIA members from Brazil, Costa Rica, Taiwan, Vancouver, Argentina and many places all over the world gave me the opportunity to actually see that no matter where in the world our foundation is located we have compassion and caring for our fellow beings. The group from Brazil showed us a film documenting the programs they provide to children living in the slums close to the temple.  Soccer teams have been established and the children are taught to meditate. They are also provided good food and a bit of money to ease their lives so that they can be children free of the burden of poverty. Though I do not condemn other religious practices I know of no other group that offers this kind of help. Most ask the people to give in order to get the grace of the Church.

 On Saturday night Master Hsing Yun came to talk to us. I had never been in his presence. His kind presence, humor, and great story telling kept our attention the whole evening. Here is a man who truly loves all beings and continues to support this foundation by stepping down and setting the tone for Fo Guang Shan to grow even after he has left this life.  The Master has done this by creating a system that every four year the leader of Fo Guang Shan is elected thereby setting up a democratic process to pass the baton of leadership to younger monastic. This way our temple will be filled with new and innovative ideas constantly.  Unlike governments where aged senators and congressmen refuse to step down, at Fo Guang Shan we look to the future and truly consider the youth our future without fear of their inexperience. 

 By the time I arrived home in Spokane I realized that I had become more relaxed and at ease being with the Master and other monastic. Their sense of compassion and caring is infectious. My physical body had become relaxed and my meditation had become deeper due to the few short days of camaraderie with our fellow Buddhists from around the world. Language was not a barrier as we met to chant, talk, and eat great food. I am so thankful that Master Hsing Yun has come to live this life and lead us toward our own personal peace.