Memory of XGVT

We had a dear friend. He was always enthusiastic and helpful. People love working with him because he knew how to create a harmonious and comfortable environment, making everyone happy to collaborate.

That summer, we met him and his family in a nearby gathering. The next day, he had an accident and suddenly passed away. Despite knowing that life in this world is impermanent, everyone who encountered that situation was shocked and deeply moved.

At the end of that year, my husband and I, along with some friends and relatives of his family, a total of 14 people, decided to participate in XGVT to dedicate merits to him. Many of us had never been ordained before.

The day before, we stayed at a hotel near the monastery. That night, we helped each other shave our heads, leaving a small tuft for Thầy to shave the next day. Although it was just us shaving each other’s heads, it was a deeply emotional experience. Some couldn’t hold back tears.

Throughout the retreat, the group supported each other with harmony and determination towards a common purpose: channeling loving-kindness for a person we all cherished. That year, in particular, Thầy taught us the practice of the Blue Lotus, a compassionate method of Guan Yin Bodhisattva that guides departed souls to a peaceful afterlife. Additionally, the moments of meditation and listening to the teachings on love without regret helped heal our hearts.

We would like to express our gratitude to Thầy for instilling more determination in us and providing the opportunity for us to request the Buddha assembly’s assistance for our beloved ones.

_{Thân Minh Tuyền / Thân Minh Đàm}