Reflections

Since understanding causality and taking the Three Refuges and Five Precepts, my perspective on life shifted. I no longer feel a victim to the unfortunate events in my life; instead, I try to embrace it as repayment for my past misdeeds. I strive to be conscious of my actions and sensitive to the impact they have on others. Regularly, I take time to reflect on my words, deeds and thoughts. I am humbled by how much I have yet to learn and let go. Every now and then, I feel a burst of relief and gratitude that I have enough wisdom and good karma to find Buddha Gate Monastery and listen to the precious Dharma teachings of Venerable Master Jian Deng and all the Shifus at the Monastery. -- Chuan Ya (Grace Dagen)

Taking the Five Precepts has touched me deeply. The Shifus, Abbess of Buddha Gate and Venerable Master Jian Deng have shared so much wisdom and kindness to help us prepare for this next step. The beauty and detail of the ceremony were very moving and helped me to solidify my connection to the Buddha, the Dharma and the Sangha. I am eternally grateful for this precious opportunity.-- Chuan Wen (Phyllis Gulbransen)

Completing the Five Precepts ceremony was a significant step in my process of adapting my life to a Buddhist moralistic philosophy. The rituals of the ceremony and verbal agreement to each precept deepened my understanding of how one changes their thoughts, views and actions. It deepened all my previous learning of the last year at the Buddha Gate Monastery and expanded my ability to be more mindful on a daily basis. I am thankful to all the Buddhist teachers and members of the sangha who helped give me and the others from Buddha Gate this meaningful experience. --Chuan Jiang (Dennis Gulbransen)

An Awakening of Faith
Heaven upholds
the Galaxies,
the Stars,
all Life, and
the Wisdom of the Buddha
in Great Emptiness.
How?
The Abbot of Chung Tai exaplained all in only 3 1/2 hours.
Is this true beyond all doubt?
I put on the Brown Robe to find out.
--by Bruce Goya (AKA: Chuan Tian (Tian means Heaven))

My experience in Buddha Gate,
the Three Refuges and Five Precepts ceremony,
and my spiritual journey.
Searching
Found
Learning
Doing
Aware
- By Tom Coward (Chuan Zhu)