Children's Life Education in Malaysia (A):
Compassionate class- Make the World More Beautiful"

Meditation is the most powerful tool to promote a child’s peace of mind and by extension, peace of the world. On August 26, 12 small children completed a whole series of eight-form moving meditation without taking any break. Before the course, these children shared that “We are blessed because we are healthy”.

A society of declining birth-rate results in children with strong ego and sense of self-centeredness; the Dharma Drum Mountain Buddhist Centre Malaysia has gradually guided these children to be good Buddhist through a series of compassionate themed classes. These children were mesmerized by the compassionate warmth in the story “Miss Rumphius” during a “Virtuous Practitioners” sharing session.

In pursuit of her dreams, Miss Rumphius struck a balance between egotism and altruism; “Making the World More Beautiful” became her life mission. In the animated film, “Children Save Children”, these children also witnessed the fearless and perseverance of a five-year-old girl, Ambassador Mosquito-Net, in helping others. Everyone deeply understood the meaning of “Life in 30 seconds”, and felt the girl’s sense of urgency in helping others. We have different capabilities at different stages of our life, yet, the sense of dedication remains unchanged through all these stages, fostering and spreading love.

Parents were also invited to participate in the “Parent’s Briefing”. The purpose, way and role of parents in “Making the World More Beautiful” were explained. In addition, the teachers used mind maps to guide these children on the correct mindset when helping others as well as the six criteria of helpers; the children then formulated their personal help plan based on these guidelines. These plans were subsequently shared and discussed during the “Parent-Child Discussion”. In line with true rationality and respect of the discussion, the children were given the authority to make the final decision. These plans exhibited the children’s broadness of mind and priceless goodwill.

The true strength of life comes from kindness and compassion. The Dharma Drum Mountain Buddhist Centre Malaysia is devoted to promoting Children’s Life Education: cultivation of compassion starts at an early age!

Texts: Chen, Pei-Qi (陳佩琪)
Photos: Zhan, Bi-Yi(詹碧儀)
Translation: Chang, Cheng-Yu (張振郁)
Editing: Leefah Thong, DDM Editorial Team