Foreword

There have been many people who have travelled to the Sukhavati Buddhist Institute, spanning across an area of one hundred thousand square metres, which will be the site of a development that is harmonious with nature, a site where Sangha and others are able to have the opportunity to practice the words of the Lord Buddha in a deep and meaningful manner.

A fundraising dinner does not occur on a regular basis. This is an event which shares and displays each and every contribution made. In addition, it is also an opportunity to get together, keeping in mind that this social event is not about being tactful. It encapsulates the many hands, minds that have provided strength on this path in developing a positive aspect to life. A life lived in peace with society is something which is rarely encountered, as known by those who are accustomed to a life in the city. On the other hand, there will come a time when issues will no longer be as simple as first thought. The transformation of one’s mentality on daily activities can have the effect of causing us to stray into a state which is unbalanced, where it is easy to venture into negative environments, trapping us in a lost and uncertain state.

For any unpredicted circumstances, one who had some spiritual preparation can easily adapt to the unwelcome environment.

The nature of what has just been raised is an issue that is important in guiding us in this event, and as it can be seen, this fundraising dinner in the season of Ullumbana is one where we all persevere in order to take action in a deep and meaningful light, to contribute in a befitting manner to display our appreciation as Buddha’s disciples, or on the basis that we as individuals want to show our appreciation to our present parents and also our parents of many previous lives.

The Committee for Construction have set out short term objectives, in addition to long term objectives. Our ability to achieve such objectives is dependent upon your support.

Within our lives, there are always fissures. These fissures are not equal due to confrontation with different aspects. However, up to a certain time, we cannot deny that spiritual light should not be missing within our hearts.

Due to this, together, we should seek out a better path, and live in harmony. If suffering is real, loving kindness is needed just as much, if not even more so. Unhappiness is unavoidable within our lives. This indicates that happiness itself is an essential aspect which should be apparent within ourselves and our corresponding context in which we live.

Due to this, it allows us to foster opportunities to be close to one another and to ignite our faith in the Triple Gems. Tonight’s gathering has been a night which has given us the opportunity to convey to you all that: altruism beautifies your life and that the essential responsibility of all those who follow in the footsteps of Buddha is to ensure that the Buddha Dharma flourishes.

We sincerely thank you all for your contribution in all aspects for this fundraising dinner tonight. We sincerely hope that you are all able to attain happiness and peace in your lives.

Sincerely,

The Committee for Construction