What a truly amazing and uplifting moment kneeling alongside 200-plus preceptees as we all took our vows for the first time or renewed our commitment to them. The energy and enthusiasm that filled the Main Shrine were indescribable. As our voices got louder and louder, our resolve to diligently uphold these precepts grew stronger. It was a powerful moment that resonated throughout my entire being.
Whenever Most Venerable Hsin Bao questioned our ability to uphold these vows, we responded with a resounding affirmation that matched the bells and drums that rang and roared throughout the Temple.
每當心保和尚問我們是否能持,我們都會以響亮的肯定來回應,與響徹寺院的鐘聲和鼓聲相匹配。
I felt like the Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and Dharma Protectors were all present to witness this auspicious moment. It was electrifying! This experience left me feeling invigorated, with a strong determination to carry out my vows to be diligent and liberate all beings!
Reflecting back on my first vows with Master Hsing Yun presiding over the ceremony, I couldn’t help but feel a sense of profound gratitude for all the good causes and conditions that made this year’s 2023 Five Precepts & Bodhisattva Precepts Retreat possible. I am so thankful that Master Hsing Yun has laid this foundation for all generations to benefit. I feel truly blessed to be a part of this community of like-minded individuals committed to upholding these precepts.
I am thankful for all those who made this retreat possible, including Most Venerable Hsing Ting, Most Venerable Hsin Bao, Venerable Hui Dong, and all the venerable and volunteers who contributed to its smooth running.
I’m very thankful for Master of Discipline, Venerable Hui Shiuan and the leading venerable for constantly being by our side, helping guide us throughout the course of the retreat.
我非常感謝糾察法師慧軒法師和各組的法師在戒會期間一直陪伴在我們身邊,幫助並指導我們。
Throughout the retreat, I had the opportunity to learn and relearn the core essence of the Precepts. The teachings from Venerable Hsing Ting and Venerable Yung Ku and Venerable Chueh Fan were enlightening.
However, it was the class given by Most Venerable Hsin Bao that resonated with me the most. His focus on the importance of having direction in our lives and generating the bodhicitta left a profound impact. I felt empowered and determined to be more diligent in my practice after that session.
Above all, this retreat has strengthened my faith. The whole experience, from the vow ceremony to the teachings, has deepened my connection to the practice. I am filled with a renewed sense of purpose and determination to live in accordance with the precepts. I am grateful for this opportunity to cultivate mindfulness and grow spiritually.
Once again, I extend my heartfelt thanks to everyone involved in making this retreat a success. Your dedication and support are truly appreciated. May we all continue to benefit from these teachings and strive to uphold the precepts in our daily lives.