The 2011 Summer Youth Camp Starts at National Chi Nan University
The Dharma Drum Mountain Summer Youth Camp 2011 was held from 8 July to12 July, 2011, at National Chi Nan University in central Taiwan, Nantou. DDM’s Abbot President, Venerable Guo Dong visited the camp on 11 July to offer his personal blessings.
In addition, the Abbot President encouraged more than a thousand young students at the camp to maintain an enthusiastic spirit throughout their lives, to confront difficulties that might be ahead with a fearless attitude, and cultivate merit by making contributions to society and the wellbeing of others.
The Abbot President added that life (particularly of our physical bodies) is actually quite short, but in the time that we do have, we can show wisdom and courage through our enthusiasm and vigor for living life to the full.
The President of Dharma Drum Buddhist College, Venerable Hui Min, also attended the camp on the same afternoon. He imparted to all students the notion that applying the principles of devotion, perseverance, and willingness to help others are important ways to achieve self-fulfillment. Venerable Hui Min also taught students that living our lives fully at the present moment and valuing every second in life would be a huge step towards success.
The programs and activities during the camp were rich in inspirational content, allowing students to ease their confused minds and stressed bodies. It also offered students opportunities to reflect on their own lives, to explore the meanings of life, to practice Chan (Zen) meditation and experience the joyfulness of Chan, and more importantly, to initiate positive changes in their lives.
(translated by Jin Yang/edited by DDM Australia Editing Team)