tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-287242022024-02-08T10:33:43.386-08:00Clear WisdomWith the quality of wisdom, you will be able to transform your fixed karma in this life,
With a clear mind, you will be able to attain the state of the truly awakened and enlightened one day.Ngagwang Palmohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15009595122773848721noreply@blogger.comBlogger17125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28724202.post-6078759847864042592021-07-11T04:12:00.001-07:002021-07-11T04:12:05.194-07:00Entering the door of Buddhism There are some whom I have met who proclaim they are Buddhists just because that is what is registered as their religion. They have no knowledge of what it means to be Buddhist.
In fact to become Buddhists one has to truly take refuge in the Buddha, Dharma (the teachings of Buddha) and the Sangha (teachers of the Dharma), the Triple Gems. What does it mean to take refuge? It is to solely believe in and follow the Triple Gems. To be able to do so, one should know who is the Buddha and what his teachings are so one understand and can follow without deviation.
Buddha is the fully enlightened one who has purified all defilements. He has realized the path towards the end of suffering and permanent bliss which all beings can take and become Buddha as well. He is thus the ultimate refuge. There is not just one Buddha, such as the historical Buddha of our eon, Shakyamuni Buddha. Through the eons there have been many who became Buddha and as per Shakyamuni Buddha's prophecy in the Sutras (records of Buddha's teachings), many other Buddhists will become Buddhas.
Why be a Buddhist? All orthodox religions should be respected as they are like candles that bring light to the darkness of lives and teach us to be good and kind. Before becoming a Buddhist, one should thoroughly examine the teachings and what Buddhism is about. This is as what Buddha said "Ehipassiko" (Come and see). Only when one is satisfied, then take refuge and do not waver.
Personally I came from a Buddhist family, but some schoolmates shared the Christian gospel with me when I was in school. I took time to think about and find out more about each religiom and what feels more suitable for me. For me the Genesis chapter of the bible seemed off as I could not comprehend why taking an apple is a sin and why woman is made from man. It seemed to be myth rather than real. I was uncomfortable as well with the concept that sins will be forgiven and have no repercussions as long as you follow the God. Karma, cause and result seemed to be fair. I also believed to end suffering one should have to work hard and just going to heaven from accepting God seems off. These were my considerations.
Even though I did not choose to be a Christian, it did not mean I think others should not follow the religion or that it is not good. There have been many admirable saints like Mother Theresa and staunch Christians who have contributed so much to humanity.
If you are thinking to become a Buddhist or you are Buddhist on paper and want to become a true Buddhist, please take the time to really examine what the teachings are and ask questions to Buddhist teachers. Once you are convinced, take the refuge vows which will strengthen your resolve not to waver. Then you will truly enter the gateway to Buddhism and progress on the path to enlightenment.Ngagwang Palmohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15009595122773848721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28724202.post-70424365248067781142010-12-28T19:19:00.001-08:002021-07-11T01:28:37.318-07:00Some Thoughts on How we can Deal with Dying<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica;">Some Thoughts on How we can Deal with Dying</span><br />
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</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica;">1. We cannot predict when we are going to die, unless we are really advanced practitioners. If it is going to happen, it will happen and no amount of worrying will stop it from happening. Even tulkus like the 11th and 12th Karmapa, Jamgon Kongtrul Rinpoche died young. If it is going to happen, might as well remain calm and recite good aspiration prayers.</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica;">2. However, if we are Buddhists, even if things like sicknesses or death or what other people may term as bad things occur, we always have methods of perceiving them as positive. </div><div style="font-family: Helvetica;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica;">We have gone for so many pilgrimages and we do so many prayers everyday. Even if we die, in our mindstream, we have firmly planted the seed to 1) gain enlightenment if we have had a good practice and can recognize the clear light at death, 2) be reborn in dewachen (if we can recollect Od Pag Med and Chenrezig at the point of death), 3) have a good rebirth if instead make the strong wish to do so. </div><div style="font-family: Helvetica;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica;">3. If we are very worried or nervous, it will have a negative effect of causing rebirth in the lower realm. It is like failing the examination we have prepared everyday for. Our aim is to gain enlightenment to liberate all sentient beings. For that aim, we train our mind everyday, to be very familiar with the Buddhist concepts, so we can deal with whatever happens, calmly, peacefully and in a Dharma way. "Nga na na na te na wei ga" and "Nga shi na shi te shi wei ga". If I am sick, I have the happiness of being sick. If I die, I have the happiness of dying. It is the same. You may be young, and you have many things you want to do that you have not done yet. But you can always continue your works in your next life. Buddhists should not view that life and death has any difference, both are bardos.</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica;">4. If you feel regret that you cannot finish what you want to do in this life, then all the more it gives you motivation to put in a lot of effort to finish what you want to do. So it is not necessarily a bad thing. Now you know death is so close to us, I am sure you will put in even more effort. Even if you really cannot finish it, no problem, you can continue it if you make the wish for a good human rebirth.</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica;">5. The point of death is a big opportunity, a wonderful one where we can gain enlightenment, just by recognizing the light or the deity. So it is a joyous occasion.</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica;">6. Have trust in the practice. If you have done the long life practice, it would have extended your life unless you have some ripened karma to pay back, which you cannot control anyway.</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica;">I am also hoping I can remember what I am writing now at my own point of death. Honestly this time, if the bus or plane were to have crashed, I don't think I would have felt fear or worry, because this was a time when I did practice everyday and I was so full of good aspirations. But I don't know about the future, I hope I can maintain things this way.</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica;"><br />
</div><div style="font-family: Helvetica;">I have actually had quite a few near death experiences, maybe that is why I am more relaxed now in dangerous situations and also why I place so much emphasis in learning the Dharma. I was nearly hit by a car when I was young and playing on the road, I nearly drowned twice in a pool, last year I nearly fell down a cliff when we came back from Yolmo because the bus was close to knocking me down. It is really a blessing to still be alive and be able to finish my 3 month retreat/ study in Nepal and meet with so many Dharma friends. </div><div style="font-family: Helvetica;"><br />
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</div>Ngagwang Palmohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15009595122773848721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28724202.post-10190548683346261762009-11-20T08:54:00.001-08:002021-07-11T01:29:33.475-07:00What is the purpose of our lives?What is the purpose of our lives?<br />
<br />
Why do we lose ourselves in daily hustle and bustle, entertaining ourselves but feeling lonely and empty inside?<br />
<br />
When do we really feel happy?<br />
<br />
When helping a stranger, without any thought of getting any benefits from that, when seeing how happy others are, we light up inside.<br />
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When doing something constructive, which leads to the benefits of others, we are truly happy.<br />
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This is something different, very much fulfilling.<br />
<br />
Listening to what is good and positive brings happiness.<br />
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Supporting and rejoicing what is good and positive brings happiness.<br />
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When we just enjoy nature and not keep our minds filled with countless thoughts or allow ourselves to be overwhelmed with confusing emotions, we are happy.<br />
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Running after our desires is like a thirsty man drinking sea water, he will never be satisfied and will need more.Ngagwang Palmohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15009595122773848721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28724202.post-34135051912598301252009-02-12T07:11:00.000-08:002021-07-11T01:29:54.234-07:00Gratitude <span style="font-weight:bold;">Gratitude</span>
Have you ever reflected how much gratitude we owe to people in our lives? Every product that we used is the fruit of much perspiration and labour by many others.
From this gratitude that we owe, we should have the attitude of humility and kindness towards all, as anyone around us may be the one who has benefitted us greatly in the past, are benefitting us now and may bring great benefit to us in the future.
I was once on a bus without any money on me. This was a time when ezlink cards have not been introduced in Singapore. I was a student and I was very troubled and embarrassed at not being able to pay the fare. I was contemplating getting down the next stop and walking back home to get money. Without saying a word, a Bangladeshi worker who was close by put in the fare for me. To this day, nearly more than a decade later, I hold in my mind great respect and gratitude for this man. In Singapore, many people look down or have negative views of these foreign workers who help us to build our homes, offices and schools and take up the jobs that the proud Singaporeans decline to do. But I do not have the same view and I think we have a lot to learn from these people who earn their money with their blood and perspiration, scrimping and saving for their families back home. Where do you think our forefathers started from? They were the same and they built a great and safe nation which we are comfortably living in now.
I remember as well participating in flag-raising days. Once, I walked to many places in the East where I stayed, asking for donations from the public for Children's Charity. Most people gave very little or nothing at all. I chanced by a narrow alley where there was a man who could have been a construction worker or painter who was very dirty. I did not however ignore him or treat him with indifference. I also asked him for a donation in the same way. But I was very surprised when he put ten dollars in the can. Even today, ten dollars is a lot to give for flag-raising.
So much more valuable is the charity of someone who does not have much yet gives all he can to those who are in need.
I am also very thankful to three taxi drivers who helped me in different times. When I was in JC, there was one night where I had stayed late at school and was hoping to catch the last bus back home. It was quite dark and I was alone at the bus stop. A taxi pulled to a stop where I was standing and I told the driver I did not intend to take a taxi, I did not have the cash. He however was genuinely worried for my safety and insisted that I took the cab. He then offered to drive me home for free. It really impressed me how very kind this man was. He really safely delivered me back home without accepting a single cent.
In recent years, there was another driver who took the time to drive back and give me back my staff pass when my staff pass was accidentally left in his taxi. He could have just brought the item to the call centre and I would have had to go there to collect it. Even more recently, I got a bicycle as a free gift from a friend and took a cab to bring it back home. It was rather heavy and I got into a conversation with the driver about how inconvenient it was that my block did not have a lift. Without me asking him for help, he volunteered to carry this heavy bicycle all the way up four storeys. I would not have been able to manage by myself.
Kindness does not differ due to nationality or locality. I was backpacking in France and asked a man which train I should be taking to Versailles. He told me that it should be a particular line. My friend who was with me however said that we should be taking another line and we boarded the train. This man went out of the way, very anxiously, to get on board and tell the conductor to let us get off as we were on the wrong train. We finally got to Versailles. We would have been in great panic if we really did get on the wrong train and end up far from our intended destination. When I was at Mattelhorn in Switzerland, I got lost and was anxiously looking for the train station to board the last train back. I was lucky to encounter an old Japanese couple who were so kind to walk me to the train station. I must admit my Japanese lessons were of great use though, or they would not have been able to understand me. For that, I am grateful to my Japanese teachers at NUS.
There was just once that I got so sick from drinking alcohol that I vomitted and passed out at Chijmes, where there were many pubs and restaurants. When I was kneeling on the floor, a kind old Japanese man came out and showered me with concern. He got me a chair and a hot towel and a drink of hot water. He need not have bothered, it should have been a common sight for him and it was my own fault that I took so much alcohol. For the record, I have taken a vow not to drink alcohol anymore.
I can recount even more great acts of kindness I have experienced and witnessed both at home and overseas. Such great kindness is a source of inspiration and brings hope in the troubled world of today.Ngagwang Palmohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15009595122773848721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28724202.post-34832520160219860232009-02-11T06:29:00.000-08:002021-07-11T01:31:14.906-07:00Obstacles are our biggest friends In some ways, the obstacles and adversities are our biggest friends. Without them, we cannot discover our strength and we cannot develop our patience. With the adversities, we have the chance to grow and become better and wiser.Ngagwang Palmohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15009595122773848721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28724202.post-55384278002737177572009-02-10T01:37:00.000-08:002021-07-11T01:31:56.057-07:00Mindfulness One thing I have often observed is how easily I can avoid anger, frustration and negative emotions simply by choosing not to get angry, frustrated or develop negative emotions. The key is to be instantly aware when such feelings or negative thoughts are rising.
When you know that your thoughts are something that will cause you or someone else feel bad, because you will do something out of anger or jealousy etc., reason with yourself whether it is right, whether things are such a big deal.
From my experience, once I recollect that at anytime I could die and anyway all things are impermanent, everything else seems like a small matter.
So instead, I choose to not get bothered and choose to be happy. By being easy going, life is much easier.
Another thing I have learnt is that expectations bring suffering. The higher your expectation is, the more likely you will be disappointed. We can dream about how things will be and paint the best picture, but we should not get attached to the results. Pain or pleasure, loss or gain, praise or blame, fame or infamy; whatever happens, if we do not wrapped up in good or bad results, then our mind will not be disturbed.
Everything will pass, whether good or bad. So when there are good times, be prepared for the bad times. When bad times come, do not get discouraged as good times will come.Ngagwang Palmohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15009595122773848721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28724202.post-50042900349671694632009-02-03T18:59:00.000-08:002021-07-11T01:32:13.842-07:00Fearlessness in all situations<strong>Fearlessness in all situations</strong>
What arises fear in us?
We have fear because we are attached to something and do not wish to lose it or for bad to happen it.
We have fear because we do not wish to have suffering.
We have fear because we view something as scary or harmful.
If we do not have attachment, then we will not have fear. If one wants to be happy, then attachment is not a logical thing to have, as all conventional things are impermanent. Since we will definitely lose whatever we treasure eventually, why develop such strong attachment and desire?
This applies to not just your job, your wealth, your car, your house, your wife, your friends, your children, your dreams, your youth, your health, your looks etc. It even applies to the desire to become enlightened. The buddha nature is there in all of us, it is with us all the time. if we purify our defilements and perfect our understanding of the Dharma, we will eventually become Buddhas, in this, there should be no hope or fear.
The above is related to the suffering of change, which is that whatever conventional situation giving us happiness will eventually be gone. This is the truth, it is not pessimism, because the opposite also is true, that whatever suffering we experience will eventually be past. So however unbearable your current situation is, there is comfort in that it will not last. While it lasts, it provides the opportunity for the practice of giving your happiness to others and taking their suffering equally. This beautiful practice will give you peace and happiness in being able to help others. Without suffering, we have no motivation to develop renunciation and practice, so we should even be thankful to those who cause us to suffer and hope that they will be the first one we will benefit after enlightenment.
How we confused beings perceive things are usually through colored glasses, we color our view with our likes and dislikes, attachment and aversions. With our limited view, we cannot know the reality of the situation, but we still think we know exactly what the situation is. Time usually proves that we are wrong. A tall and strong person who looks mean may actually be very kind. Would you know for sure? If we have fear of that person, we might regret it later on.
As we develop great renunciation through practice, fearlessness would also arise correspondingly, so the best antidote to our fears would be a good practice.Ngagwang Palmohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15009595122773848721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28724202.post-3625833520486796732009-02-02T18:59:00.000-08:002021-07-11T01:30:39.521-07:00Ultimately you are your own guru<strong>Ultimately, you are your own guru</strong>
We have the habitual tendency to always rely on others and look to them to solve our issues.
In a way, we need to do this when we are still dumbfounded or feel helpless and cannot draw strength from within ourselves.
We need a model, a role guide, one that will direct us excellently onto the right path.
This is the reason why to become a Buddhist, one has to take refuge in the Triple Gems. The Buddha, Dharma and the noble Sangha are the best guide, teacher, role model. Only they can bring us across the ocean of suffering to the shore of permanent happiness.
In this degenerate time, we are not fortunate enough to meet the Buddha in person, nor can we meet the arhats, pratyeka buddhas or bodhisattvas. So we have to put our complete faith and trust in our compassionate guru who has been very kind to us, as our guru represents all the three Jewels.
Ultimately however, the guru is not the one who can cause us to gain enlightenment and leave all suffering. It is ourselves that we have to rely on. The guru is like the compass, but we have to use our own two feet to get to the destination.
There is actually nothing to be obtained and there has never been anything we lost. Each individual sentient being has the perfect Buddha Nature, only that it has been clouded with our delusions and defilements.
Do not just think you can rely on outer forces and influences all the time to get all you need or desire, why not tap into the wish fulfilling well of your own inner guru?
This however does not mean that you should become proud or disrespectful to others, especially those who are or have been your teachers. It is a sure sign you are far from being enlightened. It also does not mean that you should disregard the advice of others, who you should keep in mind also have Buddha Nature and are probably far more enlightened than you.
Be diligent in your practice and continue to serve your guru, listen, contemplate and meditate and get in touch with your inner guru.Ngagwang Palmohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15009595122773848721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28724202.post-46017423710680709342009-02-02T18:24:00.000-08:002021-07-11T01:32:35.468-07:00The source of all problemsWhere do all our sorrows and problems come from? The answer is: your deluded mind.
We cannot control the environment and circumstances around us. Partly they appear due to our wrong choices in the past and karma from beginningless lives. Well, what is done is done. We can do confession for unripened karma but this will not help our present situation.
But why is it that some people thrive due to adversities and some people wither?
The difference is in the way the mind is trained.
If you firmly believe that what is happening is real, if you think that it is never your fault, if you choose to wallow in self-pity, then who is to be blamed for your suffering?
If you think that what is happening is like a nightmare which will soon pass, if you take this chance to think of all the other people in the same situation and arise compassion for them, if you do not choose to be sad but instead strive to do what is right in each situation, your mind will remain calm and happy.
So what is your choice today, to suffer or be happy?Ngagwang Palmohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15009595122773848721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28724202.post-51575636179280852822009-02-02T17:47:00.000-08:002021-07-11T01:33:09.175-07:00Don't stifle your creativityWe are all by nature very wise, with the pure wisdom from beginningless time.
By restricting ourselves through imputed views, stamping our opinions on each and every single thing, we limit our choices, we do not allow our natural wisdom to flow and find solutions.
At times of difficulty, we get frustrated with negative emotions and think there is no way out.
In fact, if we remain calm and do not overwhelm our minds with negative thoughts or stress our minds to come up with a solution, we will clearly see what the situation is, what are the possible solutions, what is the way to proceed.
Do not stifle your minds with narrow opinions and negative emotions!Ngagwang Palmohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15009595122773848721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28724202.post-69840692128186192112009-02-02T09:03:00.000-08:002021-07-11T01:33:36.155-07:00The phenomenal mindOur mind, such a wondrous thing!
We can conceive the biggest mountain in the universe (Mount Sumeru) and yet there will be no lack of space in our mind. It can conceive even more than this.
We can conceptualize a little feather with our minds, yet it does not become roomier.
By the power of the mind, such miracles like what Milarepa displayed to Rechungpa become possible, such as hiding from the rain in an ox's horn, without either Milarepa or the ox's horn changing in size.
By the power of samadhis from meditative concentration, one can attain the miraculous powers to assist in teaching the Dharma in a way suitable to the understanding of each individual and developing faith and devotion in those to be tamed by miraculous powers.
Let's be diligent in our practice! There is no greater happiness and bliss than to lead our past mothers and other loved ones across the shore of suffering to everlasting peace.Ngagwang Palmohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15009595122773848721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28724202.post-80930115357876559022009-02-02T07:58:00.000-08:002021-07-11T01:33:56.395-07:00Conventional and ultimate realityExamine our lives and all that is around us, they are nothing more than dreams and illusions.
What will come, will pass - this is what we see.
In actual fact, there is no real coming or going.
There is a perfectly pure, calm, wise and stainless nature which underlies each of us.
What thoughts appears in our mind are like ripples on the ocean of this nature.
Out of nowhere, they arise and out of no reason or rhyme, they merge back seamlessly.
So the nature of our thoughts, regardless of what we conventionally categorize them as, are in actual fact perfectly pure.
If we do not force our imputed views onto people, objects, thoughts etc., the pure enjoyment of this perfect nature would descend and that will be indescribably the ultimate bliss and happiness we can experience, beyond any worldly desires, achievements, praise or victory.
We would be able to see everything as it truly is.
In a similar way, even if our stocks crash, we lose loved ones, we lose our jobs, we get terribly sick or have problems in our relationships, know in actual fact how little such trials and tribulations matter, they will eventually pass. What disturbs you is not this seeming problems, but how you perceive them in your mind. Let go of hatred and self-pity, step back and see that it is all like a dream, just like how times past become like a dream. Allow the ocean to regain its natural calm.
Do not abandon what seems like an impure and polluted world, its nature is perfectly pure. Yet do not intentionally seek to destroy what you perceive as unreal and therefore of little consequence, the law of karma never fails.
Except the truly enlightened and awakened, the rest of us are deluded and cloud our true nature more and more with selfish hopes, desires, envy, ignorance and hatred. Just one moment is what is one needs, one moment to let go of all conceptions and prejudices, and you will see your true nature and never be suffering anymore.
When will your moment come?Ngagwang Palmohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15009595122773848721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28724202.post-20525695036418802422008-10-17T10:11:00.000-07:002021-07-11T01:34:33.734-07:00Dealing with DifficultiesThese four years, I have been increasingly more involved in helping out at my Buddhist centre, from more manual work and token help such as clearing the cushions, sweeping the floor etc. to more scholastic work like managing the website, helping out with publications and now it is doing more of management work and having to cover up for whatever work has not been done.
It has been a very bumpy ride, but I think I have learnt a lot from it. I have learnt that you never know how difficult things can be until you have gone through it yourself, this has taught me to appreciate what others have done and also learn to think from the position of others and be more caring. I have picked up very interesting skills which I would never have picked up had I not volunteered so much of my time. I have learnt how humans easily miscommunicate. I have learnt how rewards need not be external and truly come from yourself. I have learnt how I handle stress, tiredness and obstacles. I have learnt not to break down when things seem impossible, as nothing is really that important. I have learnt to learn from mistakes and move on, instead of crying over spilt milk. I have learnt to appreciate free time. I have learnt to appreciate the help of family and friends. I have learnt that no matter what limits you think you had, they can be stretched.
Life ultimately will not be interesting without its many ups and downs. And without the challenges, you will never be forced to look at yourself and see who you really are and celebrate that. We have the limitless potential of being a Buddha, someone enlightened and broken free from all illusions and delusions. When we are quiet and calm, we find inner peace and delight.
The ultimate goal of a human is to fulfill your own potential, to live from strength to strength and discover all your qualities and beauty. Nothing is really bad and nothing is really good. Let go of all pre-conceptions and be free.Ngagwang Palmohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15009595122773848721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28724202.post-38631665877123823652007-11-17T15:50:00.000-08:002021-07-11T01:35:26.280-07:00Factions in Buddhism<table><tbody><tr><td><a href="http://www.kagyuoffice.org/hhk17bioweb.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.kagyuoffice.org/hhk17bioweb.jpg" style="cursor: hand; float: left; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 153px;" /></a></td><td><a href="http://www.karma-kagyud.org.sg/images/Karmapa-photo_small.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.karma-kagyud.org.sg/images/Karmapa-photo_small.jpg" style="cursor: hand; float: left; height: 231px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 153px;" /></a></td>
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<td><a href="http://www.dalailama.com/uploads/gallery/israel/p_1small.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.dalailama.com/uploads/gallery/israel/p_1small.jpg" style="cursor: hand; float: left; height: 231px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 153px;" /></a></td><td><a href="http://www.shamarpa.org/image/sham1.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://www.shamarpa.org/image/sham1.jpg" style="cursor: hand; float: left; height: 231px; margin: 0px 10px 10px 0px; width: 153px;" /></a></td></tr></tbody></table>
<br /><div align="justify">Strange and hard to believe, within the Vajrayana Buddhist Community, there are factions that are seemingly opposing to many, caused by the affable and greatly respected Dalai Lama. The first problem is that of the 17th Gyalwa Karmapa, the spiritual head of the Karma Kagyud lineage.
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<div align="justify">There are 2 Gyalwa Karmapas, HH Urgyen Trinlay Dorje, recognized by HH Dalai Lama and HH Trinlay Thaye Dorje, recognized by the late HE Chogye Trichen Rinpoche and HH Sharmar Rinpoche. The separate recognitions have split the entire Buddhist community who is in the know into 3 sides, 2 sides each supporting 1 Gyalwa Karmapa and 1 side on the fence.</div>
<div align="justify">This is amazingly sad, Buddhism stresses on equanimity and peace, but there is a resulting uneasiness in the Karma Kagyud lineage and also in those of other Yanas and lineages due to this issue. On the surface both factions go about conducting Dharma activities and go through similar Buddhist practices. However there are consequential repercussions resulting from this problem, the issue of who will take over the 16th Karmapa's premises, monasteries and buddhist centres; separate recognitions of reincarnations other Rinpoches and lineage masters causing there to be 2 recognitions of the reincarnation of the same person; restrictions on the faction that supports HH Trinlay Thaye Dorje by monasteries and Buddhist communities who are devoted to HH Dalai Lama; the struggling in devotees between devotion to the lineage and general Buddhist doctrine where we should love all sentient beings as if they are our past Mothers and also that respect should be shown towards all who have taken up monastic vows. Devotees who were practising together in the time of the 16th Karmapa now belong to different centres, there is no enmity, not if a person is a true practitioner, but there is a lingering sadness. </div>
<div align="justify">Too much discussion on this issue would result in negative feelings, which are contrary to the Buddhist practice. So the most common way of handling the issue is complete avoidance. Those who are devoted to HH Trinlay Thaye Dorje are, I believe, still devoted to and respect HH Dalai Lama, being a great compassionate Bodhisattva, but it is hard to ignore the fact that they are like an abandoned child. They should also respect HH Urgyen Trinlay Dorje, who even if they believe is not the actual reincarnation of the 16th Karmapa, is also a good practitioner, who has studied extensively the Buddhist doctrines, skilled in conducting pujas and extensively spread the Buddha Dharma throughout the world. In fact, it may even be considered a good thing that there are 2 Karmapas, considering the flourishing of Buddhism internationally through the efforts of both. If only there is a way to come to a common understanding, such as that they are 2 emanations of the 16th Karmapa and therefore both valid.</div>
<div align="justify">The other problem is that within the Gelug lineage itself, the dissension caused by the practice of the Dharma protector Shugden. I shall not go into details about how the practice originated, but Shugden, according to some sources, was in his lifetime a candidate to be Dalai Lama and subseqently did not make the selection. There was a Buddhist debate between him and the then Dalai Lama and subsequently he was found dead for reasons unknown. But there are those who believe that he had vowed to protect the Gelug lineage and therefore the practice of Shugden arose. Having some understanding of the origination of the practice of Shugden, it is easy to know why it could be that it is censured by the Dalai Lama (or is it really him or his administration), since 1) the protector was not recognized by Buddha or the wrathful emanation of some Bodhisattvas or Buddhas, 2) there seems to be a negative connotation to the Dalai Lama, that there is some feud between Shugden and the Dalai Lama. </div>
<div align="justify">Apparently since that time when the practice originated, it has been continuously practiced by most within the Gelug lineage. Most of the living masters now have received initiations or empowerments by their own gurus for this practice. But this year, the Dalai Lama's office issued a statement banning the practice of Shugden as an unorthodox practice. I can imagine the great confusion that might result internally in the Shugden practitioners. Having done countless offerings, countless puja sessions, they must now give up on the protector they had always shown devotion to and think of the protector as evil. And they must teach their devotees to do the same.</div>
<div align="justify">I am in no position to make statements or take sides, I am after all of the Kagyud lineage. But an event in Singapore led me to ponder how sad it is that there is another dissension between followers of the same lineage. One Gelug centre in Singapore wanted to hold an exhibition of Buddhist relics. Normally it is a great meritorious thing to do, but this time, due to the statement from Dalai Lama's office, the majority of the Buddhist community were afraid to go to the exhibition as they did not want to be seen defying the Dalai Lama or they were afraid that they might be affected by the evil protector. Some even started to gossip and say that the relics were not real. Having said all that, I did not attend the exhibition myself. Consulting my own guru, the conclusion is to stay neutral. As someone who have helped to organize Buddhist events, I sympathized with the organizers of the Buddhist Relics exhibition. They went to some great lengths and costs to invite relics and book a large exhibition area, advertise, garner volunteer helpers and in the end, the turnout is miserly. It is the nightmare of any event organizer. The worst thing is that I am sure they all thought they were doing something meaningful and meritorious but now they are censured as "evil" and "unorthodox".</div>
<div align="justify">Having said that again, I am still not taking sides, before this happened, I had no inkling of the existence of Shugden. I just am sad that the Gelug lineage is also split into two, those who insist to continue practising Shugden and those who avoid the practice. </div>
<div align="justify">Such problems give a bad image of Buddhism to those who are non-believers, I am embarassed and uneasy to let them know that such problems exist. It is in such contradiction to Buddhism to have "conflicts", even though in actual fact the "problems" do not hinder the practice of the Buddha Dharma.</div>
<div align="justify">I am still waiting for the day we all give up the concept of names and invisible grouping and are able to sit together harmoniously without feeling of uneasiness and just practice the Dharma together. Just because there are 2 Karmapas or one faction practising Shugden and the other not practising it, it does not mean that there are 2 different brands of Dharma. Dharma is the ultimate realization of reality as taught by the Buddha, enlightenment must be self-realized, although we need to have proper guidance from our root gurus and must take refuge in the Buddha, Dharma and Sangha before the realization can occur. Regardless which apparent side or faction we appear to be, I say why bother what others say or think? Continue to do your daily Buddhist practices, which you know to be beneficial through your own understanding and analysis. Continue to meditate. Continue to read the Sutras, the Abhidharma, the Vinaya. Continue to consult the Shastras to further your understanding. Buddhists are not blind followers, the Buddha always encouraged questioning and understanding. Don't believe if you don't understand, raise questions. What we are seeking is the ultimate happiness, never-changing happiness, the constant peace and clarity of our minds. For all sentient beings and for ourselves. Cultivate Bodhicitta and practise the 6 paramitas and the 8-fold path, it is clearly the way as it benefits all. The apparent obstacles we seem to face will not be obstacles if we do not let our minds be disturbed by it. </div>Ngagwang Palmohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15009595122773848721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28724202.post-80281634484597648222007-09-05T20:14:00.000-07:002021-07-11T01:35:42.134-07:00Ulcer...ouch!<br /><div> </div>
<div>I just had an ulcer which caused me a lot of pain for a few days. I didn't want to smile or speak too much, it irritated me when I was eating or drinking. Now it is much better and I feel just like before. But when I was having it, I felt a lot of suffering.</div>
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<div>I told myself that it will pass, just as so many unpleasant things had. All phenomenon are impermanent, whether good or bad or neutral. Also I tried to put in the practice of lojong (exchanging oneself for others), and made the wish that everyone who were having the same suffering as me could be relieved of their suffering, may I alone bear the pain. It makes one feel very good when you can help and take on the sufferings of others.</div>Ngagwang Palmohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15009595122773848721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28724202.post-1165225598635960132006-12-04T01:35:00.000-08:002021-07-11T01:35:56.014-07:00Buddhism in my life<span style="color: #006600;">I credit most of my exposure to Buddhism to my wonderful mother. If not for her, I might have started very late or not at all to understand this profound and astoundingly wonderful philosophy of life.</span>
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<span style="color: #006600;">When I was very young, I would often join in the early morning prayer sessions of my grandmother and my mother. Not that I understood much at that time. The text recited was of the Mahayana tradition and the chanting would be in Teochew which was beautiful but difficult to do. I have often been amazed at the power of their lungs! My mum frequently brought me to different temples. The one I visited very frequently at first was my grandmother's Buddhist Centre in Upper Serangoon. It was in a small bungalow and it was called "Qi Oon". As children, my sister, cousins and I were very carefree and do not frequently sit still. We would play beneath the mango trees, using the white chalky stones in the gardens to draw pictures and play at cooking or playing catching. There were times we were seated in the shrine hall, and I remember vaguely the reverend throwing out rice, ringing a bell and doing hand mudras. He was also wearing a funny hat. I thought it was very interesting. Only until now do I know that particular master, who has since passed away, was actually a Theravada monk who continued on to practice Vajrayana. He was later of the Nyingma lineage. </span>
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<span style="color: #006600;">Then when I was older I started Dharma classes. My mother would bring me to a Mahayana temple somewhere very remote (I think it was in Punggol) every Sunday. I really liked the place, it was very peaceful, big and beautiful. The reverend abbot was very benevolent. There was also an old aged home belonging to the temple. We not only learned about the foundations of Buddhism (e.g Eightfold Path, Four Noble Truths, story of Buddha's life - at least that is what I think was taught, I cannot remember in detail now) but also had extra curricular activities. I joined a music class and was taught to play drums using my hands and also using sticks. But I must admit my sense of rhythm is terrible. Till now I cannot master playing 2 beats with one hand and 3 beats with the other at the same time.</span>
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<span style="color: #006600;">For a period of time, my mother was a fervent devotee of Ven. Fa Zhao of the Golden Pagoda Temple. She brought me there very frequently, when she took lessons in tying Chinese knots, when she was helping out at the temple or when she was joining pujas there. The style of chanting was Chinese Mahayana, and I was still amazed how people could keep up. It was very lovely but when slow the notes were drawn very long and when fast, it was a little too fast for me. The most beautiful time was when there were lamp offerings. There would be no lights in the whole temple and everywhere people were carrying big flower lamps and passing the flame from one person to another. I remembered an auntie asking me what mantras I knew or what I chanted. I told her I usually chant the name of Avalokitesvara (Namo Guan Shi Yin Pu Sa) and also the mantra of Jun Di Fo Mu (an incarnation of Avalokitesvara). That was about all I knew at that time. Later my mum taught me to memorize the Heart Sutra, which I recite frequently, even now. But I have switched to chanting "Om Mani Padme Hung" instead of the name of Avalokitesvara.</span>
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<span style="color: #006600;">My mum told me that I was the god-daughter of Guan Yin (Avalokitesvara) and I must have the utmost devotion and respect for Guan Yin. Every year, during the birthday of Guan Yin, we would go to the Guan Yin temple at Tembeling Road to offer incense.</span>
To me, there is no confusion regarding the gender of one of the most well-known Bodhisattvas. Form is emptiness and emptiness is form. Male or female, the Bodhisattva manifests as he/she wills, in order to benefit sentient beings. The Bodhisattva is not attached to his/her form, it is sentient beings who are attached to form and develop attachment or aversion.Ngagwang Palmohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15009595122773848721noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-28724202.post-1148564479611427822006-05-25T06:30:00.000-07:002007-11-17T17:17:30.015-08:00<div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;color:#663333;"><strong>Choice of career</strong></span><br /><span style="font-family:Arial;color:#663333;"></span><br /><span style="font-family:arial;color:#663333;">I have always had a passion for life and gamingly try new experiences. As for interests, I count too many. The first career I recall wanting to have was to be a forensic scientist (read: CSI). That was just because of an offhand comment by my maths teacher that forensic scientists earn a lot as few would want such a job and it is interesting investigating into questionable deaths. Unfortunately, my secondary school struck such a path off from my life by saying no-no to my doing biology. Agreeably, I didn't make much of a protest since I have always been one to go with the flow and avoid confrontations.</span> <span style="font-family:arial;color:#663333;">They had a basis in any case, my grades were not exactly top-notch, could a lackadasical student ever make it to medicine?</span><br /><br /><br /></div><p align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;color:#663366;">Next up on the list of dream jobs was to be an architect. The work of architects has so much to do with our lives in general, besides the obvious aesthetics, they need to consider what is most beneficial to humans in terms of our living spaces, freedom of movement, hygiene, comfort, lighting etc. They can work with so many different materials and work with so many people from different arenas to coordinate the culmination of the building. Unfortunately again, I didn't really think beforehand of what was required for the course and was glaringly short of a portfolio. The possibilty of not making the cut from draughtsman to trainee architect also was frightening, the distinction would be too great. Cost was also a big factor, for most of the projects, a lot of money had to be spent to acquire the necessary materials and fun though the projects may be, they jabbed deep into the purse.</span></p><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;color:#663333;">So there we have it, I was 18 with two dream jobs vanquished like soap bubbles. I started to become even more impractical and thought of taking a degree in dancing. I have a natural gift for dancing and a passion for music</span> <span style="font-family:arial;color:#663300;">but no money to pay for it. I didn't want to let my parents pay for something that could be a bad investment.</span><br /><br /></div><p align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;color:#663333;">So what was left were the safe choices. Business, engineering and the new field of computer science. My dad had the belief that I would have the best future (read: make devilishly good money) in this line so there was that. Easy-going me was open to any challenges.</span></p><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><span style="color:#663300;">Now with a honours degree under my belt and 4 years of working in IT, I do question</span> <span style="color:#663300;">whether I should have been more insistent on pursuing my dream job. I cannot say I regret going into this line as I have learnt and enjoyed learning what it offers, I always liked to work my brains. The creativity employed might not always be artistic, but I do like finding new ways of getting around a problem. IT is all about solutions. It is a tool to make life easier, even though when it is badly done, it is as irritating as a sore back.</span> <span style="color:#663300;">There is less to say about the ones making the solutions. Incredible satisfactions come with the end product, but we architects of the software really do suffer at times. The hours are inhuman, especially if you have clients who support shift work. As professionals, we do not get paid overtime, yet with the work we do, we should be called labourers. I question if it is all worthwhile. Stability is a key to happiness for me, I do not want to be destitute and hence the safe option of slogging for dollars. Yet I do want the decency of planning life outside of work to do things I want, like learning Gu Zheng, chinese medicine, take up a design course, charity work, hanging out with friends, travelling, hiking, diving etc. There is so much to life to explore outside of work.</span> <span style="color:#660000;">Religious practice is especially important for me, the peace and well-being felt during practice is undescribable, I truly believe the ultimate happiness it will lead me to.</span></span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><br /> </div></span><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;">The question is now however, am I happy now? There are moments where I feel stressed or gloomy, but on the whole, I am ok. If I catch myself ruminating over some uncomfortable matters, I will try to look at something pleasant, like a beautiful flower, trees or the blue sky and think how lucky I am to be able to enjoy such simple pleasures. In the end, when required to, we can only do our best in our work, but let's not stress ourselves out thinking about the same problem when it is past or when we are not working. Smell the flowers, I say!</span></div><div align="justify"><span style="font-family:arial;"><br /> </div></span><span style="font-family:arial;"></span>Ngagwang Palmohttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15009595122773848721noreply@blogger.com0