In powerful verses, Zhen Ru marvels at the infinite potential within each of us, akin to a sun from within, which has the might to floodlight the coldest, scariest and loneliest shadows of samsara once empowered by the compassion of altruism and wisdom of emptiness. With nurture, our hearts will develop steadfast resilience that illuminates every dark corner of suffering and warms every chill of despair.
In this reflective prose, Zhen-ru shares a lesson from a pruned pear tree: just as pruning sacrifices the enticing spectacle of flourishing pear blossoms for the promise of succulent fruit crops later, one must mindfully navigate between the tricky choices of instant enjoyment and the enduring sweetness of delayed rewards. What must be given up must be given up, or else time will pass and regret will remain.
In this lyrical writing on the beauty of the lotus, Zhen Ru reminds us of the transformative power we have within, and the boundless possibilities it brings. Though its life begins in the mud, its destiny is not bound by the sludge around it. Instead, it rises and blossoms into splendid purity and sublimity. Just like the lotus, if we plant our roots in the words of the wise, and nourish our hearts with faith and cou rage, won't we flourish into a world of wonder, too?
A short prayer sung by Zhen-ru as she reflected on the numerous disturbing natural disasters and other mishaps around the world in 2017. She is used to praying for the happiness of all sentient beings every morning while making many kinds of offerings to the Buddhas and her venerable Masters. This short piece illuminates her unheard wishes during these prayers.
Take a walk alongside Zhen-Ru in the ambience of mother nature. Embrace lovable discoveries as you observe and admire the world around us through her eyes. You’ll find this transcribed oral journal a source of joy, gratitude and affinity toward all the lives around us.
Zhen Ru invites the world to look out her window with hope and appreciation, to see the subtle beauty around that we tend to miss in the midst of life’s challenges. Let us take a moment of silence, see through the window of her soul and bring serenity into ours.
Walking along the shore, Zhen-Ru ponders the vastness of the sea and the smallness of self, and concludes that by being mindful, one can surpass all limitations to pursue true happiness.
A compassionate Teacher has promised to encourage and guard people along on the quest for true happiness. The journey is made so readily, that just one step forward, you will embark on the vessel of awakening wisdom, that will lead you to the land of hope.
Like the burgeoning leaves of maple in frigid winds, positive thoughts can transform adversities into learning opportunities. Follow the mind journey of a practitioner; find peace and wisdom from Buddhist teachings.
The Great Eagle's Dream describes a compassionate determination to remove sufferings from all humanity. The mind soars like a giant eagle, which surmounts ordeals and death, and goes on a quest for serene happiness.
