Having the opportunity to join the IYBP in Taiwan, hosted by Buddhist Hongshi College, marks the beginning of my journey on the path of awakening. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the INEB members and those who support the IYBP. Your loving-kindness-based warm support cordially welcomed, treated and cared for all of our Kalyanamitta who joined the IYBP.
My reflection on the programme is based on my experiences, what I learned (from lectures, discussions, peer sharings, Metta in action, and field trips), and my interactions with Bodhisattva Kalyanamitta from various wonderful lands.
I have been grappling with many challenging situations, primarily stemming from the ongoing crisis in my home country, Myanmar. Armed conflicts, intense political instability, financial difficulties, and uncertainties amidst the chaotic circumstances have made life miserable and vulnerable for many Myanmar people. Although I am currently studying in Thailand, where I have a relatively safer daily life, I still struggle with mental distress, particularly when I learn about the worsening situation in my homeland. Moreover, the global situation, including the Ukraine-Russia conflict, tensions in the Middle East, the Gaza crisis, and many other distressing news stories, has left me feeling hopeless about achieving sustainable peace on our planet.
Fortunately, my participation in this program has helped me step onto the awakening path. I simply define a Bodhisattva as one who strives to attain awakening or enlightenment. The fundamental step for a Bodhisattva is to be awake. I was previously lost in a state of slumber, easily consumed by negative emotions, mental distress, material desires, and addiction to the virtual world, where I could hide my true self and vulnerabilities. This kind of slumber was not healing; it was not a true rest for my body and mind. I was drowning in a deep sleep filled with suffering.
“This programme awakened me. I heard the gentle and soothing sound of the Buddhist Hongshi temple bell. The sound of the dhamma, metta, and the warm embrace of my kalyanamitta resonated within me.”
During the programme, we explored many important topics: mindful consumption, power analysis, non-violent movements, Dukkha Analysis, vegetarianism, LGBTQIA+, healthy sexuality, artificial intelligence, the Ten Paramitas, diverse schools of buddhism, environmental issues, and civic engagement. The gathering of kalyanamitta from diverse religious backgrounds, sexual orientations, geographic locations, and fields made the programme truly unique.
“The programme practically demonstrated a way to live peacefully in a diverse world.”
Although we spoke different languages, we could communicate through the language of Metta. I cherished the Metta in action experiences, where I felt connected to all my dhamma friends from the College who warmly supported us in every way, from providing food and accommodation to offering warm clothing during a severe typhoon. It is truly a caring community that embodies the teachings of the Buddha in everyday life. These experiences awakened me from my slumber, encouraged me to stay awake, energised me to appreciate the beauty of the dhamma, and enlightened me to address suffering effectively.
“Most importantly, this IYBP has become a starting point for my growth mindset.”
May all blessings be upon all my dhamma friends and kalyanamitta!
With Metta,
William
Myanmar
IYBP 2024 Alumnus
