A Discovery Journey of the Mind:
Volunteers Training Program for the Buddhist Association
in Sunway University

On February 3, 2018, Ven. Chang Zao, Director of Dharma Drum Mountain Malaysia Center, together with Ven. Yan Xiang were at Sunway University to conduct a training and meditation session. This training program, themed “Discovery Journey of the Mind”, was organized by the Buddhist Association of Sunway University for the preparatory committee of Musical Drama. There were 25 participants altogether.

Before starting the session, Ven. Chang Zao advised the participants to listen to their inner self as well as to follow their heart and feelings; subsequently, they would be able to discern the valuable insights gained.

The Venerable started the session by having the participants share their motivation as volunteers. He further pointed out that by sharing the same identity as volunteers of Buddhist Association, they fulfill their mission together as a team. At the same time, the Buddhadharma can be very life-like, allowing us to grow and have a better understanding of ourselves, thus becoming a better person. The Dharma also teaches us to develop both ours as well as others’ insight in the process of working together.

In addition, the Venerable cited four commonly encountered difficulties. When dispute arises due to difference in opinions, the concept of causation can be applied to deal with the situation; the emphasis is on the mental states of team members, not the most efficient way to resolve said dispute. By being considerate and cultivating the seed of kindness, we develop maturity and hence uphold our values of life.

We grow in the face of adversity; experiences gained from facing and dealing with difficult situations enable us to learn and mature. In the event that the burden of responsibility and pressure becomes too great, the four-step technique outlined by Master Sheng Yen could be our life-line; these four steps are “face it, accept it, deal with it and let it go”. When our life inevitably turns hectic, we need to stop and ponder on the purpose of our life; to check that we are still heading towards the right direction as well as to reflect on the value of life. In addition, the Venerable cited a quote from Master Sheng Yen, “The value of life lies in gratitude and dedication”. As such, we should consider taking the stance of appreciation for adversity that arises.

In any group activities, participants tend to be easily influenced by the actions of others and to compare between each other. The Venerable pointed out that we need to understand the meaning and focus of these activities, that is, to help more people find the direction of their life. Volunteers do not participate for the sake of these activities but for the opportunity to learn and grow. Thus, the vow to learn and grow regardless of good or bad times can be fulfilled.

The Venerable concluded the class by summarizing the three states of mind: the mind of gratitude, the ordinary state of mind, and the mind of learning. Through his vow, he further helped the participants to understand the necessity of nurturing their minds as well as others, regardless of the circumstances; to think positively and to look for the positive in all situations; to face the present with gratitude and joy.

Lastly, the participants practiced bowl-holding, sitting, and raisin meditations under the guidance of Ven. Yan Xiang. Participants also learnt techniques of relaxation to bring both physical and mental states into harmony and further nurture the mind.

Reporter: Dai Xiu-en (戴秀恩)
Photography: Chen Min-fang (陳敏芳)
Translation: Frances Liu (劉珮如)
Editor: : Leefah Thong (Malaysia)