PRAJNA 2014 : Changes by NTU Buddhist Society

EDITOR’S NOTE

PUBLICATION TEAM CHIEF EDITOR

Editor’s note Greetings and a warm welcome to PRAJNA magazine 2014! One year has passed and I couldn’t be more excited to share fond memories of NTUBS family for all the readers. This year, NTUBS publication team comes out with a theme ‘CHANGES’. Please enjoy our sharing of one-year activities in NTUBS and insights about the idea of change from several Buddhist practitioners. I am honored to share the work of so many committed and thoughtful people. Thanks to the publication team as well as supporting committees with their efforts who have put a lot of efforts in preparing the magazine, so that PRAJNA can be produced. Last but not least, thank you for your supports and I appreciate to have you as a reader. With metta,

EDITORS

Ilysa Sim Holly Fong Koh Jhee Hong Teoh Kai Chee

LAYOUT DESIGNERS

Kelvin Teheri Sanryani Cahaya Paramitha Kandiawan

SPECIAL THANKS TO

Benny Febriansyah Chow Tze Hui Gavin Aung Tham - Zen Pencils Drop us your questions, comments, and suggestions. Email ntubs@yahoo.com.sg NTUBS Website http://clubs.ntu.edu.sg/buddhist

Shienny

u Please visit us :

Shienny Karwita Tailan

fb.com/NTUBS

Mailing Address : One Stop @SAC, 50 Nanyang Avenue NS3-01-03, Academic Complex North, Singapore 639798

ABOUT THE COVER Advanced technologies are being embraced in 21st century. They change so many aspects in life, and one of them is social interaction. Long time ago, people used to meet up and send letter to the loved ones. Unfortunately, nowadays social media platform has replaced these forms of interaction and thus affected people’s life in many ways. This is one of the issues that we want to bring in PRAJNA 2014 with the theme, CHANGES.

SPONSORS

NTUBS would like to convey our heartfelt appreciation to all sponsors for their kind donations. It is with your generous support that NTUBS is able to continue spreading the Buddhaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s teaching and sowing the seeds of virtue in NTU. Sadhu!

DI ZANG LIN

THE BUDDHIST FO YUAN LIN MONASTERY

KWANG SIANG TNG

KHOR MENG SAN PHOR KARK SEE MONASTERY

SAGAMUDRA BUDDHIST SOCIETY

SINGAPORE BUDDHA-YANA ORGANISATION

SINGAPORE BUDDHIST FEDERATION HU SHYH SHYAN

THE BUDDHA VOYAGE SOCIETY

SINGAPORE BUDDHIST MISSION

MANGALA VIHARA

THE BODHI ASSSOCIATION

POH MING TSE TEMPLE

MANGUDHVAGA BUDDHIST LODGE

ZU LIN TEMPLE ASSOCIATION

EVERGREEN BUDDHIST CULTURE SERVICE

LOTUS SUTRA BUDDHIST ASSOCIATION

VIMALAKIRTI BUDDHIST CENTRE

AMITABHA BUDDHIST CENTRE

u Prajna 2014

CONTENTS

Prajna 2014

CONTENTS

CONTENTS 04

Patron’s Message

Spiritual Advisor’s Message

Staff Advisor’s Message

NTUBSA President’s Message

President’s Message

31st NTUBS Committee

Dharma Camp

Buddhism Awareness Week

Anniversary Night

1 Day Meditation Retreat

Leukimia Lymphoma Foundation Outing

Dharma Class

Meditation Class

Dharma Circle

Dharma Talk

Exam Supper

Vesak Day Celebration

Senior Appreciation Night

Awaken Challenge

Free Thinkers - Sister Sylvia Bay

Technology and Us - Brother Kwek Soon Han

Q&A About Buddhism 33 with Venerable Shi Chuan Guan English Article - Plastic Surgery

Chinese Article - 佛陀的真理— —无常

Entertainment 49

44 Prajna 2014

PATRONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MESSAGE

Patronâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Message mpermanence is an important concept in Buddhism. The Buddha said, this is an impermanent world and all things are subject to change. There are changes for the better as well as for the worse; there are also changes that come naturally as well as by effort. Yes, the world is in a constant state of change. There is day & night, rainy & sunny, etc. Our body is also in a constant state of change whether we like it or not. We are born as babies, grow up as adults, become old and die like withering flowers. All these changes come naturally. However, many more changes come from efforts such as land reclamation, buildings coming up, ignorant children educated into knowledgeable persons. Life has also ups and downs according to the karmic law. When there is misfortune, fortune is not far away with enough effort made. In these 31 years, NTUBS has gone through a lot of changes. You produced graduates who are your grown up children. These grown up children set up their own family NTUBSA 21 years ago. Ten years later, NTUBSA gave birth to a child named the Little Bodhi. Your family have expanded fast. These are changes for the better resulting from perseverance.

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Dr. Ang Beng Choo

Einstein said, if you want to change your environment, you need to change your mindset. Before change can happen, one must be observant and understand the needs of society. One must also dare to dream and be creative. In addition, commitment and persistence to oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cause, especially during adversity, is a must. I am sure NTUBS alumni possess these characteristics for being able to set up NTUBSA, and later the Little Bodhi. Well done! I hope NTUBS committee could bring Buddhism to more fellow students, providing them opportunities to appreciate the wonderful teachings and pragmatic practices of Buddhism so as to equip them facing the fast changing world with confidence and resilience. NTUBSA could continue guiding and supporting NTUBS in leading Buddhist youths and the Little Bodhi in bringing young parents to the path of the Dharma. I look forward to seeing more and more Buddhist youths participating in your future anniversary celebrations. I wish all of you every success.

SPIRITUAL ADVISOR’S MESSAGE

Spiritual Advisor’s Ven. Shi Chuan Guan Message “sabbe sankhara aniccati” “All formations are impermanent” This year celebrates the 31st year of NTUBS and with the prajna magazine’s theme on CHANGE this year, it is with pleasure to share on the Buddha’s teaching on Anicca, Impermanence, Change. Worldly Approach to Change Around the time of the Buddha, there were many other thinkers, truth seekers who went on to start religions and what is known as philosophy today. Among them is one called Heraclitus, who is quoted to have said “Everything changes stands still.”

and

nothing

Throughout history, no one can deny impermanence. However, while all recognises change, most if not all chooses to fight it instead of accepting it. Some suggest a permanence entity beyond our mundane human perception, and is often personified in what we call theistic religion today. Others discover how to manage this change and utilise it. From the earliest man who used fire, to the thinkers, philosophers and scientists who brought about developments in science and technology, it is all our attempt as human beings to deal with change. We have made progress in many ways in a sense! Plastic bags take between 500 to 1000 years to break down while plastic bottles may take around 450 years. Think about that. The plastic bags that you use for your trash will outlive you without even trying, while we struggle to stay fit.

Buddha’s Approach to Change The Buddha declared that that which is impermanent is subject to change, and that which is subject to change is suffering. Something that is impermanent, subject to change, subject to suffering, is it fit to be considered as mine, me or myself? The Buddha would instruct his disciples with these questions and through them, many attained Arahanthood! But why is impermance suffering? When we are hungry or sick, we embrace change, to be rid of hunger and sickness, but when we are in our adult life, we don’t yearn for the change of growing older as much as we did when we were young. So what is happening here? When change goes according to our wishes and desires, we are happy; when it does not, we fret. All things exist and changes according to conditions, and not according to our whims and fancy. This is anicca! Change that is uncertain, where we do not have absolute control, only limited influence. Falling into the delusion that we have absolute control when in fact we have none, we have wrong expectations, dreams and hopes that crumble with changes, leading to unnessary disappointments, suffering. Good or bad, changes take place dependent on conditions. In some ways it is to realise that we are powerless as there are many other conditions contributing to the final result. Often times we think that we are in control, but in fact, we are only a contributor. This can be frightening to some, but it can be liberating knowing that we don’t have to shoulder it all. That in fact, it is not just about us. That we can stop blaming ourselves for everything.

At the same time, it is to realise that while not all-powerful, we are still a contributor. That we should put in our best possible effort to do what we can. And if things still don’t work out, then we should let it rest knowing that we tried our best. But what if it was not our best? Well, we have to accept that we did not do our best as well! And that that was actually the “best”, given the condition in the past. If it is not ideal, then try again. We have to also be mindful of the various factors contributing to our effort as well. With this in mind, it is with pleasure and much gratitude that we thank the various volunteers, supporters, temples and buddhist societies for the years of support for the society. Without all of their support and contributions as conditions, NTUBS will not be where it is today. Thank you. At the same time I want to congratulate the 31st committee for their dedication and effort in the past year. I hope that you have learnt more about yourself through this year of Dharma dana and may this sow the seeds for your growth in the Dharma for many years to come! May the future committees continue the beautiful tradition of Dharma sharing while embracing changes with equanimity. Wishing all a fruitful year ahead, with the Blessings and Guidance of the Buddha, Dharma and the Sangha!

Prajna 2014

STAFF ADVISOR’S MESSAGE

Staff Advisor’s Message Prof. Tan Hun Tong The Paradox of Change recall that as a child, I sometimes thought with dread about the many years of exams and tests that I would have to get through, and wished I could grow up quickly so that I no longer have to take these exams. I wanted change—as quickly as possible. Time was going by too slowly.

And guess what? While I wanted to get out of school growing up, I sometimes wanted to get back to the good old school days when I first started working. I didn’t want change. Now, as I am much older, some thoughts periodically flash by: time is passing by rather quickly; not too many changes please.

Then, when I was playing games (ok, it was non-tech games such as marbles and police-and-thief then) during recess time, I found the time too short, and wished it would last longer.

The Buddha is right—change is a feature of our lives. And with change, we sometimes suffer because we hold on to the things we want so dearly. That’s stated in the sutras. But you know what, with change, we sometimes rejoice because the unpleasant thing temporarily goes away.

I eventually took what I thought was my last exam when I was doing my undergraduate days, and thought that my final freedom from the torment of exams was here. I didn’t realize that this freedom from exams was temporary. Years later, I was to do a Phd with more exams! And when I thought exams and tests were finally over, I took some Buddhist courses and continued to take exams!

Prajna 2014

Call things, it will end. Similarly, if we accept that nothing lasts forever, it will deepen our acceptance for unpleasant things while they are occurring. We know that what is happening is part of the existing conditions, and as with all things, it will end when the conditions are right. After all, is this all part of being human, part of the human experience?

STAFF ADVISOR’S MESSAGE

Staff Advisor’s Prof. Yap Kheng Guan Message

fter more than 3 decades of serving NTU’s Buddhist community, NTUBS has certainly come of age. It has provided the conditions for spiritual friendship to blossom and for members to support one another in their practice of the Dhamma. It is heartening to see the friendship extending beyond the campus and for many, into the later stages of their life.

This year’s theme on Change is timely. We are now seeing dramatic changes in the natural and physical environment, and the social and political environment. Many of these changes affect us at the personal level. As we reflect on changes and how they affect us, it is useful to understand Change as a natural phenomenon. In this way, one is better able to embrace changes and to find a skillful way of dealing with them.

Through your effort in the cultivation of morality, meditation and wisdom, I am confident that Change will not overwhelm you but instead provide you with the opportunity to build mental resilience and strength to face the world of constant changes. To be a member of NTUBS is to be part of a community that supports one another in the practice of virtue and a peaceful and meaningful way of life. May the conditions for right practice continue to prevail in NTUBS for the good and welfare of the many. May all be well and happy.

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NTUBSA PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

NTUBSA President’s Message Bro. Toh Hong Seng

hange is a process of impermanence. Change is inevitable in life. How able are we to manage the change will determine our happiness. As uttered by Lord Buddha : All conditioned things are impermanent – when one sees this with wisdom, one turns away from suffering. This is the path to purification. Dhammapada 20: 277 The changes in 21st century are so much fast than the past. Everything comes and goes easily that they may just slip pass you without your notice. We need to continue practice meditation and cultivate mindfulness in order to live with the current pace of life. As we step into the working world, the way we deal with issues will definitely need our internal compass to guide us our values. With the values system and mindfulness, you will be more comfortable to handle challenges in life.

Prajna 2014

Our values system will vary from culture, religion and society. As a Buddhist, my values are guided by Tisarana (Three Refuges) and Panca Sila (Five Precepts), where I personally have benefited. BS has gone through 31 years and NTUBS Alumni 21 years. People, place and activities have changed over the time, but our objectives as a Buddhist society has not changed. Every batch of main committee members has given their best effort and time for the society. This has help to contribute to our sustainability. I hope that every batch will be pass on their dedication and commitment in the propagation of Dharma to the future generation. May you be well and happy.

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

President’s Bro. Chew Ze Yong Message

midst all the changes that occurred, what left us with the most impressions? And what about those we are oblivious to? These were my thoughts when I was first told about Prajna 2014’s theme, ‘Change’.

In this fast paced 21st century, technologies are advancing so fast that we are barely catching up with the latest iPad or the newest 3D printing technology. It is easy to lose ourselves among these rapid changes. Of cause, among these changes, there are some seemingly minor ones which we tend to miss out. When was the last time you look at photo of your younger self, and dwell upon how much have changed since then, how much you have grew, to be better or worse? While the Buddha taught us not to be overly attached with our past, I believe that it is also important to constantly reflect on these changes that occurred, extract as many learning points as possible and apply them to our present life. We should embrace the changes, understand where they are coming from, and how we should deal with them.

As NTUBS steps into her 31st year, we should take short pause and ponder about the journey which we have been through. What worked 10 years ago as a lecturestyle talk might not be as relevant as customized, interactive sessions filled with light discussions in today’s context. We as a Buddhist Society need to understand these changes in youths’ behaviors and characteristics in order to spread the Dharma effectively. Nevertheless, we should also continue to preserve what NTUBS has been excellent at providing – a home for many to learn, to practice, to realize and to share. As the president of the 31st committee of NTUBS, I sincerely hope that the future batches of NTUBS committees can continue to uphold NTUBS’s close knitted fellowship and to inspire more youths to learn and practice the Dharma. Embrace the changes, deal with them with wisdom and courage!

Prajna 2014

31st NTUBS COMMITTEE

CHEW ZE YONG | President Be the change you want to see in this world.

JOSEPHINE HENDRIKSON | Vice President - Event “Be A Little Kinder Than You Have To Be.” – E. Lockhart.

BENNY FEBRIANSYAH| Vice President - Dharma Whatever you do, fully devote your time and attention into it. Study while you are studying, eat while you are eating, take a rest while you are taking a rest, talk while you are talking, and do nothing while you are not doing anything! RIZKY WIRAWAN PRATAMA| Honorary General Secretary There are so many people filling your days, yet each of them is special. Good people give you happiness. Bad people give you experience. Worst people give you lesson. Best people give you memories.

TAN XIN WEN| Honorary General Treasurer You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.

ANDY YANG| Dharma Propagation Director Never lose sight of what is important to you. More than often, we are only drifting aimlessly everyday, thinking that we are doing something important, forgetting what truly matters to us.

IVAN TEW| Resource Director We cannot distance ourselves from challenges. What motivates us from going is the happiness we have. Joy is not permanent, yet it is precious for the moment of possessing it.

FREDDY| Marketing Director We are all busy, but I believe in making time for the people and the things that truly matter to me.

Prajna 2014

31st NTUBS COMMITTEE

JEFFERSON QIU | Business Director If today were the last day of my life, I would still do what I do today.

SI HUI | Metta Director Always smile because it is the easiest way to make someone’s day

MARTIN YONG| Public Relation Director “The trouble is, you think you have time.” Life is as unpredictable as it can get, so never delay chasing your dreams or showing your care and affection. Live in the present monent!

ARYANI PARAMITA| Fellowship Director If something is worth to do, do it with all of your heart.

KANG CHUN HEE| Event Director Some people grumble that roses have thorns; I am grateful that thorns have roses.

SHIENNY KARWITA TAILAN| Publication Director Smile is a powerful weapon, you can even break the ice with it!

LE QUAN LUAN| Orientation Director “I do not say that the attainment of profound knowledge comes straight away. On the contrary, it comes by a gradual training, a gradual doing, a gradual practice.“ M.I, 479

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31st NTUBS COMMITTEE

31st Committee

FELLOWSHIP TEAM

Filbert. Wei Loon. David. Yan Xiang. Steven. Chun Wah. ri. Crystal. Ruenn Shen. Robert. Aryani. Har

PUBLICATION TEAM Jhee Hong. Hiroto. Kelvin Teheri. Paramith Sanryani. Shienny. Holly. Kai Chee.

Prajna 2014

31st NTUBS COMMITTEE

METTA TEAM

. Andi. Caresse. Shi Wei. Neilson. Dhika. Teng Hui ephine. Xiu Jin. Hui Zhi. Si Hui. Alice. Cecilia. Jos n. Wei Yang. Antoni. Selamat. Jason. Serene. Wen Xia

BUSINESS TEAM Wern Er. Angeline. You Pin. Jia

Ying. Pei Zhen. Jefferson. Nguyen Uyen. Doroth y.

RESOURCE TEAM Zillion. Jin Yin. Kenrick. Robert Liono. Rizky. Ivan.You Xin. Ekariandi.

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31st NTUBS COMMITTEE

DHARMA PROPAGATION TE Naing Htoo. Diego. Stephen. Her

diyenti. Quang Luan. Zhi Xian. Andy. Alice. Chin Bing . Raymond.

EVENT TEAM

ine. Chuan Sneah. Chun Hee. Michelle. Riko. Joseph . Hagi. Wilton. Steven. Alwyn. Fandy. Chun Hao g Yan. Qun Feng. Handoko. Evando. Pei Ling. Yin

BAW TEAM

Kelvin Teheri. Harri. Caresse. Shi Wei. Sanryani. Filbert. Evando. Diego. Martin. Yan Xiang. Alwyn. Crystal. Chiang Chia Chien. Kai Yan.

Prajna 2014

31st NTUBS COMMITTEE

MARKETING TEAM

geran.

Calvin. Rizky. Freddy. Kelvin Pan Liniki. Peter. Stefani.

DHARMA CAMP TEAM dy. Ze Yong. Kenrick. Shi Wei. Fred hen. Ivan. Chun Hee. Naing Htoo. Step tin. Shannon. Zhi Xian. Chin Bing. Mar . Wen Xin i. Linik . anto Peter. Robert Lim ani. Ary n. Lua Chun Wah. Andy. Quang y. Pei Alice. Dhika. Calvin. Steven. Holl diyenti. Zhen. Riko. Wilton. Raymond. Her n. erso Jeff . Shienny

CNS TEAM Martin. Calvin. Dhika. Handok o. Evando. Xin Wen. Ze Yong. Joseph ine. Zillion. Teheri. Chun Hee. Chin Bing. Teng Hui. Harri. Neilson. Jin Yin. Sela mat. Ekariandi. Jefferson. Raymo nd. Stephen. Liniki. Quang Luan. Herdiyent i. Tze Hui. Sanryani. Hui Zhi. Riko. Aryani . Alice. Chun Wah. Robert Limanto. Freddy. Andy. Ivan. Kenrick. Peter. Shienny. Robert Liono. Holly. Cecilia . Aryani. Si Hui. Naing Htoo.

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Artwork by Gavin Aung Than. For more inspirational posters visit www.zenpencils.com

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NTUBS ACTIVITIES

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NTUBS EVENTS

DHARMA CAMP Theme : Realize Where the Real Lies Date : 8- 11th January 2014 Venue :Beeh Low See Temple

annual camp organized by NTUBS with the objectives of providing youths an interesting way of learning dharma. It was held in temples with engaging programs such as talks, meditation, games, discussion, calligraphy, tea appreciation, and much more.

u “ Dharma Camp 2014 is a very meaningful camp and I’m glad that I’ve gone to the camp. I’ve made new spiritual friends and learnt a lot there. It was from the Dharma Camp that I’ve learnt about the three Universal Characteristics (Impermanence, Non-self and Suffering), the different types of prostrations and I’ve also learnt about the 8 kinds of sufferings. Moreover, it was also my first time to meditate in a temple with my fellow NTUBS friends. “

- Hui Zhi Zheng -

Singing Practice Team-bond Games

Committee Performance

Temple Tour Finale Night

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NTUBS EVENTS

BUDDHISM AWARENESS WEEK Theme : The Sun, The Moon, and The Truth Date : 10 -14th February 2014 Venue : NTU - North (Opp. Cheers) and South Spine (Concourse @ Canteen B)

T housands of candles can be lit from a single candle, yet the life of the candle will not be shortenedâ&#x20AC;?. In such spirit was how Buddhism Awareness Week, or BAW, concieved and realized

For its few years in running, BAW this year returned with 4 booths of different themes : The Origin, Loving Kindness, Buddhism and Modern Society, and Mindfulness. This 5-day event held within NTU compound aims to introduce new insights to Buddhism, clear the common misconceptions on Buddhism, and spread loving kindness to friends and strangers alike. It has definitely successfully sparked peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s interest in Buddhism, looking from the responses of how visitors have benefited from the content and showed up subsequently for the meditation workshop and Dharma talk held in conjunction. May BAW persist and keep Dharma spirirt aflame.

BAW Booth

u BAW Part

icipants

Dharma Talk by Sis Sylvia Bay

Photo with the booth

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NTUBS EVENTS

NTUBS 31th ANNIVERSARY is

Singing Performance

Date : 21st Febuary 2014 Venue : LT 1 - North Spine

N TUBS Anniversary Night is a night where

our members and alumni come together and more friendships are fostered. Various performances are planned whole-heartedly in the night so that we create more joys and laughters together. The night is important as NTUBS is nothing without the supportive alumni.

Audience from other Buddhist youth groups

u This year NTUBS anniversary was great. I had a great time there. I was one of the choir performers and I was really satisfied that I could sing along with everyone and gave our best performance to everyone. Seeing all the attendants satisfied and sang happily made me realized that I do love make people happy by singing songs for them. I wish that the next anniversary will be merrier and I still can perform with everyone.

- Shannen -

NTUBS Anniversary Celebration

Skit Performance

Prajna 2014

Mass group photo

NTUBS EVENTS

e M ore than often are we absorbed and mindlesslys drifting in our Date : 2nd - 3rd March 2014 Venue : Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery

1 DAY MEDITATION

daily routine, that in the process we forget to spend some time to break away from the busy-ness. Conveniently spanning over the weekend, the 1-day meditation retreat presents a brief gateaway. The participants learned different types of meditation and practice it in a number of sessions, while calming their minds down and understand themselves better. By the end of the retreat, we are recharged with new vigor and fresher mind.

RETREAT

u This retreat was an eye opener experience. Before the retreat, I could not imagine that I could meditate for 2-hours long session without agonizing pain on my legs or extreme weariness. Thankfully, Venerable Chuan Guan gave us guidance to help our mind focus and finally we managed to finish a 5-hours long meditation session in a peaceful mind. This retreat was also my first time to observe 8 precepts and experience monastery life for a day. this retreat is good for whoever who wants to experience a genuine happiness in the middle of a busy life.

Walking Meditation

- Jefferson -

Participants

Playing with children at the bea

LEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA

FOUNDATION OUTING Date : 2nd March 2014 Venue : East Coast Park

L eukemia & Lymphoma Foundation is a nongovernment subsidized organization aiming to assist needy residents of Singapore afflicted with costs related to the treatment of leukemia, lymphoma and similar blood-related disorders as well as improve the quality of their lives through emotional support and various activities.

The optimism and laughter of the beneficiaries and their family had warmed my hearts. “DO”. It is only two letters, yet repercussions of this 2-letter word can bring about positive impacts on others and one-self. As one of the facilitator said, “don’t doubt yourself, just do it”. This means to step out from our comfort zone or to push beyond our preconceived limit, be it to improve ourselves or to help those in need. These are the little take away from my day out with the beneficiaries of LLF and their families. It was a day when we learned things that can’t be possibly taught through classroom environment.

- Teng Hui -

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NTUBS EVENTS

s MEDITATION CLASS

P articipants can learn on how to do meditation

Meditation Class with Phra Chun Kiang

both theoretically and practically. A skilled meditation practitioner is invited to give guidance to participants.

Meditation I Topic : Introduction to Meditation and Types of Meditation Conductor : Bro. Kweh Soon Han Meditation II, III, IV Topic : Theory and Practice of Meditation Conductor : Buddhist monk, Phra Chun Kiang

u DHARMA CLASS

Dharma Class Participants

Dharma Class V

I n this program, participants are able to deepen their Dharma knowledge in particular chosen topics for a class. A speaker is invited to give talks as well as to satisfy any questions from the audience.

Dharma Class I , II Topic : Myths and misconceptions about Buddhism and various traditions of Buddhism along with its history of development of each traditions. Conductor : Bhante Rathanasara and Bro. Kweh Soon Han Dharma Class III Topic : Life of the Buddha Conductor : Prof. Tan Hun Tong Dharma Class IV ,V, VI Topic : Four Noble Truth and Noble Eightfold Path Conductor : Venerable Chuan Guan

u 22

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NTUBS EVENTS

Date : 14th March 2014 Venue : Seminar Room 1

is an activity for NTUBS members and committee to bond in. In this session, the participants played various board games such as monopoly, saboteur and samurai, followed by a debrief for each games. It was a fun and relaxing session. Hopefully Dharma Circle benefit the member during semester.

Dharma Circle s

Saboteur Games

Participants

Dharma Talk es Date : 1st April 2014 Venue : LT 8

I t is a public talk delivered by Buddhist teachers

(Venerables as a well as lay people) with the theme about application of Buddhism in daily life of university students. The topics ranged from the practical way on how to manage stress and our emotions as well as the discussion on why Buddhism is as a thought-provoking religion. Dharma talk is held regularly in every semester in the hope that every participants who attend the talk will learn and clarify their doubts, strengthen the understanding and calm their mind.

Token of Appreciation

u Participants

Participants

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NTUBS EVENTS

VESAK DAY s CELEBRATION

Date : 13th May 2014 Venue : KMSPKS & Buddhist Fellowship

V esak

Participants

day is the day where Buddhists across the world celebrate to commemorate the birth, enlightenment and passing away(pari nirvana) of prince siddharta gautama. And hopefully by celebrating, it provides us a opportunity to reflect upon the dharma (buddhaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s teaching) and be grateful of it.

Visit Venerable Chuan Guan

EXAM SUPPER Date : 4th April 2014 Venue : Nanyang House

E xam

weqti s

supper is an event specially organized by NTUBS Metta team at the end of every semester. It mainly aims to create platform for fellow NTUBS member to relax before exams. This gathering is also essential for improving bonding between members, congregating them together to chat, play and most importantly, eat!

u Goodie Bags!

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Participants

NTUBS EVENTS

SENIOR APPRECIATION PARTY i Date : 18th May 2014 Venue : Nanyang House Graduating Seniors

S enior Appreciation Party is an event specially organized by NTUBS to express our utmost gratitude towards the graduating seniors for the hard work, contributions and continuous supports that they have given to our society. In addition, it is also a celebration for the completion of their degree as well as a chance for them to reminisce the memories created and the friendships fostered in NTUBS.

Graduating Seniors

AWAKEN CHALLENGE 2014 Date : 28th June 2014 Venue : KMSPKS Monastery

Awaken Challenge is an Inter-Buddhist Youth Competition which was initiated in 2010 by alumni of various Tertiary Institution Buddhist Societies (TIBS). NTUBS team, represented by Aryani, Kenrick, Stephen and Yan Xiang, was able to secure the first spot of the competition for the fourth time during the five years of participating.

u Thanks to Awaken Challenge and NTUBS that gave me the chance to participate this very meaningful event and so I spent my holiday wisely. With the help and effort of all the coaches and teammates, the learning process was fun and unforgettable. Championship is just an extra bonus, but the higher

Awaken Challenge

Group Photo

happiness is due to the knowledge I gained is really priceless as it has been rooted deeply in my heart. Learning dharma is a very enjoyable process, the more you learn, the more happiness you get. The more amazing thing is you would find that it is applicable in your life soon after you learnt it. I am very thankful that I learnt, and I will continue to learn, as Dharma gates are indeed immeasurable!

- Yan Xiang -

Prajna 2014

INTERVIEW I

Free-thinkers with Sister Sylvia Bay

As the society grows, many perspectives flourish and a variety of philoshopical views arise, and one of them is freethinker. In this section, Prajna and Sister Sylvia Bay will discuss about freethinker and its relation with Buddhism.

Prajna: What do you think of the idea of change and the growing trend of freethinkers? SB: Social trend is complex and controlled by the people who respond to the environment. Depending on the individual’s experience, we get the reaction. People will respond defensively in hostile environment and they will tend to look at their parents, trying to emulate them when the environment is safer. Now we look at the condition of our society. In Singapore context, in which peaceful harmony and economic prosperity have been achieved, children who live in benign environment do not really want to become their parents. One of the reasons why is because the parents are too busy in making money and hence are often not there for them when they need attention and care. Because of this, the children develop an alternative culture as a respond to what they do not like, which can be good or bad. These alternatives can be seen as the by-products from the process while the children is trying to find out what actually their parents are doing. One possible alternative is to be

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religious or not. Any decision to be made for this particular option relies on a lot of considerations, such as relationship with the parents and other external environment factors, such as internet that draws their interest and friends that they are interacting with. Depending upon which factor is stronger, one can choose to be a freethinker or a subscriber of certain religion. Human will always put priority on securing his environment (Maslow’s hierarchy of needs). Now, we live in a world where the environment is relatively secured. Since it is already secure, you do not have to look out for your next meal and can start to look out for development, improvement, and actualization because when you have a million dollars, a dollar and ten dollars become no big deal, it is only when you have eleven dollars that 10 dollars is a big deal. When the younger ones (who are searching for the alternatives) look at the money and say “this one not important, something else is important”, they will turn to somewhere else, looking for an inspiration or actualization that can satisfy the restlessness of the mind.

INTERVIEW I

Prajna: If people search for actualisation and become a freethinker, is that wrong? SB: You cannot say it is wrong, religion is a very personal thing. More often than not, it speaks about individual’s heart, not mind. By having a religion, you try to satisfy your mind, but ultimately it is heart that feels what is right. Thus, religion is very personal and never try to tell a person that his heart is wrong. When you tell him that his heart is wrong, you are provoking very strong reactions. “You are telling me my feelings are wrong?! Why should my feelings be wrong

are reborn as woman in this very life, looking for woman (again) would make you feel “right” and “comfortable”, wouldn’t it? Prajna: So being a freethinker is part of human nature? SB: No it is not. But before that, we have to understand the word “freethinker” itself. Is it the ability to think freely or the choice to not have a religion at all (like some people in the society have assumed)? To me, when you say you are a freethinker, you should be a person who is free to think and with that thinking, you hope

Prajna: there is a friend that states he is a freethinker. His opinion is “When you look at society and media, people are only trying to say that their religion is the best, although sometimes they misinterpret the religion itself”. People are being stoned to death, terrorized, and harmed in the Middle East due to religious reasons, while in Myanmar, there have been several riots involving religious leaders. Those are examples that make him think that religion is not a very good option to take to be a good person and thus he decided to think and find out what is good and what is not

and yours be right?” for him by himself. In your Why does it happen like opinion, by becoming “A good or bad person depends on this? It is because we have freethinkers, can we your choices. If your choices do not gone through many lives in cultivate more good hurt another or yourself, it is a smart, this world of existence (I am qualities of ourselves? wise choice. “ a Buddhist and I believe in such phenomena). In SB: Neutral, it must not different lives, you would have someday that you will be led to necessarily be that influential. Your multiple and myriad types of something that speaks to the faith does not make you a good or experiences, in which some of heart. bad person. That you uphold your them sink deeply into your psyche. When you choose not to follow faith does not make you a good When you come alive in another any religion, you might not be a or bad person either. How good or existence (when the new birth freethinker because in most cases, bad person you are depends on takes place), you “carry” certain you are not even thinking about it your choices. If you opt to not hurt draws and traits within yourself, (why you decide not to). You just others or yourself, it is obviously a including familiarity and a sense of simply decide not to choose. In the smart and wise choice. rightness. Now, there have been case of “I am not ready to choose Sometimes religion affects the a lot of evidences showing that so I am not thinking about it”, you choices that you make, but most actually such instincts are born. can even be called as a non- of the times it does not. What often It is also all of this that (in my thinker, rather than a freethinker. affects your choices are actually mind) explain how homosexuality Nonetheless, the person that says your instincts. Your decisions can comes about. In numerous lives he is a freethinker has to decide be motivated by anger, greed, been experienced, you are of what he actually means. Is it the love, or simply responsibility. When a male gender and have been first or the second one? feelings and other motivations looking for women. And when you drive you to do something, religion

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INTERVIEW I

becomes only one factor, out of many considerations that you have. But things can be done in the name of religion. So, poor religion gets a bad name because of individuals’ faults. Someone is a good person when his choices are motivated by desire not to hurt himself and others. That, as what I said, is a good choice. If someone is to say, “I have no religion” and goes to whack people (since no religion to hold you back), he is obviously still regarded as a bad person. But let say, if he, still without any religion, speaks what are nice to hear and does what regarded as morally upright, he will be seen as a sweet and good guy. So, there must not be a fixed no connection between having a religion that you adopt and the level of kindness that you have. I know some friends who are not of any religious denomination, but they are very good people. They have a sense of fair play, kindness, and good moral. There is no need of religion to police them. I also know some people who are deeply religious, performing some regular prayers daily to comply with the religious practices, but when it comes to response, they scold the maid terribly harsh. It is of course not very nice of them. So,

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religion is one consideration where there are many others such as upbringing, education, own sense of right and wrong, kindness, etc. which influence a person to be bad or good.

SB: Agnostics do not know if there is such a thing called a god, while atheists do not have a belief in the existence of such almighty being. So an agnostic person may one day decide to choose to embrace a religion. The atheists, on the other hand, if they continue with their perception or way of thinking, they will unlikely choose to believe in any religion..

world. Since there is no need for religion, they do not need to take sides. But are you a passive or active freethinker? If you are a passive one, likely one day you will end up with a religion. An active one may not. So there are indeed not many real freethinkers, depending on how you define it. The case where you are a nominal something (any religion would do), I would put you closer to a freethinker. You can have cases where you say you are of a subscriber of any religion, but have no knowledge of the teachings associated with it, while someone who claims themselves not having a religion can have a world view that is in line with a religious teaching.

Prajna: Can the Atheists considered a freethinker?

Prajna: So is it then just a matter of labelling actually?

SB: You must remember to define freethinker first. Is it the one that choose none of the existing religion; wish to preserve the freedom of thinking; or not to think since he does not really care? Your friend’s case is one that has thought of and decided not to be involved. But in many cases, people do not think of it as they have been too caught up in daily life, very much into mundane

SB: It is Inevitable that human beings like to label to make things easier for themselves. The world is actually very complex but we like to make it very simple and easy to understand. It is not as complex as you believe, but not as easy as you think.

Prajna: What about the differences in Agnostics and Atheists?

Prajna: In that case, is there a way that we can propagate or spread Buddhism without labelling it?

INTERVIEW I

SB: Yes of course, just do not say that it is the Buddha’s teaching. Do not say it is the Four Nobles Truths which was structurally explained in details to the ancient audience. You just can say things like “if you always get very upset easily while wanting something, you will definitely be stressed up!” Prajna: In that case every religion and freethinker can conduct the teachings. Then I do not see that Buddhism to stand up. SB: Why must Buddhism stand up, we just want the Dharma to stand up. You do not need to make Buddhism strong, but you need to keep the Dharma alive. These two are not the same thing. Buddhism and its package include those of rites and rituals, while Dharma deals more with the practices and methods. I do not go to all the temples in Singapore and bow to all tourist spots, but still I can practice the Dharma and I am very happy as a person. Prajna: But can freethinkers be more spiritual than those who choose to follow certain religion? SB: As I said, religion is only one of many factors that drives a person’s moral choices. It is not the sole

factor. But there are differences between one who professes to be a spiritual person and one who is not. A practitioner is someone who is spiritual, but not necessarily to be religious. Someone who is spiritual do what is right and what is good, while one who is religious does what is dictated by the faith. There is a significant difference here. Let say you have a tough teacher who emphasizes on the faith and on one day he says that you must have short hair, only short hair, and wear black all the time. They are actually only the outer form of the practice, but you can easily get very carried away with those things. Religious practices are usually done to comply with those forms, but spirituality demands us to understand. Why X should be done and not Y as opposed to just follow the form? This way of thinking can bring us to the essence of the practice. It means that you can have spirituality which can lead you to turn away from any religion practice that is conventionally practised. Meaning to say “In this community that I go to regularly, everybody has short hair and black clothes because they think that it is only the correct way. But I do not think so, they have nothing

to do with enlightenment, nor have something to do with correct understanding.” Having such kind of comprehension, you would turn away yourselves from the form and get yourselves deeper into the essence of the teaching. I give another concrete example. I am a Buddhist and have been going to Theravadan temples regularly. In a typical Theravadan community you are normally taught to bow to the Buddha image, go and pay respect to the Bodhi tree or any Sangha members. As you develop the understanding of Dharma, the first thing you would realize is that bowing is not necessary. If you want to bow, please go ahead but it is not a must. It is not even necessary to go to a temple. If you practice the Dharma daily, meditate regularly, try to observe the mind mindfully all the time, you do not have to go to a temple. So you turn away from the forms such as going to the temple, chanting the prayers, bowing three times to the Buddha, and others. You just need to go for what is essential for the mind and practice to develop the mind. Then have you moved away from being a Buddhist by doing so? No. You have indeed become Buddhist even more. You become more

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INTERVIEW I

spiritual because of the inner peace that you have, does not matter which religion label you carry. The likes of which someone who is completely in the secular world will not understand and taste. Prajna: So the freethinker who practices more spirituality through Buddhist methods has more advantages as compared to a freethinker who does not follow certain factors? SB: Yes. Prajna: So it is not the religion but how the tool is used? SB: If you are not following any religion, but you lead your life such that you become very spiritual, then you are a good person. By spiritual, I mean, you are not too caught up by games or competitions to getting ahead and not stressed up with the mundane tussles. You are very happy for just being easy, contented, and having quiet moments in life. So whether you use God as your anchor or use Buddhist teachings, it does not matter because it is similar. And in the case of a freethinkers, it just means they are not drawing their inspiration on living daily life from any lessons in religion, but living by their own tenets instead. They are just not turning to religion for answers. Prajna: So what makes a Buddhist is?

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SB: It is Dharma. It is something that makes an individual to be a practitioner or student of Buddha. So if you embrace Dharma without ever calling it Dharma you are already a student of the Buddha.

thinking a lot about it and finally decide and choose, especially after you work through your logic and all, in that kind of situation, your choice is going to be very firm. It is just like, “what’s the meaning of having one more child, if you already have a lot of children?” But if you spend all your time waiting for one and it finally comes, then, “Ah, the most precious thing has come to walk the earth!” You take it for granted when it always there with you but Photo with Sister if there is only one and you Sylvia Bay take a long time to get it, it becomes precious. And if you see Dharma as part of Same process works in the case of your life, the way that governs your faith. If you were born into a family behaviour, then you are likely to that professes a certain faith, you view Buddha from a very different take it for granted. But, it may eye. You do not see Buddha as also take you a while to decide a god but a very wise and great your faith. However, if you choose teacher. your faith after you have thought through and seen how it applies Prajna: Lastly, so there is nothing in your life, how it helps you, you wrong with the statistics like the are not going to change that freethinkers go up and the religions easily and come to realize that go down? you cannot impose that faith on your child. You understand that it SB: No, when the society works for you but may or may not increasingly puts more emphasis work for your child depending on on logic and science, the people a lot of factors and conditions, are likely to demand more one of which is your relationship freedom to think for themselves. with your child. If your child has an When you want the freedom to excellent relationship with you, the think for yourself, you do not want child might say “I want your faith” to be hemmed in by religion. It because it makes the parents he/ also means when someone finally she loves. But if your children have embraces a religion, they are terrible relationship with you, the going to be very staunch about it opposite thing could happen and in the right way. you would likely have discredited It is because when you have spent your faith. your life not thinking about it or

INTERVIEW II

TECHNOLOGY

AND US wit h

Br ot her K wek Soon Han

with that. Steve Jobs with his revolutionary ideas is also a part of the evolution of how people think. Everything is expected to be simple and appealing to the consumers. When TV was first invented, the society was so excited and engaged by it, but later on there were also some movements asking people to spend less time watching TV. The next invention are computer and internet. Here you can see the pattern. Things that you have not seen before become hits and the result is already expected. People will be hooked up with new invention and change until new things come. I always think that technology is a double edge sword. It depends on how you use it and how well you know where it is coming from. Photo with Bro. Kwek A lot of these are triggered by commercially profitmaking perspective. However, technology can also be used as non-commercial purpose. We know that Q : Nowadays we often see people are technology now become pervasiveness of social always busy with their own gadget (phone, media. It can occur as a blessing. The blessing part ipad, etc) in public transportation. It seems will be in your part to utilize this to spread more about Buddhism. this technology makes them less aware of On improving as a Buddhist in this era where technology the surroundings. What is your advancement is progressing at a view about this? faster than ever rate, various Buddhism “Technology is a contents are available online and double edge these resources have made Buddhism KSH : I think there is some truth in sword” widely accessible to everyone. that. In US, there is a movement called However, as the amount of information ‘LOOK UP’, asking people to look is increasing at a great rate, there is a up rather than look at their phones. need for our ability to be selective in the information Probably because in the States, people are more we would like to consume. This is important as a wrong sociable and they used to say hello in trains, but now idea may deter one’s progress to develop the right everyone is busy with the new technology. This is very understanding to Buddhism. So it is really clear that natural. Phones nowadays are loaded with games technology can be both good and bad depending and have internet connection. It is all called evolution. on how each of us views and uses it. Technology has come and people are interacting

u Prajna 2014

Artwork by Gavin Aung Than. For more inspirational posters visit www.zenpencils.com

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INTERVIEW III

QnA

- wit h Venerable C huan G uan -

Q1. PROSTRATION In what condition we must or should do the prostration? And what type of prostration? Can we do any kind of prostration (Mahayana,/ Theravada) in any occasion without fixing which prostration we must always do in every occasion? (Calvin, MAE Year 2) The first thing we have to know about prostration is that it is an expression of reference and respect. By keeping that in mind, any form of prostration should be fine as long as the intention is the same since they are just different ways of expressing reference. In Buddhism, each tradition has their own so called method to prostrate. Not only that, the prostration manner can even be different one to another within one tradition depending upon the country where that tradition had spread out historically. For

example in Theravada tradition, Sri Lankan and Thai, they prostrate slightly differently. However, if a person is to visit a certain center regularly, (s)he will usually feel more integrated if (s)he learn the way how that community prostates. In most cases, people would not really mind, and if you visit the center once in a while, the monks staying there are not bothered as well. It does not mean that they do not care, but they just do not mind the different way of prostration that you perform. Thus, if you have adopted certain prostration manner which you are convenient with and you are about to visit a temple whose the devotee prostrate differently than what you do for example, you do not have to do out of your way to do the other types for adjusting purposes. But again, if you have become an integrated part of any particular community, then you usually do not want do your own style so to speak. Me, myself, was exposed to various traditions, so I would just do the different types of prostrations I have learned

depending on the place and condition. Nonetheless, there are some prostration styles which are a bit elaborated and in most cases they can be quite tricky unless you are really into their culture or tradition.

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INTERVIEW III

Q2. KARMA I found this phrase in a book “Karma conditions us rather than determines us” What does it mean? (Herdiyenti, NBS Year 2) I can only guess what the statement is because I am not the author. I think the author was trying to say the difference between “condition” and “determine”. The difference that he is talking about,

I think, is that karma is not fix. “Determine” deals with something which is fixed, but “condition” would mean something which can influence. For example, the only reason why I am still your spiritual advisor is because when you encountered me, it was pleasant enough. So, my past karma and the interactions have shaped your respond to me. Consequently, if there is an opportunity to come and meet

me, you would probably be more inclined to do so. It does not really mean that you really have to come and see me since the experience would only influence. However, if this time round, I go and slap you for no reason. Such action would alter the interrelation and you would consider meeting me again in the future. Hence, karma can only condition and influence, but it does not determine us.

Q3. BUDDHISM TO PARENTS How if the person is our parents who doesn’t know about Buddhism? Should we introduce Buddhism to them or just let it be? (Benny, CBC Year 4) Hmm… The first thing I recommend people to do is to take care, love, and respect their parents. To basically be filial to them. I think if we do that as a start, then perhaps they will be interested to know, “Hey why my son/ daughter is different with my relatives/ neighbor’s son/ daughter?” “After going to NTU, he/she had become a different person.” Only then, your parents may consider more when you share with them. So again, it comes back to leading by example and also focusing not so much on sharing and converting people, but really to care for them. Only when the time comes or when there is appropriate opportunity, you come to share with them about what you have

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learnt. Because the end goal of Buddhism is not make people believe in Buddhism, but to make people to be happier by removing the suffering. So try to help them to be happier,

then overtime they may want to know how you are doing it. Sharing Dharma with them is merely helping them to be independent, so that they are able to be happy by themselves.

INTERVIEW III

Q4. SO MANY RELIGIONS Why there is a lot of religions in this world? Would it be simpler if there is one religion that teaches people how to be good or be enlightened? (Dhika, CBC Year 3) Well, this is similar to the problem that the Kalamas faced when they met different people and religion which claimed themselves to be the most correct one. When everybody says their view is true, while the others are wrong; the next question to be asked is which one is right and which one is wrong? Unfortunately, there are more than

one religion in this world. There are so many different religions that some people suggest each religion may carry certain part of the truth, and perhaps by cumulating all of the religionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s views, we may be able to see the whole truth. However, we have to remember that we may arrive with different answers, depending on which point of view we start from. Anthropologically, religions evolved from animism, which is basically a response to the natural world. And to a large degree, some religions do arise in this way. Although I cannot speak for other religions and the facts on how they come about, Buddhism to me is

quite different because it is the Buddhaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s insight about how things are. It was not simply a response to fear of this and that. Nonetheless, I like what someone once mentioned that religion, perhaps is like food. Everybody, all of us have a need of food, but we have different taste. So different food is fitting different taste. If everything is eating the same food and tasting the same taste, then it might be a communism (laugh). To me, the more important question is perhaps how each religion can help individuals be better people and not so much on the idea that everybody must follow the same teachings.

Q5. SPIRITUAL FRIENDS Who shall we call as Spiritual Friends? (Dhika, CBC Year 3) Buddha declared that non-other than himself is the spiritual friend. He says the arise of Tathagatha in this world with the mara, deva, asura, and arising out of welfare and benefit, He teaches Dharma.

Those who listen, learn and practice shall be liberated from suffering, hence the Buddha, the Tathagatha is a good spiritual friend. So the first definition is the Buddha himself. Beyond that, is Dharma, his teaching, while below that, is Sangha, the holy order. And then in loose term, anyone who knows

the path, the fruit and has the compassion and ability to teach is a good spiritual friend. Spiritual friend is not just a random person who laughs with you. But they are people who laugh with you and create enough positive links such that in due time, when one or the other is spiritually matured, (s)he will benefit the other person.

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INTERVIEW III

Q6. WAR SITUATION If our own countries go into a war and we are forced by the government to enlist in the military, we most likely will end up killing other human beings. What we should do in this situation ? (Budianto Tandius, Research Associate,NTU) The first thing we have to do is of course to prevent the war. In the

case when we cannot prevent the war, we should minimize the casualties as much as we can. In an ironic sense, if none of our Buddhist are generals, then we cannot decide at high levels. If none Buddhist is politician, then we are not in position to say whether we need to go for the war. On one hand, we do not want to be involved, but if we are totally excluded/ separated from this process, then we do not have any option at all.

But today if someone comes in with a gun threatening to kill all of us and there is a gun over here, I will be taking it up and firing it to that person. First as a warning shot, then immobilize the person, maybe to the hand or the leg, but I might miss (laugh). I do not say that taking a gun, shooting and killing a person is right. But if I accidentally kill the person, I would consciously know the consequences whether legally or karmicly. That is the key distinction.

Q7. BUDDHISTS TO EAT MEAT They say, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s okay for Buddhist laymen to eat meat, as long as the animals are not specifically slaughtered for us to eat. However, if we take a wider view, because we consume meat (that are not prepared specifically for us), our consumption rate drives the producers or businessmen to raise up animals and slaughter them. So, does the justification for eating meat (that are not prepared especially for us) still hold for today ? (Budianto Tandius, Research Associate,NTU)

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It is indeed a tricky question and in some sense, we are interconnected in our decision. But having said that, I think the important thing is to recognize the impact of our actions and decisions and to minimize harm. As a start, do not take food that you order directly (for example do not purposely select live fish to be killed in seafood restaurant). Number two, choose to consume meat in a less cruel manner. The animals can be the same, but some of them are skinned, killed, grilled alive or treated w i t h

other kind of tortures in front of the consumers. So, choose to eat with less cruelty. This is the general direction. As to how much we can do, then do as much as we can. If you can, be a vegetarian, but if you cannot, then you might want to minimize your meat consumption.

INTERVIEW III

Q8. MEDITATION FOR BEGINNERS What is the best type of recommended by the Buddha himself as it is a practice that calms meditation for beginners? the body and the mind. However, (Calvin, MAE Year 2) it does not mean that this method Mindfulness of the breath or Annapanasati is the easiest training for people to pick up and it has been commonly used in many centers. It is even

of mental training is only for the beginners, because the Buddha again says that it can also be used to attain forth Jhana or even the Enlightenment itself.

Thus, although it could serve for multiple purposes, the principle is the same in practice both for advance cultivators/ meditators and beginners. As a beginner, one can start of the mindfulness of the breath by attending a class and seek the guidance of a teacher who is trained.

Q9. EXISTENCE Why being exist in the first place? (Kenrick, SCE Year 2) An interesting question, but if we do not exist, the question whether it will be more simple will be irrelevant, won’t it be? There is no one to come and say whether it is simple or not. This is what we called as existential question. It is normally connected to different variety of questions such as what is the purpose of life. The purpose of life is linked to question why do we exist and it is also somehow linked to the question how do we come about. The “how” is then linked to the “why” part. If we were created by some alien beings, then it means oh, our ancestry comes from aliens. After that, the question transforms to, so who are these aliens? Why did they create us? It may also go in another way, God created us. Then the next question to be asked is which God? That’s all where the fights come in, some religions say it is their God, while the others say their God. In Buddhism we ask slightly different questions. Before that question is

being addressed, we say, whether or not we were created by aliens, by God or evolution, today if you see a monkey with bananas, do not snatch the banana. You know why? Do you know what happens if you snatch the banana? Yes, the monkey will scratch you, the monkey will be very upset. Regardless whether it is created, designed, or planted here by aliens, monkeys currently behave in this way. We are the monkeys. We have our own bananas. Whatever we deemed to be important to us, we hold dear to us and if it is taken away from us, we get upset. That is the truth. The eternal truth. Doesn’t matter whether we are created, whether there is a reason for us to exist or not, currently we are like that. Thus, unlike most religions, Buddhism reacts differently towards this question. F r o m anthropology point of view, most religion and science try to respond this questions due to the early challenges

of existence. This earth was not an easy place to survive. Today, our life is so much easier, although it must not necessarily be simpler. It is still very complex, but a lot easier. You press a button, there is slideshow; type a correct sequence, you will get an answer. In the past, you had to go out and look for food. There were a lot of challenges that early men faced from anthropology point of view. Thus, science and religion attempted to answer the questions that people had had since that time. The questions started from “Where did the food come from?” and “Where did we come from?” It then changed into “When this world, the place we live would end?” When we see our loved ones die, we also questions “Why they, then later we would die?” If the world disappears, we will all be gone, but “Where do we go?” Those are typical “scary” questions with no easy answers. But Buddha himself was very different. He instead asked a question, “Where does suffering come from?”

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INTERVIEW III

“When does suffering come to an end?” Thus, it is not so much on where do we come from, but where suffering comes from. Not so much on when or how this world will end, but when and how suffering will end. So, in that sense, we are looking at the questions very differently. However, if we try to look that question from another direction, then I would say, we are not born with any particular reason. In the sense that there is no fix purpose. We are born due to our personal

inclination and past lives. After being reborn again, what is our purpose of life? It is just like a blank sheet of paper or a blank book, which is up to us to write and determine what the book is going to be. It can be a story of a tragedy, a romance, or even a thriller. It can be a book about greatness, a lot of grievances, pain, joy, or love to all sentient beings. I like what I saw on Facebook on the other day, although I am not sure if Dalai Lama really said that, but it said that the purpose of our

life is indeed to bring happiness to others, and if you cannot do that, at least do not bring suffering to others. I like it because such statement embodies teaching on love and compassion within itself. sentient beings? I like what I saw on Facebook the other day, not sure if Dalai Lama really said that, but it said that the purpose in our life is to bring happiness to others, and if you even cannot do that, at least do not bring suffering to others.

Q10. FOLLOWERS OF OTHER RELIGIONS How we should treat other followers of other religions that incorporate some parts of Buddhism to their teaching, but somehow at the end may contradict the core teaching of Buddha’s itself? (Budianto Tandius, Research Associate,NTU) So in the past I was in an opinion that if others take the Buddhist teaching to use, as long as it benefits and helps them, then it is fine. In a way, I still agree to that now. But increasingly I tell people if you want to borrow an idea from Buddhism or other religions, you have to cite citations. You must have a clear citation. It is just like an academic world. You cannot just borrow without citation. Without citation, it can be called a plagiarism. If you do citation then it is not a plagiarism, it is about giving the author or inventor credit instead. Why is this important to Buddhist? On the surface it may seem unnecessary. Water is still water as long as it quenches us, isn’t it? It may look like putting the label on something, but we have to

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understand that if something is shared without the original source, the original direction can be lost. Take an example of mindfulness training. Today it is found in many hospitals as MBSR, but when it is shared as mindfulness based reduction training, they clearly state that it is derived from Buddhist training, so that is okay. Imagine if you take that one out (the part in which it is derived from Buddhism), when people learn MBSR, they do not know that such practice comes from a larger context of the Noble Eightfold Path. People may then use it for all kind of waste and claim that as what it was meant. And others who may come later may learn the wrong thing. You cannot deny that as a sniper is very mindful and focused, but their intention is to kill. So in my opinion, if someone is to borrow something from Buddhism, that is fine, but they should do citation. Not simply borrow and incorporate here and there, but to remember the source. Shienny: In Catholic high school, in religion class, we learnt about different types of meditation, like Buddhist, Catholic, Muslim, Christian, Hindu and there was one teacher who said that in Catholic there is also a meditation, but the

meditation is like a medium to communicate with God. Indians have been doing meditation even before the Buddha was around and in the early days, the word “meditation” was even not a Buddhist term and it is actually borrowed from Christianity. So, they do meditate, but the way they do meditation is more like a reflection and it is basically reflecting on God, His quality and so on and so forth. A bit different from what we Buddhist have been doing which can systematically be categorized into Samatha and Vipassana and different branches of school of this. In a way, it is not that they borrowed from us. In earlier days they had something, but it was not as developed as ours and then in recent years, their methods have been improved especially after they were exposed to Buddhism and teachings of some masters, such as D a l a i Lama.

INTERVIEW III

Q11. PERSUADE PEOPLE TO LEARN DHARMA Some people feel that listening to Dharma Talk is wasting time. How to persuade them to learn Dharma more? (Calvin, MAE Year 2) I think the first thing to ask is why we want to persuade people to learn Dharma. If the answer is to help people to be happier, then the next question we have to ask is does this person feel that he can be happier, or that he wants to be happier. For some people, they may feel that they are already happy as it is; such happy that they do not need anything else. Maybe they had finished their studies, met someone they loved, are having good career and now are in preparation to get married. Everything is just going so smoothly. They could also have parents who are very healthy and siblings who are caring and loving. For such people, they may not really see the point of having religion for that matter, not to mention Buddhism. In a way, it is quite similar to how I observed that some people are very reliant on friends. There is nothing wrong with having good friendship, but there are those

who place a lot more emphasis on friendship than on kinship. Sometimes it may be because they are somehow are not that close with their family. Not to judge them and that is right or wrong, but it is like that. Hence, for such a person, friends are just naturally more important because most people naturally need some support from someone else. So, if they did not get it from family, they will look for it from friends. But there are those who have a very strong support from the family, such as myself; at least I feel that way for me. I do have some very close friends, but I am not a person who will be so terrified if my friend is angry at me. I will be open to my friends and if I think one of them is wrong, then I am going to tell him that he is wrong. He has to accept it, although he may not like it. But of course I learned to be more tactful over the years interacting with them. My point is that, similarly, those who have sorted out a lot of things on their own life and have not encounter anything that they cannot solve, there is a very little reason for them to come to religion. I look a religion in a very practical way. It is just like any other things that we do, it should serve

a purpose. That is why, for many people who adopted religion as an inheritance, not by choice, meaning maybe they are born in Christian, Buddhist, Taoist, Muslim or Hindu family, in process if they do not get something or benefit from it, then it would become just a culture. It just becomes something that they have to do, and when it comes to a point where they are allowed to make a choice, they may choose to continue and preserve the family heritage, but only as far as that. However, if something else comes along, which is better and able to serve as alternative, then they may choose to drop the religion altogether and become atheist or adopt different religion. So, for me, the initial question has to be asked first before we even try to share Dharma with a person. If the person is currently on a state of not needing a religion, then you are basically try to tell the person that he is not happy. That is why I never bugging you all to come and learn Dharma (laugh). A person who is not thinking that he is fat or sick, will be very fed up if you keep saying to them to practice or go see a doctor.

Prajna 2014

ENGLISH ARTICLE

image credit by nickmugridge - deviantART

hen you hear of plastic surgery, what comes to mind first - Botox? Money? Painful operations? South Korean Stars (really hot ones I might add)? Hollywood? Yourself maybe, the bulging tummy you wish you did not have, the double eyelids you wish you did? Whichever it is, it signifies the wish for change and a roughly permanent one at that on the human body.

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Now what about the idea of a little girl that had her cleft lip fixed or the classmate that is suddenly missing that huge birthmark on her face the year before? Do these two situations sound completely different from the ones stated earlier? You may be surprised to know that plastic surgery connects them all. The term plastic surgery is actually derived from the Greek word plastikos which means to

shape or reconstruct something hence the general idea of plastic surgery. There are two forms of plastic surgery that are known as Reconstructive and Aesthetic (also known as cosmetic) and their purposes are similar â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to transform. However, before we delve into exploring the possibilities of the good and bad of plastic surgery that is so prevalently practiced in modern society, let us establish that

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The Changes WE CHOOSE TO PLACE ON

Our Body by Ilysa Sim

it is needed for some people and they should never be shamed for requiring the procedures of plastic surgery. “But we should cherish what we are born with! This is just what life has given you, accept it, accept yourself!” are some words you might have heard or said. Perhaps, before you jump to such flippant remarks, allow yourself to be more self reflexive, question your thoughts and what you hear.

Have you lived as they have, born deformed as some are, faced with the same adversities or hoped for a “normal” life every time you see a reflection of yourself in the shock, disgust and pity on someone’s expression? Who then are we to decide and deprive others their human rights and choice of freedom to represent themselves? These people like children with cleft lip or people born with other types

of birth defects deserve a chance to live as normally as they can with the help of reconstructive plastic surgery. Would you deny these children a possibility of breathing and eating without problems or the menial worker a face when his original one has been blown off by an accidental factory explosion? How about judging your neighbour vain for getting scar removal on her arm and face after a vehicular Prajna 2014

“

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Image credit : 1. healthmeup.com 2. eruptingmind.com

Prajna 2014

... where there is an ups there is always a dow freak accident leaving her entire arm covered in thick scar tissues which immobilizes? Plastic surgery takes on a whole new look after understanding just a little more about some of the people that decide to go through it, does it not? As you ponder on reconstructive surgery what about the more popular and murkier aspects of aesthetic surgery? I am sure many of us have visited sites that show the drastic change in looks after going through extreme makeovers – before and after photographs. Cue flashes of hot, sexy and perfect South Korean Stars in your head! South Korea has seemingly perfected the art of plastic surgery and able to transform anyone to the perfection they have always fantasized themselves to be in

possibility of better social and work environments. Being extremely visual oriented creatures that we are, sociological reports have shown that the possibility is in fact a reality. CNN (Media) and Forbes (Business), among many other organisations that have articles easily accessible online studying the phenomena of how looks correlate to the salary one receives. Simply put, the appalling trends shows that the better you look physically, the more you earn. That being said, people who claim to want to better their lives through cosmetic plastic surgery do have a foundation of truth to stand upon. However, where there is an uspide to something, there is always a downside to it. Chronic patients of plastic surgery may be facing

dreams – provided they have the time and opportunity. Being able to change how you look does to some extent give one a sense of control over the self and it can be empowering. Having the ability to improve self image contains the

mental health issues where it is a routine of surgery after surgery, change after change – addiction that does not show any self expression but an expression for help. Not to mention, the serious health risks that accompany some

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

n upside to something, a downside to it. procedures such as cardiac arrests, necrosis (tissue death) and death.. etc. If you are considering plastic surgery or know someone that

and reflected for yourself or are they in fact plausibly uneducated and closed minded comments of others? Enquire the origins of the

is, reserve judgement but rather, offer some insights beyond the rosy picture of safety most commonly painted by many. Know why and what you want to achieve with surgery but also be aware of the possible medical complications that follow. The rest of us in the periphery looking into the realm of plastic surgery can achieve some form of transformation as well, the expansion and improvement of our mindset. This article does not aim to influence readers to side with any argument but hope to have readers gain a clearer perception of coming to their own conclusions instead of adopting someone elseâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. These positive or negative thoughts you may harbour about plastic surgery should be questioned. Are they truly yours after you have researched

assumptions how you arrive at them. Why do you think that way and is it true, do you agree? If I can do it, does it mean I should? Where do I stand ethically and morally on this? All these question should only be answered by you and after much matured consideration. Do not be hasty in making judgements and take some personal time to think. Whatever side you stand on or straddle, bear in mind that people have the right to impose change on their bodies as an expression to reflect who they are as a person just as how you tell the hair dresser to cut, dye & curl your hair or the tattoos you inject into your skin and the make up you smear on your face. All in all, no matter how people may change on the outside, are we all not simply defined by things that we cannot change?

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Prajna 2014

CHINESE ARTICLE

Photo credits : FoeNyx

佛陀的真理— —无常无常并不意味着死亡，而是意味着变化。两千多年前，悉达多太子坐在一棵菩提树下，探索人类的本性。经过了长时间的思维，他终于了悟到一切万有，包括我们的血肉、我们所有的情绪和我们所有的觉受，都是由两个以上的元素组合而成。当两种或多种元素和合在一起，新的现象就会产生：钉子和木头产生了桌子；水和叶子产生了茶；而恐惧、虔诚和救世主，就产生了神。他了悟到所有事物、整个世界、整个宇宙都是如此，一切万有，没有一样是以独立、恒常、纯粹的状态存在。你手上的书不是，原子不是，甚至神也不是。因此悉达多发现，无常并不像一般人以为的就是意味着死亡，而是意味着变化。透过这些了悟，悉达多终于找到了一个方法以解除死亡的痛苦。他接受了变化是不可避免的，而死亡只是这个循环的一部分。而且他更进一步地

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体认到没有全能的力量能够扭转死亡之路，因此也就不会困在期待之中。如果没有盲目的期待，就不会有失望。如果能了解一切都是无常，就不会攀缘执著；如果不攀缘执著，就不会患得患失，也才能真正完完全全地活着。大部分的人都接受一切生者终将死亡。然而我们对一切与死亡的定义或许不太一样。对悉达多来说，生指的是一切万有，不仅仅是花朵、蘑菇、人类，而是一切生成或和合的事物。悉达多的了悟并不像发现一颗新星般地惊人，也不是用来做道德判断、发起社会运动或创立宗教，更不是一种预言。无常纯粹是一个简单实在的事实。不太可能有一天，某个突发的和合事物会突然变得恒常，更难想象我们能证明这样的事。但是在今天，我们不是将佛陀奉为神明，就是想用科技证明自己比佛陀更高明。

CHINESE ARTICLE

佛陀的发现当悉达多还在襁褓时，一位占星家曾预言，太子将来可能会选择做一名隐士。但是净饭王决心要让悉达多继承王位。宫中的生活豪华、安全而且相当平静，悉达多从不与家人起争执，他关怀家人，而且深爱他们，和每个人都相处得很好。当悉达多渐渐长大成人，他对自己的国土以及外面的世界开始好奇起来。净饭王拗不过太子多次的恳求，答应让他到宫外出游。但他严令太子的车夫迦那，只能让太子看到美好的事物。但就在回家的路上，他们两人遇到一个在路边呻吟的乡下人，被极大的病痛所折磨。悉达多一辈子都被魁梧的侍卫和健康的宫女所围绕，听见呻吟的声音，见到受病苦折磨的躯体，对他来说是一大冲击。目睹了人身的脆弱，在心中留下了深刻的印象，他带着沉重的心情回到了王宫。回来后他渴望再度出游，净饭王再一次勉为其难地答应了他的请求。这一回，悉达多看到一位齿牙脱落、老态龙钟的妇人，步履蹒跚，踽踽独行。他立刻叫迦那停车，他问迦那： “ 为什么她这样子走路？” 迦那说：“主人，因为她老了。” “什么是老？”悉达多问道。 “她身体各部分经长期使用都已经耗损了。”迦那回答他。悉达多被眼前的景象所震撼，于是下令迦那掉头回宫。如今悉达多的好奇心再也无法平息，他想知道外面到底还有些什么，于是和车夫第三次出游。这一回他同样欣赏了沿途美丽的风景，尽览青山绿水。但是在回程的时候，他看到四个人抬着一个尸架，上面平躺着一具毫无生气的躯体。悉达多一生中从来没有看过这样的东西。迦那向他解释那个看来羸弱的躯体，事实上已经死亡。悉达多问迦那：“其他人也会死吗？ ” 迦那回答：“是的，主人，每个人都会死。”

“ 我的父王甚至我的儿子也会吗？ ” “ 是的，每一个人都会。不论你是富裕或贫穷，种性高贵或低贱，都无法避免死亡。这是生在这世界上所有人的最终命运。” 第一次听到悉达多开始迈向证悟的故事，我们可能会认为他实在是太天真了。听到一位将要领导整个国家的太子，问出这么简单的问题，似乎很奇怪。但其实我们才是真正幼稚的人。在这个信息时代，斩首、斗牛、血腥谋杀等衰坏与死亡的影像环绕着我们。这些影像非但没有提醒我们最终的命运，反而被拿来作为娱乐和获取利润之用。死亡早已成为一种消费产品。我们大多数人并不去深思死亡的本质。我们不承认自身与环境都是由不稳定的元素所组成，只要一点小刺激就会分崩离析。我们当然都知道终有一天会死亡，但是除非是被诊断罹患绝症，大部分的人都自认暂时不会有危险。偶尔想到死亡的时候，所思索的却是 “ 我会得到多少遗产？” 或者 “ 我的骨灰要撒在什么地方？ ” 诸如此类的事。从这个观点来说，我们才是太天真了。第三次出游回来以后，悉达多对于自己无力保护他的子民、父母，以及最挚爱的妻子耶输陀罗、儿子罗罗免于必然的死亡，感到极度的沮丧。对治贫穷、饥饿、无家可归等苦难他有办法，但是对年老与死亡，他却束手无策。日以继夜地沉思着这些问题，悉达多试图和他的父亲讨论死亡。对国王而言，他实在不懂太子为何如此耿耿于怀。净饭王表面上想尽办法来消除悉达多的执著，但是内心里，他并没有忘记那个预言。然而太子悉达多完全沉陷其中。为了防止太子愈陷愈深，净饭王不准他再次离开王宫，并私下指示宫中侍卫监视他。就像任何一个担心儿子的父亲会做的，他也尽其所能不让太子看到任何死亡和衰朽的迹象。

Prajna 2014

CHINESE ARTICLE

生命的不确定性然而我们始终忽视无常我们在很多地方都和净饭王一样。在日常生活当中，我们会不由自主地让自己和他人避开真相。我们对衰朽的征象已经产生了免疫力。我们告诉自己“不要老想着这些事”，并且用正面的方式来鼓励自己。我们在生日派对中吹熄蜡烛来庆生，而事实上熄灭的蜡烛应该用来提醒自己，离死亡又缩短了一年。我们以烟火与香槟庆祝新年，让自己忘掉旧的一年永不复返、新的一年难以预料的事实。然而，任何事情都可能发生。然而我们仍然我们常常忘记自己的来日一直都是有限的。即使理智上知道有生必有死，一切和合终将分散，我们的情绪状态还是常常会回到相信恒常的模式，完全忘记相互依存性。这种习气会造成各种负面的情况，像是偏执、寂寞、罪恶感等等。我们会觉得被欺骗、被威胁、被虐待、被冷落，仿佛这个世界只对我们不公平。这两个月来，全球社会动荡不安，从乌克兰危机、马航370 失踪、韩国岁月号沉船到台湾捷运砍人事件。这些灾难震撼了全世界。就算最冷漠的人也震惊不已。看到这样多无辜的受难者，相信悉达多太子也会心碎。但看到我们对这种事情的发生如此震惊，他可能更为心碎，因为这证明了我们一再地否认无常。人们看到任何现象出现终结的征兆时，应该不会感到意外，但我们却很难去接受。就像很多中国人都相信长城会永远耸立，美国人相信自由女神像会永远长存一般。但是即使我们理解无常，可能还是会对难以预期的灾难感到恐惧。恐惧和焦虑是人类心智中主要的心理状态。恐惧的背后是对确定性不断的渴求。我们对未知感到恐惧。人心对肯定的渴望，是根植于我们对无常的恐惧。事实上我们在一天当中所做的任何事，不论是念头或是行为，几乎没有一样显示出我们觉知生命是多么的脆弱。我们浪费时间在影城等候一部烂电影开演，或急着赶回家去看电视现场节目。当我们坐着看广告、等待……此生的光阴就逐渐消逝了。

Prajna 2014

悉达多是一位太子，享有优裕的生活，有美丽的宫殿、钟爱的妻儿、敬爱的双亲、忠心的臣民、孔雀悠游的苍翠花园，还有一群才华出众的宫女随侍在侧。在很多地方我们也和悉达多一样，我们也有自己的宫殿 ― ― 不论是贫民区的单房公寓、郊区的双层别墅或在巴黎的顶层阁楼。我们也有各自的耶输陀罗和罗罗。我们有事业、宠物猫咪和数不尽的责任在身。所有的事情老是出状况。家电坏了，邻居吵架，天花板漏水。亲爱的人死了。但我们还是心甘情愿地困在那里，不试图逃开面对每天令人懊恼的事，我们对周而复始的循环从不厌倦，我们自然的反应就是认为我们可以把它们弄对，这一切都能修理。潜意识中，我们期待自己会到达不再需要修理任何东西的境界。总有一天，我们会 “ 从此过着快乐的生活 ” 。对大多数的人来说，这种永无休止的处理、重新安排以及更新版本，就是生活的定义。事实上，我们是在等待生命开始。如果有人逼问，大部分的人都会承认自己是为了某种美好的将来而努力。我们的社会，会期待悉达多留在宫中，享受权势，继承王统，而不是放弃财富地位去寻找生命的真谛。因为我们习惯以 “ 你拥有什么 ” ，而不是以 “ 你是什么样的人 ” 来评断他人。在我们的世界中，成功的典范就是比尔盖茨。如果要选择让孩子去拯救整个村庄，或是当大企业的执行长，有些父母会选择后者。

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明了无常所带来的利益

一切和合的事物都是无常的当悉达多提到一切和合的事物，他所指的不只是像D NA、你的狗、艾菲尔铁塔、卵子和精子等具体可认知的现象而已。心、时间、记忆和上帝，也是和合而成。而每一和合的成分，又依赖更多不同层次的和合而成。同样的，当悉达多教导无常时，他也超越了一般“结束” 的想法，像是那种认为死亡只发生一次就完了的概念。死亡从生、从创造的那一刻开始，就没有停过。每一个变化，都是死亡的一种形式，因此每一个生都包含了另一个事物的死亡。拿煮鸡蛋来做例子。如果没有不断的变化，蛋就煮不熟；煮好蛋的这个结果，需要某些基本的因缘。很显然的，你要有一颗蛋、一锅水和一些加热的元素。另外有些非必要的因和缘，像是厨房、灯光、定时器，还有一只把蛋放进锅子的手。另外一个重要的条件，就是没有像是电力中断或是山羊跑进来打翻锅子之类的干扰。了解即使只是煮熟一颗蛋也要牵涉到非常多的现象，对我们有很多好处。当我们学会了解每一件事物及状况的各个和合部分，我们就能学习培养宽容、谅解、开放与无畏。

悉达多太子了悟到一切事物皆是和合而成，而一切万有的各个成分，没有一项是以独立、恒常与纯粹的状态存在的，他因此获得解脱。当悉达多看到一个人走过，即使他很健康，悉达多所看到的是此人的生与灭同时发生。你也许会认为这样的人生观不太有趣，有点悲观，但在生命的旅程中能够同时看到一体的两面，可以是非常奇妙的，而且可能会有很大的满足感。这不像在期待与失望的云霄飞车中忽上忽下。如此看待事情，期待与失望会在我们周遭消融，你对现象的觉受会转化，而且变得比较清晰。你很容易看出人们为什么会被困在云霄飞车当中，而自然对他们生起慈悲心。你生起慈悲心的原因之一，是由于无常纵然如此明显，人们却视而不见。当你能够觉察不确定性，当你确信这些相关联的成分不可能保持恒常与不变时，就能生起无畏之心。你会发现，自己真正能准备好面对最坏的状况，同时又能容许最好的发生。接受从此刻起有无限的可能存在，你将胸有成竹，毫不惊慌。

Photo credits : Micky https://www.flickr.com/people/38633611@N00 Prajna 2014

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Artwork by Gavin Aung Than. For more inspirational posters visit www.zenpencils.com

Prajna 2014

PUZZLES & COMICS

ENTERTAINMENT

Word Sudoku

Solve the sudoku puzzle at the left table and put in the letter that represent the number at the right table. Find out the hidden word in the right puzzle!!

1=G 2=N 3=B 4=O 5=A 6=E 7=C 8=S 9=H

CHANGES

Sharp Eye Game What do you see from the picture?

Prajna 2014

ENTERTAINMENT

Do you ever tried this before?

L IF E HACK

Use your cellphone underneath a water bottle to make a lantern

Use a bread tab to hold your spot on a tape roll

Use toilet paper roll to become iphone speaker

Use binder clips to fix broken keyboard feet 50

Prajna 2014

Source : http://www.epiccarnage. com/100-awesome-life-hacks/

ENTERTAINMENT

SAVE THE W ORLD

Reduce the usage of plastic bags.

End of the evolution.

If you do not pick it up, they will.

Give hand to wildlife!

Source : https://m.facebook.com/sharer.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.boredpanda.com%2Fpowerful-animal-ads%2F%3Ffb_action_ids%3D10152552600588109%26fb_action_types%3Dog.comments&_rdr

Prajna 2014

ENTERTAINMENT

我到法国留学了 By : Chow Tze Hui

去年的六月，我天天都很兴奋地准备去法国读书的事情。又期待又紧张又害怕。很想知道去欧洲留学是怎样的感觉。一个人要飘扬大海，到一个很陌生的地方读书五个月。身边的人都说欧洲很危险。法国治安不好。我真的有点怕。师父说不要想不好的，要想好的，好的事自然会发生。自己当然先要做好所有的防备措施，要有警惕的心。很庆幸的，我每一次的旅行都没有遇到扒手，只是自己一直‘大头虾’不小心弄丢东西。哈哈。。。由于找不到朋友一起去法国读书，我只好一个人去。在法国的第一天，学校还没有开学，其他的交换生都去旅行了。我一个人在房里，不知道下一步要做什么，不知道哪里可以买日常用品，哪里有食物吃。。。这一天才发现我在法国像个哑巴，像个聋子，不会法文的我完全不能跟别人沟通！而且我的电话没有roaming，打不到给任何人求救。我只好自己模糊地认出去学校的路。终于到了international office，一位职员借我电话打回家报平安，当我一听到妈咪的声音，我真的很想放声大哭，我很想家，很想念全部人，这地方太陌生了，我感到很无助，我很怕很怕。可是我并没有哭出来，我都吞了下去，我不想让妈咪担心，因为我会坚强地度过。我相信人类有很强的适应能力，害怕伤心的日子一定会过。我不应该再怕，我应该去闯！很谢谢新加坡佛光山的有灯师父和法国佛光山法华禅寺的锦华师兄的帮忙，让我可以在法国佛光山挂单两次。师父们和师兄师姐们对我的关心和呵护可以把我的心给溶化掉！那里的佛像，语言，饭菜等等都有家的感觉。。。我整个人顿时开朗起来，原来在这里我也有个家。我不再天天倒数几时才回到马来西亚了。我很感动我遇到了这么多的贵人帮助着我，除了感激还是感激！谢谢您们！开学后，我认识了一群朋友，大家结伴一起去办入学手续，一起去Carrefour买东西，偶尔一起煮饭吃。天天都粘在一起有说有笑，有时互相帮助，互相鼓励。还记得我们为了省那€0.95的巴士费，我们甘愿花来回两个小时走路去downtown，太夸张了！哈哈。。。这五个月真的很谢谢她们陪我一起度过，一起哭一起笑一起上课一起旅行。所谓在家靠父母，出外靠朋友。友谊真的很可贵，这次的经历让我更懂得珍惜我的每一位朋友。我没有算在这五个月里总共和妈咪Skype了多少个小时，总之呢，是多过我在新加坡和妈咪 Skype的时间。没有上课的平常日，我会呆在房里从早上和妈咪Skype到下午，有时妈咪还会教我煮午餐吃呢，现教现煮！我的午餐时间刚好是马来西亚的晚餐时间，我们差不多每一天都一起吃，哈哈。。。其实这也要谢谢现在的科技发达，把世界变小，拉近每一个人的距离。即时不在身边，也可以天天聊天，增进彼此的感情，不让它淡化掉。去欧洲兜了一圈，有了不少的体验和感想。现在回想起来，还是觉得有点不可思议。我终于圆了心中一直以来的梦想，就是到西方国家去看看。所谓有愿有希望，有愿圆梦想。

Prajna 2014

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