Living the Teachings of the 《十修歌》: A Day of Harmony and Joy

By Kathy Lam, Rosemead Subchapter

Sometimes, the most profound spiritual lessons come from the simplest moments we share. On October 31, 2026, our community experienced one of those unforgettable days—filled with laughter, deep friendship, and the pure joy of practicing the Dharma together.

We were delighted to gather with our Rosemead Subchapter members, our guiding venerable, Venerable Ruhang, and fellow Dharma friends from other subchapters. Although we had originally planned an outdoor vegetarian BBQ at a park, autumn rain led us to move the gathering indoors for a cozy hot pot at my home. In hindsight, this twist of fate was a wonderful blessing that brought us even closer together.

We began our day with a Tai Chi session guided by Yuna shijie. While some moved with effortless grace, others struggled a bit to keep up—a few even looked completely lost! Yet, despite the mismatched movements, everyone was smiling and doing their absolute best.

One of the most heartwarming aspects of the day was watching everyone work together seamlessly. Some washed and chopped vegetables, while others arranged the hot pot ingredients, set the tables, and ensured everyone felt welcomed. When the meal ended, helping hands appeared once again to clear the tables, wash the dishes, and tidy up. There was no need to assign tasks or rank roles; nobody kept score of who did more or less. Everyone simply noticed a need and stepped in with a smile.

After our heartwarming meal, we transitioned into a calmer space to practice sutra calligraphy by copying Venerable Master Hsing Yun’s 《十修歌》 (Song of the Ten Practices and Cultivations). As I quieted my mind and reflected on the verses, I realized something beautiful: we weren’t just writing the teachings down on paper; we had been actively living them all day long.

The verses came to life through our actions. Our lighthearted Tai Chi session perfectly captured “二修彼此不比較” (Practice Two: Do not compare yourself with others) and “七修心內無煩惱” (Practice Seven: Be carefree and let go of worries). We didn’t need our movements to be perfect; we just needed to be fully present and enjoy the moment.

The cooperative cleanup beautifully embodied “一修人我不計較” (Practice One: Do not be calculative) and “五修吃虧不要緊” (Practice Five: Do not mind taking a disadvantage). No one was keeping track of their contributions. Everyone willingly helped with a joyful heart, viewing tasks like washing dishes or staying late to clean up as opportunities to serve rather than chores.

I also witnessed “六修待人要厚道” (Practice Six: Be kind and generous to others) in the natural way everyone looked out for one another. The warm smiles and thoughtful gestures filling the room perfectly reflected “三修處事有禮貌” (Practice Three: Be polite and respectful) and “四修見人要微笑” (Practice Four: Always greet others with a smile).

Another joyful highlight was when Venerable Ruhang recognized our basketball team for winning first place in the BLIA Cup Basketball Tournament on October 24. Celebrating their hard-earned victory together brought to life “八修口中多說好” (Practice Eight: Speak good words) as we cheered each other on and rejoiced at the merits of others (隨喜功德).

Being surrounded by such wonderful Dharma friends reminded me of “九修所交皆君子” (Practice Nine: Befriend honorable people). Through these deep spiritual friendships and shared experiences, we encourage one another toward   “十修大家成佛道” (Practice Ten: May everyone walk the path to Buddhahood), progressing together toward enlightenment.

Looking back, what touched me most was how naturally everyone came together. Each person contributed in their own unique way, and every effort mattered. To me, this is the true essence of Humanistic Buddhism (人間佛教)—bringing the Dharma out of the shrines and into everyday life through concrete acts of kindness, generosity, and care.

I am deeply grateful to Venerable Ruhang, Yuna Shijie, and all our Dharma friends for making this gathering so meaningful. On this day, we didn’t just transcribe the Song of the Ten Practices and Cultivations—we truly lived it. As the saying goes: 生活即修行，處處皆道場 (“Every moment in life is a practice, and everywhere you go is your place of cultivation”).

I warmly invite all Dharma friends, old and new, to join our future gatherings. Come share a meal, a smile, and the joy of walking this beautiful path together!