PRAJNA 2022
Publication of NTU Buddhist Society
般 若
Dear readers, At the time of my writing, 62.6% of the world population has received at least one dose of COVID-19 vaccine (Source: ourworldindata.org). In Singapore, school events are starting to take place offline, while workers are going back to the office. The world is coming back to its stage without the pandemic. Nevertheless, after a long period of uncertainty, I believe the stage will never be the same as before.
Chief Editor Dinh Phuc Hung Layout Designer Celine Wijaya Devin Edward Soh Zheng Da Steven Edbert Winata
The pandemic has given me chance to reflect on my past experiences and examine my decisions. I have learned to enjoy more with less, to be grateful for the people around me, and to treasure every tiny moment that I have. I hope that you have also realized certain things about yourself during the pandemic and be prepared to face the uncertainties ahead. In this edition of Prajna, I present to you the theme "A new beginning". As the world goes back to its normal stage, the Publication team has prepared amazing content to walk through this period of change with you. From the short articles from our advisors to the recap of all NTUBS events this year, we wish everyone who reads this magazine will learn something useful or simply find some happy moment in it. Best regards, Dinh Phuc Hung
buddhist@e.ntu.edu.sg facebook.com/NTUBS @ntubuddhist clubs.ntu.edu.sg/buddhist NTU Buddhist Society
Table of
CONTENTS 04
Short Article
32
Short Comic
17
NTUBS 39th Committee
34
Dharma in Everyday Life
22
NTUBS AY21/22 Events
40
Self Reflection
29
Memories of NTUBS Alumni
45
Our sponsors
All pictures in this publication were taken in line with Safe Management Measures
What Is True Happiness? by: Venerable K Rathanasara
NTUBS' Spiritual Advisor
Happiness arouses pleasurable, delightful, pleasant feelings in the mind. Happiness can be like a lump of foam created in a
want; but after some time, we become bored with it; then we look for something else to stay happy. When we satisfied one
waterfall for a moment; it is bubbly white
desire,
and then disappears forever. Happiness can also be like a beautiful flower blossoming in summer. It blooms then withers away. Likewise, for the sensation of happiness, it arises and then ceases.
Searching repeatedly for momentary happiness, we are therefore constantly chasing after this or that and during which time passes and life moves on.
Everyone wants to be happy. All living beings are chasing after happiness' [1] says the Buddha. However, happiness can mean differently to different people. What is happiness for one can be unhappiness to another.
Negative approach towards happiness
An ordinary man seeks happiness through a sense of gratification. Sensual happiness is fleeting. Once it arises in the eye; in another time, it comes through the ears; moving through its sense faculties, the mind continuously seeks such pleasurable happiness.
another
arises
in
its
place.
We are perpetually not satisfied with what we already have. Instead, we are always yearning for what we do not have. This is the common nature of the human mind. This is a negative approach towards happiness. Why is it termed as a negative approach? It is because we are depending on something we do not have at the present moment to generate anticipated future happiness.
We feel happy when we get what we
[1] Sukha kāmāni bhūtāni (Dhammapada 131)
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People tend to postpone their happiness to their future achievements. They often have eager wishes and speculate that they will only be happy when they get
Some people love to indulge in reminiscence. They live in the past, worry about the future and totally forget about their present happiness.
them. This however does not mean that we
As the saying goes, ‘Don’t cry over spilt milk’. It is over. There is no point feeling
should not plan for the future or work hard to achieve our distant goals. What we should, in fact, do is not to carelessly
upset and worried over something which had already happened. Worry and anxiety are negative feelings and they destroy the
overlook our present happiness by speculating and worrying unnecessarily
present moment of happiness. What we should do instead is to learn from our
about the future.
past experiences by keeping in mind the lessons learnt, developing a positive attitude towards life and then striving forward with understanding.
One who lives in poverty might think ‘I will be happy if I have lots of money’. While this may be an apparent reality, it does not mean that rich people are always happy. They too have their fair share of worries and have things which they are lacking. Money is a means to happiness but by itself, money is not happiness. ‘I will be happy when I get married’, marriageable singles might think and hence become unhappy when they are not. However, there are some married couples who are considering divorce, seeing it as a relief to their entangled relationships. To them, resuming the single status once again is a blessing as they will have more freedom and reduced burdens.
We often have the misconception that the grass on the other side of the fence is always greener. The measure of Happiness is therefore relative. While there are relatively happy people around, there is no single person on earth who can always be perfectly happy, unless he is Enlightened. It is a simple truth in life that no matter what we have achieved or capable of achieving, we will still have some degree of unhappiness as long as greed, hatred and ignorance are rooted in our mind. When a deity asked the Buddha, ‘why do
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5
monks who eat one meal a day and live in the forest look so radiant, peaceful and happy?’ The Buddha answered that ‘They do not sorrow over the past. Nor do they hanker for the future. They maintain themselves with what is present. Hence their complexion is so serene. Through
Someone might think that if we were to be happy with what we are having, then there is no progress in life. While this may seem like a convincing argument, the reality remains unchanged. What is the point of achieving more if we do not know how to appreciate and be happy with
hankering for the future, through sorrowing over the past, fools dry up and wither away like green reed cut down.’ [2]
what we already have now? Such a person will not be happy even if he were to possess the whole world.
The secret to happiness lies in the present moment. It is one’s choice as to how one reacts under the present conditions; either in a positive or negative way. Having understood the present situation with wisdom, equipped with past experiences and future plans, one can work diligently with confidence to change life for the beer. One who adopts such an attitude is assured of happiness.
Contentment is a positive attribute. It includes being happy with what we are having and being happy to pursue for further progress. The propelling motive behind the pursuit should be generosity and wisdom and not greed and ignorance. The Buddhist approach to happiness is a positive one. Why is it termed as positive? It is because our happiness comes from what we have in the present moment.
‘Happiness (Contentment) is the greatest wealth’ [3] says the Buddha. Do not
One boy was complaining that he had no shoes to wear until one day he came across a man who did not even have his legs. Appreciate all that you have at any moment.
postpone your happiness to tomorrow. Do not destroy your happiness thinking of
Cultivate a positive attitude in your daily
the past. Be happy now. Be happy with what you are having.
living is the beginning of a happy life. Happy people are not those who are
Positive approach towards happiness
[2] Arañña Sutta, Devatāsaṃyutta, Saṃyutta Nikāya [3] Santuṭṭhi paramaṃ dhanaṃ (Dhammapada 204)
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persistently chasing to achieve everything in life. Happy people are the ones who are contented. Hence, train your mind to appreciate what you already have and on what you are working hard to achieve.
Very frequently, we tend to take the favourable conditions in life for granted. We should not wait till we lose them to understand and appreciate how fortunate we are.
We are fortunate by birth as human beings. ‘It is a great blessing to have done merits in the past’ [4] to achieve this fortunate state. The Buddha says: ‘It is rare and difficult to be born as a human being’. [5] Understand the value of this precious human life. When you wake up in the morning, be happy that you are alive because there are people who die in their sleep. Be happy that your five sense faculties are working properly. Do not take them for granted for there are many people who are blind, deaf, cripple, dumb, wheelchairbound or bedridden. Count your blessings that you have a shelter over your head. There are millions of people in the world who do not even have decent housing. Appreciate that you have food, clothes and all basic facilities when there are so many people who are deprived of them. It is so fortunate to have your loved ones around you when there are numerous orphans and destitute folks in this world.
[4] Pubbe ca katapuññatā (Maṅgala Sutta, Sutta Nipāta) [5] Kiccho manussa paṭilābho (Dhammapada 182)
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Gratitude in New Habitude DR ANG BENG CHOO NTUBS' Patron
To be loved and to love are pleasant
thanking it for shielding him from the sun and
experiences. We are happy to be surrounded
rain during his strife for enlightenment. He
by good people who love us and help us
also ascended the Trāyastriṃśa heaven to
whenever we are in need. We are also happy
teach his mother who died seven days after
when we love others and repay their kindness.
his birth, to show his appreciation to her for
The appreciation we feel eventually makes us
giving him life. He also searched for his first
happy and in turn will make others feel the
two teachers, wishing to share the Buddha-
same. The satisfaction in the smile and
Dharma with them to show his gratitude
downward-looking eyes of Buddha statues
towards their teaching during his quest for
remind us that happiness comes from within,
enlightenment, but they had passed away.
in gratitude.
Consequently, he continued to look for his Among the ancient Egyptians,
five companions and shared the Dharma with
they believe that when a person
them as a gesture of gratitude. They became
dies, on reaching the gates of
his first disciples. After returning to his home
Heaven, the gatekeeper will ask
town, he shared the Dharma with his father,
him two questions. The first
his family members and villagers. When his
question: “Were you happy while
father passed away, he carried the coffin in
you were alive?” and the second
person, likewise, to express his gratitude to
question: “Did you make others
his father. To me, gratitude is the first
happy while you were alive?” If the answers
teaching of the Buddha, demonstrated by his
to both questions are positive, the gates of
own actions. He taught us to be grateful to
Heaven will open. If any of the answers are
our parents, our teachers, our country, and all
negative, the gates remain closed. Even the
beings for their contributions.
ancient Egyptians viewed the paramount
We
live
in
an
interrelated
and
importance of happiness in oneself and in
interdependent world. Every other person
providing others with it.
contributes to our well-being, even to our
Right after the Buddha attained his
survival. Our parents give us life, nurture us,
enlightenment, he stood in front of the Bodhi
support us and love us, so that we can live
tree, gazing at it for seven days and nights,
comfortably, grow, and develop from a
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helpless baby into an independent person. Our
There is always numerous people and things
teachers inspire and teach us. Our nation
to be grateful for in this world, and we will
provides
always notice them as long as we keep a
supportive
us
with
a
peaceful,
infra-structure
and
orderly, communal
services, conducive for a comfortable and blissful living. People from all walks provide us with food, clothing, housing, transportation
sense of gratitude in our minds. People may ask, “I do not have good health, how could I appreciate my body and life?” Stephen
Hawking,
a
world-renowned
and more. From bees, we obtain honey. From
theoretical physicist, suffered from motor
trees, we can gather fruits. The list goes on.
neuron atrophy at the age of 21. At the age of
All these are the results from efforts of
43, he lost his language ability. He could only
everyone. They do not drop from the sky, and
go through a speech synthesizer to express
we should not take them for granted. We
himself. But he continued to do research and
should appreciate their contributions and do
live a positive and optimistic life. He said: “I
our best to reciprocate their efforts to
am grateful that my fingers can still move, I
sustain our life. We should be kind and caring
am grateful that my brain can still think. I am
towards them. We should live in harmony with
grateful that I still have the ideals and
our family members, friends, colleagues,
enthusiasm that I have pursued throughout
neighbours, people and the environment
my life. I am grateful that there are still
surrounding us.
relatives and friends to love me.”
Practising Dharma comes naturally when
Helen Keller was born deaf, dumb, and blind,
we embrace gratitude. We do not harm those
and even needed someone to support her
whom we are grateful to. Thus, the first four
when she walked. Yet, she still thanked her
precepts of abstaining from killing, stealing,
parents for giving her her precious life, and,
adultery and lying will naturally be observed.
with
According to Buddhism, to be born as a
pursuit, she miraculously learned English,
human being is a very rare occurrence to
French, Latin and other languages. Her book
come by. We are very lucky to be born as
“If You Give Me Three Days of Light” inspired
human beings in this life and have the
many to excel in their lives.
unimaginable
tenacity
and
tireless
opportunity to learn the Dharma. We should
Both personalities believed in gratitude that
be grateful to our past karma and the
made them strong and brave. I am sure most
existing human body. We should not harm
of us are better off than them in terms of our
ourselves physically and mentally by taking
physical abilities. As long as we practise
alcohol and intoxicants. This paves the way to
gratitude faithfully, our hearts will always be
observing the fifth precept.
warm,
filled
with
encouragement
and
happiness.
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Some people may ask, “Covid-19 brings us a
The Vimalakirti Sutra reads: Once, Ananda
lot of problems and is a threat to our lives.
asked the Buddha why the other Pure Lands
Should we be grateful to it?” In fact, there are
were so beautiful, but the Buddha’s Pure Land
some things we can be grateful for, if we have a
was a world of five turbidities. The Buddha
pair of gratitude eyes. Covid-19 reminds us we
gently touched the ground with his toes, and the
could be sick and die suddenly, so we should not
scene in front of Ananda immediately changed
take our present good health for granted.
into a beautiful pure land. The Buddha smiled
Instead, we should ook upon the present
and said, “When the mind is beautiful, the land is
moment to prepare for our death. Pandemic has
pure.” Likewise, when our mind is filled with
also changed our normal lifestyles and daily
gratitude, we will be grateful to all, including the
behaviours. Now we need to wear masks when
unpleasant ones. Then we will be happy and
we go out, and as a direct result, we seldom
others will be happy too.
catch a cold or suffer from flu. Working from home
also
makes
the
not by worshipping me with flowers or incense
facilitates
that you honour me the best. It is through
competition amongst talents around the world.
practice, through living in accordance with the
We should, therefore, upgrade our knowledge
Dharma, that you accord me the highest
and skills constantly to be ready for the
honour.” Let us practice gratitude in thought,
changing
circumstances.
speech and action at all times and in all
Shouldn’t we appreciate the pandemic for the
situations. This will ensure us a happy life at
positive impacts and lessons it provides?
present and in times to come. It is also the best
advancement
and
of
us
aware
technology
challenging
that
Once, the Buddha told Ananda, “It is
way to promote Buddhism and show our gratitude to the Buddha.
Gratitude in thought, speech and speech
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PROF. TAN HUN TONG NTUBS' Staff Advisor
FINDING HAPPINESS, AND WILL IT LAST?
The topic of happiness is one that has captured every human’s interest in one form
or
another
since
time
immemorable. It is also now a subject of academic interest as well. The World
Happiness Index ranks countries on self- anticipation. Lo and behold, a genie appeared. The genie said, “I can assessed happiness of citizens of the grant each of you a wish.” The first boy was hungry and miserable countries, and Bhutan is routinely touted
from the tiring hike, and said, “I wish for an ice-cream.” “Your wish is
as the happiness country in the world. my command,” says the genie, and the first boy was soon happily Routinely too, the question “Can money licking his ice-cream stick. The second boy thought that the first boy
buy happiness?” is asked. Of interest is was foolish. “I wish to have an unlimited supply of ice-creams,” he said. the question: how do I obtain Soon, he was chomping away, with ice-creams miraculously happiness?
appearing one after the other. The third boy thought that he could
But first, what is happiness? Some outdo this. “I wish to have an unlimited number of wishes.” The genie consider happiness to be a state where said, “Wow, you make me work hard” and, turning to the fourth boy, you hit some high. So, you wish for the asked: “What would you wish for?” The last boy quietly said: “I wish to new mobile phone. And you hit a high have no wishes.” when you get it. Of course, all of us will
Who is the happiest person here? Is happiness having our sensual
experience that weakening of happiness desire fulfilled? Or having every desire fulfilled? Or having no desire? after a while. Others may like that happy The first boy had happiness, defined as sensual pleasure, at that feeling when they get recognition or moment. That is, he got what needed that moment. Will he be happy achieve some desired status. But we also after that? Will the second boy tire of his ice-creams and be unhappy know that this is transient. So, can taking the ice-cream after a while? In the case of the third boy, he appears to have found the solution to the suffering of not getting happiness last? I find the following parable or story
what one wants—he can get everything he wants. Wouldn’t he live
most instructive. Not so very long ago, happily ever after? But note that his desires do not cease. And the four boys went hiking and found an old happiness in the first three boys are conditional. Turning to the last
lamp. Given what they’ve learned from boy, he is at peace with what he has, what he is, what is present. He all the books they’ve read, they eagerly would have moved beyond happiness. He has moved beyond the rubbed the side of the lamp, and waited conditional nature of happiness. in
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PAST, TO BE FORGOTTEN OR REMEMBERED ? BY: BRO. HONG SENG NTUBS' Alumni
As we aged, we have the inclination to recall or recollect on our past. Many of our NTUBS
alumni
will
identify
with
this
statement. Should we remember or forget our past, good or bad hard to say. If your past is sweet and good, then you will not forget. If your past is sour and bad, then you will want to forget. This is the nature of human as what Buddha has pointed out our attachment to this Samsara (sensual world).
This topic does bring back my memories of the past when I was in NTU Buddhist Society (NTUBS). Every visit to NTU campus will trigger my thought on my memories that I have in NTUBS. Although academic pursuit is the core purpose in NTU, I do not really has much memories about my study in School of EEE as compare to my involvement in Buddhist Society. I always shared that NTUBS is like my core module and study is my sub-module. I still remember the song written by Seng Yip and Sen Yuen – “A Place Called Home”. The lyrics begin with
“Walking down the path I’v e travelled, Brings back all those memories…”. As I rhyme with the song, the memories surfaced vividly. The past that I experienced in NTUBS will never be forgotten unless I have dementia as I aged.The fellowship that we have established during our NTUBS days has bonded us together till now where we will have gatherings to update each other occasionally. I treasured this past that has happened. Am I not following the teachings of the Buddha, since I am so attached to my past in NTUBS? I would like to share the concept of mind and consciousness by Yogācāra school ( ). The texts of the Yogācāra school gives a detailed explanation of the workings of the mind and the way it constructs the reality we experience. The tradition classified our consciousness or senses into eight consciousness which consist of the five senses (eye, ear, nose, tongue, body), 6th
瑜伽行或唯识宗
*the mentioned article can be accessed here: https://tricycle.org/magazine/storehouse-consciousness-yogacara/
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is
mind
consciousness,
7th
is
Manas
consciousness and 8th is Alaya consciousness. The past happened was input by our six consciousness (Eye, ear, nose, tongue, body and
mind),
process
consciousness
and
through stored
in
seventh eighth
consciousness. This consciousness concept is more than just our past memories, I have just
used it in a simplified form to explain our memories. This doctrine has more in depth and profound teaching on our mind which is related to our Karma. With the understanding of our mind and practicing meditation will help us to improve our awareness and transform our lives. Let me share an extract from an article by Ben Connelly in Tricycle , Clearing Out the Storehouse* - The Buddhist concept that explains why you keep doing the same thing over and over—and the practice that shows you how to stop. The article mentioned that the Buddhist concept of Alaya consciousness arose about 2000 years ago to help explain why people return so often to the same emotional states and viewpoints. There are two specific practices for working with this Alaya consciousness – awareness of the awesome
power
of
Alaya
consciousness
(Storehouse) and mindfulness of emotion – can change our emotional and cognitive habits into more compassionate, joyful, and free responses, transforming our lives in the process.
Alaya consciousness refers to the unconscious level of experience where our habits are maintained and where they transform. We need to cultivate awareness of the immense power of the storehouse and practice mindfulness of emotion. These practices will help to raise awareness and mindfulness in our mind, so that we can manage our emotion and go straight to the root of the suffering and try to end the suffering. I would like to use the parts of computer as a metaphor for this concept. Using the computer may not be able to fully explain, but I hope that with this metaphor you can have an idea of our mind function according to these eight consciousness. Thus based on the above doctrine, we cannot erase our past so for us to forget or remember is a choice. We choose to forget because it is painful or sour or we choose to remember because it is comfortable or sweet. Sometime this choice is not available because our level of awareness is low, thus we will act in an unconsciously manner according to our habit of mind. Our past is stored in Alaya consciousness, whether the past can be remembered or forgotten will depend on Manas consciousness. If the condition
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CONSCIOUSNESS
FUNCTION
6 Consciousness
Receiving
COMPUTER
Input devices keyboard, microphone, speaker,
Eye, Ear, Nose, Tongue,
and
Body and Mind
generating
touch screen monitor, mouse & camera
information
RAM Manas
Processing
(Random Access Memory)
information
Alaya
Information
Solid State Drive Harddisk
storage
ripen, we will be able to recall our past and vice versa. I am sure there will be incident where you may come across some places, people, or events the you find them familiar like you have seen, met or experienced before. This could be the past that were stored in our Alaya consciousness and by our habit of mind we have these reaction or feeling. After introducing the concept of eight consciousness, do you think we can
choose to forget or remember the past? Personally, I will say that I can make the decision under the condition that I will continue my practice in meditation to better my level of awareness. Even if I do not have the awareness, I will also prefer to remember the past, as the past has allowed me to experience, to gain the knowledge, to recollect the good memories and not to forget learn from my past mistake to gain the wisdom. Sadhu Sadhu Sadhu !
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A New Beginning by Sis. Shellia 39th NTUBS President
One may wonder, what is there to begin
those ‘normal’ lives, where we can gather
if we have not reached the end?
as a big group and walk around without having to wear a mask. But, is this day
It may sound obvious to say that we can
going to come? Maybe yes, but probably
only start a new chapter when the last
not in the near future. So, the question
chapter ends. We only enter university
here is, are we going to wait for it to
when we finish high school. We only can
end? Will it ever end?
get a new job when we quit our current job. But is it always the case? Do we
When things have not been in favor, we
really have to wait until something ends
often try to take control, or even to
to start a new thing?
stop trying at all. We cling onto the past and the pleasant moments that we had,
A typical example like COVID-19, which
trying to go back to those times. But,
did not even exist 3 years back,
there is something most of us often
suddenly hit us and changed many things
forget, we are living in the present. We
in our lives. It definitely has created a
should not cling on to the past, but
big impact, and we are so used to using
instead,
it as a ‘reason’, or worse, an ‘excuse’ for
embrace it, and work on the present
things we do not start, do, or finish.
moment. That way, new things will start
Many of us are waiting for the pre-
to blossom.
we
should
appreciate
it,
pandemic days to come, and back to
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Thus, to answer the previous questions:
not last, but it is the real happiness we
Will things end? Maybe.
as a Buddhist should pursue. The Buddha
Do we wait for it to end? No.
mentioned
When is the best time to start? Now.
happiness:
The thing with new beginnings is that it
“Health is the highest gain.
can happen anytime, like even now. It
Contentment is the greatest wealth.
may seem very abstract at first, as to
The trusty are the best kinsmen.
the uncertainties it carries. At this
Nibbana is the highest bliss.”
point, you may be wondering about what
— Dhammapada, v. 204
the
four
sources
of
you need to start something. A new beginning sounds like we have to start
So, Brothers and Sisters in the Dharma, I
everything from scratch. But that is not
hereby would like to invite you to regard
the case. All you need is simply - You.
every moment as ‘A New Beginning’, and
Every intentional thoughts, words, and
let us walk on the path towards
actions you choose in the present
happiness together!
moment can create a new beginning. May you be well and happy! We may have different reasons on why we want to have a new beginning, whether it is to adapt to a new environment, to escape from a toxic relationship, to develop ourselves into a better person, all these eventually lead toward
the
same
goal:
to
attain
happiness and to be free from suffering. In fact, that is also the purpose of Buddha’s teachings. This year, we begin our 39th tenure with ‘Happiness’ as our Dharma direction. Happiness here is not the same as worldly pleasures which do
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39th Committee President Division
Tang Yong Wei Honorary General Secretary
Yee Wan Jing Adeline
Shellia Oktavina
Kavishni Nanayakkara
President
Honorary Treasurer
Lew San Hong
Vice President
Vice President
(Event)
(Dharma)
Event Division EVENT Not in frame : Chung Jia Hui
Tang Lit En Director
Zhuang Zhi
Joanna Chen
Subcommittee
Subcommittee
Oong Jie Xiang
Chu Xian Liang
Kenny Lius
Subcommittee
Subcommittee
Subcommittee
18
39th Committee METTA
Calvin Ang Yee Khiang Director
Lynn Yeo Ning Hui
Ng Zu Sian Defenie Subcommittee
Subcommittee
Loh Wan Ting
Lim Pui Yee
Subcommittee
Subcommittee
Lee Jun Xian Subcommittee
WELFARE AND LOGISTICS
Ong Choon Hoe Joel Subcommittee
Sew Wei Chun
Gerren Owen L.
Director
Subcommittee
Jessica Chandra
Ang Sim Eng
Subcommittee
Subcommittee
Lee De Jun Subcommittee
Phoenix Felicia W. Edmerson Low Subcommittee
Subcommittee
19
39th Committee Dharma Division DHARMA PROPAGATION
Duong Ngoc Yen Renardi Muliawan Subcommittee
Malcolm Teo Subcommittee
Director
Hogan Chang Subcommittee
Vony Renfia Subcommittee
Andrew Nycholas Ormand Subcommittee
DHARMA STUDY
Sim Jun Xun Director
Vanessa Teh
Gordon Tan Jun Xiang
Subcommittee
Subcommittee
Bak Wai Leng
Goh Peng Aik Subcommittee
Subcommittee
Kee Lai Chuan Subcommittee
20
39th Committee Support Division PUBLICATION
Dinh Phuc Hung
Steven Edbert Winata
Celine Wijaya
Director
Subcommittee
Subcommittee
Soh Zheng Da
Devin Edward Subcommittee
Subcommittee
MARKETING Not in frame: Hoang Minh Nhat
Lee Mun Ling
Do Xuan Long
Fong Shi Ying
Subcommittee
Director
Subcommittee
Vu Duc Anh Subcommittee
Tran Trung Dung Subcommittee
Truong Vinh Khai Subcommittee
Poon Liang Wei Subcommittee
21
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Our Events Welcome Tea Date: 13 August 2021 Welcome Tea is a platform for NTUBS to introduce itself to the community of NTU especially freshmen .
Camp Nirvana Singapore Date: 14 - 15 August 2021 Camp Nirvana Singapore is NTUBS annual orientation camp. It is a platform for the NTU community to know more about NTUBS and to have fun.
AGM and Investiture Date: 27 August 2021 AGM was held at the beginning of the semester to review the activities and financial report of NTUBS for the past one year. It was followed by an Investiture to mark the official end of the 38th committee and to welcome the 39th committee.
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Walking the Path of Metta Date: 17 September 2021 This sharing session was led by our Metta committee to remind members how important it is to love themselves and help them discover how to achieve it.
Bonding Event: Left Right Up Down, 5 Lines Take Crown Date: 15 October 2021 This bonding event is for NTUBS members to get to know each other and have fun in the midst of their hectic school period.
24
Dharma Talk: Why Give Alms? Date: 22 October 2021 The talk explained the reasons and tradition of laymen giving alms to monks. Together with this event, the committee conducted a campaign: Giving from the Heart, to provide the NTUBS committee an opportunity to practice generosity.
Exam Welfare Gathering Date: 27 October 2021 This gathering was a perfect time for NTUBS members to destress before the exam period. There was also goodie bag distributed to members to wish for the welfare of the members.
Dharma Camp 2022: Katannuta Date: 7 - 9 January 2022 Dharma Camp is an annual camp organized by committee. This year, the theme "Katannuta", which means gratitude in Pali, reminded participants to practice Gratitude in their life. Participants enjoyed various talks, interactive activities and discussions that were related to developing a gratitude mindset.
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Fireside Chat: Find out for yourself Date: 21 January 2022 In this event, we invited 2 ex Vice Presidents of Dharma of NTUBS, Danry Lim, Oong Jie Xiang and the current Vice President: Lew San Hong as speakers. In a laid back QnA fashion, they answered questions from participants regarding their own experience in life, current issues of the world, and many other things!
Happy New Me Date: 28 January 2022 NTUBS members gathered together to celebrate Chinese New Year. At the same time, they took this opportunity to set their new goals for the new year.
26
S.R.C. Meditation Workshop Date: 17 February 2022 The Stretch, Relax, Concentrate meditation workshop led by the Dharma Propagation team to bring NTUBS members through guided meditation activities to relax and improve their concentration before midterms season.
NTUBS 39th Anniversary: The present is my present Date: 25 February 2022 The night to commemorate the fruitful journey of NTUBS for 39 years together with 29 years journey of NTUBS Alumni and 19 years journey of Little Bodhi Student Care Centre. This event came with special performances, games and lucky draw, and the short video acted by the committees to introduce the theme!
Leadership and Dharma Training Programme Date: 19 January 2022 - 30 March 2022 LDTP is a series of workshops designed by the NTUBS Coordinators. Participants learn and apply Buddhist concepts in the context of leadership with the vision of "Practising dharma through leadership and leadership through Dharma". It covers various aspects of leadership and self development . The workshops are led by specially invited facilitators, speakers and Venerables.
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LET GO OF THE PAST, LET GO OF THE FUTURE, LET GO OF THE PRESENT, AND CROSS OVER TO THE FARTHER SHORE OF EXISTENCE. WITH MIND WHOLLY LIBERATED, YOU SHALL COME NO MORE TO BIRTH AND DEATH. ~ DHAMMAPADA VERSE 348)
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"WHAT KIND OF EXPERIENCE WE G0T FROM NTUBS?" "WHAT HAVE WE GAINED FROM NTUBS?" LET'S HEAR FROM NTUBS' ALUMNI!
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MEMORIES OF NTUBS' ALUMNI MICHELLE TRISNO Joined NTUBS in 2017
NTUBS has helped me found interest and fun in meditation. I think this experience has been life changing for me, personally. As i can found more joy in the things that are already pleasant, and become more neutral towards unpleasant situation. I also had a lot of fun in NTUBS from going to animal shelter when i was in metta team, helping with the planning of exam supper, NTUBS framework, and many more! I felt immense joy when remembering those old days hahaha! I think the gain from NTUBS is indescribable to be honest. From confidence in talking to people, courage in pitching ideas, implementing new frameworks and strategies, and the biggest one for me is to be aware of any situation. Another irreplaceable gain is the friends and memories that we built along the way. And I can proudly say that being part of NTUBS was one of my most memorable thing out of university.
SOH YAN DA
Joined NTUBS in 2016
My experience in NTUBS has been a meaningful and memorable one. I am extremely fortunate and grateful to be given a wide range of opportunities, from subcommittee to the main committee and ad hoc roles, to serve and build up new skills while benefitting many others. NTUBS provided me with a safety net where I was able to strive to the fullest potential. The biggest gain I had was forging strong bonds with like-minded people (Kalyanamitra). We had a good time together and explored Who/What is a Buddha, how we can use the teachings to lead our life, from the smallest to the biggest life decision, having Kalyanamitra’s alongside is definitely a good investment!
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MEMORIES OF NTUBS' ALUMNI DANRY LIM Joined NTUBS in 2017
To be honest, no words can fully encapsulate my experience in this family. NTUBS marked many of my ‘first’ experiences, from planning camps, to coordinating programmes, to even helping others become leaders. But most importantly, it was the people that shaped my experiences – within this family lies one of the most caring, genuine, thoughtful, motivated, and insightful people I’ve ever met. Whether one was a senior or junior, it really didn’t matter – we were all one family. I’d dare proudly say that my university days was made amazing by the NTUBS family, even despite a one-year exchange gap. Everything NTUBS promised in its motto, from learning, to practising, to realising and to sharing – it delivered. While the events and talks were filled with the precious Dhamma, it was in the people that I have seen embody the core of the Dhamma. My greatest blessing is being able to be inspired by the friends in NTUBS – each with their unique skills but all in one heart. All these good times, waves of laughter, late night HTHTs would surely be with me for as long as this body remains… My biggest gain? The precious memories of being inspired.
WENYA LIM Joined NTUBS in 2017
To me, NTUBS is the warmest and most welcoming place in all the societies I've joined. They welcome people from all walks of life, regardless of the race, religion and nationality. Not only do we have learning opportunities in the dharma and leadership, the members can also create open groups for anyone who is interested in playing badminton, running and enjoying supper together. I'm really grateful to everyone for integrating me into this lovely family, and they are definitely people that I would want to stay in touch with even after graduation. NTUBS has completed my university journey as I enjoyed many activities and learning opportunities (like late night karaoke with supper, Leader-Dharma Training Program, etc) that I won't seek out by myself. They helped me to grow both as a leader and a follower. I also made many precious and lasting friendships. NTUBS also helped me understand and improve myself as we discuss and learn about the self in which the Singapore education hardly cover. But most importantly, I'm really grateful to be part of NTUBS as it is a place that reminds me to improve and grow in the dharma.
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Story of Little Monk and Ants Story: Saṃyukta-ratna-piṭaka-sūtra, Volume 4, with modification Art by: Steven Edbert Winata
Amitofo, Bhante.
Thank you, Bhante. I will listen to you. And I've missed my family too
Amitofo, little one, I advise you to visit your family and relatives. But, you need to return in the morning of the seventh day
Hmm.. So unfortunate, such a kind and diligent kid will come across his death next week. It's better to let him see his family for one last time
On the 7th day, the little monk is on his way to return to the monastery
It's better to arrange his crematory here at the monastery
The little monk looks happy and continue his return
Oh no! A lot of ants seem to get trapped in the middle of the puddle
Alright! This trunk looks good enough. I will need to hurry return before noon
Aha! I will put a trunk as a bridge for them to cross
The old monk realizes that it is due to his action of saving the lives of ant. His destiny that I foresee seems to be solved by his kind action
Amitofo, Bhante. I've returned from visiting my family. I'm sorry I'm a bit late. There was a group of ants got stuck on my way here. So I helped them out for a while.
Amitofo, little one. Ah i see, so that's how it is. The old monk looks surprised and happy at the same time as how the little monk is still alive even though noon has come
Good deed will bear a good fruit Background sources: freepik.com/vectors/cartoon-wallpaper goodfreephotos.com
Short Comic|32
WHATEVER IS NOT YOURS: LET GO OF IT. YOUR LETTING GO OF IT WILL BE FOR YOUR LONGTERM HAPPINESS & BENEFIT. ~ NATUMHĀKASUTTA
Image source: medium.com/the-ascent/the-importance-of-letting-go-3eeb1a802150 lovepik.com/images/png-boats.html
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DHARMA IN EVERYDAY LIFE
PUSHING PAST TROUBLES By Sim Jun Xun, 37th Vice-President (Dharma) In the past 2 years, there has been a global shift in the external world - from the workplace to schools to society to our daily interactions with our friends and loved ones. For most, there has been more suffering than happiness over these circumstantial changes. This is the life that we know of – a life that is dominantly conditioned by global events, society, culture, and the environment we are brought up in. Yet, if we listen attentively, something within ourselves doesn’t feel right. We are mostly caught in the feeling that something is lacking from our lives and until we get it, we will not be satisfied. Even when we do get it, we want more of it. There is perhaps an illusory sense of what it means to be a human in this day and age. Think about it – what has really changed before, during, and after the pandemic-induced series of events? How can we meet all that life has to offer us? How do we meet ourselves as “what is” and not what should be? Now, we have to ask ourselves – Is it at all possible to live a life that is unburdened by conflict, sorrow, anxiety, and all forms of psychoneuroses? Where do we start? Who should we rely on for such a journey if we are at all interested? Before you go to sleep tonight, take 5 minutes to ask within yourself - what is it now that is troubling you most? What is your greatest source of psychological burden as of this moment? Do so without condemning the problem or the self. This could be your first step in the endless journey of self-observation and transformation. This is not something that you will ever learn from another person, a book, a talk – and in the spirit of the qualities of the Dharma, it has to be “realized by the wise each for himself”. The new beginning is not something that lies in the future. It is here. It is now. Every moment is a potential for transformation and it all begins with you.
34
DHARMA IN EVERYDAY LIFE
UNDERSTANDING OF THE MIND Written 39th
Vice
by
Lew
San
President
Hong
(Dharma)
Avoid all unwholesome, Do all that is wholesome, Purify the mind, This is the teaching of the Buddha. Often, you hear these four lines whenever you ask a Buddhist to explain what the Buddha teaches. Yet, it is always difficult for one to concisely explain the third line. However, it cannot be emphasized enough how important the purification of the mind in the Buddhist path towards enlightenment. It is the deluded mind that caused our suffering and stress, and it is the same mind we Buddhist seek to liberate. Your mind is easy to find, but hard to subdue and master. You are reading this text with your eyes, but you understand these words with your mind. When I say “France”, the mind goes to “France” as if your mind took a plane to France. To choose what to eat for dinner, you use your mind to think and decide. When you see your crush and your heart pounds rapidly, that is your mind at work. You use it every day and every moment, but often it is too subtle and too fast for you to catch. Why? Because our mind has always been pulled by what you see, something you hear, a thing you touch, or good food you smell. Without practice, your mind is enslaved by your other senses or by wandering thoughts. Buddhists usually term it “the monkey mind”. To purify the mind is to stop stirring the muddy water and allow the dust to sink so that you can see through the water. It is to subdue and control your monkey mind. Meditation is the best tool to train your mind to be less easily distracted by stimulus of your senses. In doing so, you can gain clarity of the mind and you can start to observe why this mind is muddy in the first place. If you have had no prior experience in meditation and try it for the first time, you may find the process unpleasant and frustrating how naughty this monkey mind can be. Torrents of thoughts rush through your mind wave after wave without stopping. You may think to yourself that you have a “clearer” mind without meditation to begin with, but you are wrong. You have just started to confront the problem with your mind: you have no control. Although it is a tough process, you should persevere and not give up. One day, you can finally be the true master of yourself.
35
DHARMA IN EVERYDAY LIFE
A NEW NORMAL WRITTEN BY DANRY LIM 36TH VICE PRESIDENT (DHARMA)
‘New normal’ are two words that are
So, what is this state of ‘normal’ that we
highly oxymoronic - how can what is
very much want to be in? Conventionally,
new be normal if it was not there
normal connotes the sense of being
before; and how can what is normal be new if it has been there all the while? Well, the truth is that life is just full of oxymorons and paradoxes - just like saying that there will be a
regular, something typical, or maybe even something commonly accepted by those around you. For instance, it may be normal to post on IG whenever you are out with friends. Closer to us, as students in NTU, we may think that normal life is
sequel to Squid Game is already old
attending lectures and tutorials, doing
news
potential
internships, graduating with a good GPA,
partners in NTUBS could well be an
starting a career and maybe even starting
open secret or taking a Grab was my
a family. But why do we think in this way?
only choice when I woke up late for
What we think is normal is heavily
my finals in my fourth year back in
influenced by what we cherish, and this is
NTU. At this junction, you are clearly
the principle of conditionality (paticca-
or
that
finding
confused with these words (see what I did there?).
What exactly is ‘normal’?
samuppada) where our experiences are conditioned - we have been conditioned to choose what to believe in, what to cherish, what to prioritise - and that, becomes your normal.
When we say ‘normal’, there is a sense of nostalgia, going back to the past - just
But if so, one person’s normal would differ
scroll through Instagram, and you would
from another’s normal - paradoxically, is
probably see memories of past ‘normal’
this normalcy still normal?
activities, such a hanging out in groups; just flip the newspapers and you would
Now, ask the Buddha what is normal, and
probably see how officials push for
He is probably less interested in what is
economic ‘normalcy’.
conditioned, typical, or commonly -
36
DHARMA IN EVERYDAY LIFE
accepted. Throughout His teachings, it is
in our lives - that is why we even chose
clear that being normal is being aligned
to attend school. Not just us, but as a
with the natural way things work. Being
human race, we are all hopeful of
normal in the Buddhist sense is really not
being
some difficult, mysterious state which
versions of ourselves’.
can only be attained at the top of a
Fundamentally, our belief that we can
mountain. It is blatantly in the here-and-
improve is a clear testimony to anicca,
now. It is very simple, but that could also
often
be the problem, that it is so simple that
However, when things we like change for
we have taken it for granted. Throughout
the worse, we ask ourselves “Why am I
your life, you have been living with it, but
not as ______ (fill up with literally
may not have observed it. Very likely, if
anything you want) anymore?” or we
you can feel, you probably have a ‘mind’,
dramatically say to our friends and/or
and you would have also experienced
partners “You have changed” (think:
some sort of projection from this ‘mind’. To be normal is to live in a way where you
know
(sometimes
to
translated
‘become
as
better
impermanence.
你变
drama expression). This of course
does not mean we must accept all that
as
have changed, but rather to remain in
awakened to) the natural principles of
the state of normalcy to recognise that it
how things are - anicca, dukkha and
is normal for such changes, just as it is
anatta. These are often known as the
normal to improve when time and effort
Three
(tilakkhana),
is invested. It is how we paradoxically
implying that all phenomena have these
cherry-pick to enjoy certain uncertainties
properties, like how all ionic compounds
and complain about other uncertainties
have a high melting point. Without
that pulls us away from normalcy.
Characteristics
described
了!
trained
knowing, you might become confused (sometimes known as ignorance or not-
In life, the biggest element that would
knowing, the literal meaning of avijja),
generally satisfy us is being able to trust
making oneself vulnerable and thus
something with full certainty. Looking at
deviating from normalcy.
insurance, we may feel assured because we can seemingly 100% trust that if
As a student in NTU, we all believe in
something happens to us, there will be a
seeking improvement and development
payout to support our families.
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DHARMA IN EVERYDAY LIFE
But can we really be 100% sure or say with
at how things appear or seem.
100% certainty about anything? Given the fact that everything has the nature of anicca, the Buddha is simply saying that while things could be x% satisfying, it would also logically be (100-x)% not-sosatisfying, where (100-x) > 0. This is the truth of dukkha, of unsatisfactoriness. This is not being pessimistic, but completely realistic - and being real is being normal.
things are not how they appear to be. In the ‘honeymoon period’, you may think that your love for someone (or someone else’s love for you) will always be there; when you face difficult times, you may think that the state of mind will persist and you will feel terrible forever. But anyone that has been through the test of time will tell you that these are not how things work. This is the core of anatta, sometimes referred to as the concept of non-self. It simply means that nothing is how it because
of
the
lack
of
Simple, no need for prayers, chanting, sitting up straight for hours, not even the need to think of clouds or rainbows - just be aware at this very moment. No need to conjure anything special, but just be conscious of what is happening at this
With these two, you may realise that most
appears
How to be normal?
an
independent existence that allows it to persist indefinitely. How paradoxical to say that there is a ‘core’ to anatta (which is analogous to core-lessness). Again, to be normal is to be able to see things as they are, rather than to stop
very
moment,
nothing
special,
just
mundane and ordinary. Now, that’s normal. To go back to being the master of oneself. This does not mean you must be sitting up straight, as if clocking in sitting timing would be your credits to awakening.
For
instance,
in
an
argument, if you see someone’s anger spiralling out of control, would you think that is ‘normal’? In the conventional sense of being typical maybe yes, but in the Buddhist sense, then probably not. Imagine
yourself
in
that
heated
argument, because you have the notions of anicca, dukkha and anatta, the way you relate to the situation will be different from what is typical. This does not mean you remain quiet. But being normal is being under control, not losing the throne of sanity, while still engaging
38
DHARMA IN EVERYDAY LIFE
with the world as per normal. This is
Effective not in chanting at the right
practice - or Bhavana - conditioning the
pace and tone, neither is it sitting up
mind to see and to align to things as they
straight for many hours, but about
are, not how it appears to be. And it is
bringing to mind the view and mindset
Bhavana
of anicca, dukkha, and anattā. If having
that
brings
one
closer
to
normalcy.
an inspiring quote on your phone’s lock screen can remind you of what is normal,
“Oneself indeed is one's protector, for
then that too is practice!
what other protector could there be? With oneself well-controlled, one obtains
So, what does the ‘new normal’ now
a mastery that is difficult to gain.”
mean to you? If you can see that it is
Dhammapada 160
neither new nor old, then you are moving closer to normalcy. In this age of a “new
However, if there is no need for prayers,
normal", maybe it is time to rediscover
chanting, and sitting up straight, then
our potential of awakening - to see
why do so many people still do it? Great
things as it is, to experience life as it is,
teachers
normally.
of
the
past
have
even
encouraged some of these practices! In Buddhism, practice is only considered as
“You yourself should make the effort; the
practice if it propels you towards seeing
Tathagata (the Buddha) can only point
anicca, dukkha, and anattā all around
the way.”
you. Like how some people may benefit
Dhammapada 276
more from doing tutorials, some may prefer watching lectures, some may even
May you see the Buddha within you, as
prefer directly reading the textbook,
per normal.
these are methods - the means, not the end. But we need the most appropriate means to get to that end of normalcy. Of which, many popular practices such as chanting, and sitting meditation has proven effective for many.
39
SELFREFLECTION
TO STAY HAPPY AT ALL TIMES Source: Coursera ~ The Science of Well-Being by Yale University
Below are few activities that can be easily done and can increase your happiness day by day To keep track, try to do the check-listing of "TO-BE-HAPPY" list on the next page everyday
SAVORING Savoring is the act of stepping outside of an experience to review and appreciate it. It could be a nice shower, a delicious meal, a great walk outside, or any experience that you really enjoy. Some techniques to enhance savoring: sharing the experience with another person, thinking about how lucky you are to enjoy such an amazing moment, keeping a souvenir or photo of that activity, and making sure you stay in the present moment the entire time
DAILY GRATITUDE JOURNAL Gratitude is a positive emotional state in which one recognizes and appreciates what one has received in life. Take 5-10 minutes every night to write down five things for which you are grateful. They can be little things or big things. But you really have to focus on them and actually write them down. You can just write a word or short phrase, but as you write these things down, take a moment to be mindful of the things you’re writing about (e.g., imagine the person or thing you’re writing about, etc.).
RANDOM ACTS OF KINDNESS
Research shows that happy people are motivated to do kind things for others. You can do one extra act of kindness per day, or you can do a few acts of kindness in a single day. These do not have to be over-the-top or time-intensive acts, but they should be something that really helps or impacts another person. For example, help your colleague with something, give a few dollars or some time to a cause you believe in, say something kind to a stranger, write a thank you note, give blood, and so on. At the end of each day, list your random act of kindness.
SOCIAL CONNECTION Research shows that happy people spend more time with others and have a richer set of social connections than unhappy people. Studies even show that the simple act of talking to a stranger on the street can boost our mood more than we expect. It can be a small 5-minute act like sparking a conversation with someone on public transportation, asking a coworker about his/her day, or even chatting to the barista at a coffee shop. At least
40
SELFREFLECTION
once a week, take a whole hour to connect with someone you care about. The key is that you must take the time needed to genuinely connect with another person. At the end of the day, list the social connection you made and notice how you feel when you jot it down.
EXERCISE Research suggests that ~30 minutes a day of exercise can boost your mood in addition to making your body healthier. For the next week, you will spend each day getting your body moving with at least 30 minutes of exercise. Set aside a location and time (write it in your calendar!). Then hit the treadmill at the gym, do an online yoga class, or throw on some headphones and dance around your room to cheesy pop songs. This isn’t supposed to be a marathon-level of activity; it’s just to get your body moving a bit more than usual (Note: if you have physical limitations that prevent you from doing this weeks activity, do plan to skip it for obvious reasons). Be sure to take a moment to notice how much better you feel after getting some exercise in.
SLEEP One of the reasons we’re so unhappy in our modern lives is that we’re consistently sleep deprived. Research shows that sleep can improve your mood more than we often expect. For
the next week, aim to get at least seven hours of sleep for at least four nights of the next week. I know, I know. You’re super busy this week. There are deadlines to meet, friends to see, errands to run, etc. But sleep is going to make you feel better— both physically and mentally. So pick four nights this week, note them in your calendar, and get ready to get some much needed sleep. Also be sure to practice good sleep hygiene too— no devices before bed and try to avoid caffeine and alcohol on the days you’re getting your sleep on. Make sure you get four nights of 7+ hours over the course of the week.
MEDITATE
Meditation is a practice of intentionally turning your attention away from distracting thoughts toward a single point of reference (e.g., the breath, bodily sensations, compassion, a specific thought, etc.). Research shows that meditation can have a number of positive benefits, including more positive moods, increased concentration, and more feelings of social connection. For the next week, you will spend each (at least) 10 minutes per day meditating. Find a quiet spot where you won’t be disturbed while you’re meditating. And remember— meditation isn’t about the meditation itself; it’s about building a skill that we can use later.
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SELFREFLECTION
TO-BE-HAPPYLIST HAVE YOU DONE THIS TODAY? SAVORING WRITE GRATITUDE IN A DIARY/JOURNAL MAKE A NEW FRIEND
HAVE ENOUGH SLEEP MEDITATE
Read the previous page to understand more about the list
=)
T0-BE-HAPPY LIST
PHYSICAL EXERCISE
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San Cao Gen
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Goal Planning This book belongs to
My goals In 1 week In 1 Month In 1 Year In 5 Years How will I achieve it?
Notes
Notes
Notes
Notes
Notes
Happiness is a choice, not a result. Nothing will make you happy until you choose to be happy. No person will make you happy unless you decide to be happy. Your happiness will not come to you. It can only come from you. -Ralph Marston
Check our previous prajna here! https://clubs.ntu.edu.sg/buddhist/index.php/publication/