Happiness is here and now is a theme for the 24 hrs retreat for American Buddhists that was held and led by Buddhist Monks at Dong Hung Temple from 9 AM on July 18 to 9 AM on July 19, 2009.

About 20 American Buddhist followers joined the retreat; most of them are newcomers and have practiced Buddhism just recently. Although after 24 hours of learning and practicing everyone could experience the value of the Buddha’s teaching and they realized their capabilities of practicing that could bring happiness at the present moment. See more pictures

The retreat combined practicing meditation and recitation of the A Di Da Buddha name. In addition, there were some other activities such as walking meditation at Sandbridge beach and around the Temple’s garden, and exercises (Taichi movements at the beach and breathing exercises right next to the Temple’s pond) that helped the participants feel good and relax.

As they were down-to-the-earth with their hearts open,  the group experience and atmosphere  was really great for the Dharma talks and discussions. The entire group practiced and sang a song together called  “Happiness is here and now” whenever we finished meditating or Dharma-talking. The song helped them to be more aware and was a reminder for them to practice letting go  and working without being in a hurry.

The very last moments together, most of them had a chance to realize their weaknesses and tried to learn ways to fix them.

This was the first retreat at the Temple. In the future we hope that our Temple will have regular events like this to share these experiences and introduce Buddhism to everyone especially the American Buddhists.

Watching The Taking Refuges Ceremony

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and Receiving 5 precepts

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