In the United States, all attention this week is on our celebration of Thanksgiving. It’s a traditional time for family, food and football. It’s also a celebration to remind Americans to practice gratitude and appreciation for everything in our lives. Safe travels and joyful times!
The concept of repaying debts of gratitude is fundamental in Buddhism. According to the principle of the oneness of self and others, the reason each individual is able to exist at the present moment is due to the many influences of others. We are able to exist only because of connections to others: to parents and ancestors, teachers, friends, neighbors, society, the nation and the environment. In fact, we owe our existence to everything, both the tangible and the intangible. One who is awakened to this feels gratitude for all living beings, and to all existence.*
Lecture: Buddhist Concept of the Ten Worlds
Visit Myosenji Temple this Sunday, November 26th, for a brief lecture on Buddhism’s concept of the Ten Worlds by our Chief Priest. Rev Sakabe will also explain the importance gratitude plays in our lives and how our Buddhist practice teaches us how to show gratitude to others.
- Learn how to chant Nam Myoho Renge Kyo and properly use the Juzu Beads, Buddhist prayer beads.
- Q&A with our Chief Priest.
- The meeting starts at 2:00 pm and concludes around 3:15 pm. Open to the public.
If you have decided to become a Buddhist or are interested in learning how to become a Buddhist, after Sunday’s meeting (about 3:30 pm) Rev Sakabe will be performing the Acceptance of the Precept Ceremony, the ceremony where you become a Buddhist.
