In general, although concerned, the participants were optimistic and that we need to continue our efforts to study, practice and conduct ourselves well. With time, as we foster Dharma friendships with lay people and participate in Buddhist gatherings, the presence and value of monastics will naturally come to be recognized in this country. Excellent training and continued guidance is key before one takes ordination and especially in the early years of one s life as a monastic. This gave people a chance to express themselves and it was skillful for it allowed everyone an opportunity to speak. He then presented ways of according with the Dharma and of the signs and form of the Samana.
Blessings come from making others happy.
Dukkha is a sign that can lead to liberation if we don t despair. She suggested that if the Buddha had not awakened to dukkha in seeing the earlier signs, he might not have seen the Samana, the sign of the renunciate would not have meant much to him. She quoted from many sources in the Pali Suttas. As worldly beings we are intoxicated with youth, health, beauty and life, we don t see their impermanent and unstable nature. Good friendship is the forerunner and necessitates arising of the Noble Eight-Fold Path.