By Lan Choi
Q: Can you tell us what is the reason(s) you joined the BTHP program?
A: I’ve always loved volunteering—it feels like a blessing to be able to give. There’s something deeply humbling and joyful about being in a position to offer support, rather than needing to rely on others. To give is to be entrusted with the opportunity to serve, and that in itself is a gift.
I was also genuinely curious about what the Sangha was learning and cultivating. Becoming a BTHP felt like the perfect doorway—not only to support the retreat, but to witness and participate in the Dharma being lived. It allowed me to observe the Sangha’s practice up close and to reflect on my own path with greater clarity. In many ways, it was both an offering and an invitation to grow.
Q: Did the essence of being a BTHP shift your core values?
A: It was a truly meaningful experience—one that reminded me of the importance of humility and the joy of serving. I’ve always loved volunteering, so being able to do that with CSS felt like a blessing. There’s something deeply fulfilling about working alongside others toward a shared goal, especially when that goal is rooted in helping and uplifting others.
Being a BTHP was rewarding in every sense. I felt a sense of joy and purpose in the collaboration, in the quiet moments of service, and in the collective spirit of care. That kind of community energy—where everyone is contributing with open hearts—is something I deeply cherish. It’s the kind of spirit that nourishes both the giver and the receiver.
Q: What do you think about the Sangha?
A: When I saw that the Sangha included people of all ages and at various stages of their spiritual cultivation, something shifted in me—I thought, I could do this. Then, during one of the sessions, Thầy spoke about one of the most selfless acts: the Sangha’s willingness to set aside self and ego in order to dedicate the merits of their practice to others. That moment struck me deeply.
I realized I didn’t need to wait until I felt “ready” or spiritually advanced enough to understand the Dharma more fully. It wasn’t about reaching some ideal level of cultivation—it was about the act of giving, of being selfless. It was about putting aside vanity and ego to offer the fruits of one’s practice for the benefit of others. Now, it’s simply a matter of continued reflection and cultivation—gathering the courage and humility to take that step and join the Sangha when the time feels right.
Q: Did you feel your task or role helped you to unfold and nurture the Bodhisattva path?
A: Absolutely. Being able to learn the Dharma directly from Thầy while simultaneously serving others felt like a true embodiment of Transcending Worldliness and Engaging with the World—stepping out of the world to cultivate, and stepping back in to serve. Working closely with others for many consecutive days, often with little sleep, offered countless opportunities to practice mindfulness and compassion in real time.
I found myself needing to anticipate potential tensions and consciously prepare to respond with equanimity. It wasn’t just about avoiding conflict—it was about not even allowing negative thoughts to arise when I felt tired or frustrated. That kind of mental preparation and inner discipline felt deeply aligned with the Bodhisattva path. If I can carry that same intentionality into my daily life, it would be a gift—not only for myself but for those around me.
Q: What was your most uplifting moment during the retreat?
A: One of the most uplifting moments for me was during our group mantra recitations, when Thầy began to sing the Thousand-Petal Lotus song for YSA. As more voices joined in, a wave of peace and joy washed over me—a feeling of deep connection, not just to the music, but to its meaning and the collective energy of the Sangha.
I remember vividly the joy of simply being there—fully present, learning from Thầy, and cultivating alongside others. It felt like such a blessing, a moment suspended in grace. That song in particular has stayed with me. I’ve been singing it at home almost every day so I don’t forget. And each time I reach the high note, I feel something stir in me—something tender and true. It’s as if the song itself is a gentle reminder of the beauty of the path and the gift of being part of it.
Q: What was your most memorable moment?
A: It was when the BTHP team gathered after our serving shift to sing and celebrate the birthday of one of the dining hall workers—Christy, I believe. Though most of us had only met her a few days earlier, the warmth and sincerity of the gesture deeply moved her. The outpouring of love from near-strangers was palpable, and her co-workers, too, seemed touched by the spontaneous act of kindness.
It was beautiful to witness people from different backgrounds—many of whom barely knew each other—come together in such a genuine spirit of care. I remember feeling inspired by our Dharma sister Antee’s open-heartedness, her ability to embrace someone she had just met with such ease and joy. In that moment, I thought: This is what Thầy has been teaching us.
Q: Did the spirit of BTHP help you become more compassionate and supportive of others in daily life after the retreat?
A: When I read Diana Ta’s text about being gentle in the way we serve and carry ourselves, it made me realize that how we serve is just as important as the act of serving itself. The quality of our presence—the softness, the mindfulness, the intention—speaks volumes about our inner state.
Service isn’t just about completing tasks; it’s a mirror of our mindset and heart. When we move with gentleness, we embody compassion. When we serve with humility, we cultivate selflessness. That awareness has helped me see service not just as an offering to others, but as a practice of inner refinement.
Q: Thank you for the conversation, Chị Lan Choi. Is there anything else you’d like to share before we end?
A: Thank you for the opportunity to become a BTHP. It’s an experience I’ll carry with me always—filled with meaningful moments, deep reflections, and friendships that I’ll never forget. I’m truly grateful for the chance to serve, to learn, and to grow alongside such a beautiful community.