Experience sharing

Serenity and Warmth in Heart and Mind

My short reflection would be that the Introduction to Chan Meditation was phenomenal and something everyone should do. The instructor, a resident venerable, did an inspiring job and truly inspired my peers and me to continue Chan practice.
 
In giving a complete account of my illuminating experience learning Chan meditation, there is nowhere else to start but saying every second of it gave me such serenity and warmth within my heart and mind. Despite practicing meditation plenty of times at other Buddhist institutions, I struggled to maintain my practice as a full-time student with a full-time job. Sometimes, a plague of anxiety or even shame would arise because I felt like I had no time to meditate or perhaps thoughts that I was doing things wrong all along. Ultimately, it would lead me to feel distant from the Dharma. However, this single introductory lesson made me feel a sense of rebirth back into the world of mindfulness and Chan practice.
 
This course was offered by Dharma Drum Mountain with the purpose of spreading the Dharma and Buddhist methods of bringing our awareness back to ourselves to help us deal with the difficulties that we all face in our lives. Before coming to the course, many have preconceived perceptions that meditation is only "controlling the breath, quarter lotus position, and blanking the mind". However, in truth, meditation is far more than that. Many people I have spoken to have never heard of the different meditation positions nor thought about the necessity of mini-exercises and stretching beforehand. Such an opportunity opens the gateway of clarity where our minds and bodies are in sync and harmony, revealing true self-compassion.          
 
The instructor made things humourous, engaging, and serene. She made the experience feel so joyous and lovely, and I felt like all my worries before stepping through the doors were washed away with her invigorating teaching and positivity. Everyone I spoke with felt included and seen by her. Every word she uttered seemed to come directly from her heart. Her words were entertaining, encouraging, and wise. Through the instructor, we felt closer to each other just as much as we felt closer to the Dharma.
 
After the session, I felt such love and serenity toward everyone around me, including myself. Dharma Drum Mountain offered an experience that shall stay with me for the rest of my life. No words can formally express my gratitude for being allowed to attend this meditation series. 南無阿彌陀佛.
 
Written by Zhenyi Tsai 2023.3.28
Photo: Dharma Drum Vancouver Centre