I was invited to my second Buddhist celebration on January 19^th, 2011. This celebration was to honor the birth of a very important Buddha – Mahavairocana Buddha. He is called the Great Sun Buddha. Mahavairocana transforms into three thousand different Buddhas and gives Light to Three Thousand Galaxies.

The celebration was held at the Five World Buddhas Temple in Amsterdam, New York. We were graciously greeted at the door and led through the reception area into the main area where there appeared a long table filled with a variety of delectable food. The gathering began with interesting and lively conversation between the guests and Nuns. We were then blessed with the presence of Holy Ziguang Shang Shi, who welcomed us graciously. After the welcome we formed a procession line. Each one of us was given an offering to place on the altar of the Buddha. Some participants were given fruit to symbolize a fruitful life in their next incarnation. Some were given flowers to symbolize personal good looks and beauty in their next incarnation. We all proceeded upstairs to the sound of a distant drum and gave our offerings to the Holy Master.

Holy Ziguang Shang Shi indicated that: “The four words of “Guang Huan Mi Zong” were bestowed by this great Buddha. Thus Guang Huan Mi Zong appeared in this world, to spread the brightness to the hearts in need of care. We then were blessed by the Buddha during a meditation.

After the ceremony we again gathered downstairs at the long table. We shared our stories of the benefits obtained from practicing Guang Huan Mi Zong Health Dharma. Most stories were of miraculous healing. One woman told the story of having a thriving business but she was in such poor health that she could not enjoy her wealth. She had been confined to a wheel chair until she met the Holy Ziguang Shang Shi and received the Guang Huan Mi Zong Health Dharma. Now she is on her feet and able to walk and even walk up stairs. The overriding theme was, health is of paramount importance in life. Great wealth can be accumulated, but without good health money is of little value. Some of us were drawn initially out of curiosity but then felt strongly drawn to return. Such was my case. There was a feeling of Love, Peace, and belonging that I experienced the morning after my first exposure to the Guang Huan Mi Zong Health Dharma and the wonderful people of the World Peace and Health Organization.

After our stories were heard, all took enjoyment in the delicious food that was served. Sandwiches and wonderfully flavorful salads were served. Traditional Chinese tea was enjoyed by all. And the sweets, that I love so much, were there for the taking. Holy Ziguang Shang Shi gave us many blessings during the meal along with so many smiles, pleasant conversation and laughter.

I left with my heart full of joy and a strong sense of belonging for these wonderfully genuine people who give of themselves selflessly in the pursuit of Health and Peace for all Sentient Beings on this planet. I am so proud and blessed to be in their company.

Dragonfly