In celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, a group of 15 employees from the globally renowned telecommunications company Nokia visited Fo Guang Shan Chicago on May 9. Representing diverse cultural backgrounds, the participants gained a deeper understanding of Buddhist culture and the core spirit of Humanistic Buddhism through guided tours, hands-on experiences, and meaningful exchange.
The group was received by Venerable Miao Wei and BLIA members, who introduced the propagation philosophy of FGS founder Venerable Master Hsing Yun and the temple’s mission to foster talent through education and propagate the Dharma through culture. During the tour, employees inquired about the symbolism of the Triple Gem Buddhas and the classification of Buddhist schools, with monastics and volunteers providing detailed explanations. The visitors then participated in a lotus origami workshop, symbolizing purity and resilience, while learning about the practical applications of the “Three Acts of Goodness” and “Four Givings.”
Following the tour, Head Priest Venerable Yung Han led a “Tea and Zen as One” experience. She guided the guests to use their six sense faculties—eyes, ears, nose, tongue, body, and mind—to observe the leaves unfolding, smell the aroma, and savor the taste. This practice taught them to focus on the present and cultivate mindfulness, embodying the Zen wisdom that “the present moment is the most beautiful.” The Venerable shared a message based on the Master’s calligraphy, “Cloud and Water: Ease and Liberty,” wishing everyone physical and mental stability.
Mr. Setha Venkataraman, who comes from a Hindu background, remarked that this was his first visit to a Buddhist temple. He felt a deep sense of compassion and equality, particularly during the Buddha-bathing ritual, which he experienced as a way to cleanse the inner self. He was also impressed by the majestic design of the FGS Headquarters’ “Triple Gem Mountain” and expressed a desire to visit Taiwan in the future.
Mrs. Tracy Coutr’e, from a Catholic background, noted that both Buddhism and Catholicism emphasize gratitude and peace. She was moved by the inner tranquility and awareness she found during the Buddha-bathing and Tea Zen sessions, expressing a wish to practice the wisdom of “staying mindful and living in the moment” in her daily life.
The event coordinator, Mrs. Nirmala Narayanareddy, expressed her gratitude for the temple’s warm hospitality and meticulous arrangements. She noted that interfaith and intercultural exchange not only fosters understanding and respect but also promotes social harmony and equality.
At the conclusion of the visit, Venerable Yung Han presented each guest with prayer beads and essential oils as symbolic gifts. She also shared the joyful news of the upcoming temple expansion, welcoming the community to continue supporting the temple’s mission to benefit all beings and promote a positive, harmonious society.