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Breathing with the Bell, Footsteps, and Peace and Joy in the Present Moment
The gatha serving children and adults includes three versions in Vietnamese, English, and French, helping to refresh body and mind. When practicing, the practitioner goes through the steps:
- In, Out
- Deep, Slow
- Calm, Ease
-
Smile, Release
If practicing “Present moment, wonderful moment” three times, it will take exactly one minute, while practicing the full steps will take two minutes and ten seconds. When inviting the bell, one needs to breathe three times before releasing, keeping the sound of the bell clear, round, and strong. In walking meditation, the left foot always steps first accompanying the in-breath to create a habit of stillness, holding a flower or a bell as a way to celebrate life.
The story of the turtle by Chuang Tzu is mentioned to emphasize choosing to be a live turtle dragging its tail in the mud rather than a precious shell worshipped in a temple, meaning finding peace and joy right in the present moment instead of sacrificing for the future. Chanting texts need to be composed further to be suitable for young people, for example, the Exhortation, instead of just using old repentance texts. The most important thing in organizing a retreat is that the workers must have happiness and peace right while cooking, washing dishes, or organizing, not just aiming to get the work done.
The difficulties and crises in the history of Persimmon Village related to the family of Brother Thieu, Sister Mui, and lay friends like Chan Quan and Chan Khong are recounted in detail to draw lessons about true brotherhood and sisterhood. Without peace and harmony, organizing for others to practice will lack authenticity. Everyone needs the ability to sit down together, use loving speech to resolve internal formations, and nourish collective joy.
