On the afternoon of August 17, the Third Subchapter of the BLIA Chicago Chapter hosted a members’ gathering at the temple. The event was a refined and intellectual “Tea and Zen” journey. President Bin Wang of the Third Subchapter opened the gathering by explaining the theme: “The journey of practicing Buddhism is like climbing steps, one level at a time.” Twenty-one participants shared their personal spiritual journeys while enjoying tea.
White Elephant Executive of the Chicago YAD, Bin-Xin Wang, kicked off the event with a word-matching game. The tea-tasting was organized into three stations, hosted by Vice President Dao-Xuan Zhang, member Hui-Wen Wen, and Ting-Fang He. Participants moved between tables to sample different varieties of tea and appreciate the unique tea sets.
Head Priest Venerable Yung Han invited the assembly to reflect on three questions:
- In life, work, or social interactions, do we let our emotions lead us when facing external pressure? How do we become aware of our emotional fluctuations?
- When we are able to perceive or manage our emotions, what impact does it have on our life, work, and personal behavior?
- How does it feel internally when we realize we are no longer being pulled away by external circumstances or emotions?
Continuing the metaphor of climbing steps, the Venerable proposed four levels of progression to encourage the assembly to build a solid foundation in their Buddhist practice:
- Level 1: Right Understanding and Belief in Causality. Causality is built upon Right Understanding, allowing one to see the truth of things and achieve self-awakening.
- Level 2: Precepts as the Baseline. By not infringing upon others, we prevent the arising of afflictions and negative emotions. This is a method for “settling the mind.” We should practice having fewer desires and understand “letting go”—not by discarding everything, but by thoughtfully choosing what is essential.
- Level 3: Observing the Present with Wisdom. Listening or speaking too much can keep us on the surface of wisdom. Through study and practice, we can reach the core of wisdom, understanding that everything in the world is in constant flux and applying the Dharma to our work and life.
- Level 4: Implementing Action Through Vows. Power comes from vows. The process of cultivation involves Faith, Understanding, Practice, and Realization.
During the sharing session, Chapter Director Li-Yun Guo discussed how she communicates with colleagues who make repeated mistakes at work. Member Xiu-Zhao Cai shared that when her temper rises, she first stabilizes herself. Friend of FGS Ya-Lan Yang uses deep breathing to manage her emotions, noting that taking a step back opens up a broader perspective.
At the conclusion of the gathering, the Head Priest led the assembly in a collective vow: “May we meet through the Dharma in every lifetime; with the Buddha in our hearts and light in our eyes, may we practice diligently until we attain Buddhahood.”