Most Ven. Thich Phuoc Hue's Speech at fundraising dinner on Sat 29/07/2006
Ladies and gentlemen,
The footsteps of those that follow the Buddha always find their strength in the Three Gems. Without this faith, it is very difficult to cope with the inconsistency of life. When examining closely, current affairs and warfare that has occurred in recent times, such as in Indonesia, Vietnam, China and the countries of the Middle East, we feel the pain of humanity itself. Before such catastrophes, there are times when the thought of developing Buddhism has become constricted within my heart.
It is evident to you all that at times, I feel as if my strength has almost given out. My only wish is that we are able to find a peaceful environment where we are able to spiritually develop. Retrospectively, there are many people, whether Buddhist or non-Buddhist, who vitally need help in order to resolve the pressures of life and to develop their spiritual self in an environment that is convenient, separated from the stresses of society today.
The Sukhavati Buddhist Institute is located in natural bushland at Gosford, not far from the city. Further still, this is a great area for those who have undertaken the monastic life as well as those who lead ordinary lives in society. It is not through overconfidence, however our technique for development and the care and support of everyone will always be interdependent, constructing a path which brings benefit to many generations.
This fundraising dinner is in support of the construction of the Sukhavati Buddhist Institute, even though there are some moments where we question whether it should be done or not. And yet, your continual support dissipates all such thoughts. Therefore, through this gathering, we are able to share with you any developments. It is an opportunity where we are able to learn about the activities from the past to the future, and any plans for the future and its direction.
Ladies and gentleman,
Each period of time has its own different transformation. In particular, the Sukhavati Buddhist Institute has had many transformations which have had an even quality, as we share in the presentation from the Committee for Construction. This justifies the notion that the development of the institute has not been slow. Despite occurrences which have been beyond our control, this has equipped us with methods of resolution for many different circumstances.
Your presence here today is evident of your support of the Committee for Construction. Even in the face of adversity, we will have the ability to overcome it. A large part of this will come from the blessing of the Triple Gems. Similarly, your generous nature and contribution has been a very precious force to enable us to achieve our goals. Within this, there is strength, creativity, encouragement and volunteer work on the site of the Sukhavati Buddhist Institute itself.
With your contributions regarding technological matters, finance and potential in the development of the Sukhavati Buddhist Institute, this highlights our long-term affinity. Every road has its own hardship. With the unification of our perspectives in aiming towards a particular goal, this has encapsulated the positivity surrounding the goal of a community.
We believe that the Triple Gem shall bless all of us in our pursuit for happiness and your mind towards spiritual values that will never fade.
Namo Forest of Merits Bodhisattva Mahasattva.
The Most Venerable Thich Phuoc Hue