UT OLLI Visits Xiangyun Temple Again, A Day of Buddhist Cultural Experience Through Images, Meditation, and Guided Tours

Reporter: Ben Shan, Austin

On February 27, 29 participants from the University of Texas at Austin's Osher Lifelong Learning Institute (UT OLLI) visited Xiangyun Temple at the invitation of class leader Ms. Kay Hasting. After receiving enthusiastic feedback from last year's visit, they returned again this year for a rich and fulfilling program that lasted from 10:30 AM to 2:00 PM.

The participants first watched a short film, The Life of Buddha, to learn about the Buddha's path to enlightenment and his compassionate spirit. They then sat down for tea in the dining hall, where Master Jue Ji led a meditation session, guiding the participants to make the vow to "do good deeds, speak kind words, and have a good heart," turning these virtuous thoughts into daily practice. This was followed by a reading from 365 Days for Travelers on the topic of "Time and Karma," encouraging participants to reflect on the interconnections of cause and effect and its impact on life attitudes.

Although most participants came from Christian backgrounds, they listened to the teachings of Buddhism with open hearts, experiencing the spirit of Humanistic Buddhism. They enjoyed a carefully prepared vegetarian meal, with everyone leaving satisfied and in good spirits. Before leaving, the temple staff gifted each participant a keychain featuring a calligraphy piece from the master as a memento. The participants, reluctant to part ways, promised to return, bringing the visit to a harmonious conclusion.