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.
As Buddhists, we try to manifest gratitude everyday because 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.
Visit Myosenji Temple
Sunday, December 8th, Myosenji Temple will host a brief lecture by our Chief Priest, Rev Sakabe, on Karma. He will explain how to turn your misconceptions about life into true joy and happiness.
- 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.
- 310 University Blvd West, Silver Spring, MD 20901 entrance on Burnett Ave
To start your Buddhist practice…
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.
