After lunch today, we spent some time at the Sri Lankaramaya temple off St Michael's Road, the pride and joy of Theravada Buddhism on our little island.
Just soaking in the festivities and getting into the spirit of things. Boy, what a crowd!
And then when I finally got home just now and read today's papers, there was an article in it that described the increasing attraction of Buddhism to young, white-collared professionals. But I was not interested in the statistics or demographics. What struck me was a quote from a certain Mr Hsieh Foo Hua which I thought sort of represents the type of mental models we should inculcate in our young.
By making itself accessible and inclusive, the religion has reached out even to those of other religions. Singapore Exchange chief Hsieh Foo Hua, 57, for example, is a staunch Christian who attends Buddhist talks, especially those by high monks. He said: 'Buddhism is a very embracing and non- exclusive religion...I am fundamentally rooted as a Christian but I am impressed and influenced by Buddhist thinking, which has helped me in the uplifting of the mind and spirit.'It is my hope, this Vesak Day, that we open our hearts and minds to more learning.
Labels: Musings