Celebration of Enlightenment and Harmony (25th May)

             A warm Spring evening brought together people from diverse backgrounds  in celebration of Dhammanjali Meditation Centre’s 4th Anniversary, along with a launch of their 2nd Annual News Magazine and Buddha’s Enlightenment Day in Regina on May 25th.  The event was set in a quiet building located in the lovely Rotary Park in the heart of Regina.  The weather was spectacular and the audience of 70 listened attentively as the program was set in full swing which  promptly began at 7:00 pm. The entertainment performed by the Dhamma School children added a taste of the many activities that takes place at DMC.   The moderator,  Anwesha, kept the event running smoothly by introducing a line up of speakers which included local politicians, members of the Sangha and lay communities.  Privileged were all that heard Bimal Bhikkhu from India speak about the wisdom of Buddha teachings and it’s relevance up to present day. Alongside, one of DMC’s patron donators, Dr. Talukdar, spoke about the beauty of having DMC present in the Regina community and the resources it has to sustain a conducive space for people to gather for traditional Buddhist celebrations and meditation to name a few.  One local politician, Mr. Speaker Mark Docherty, also shared a short message conveying a sense of gratefulness for DMC existing as a spiritual Center for “all people’s” and the numerous programs it has to offer for those “in need”.   The evening was highlighted with a led group meditation guided by our very own founder of DMC, Bhante Debongshi.  His insightful meditation included techniques that offered the meditator a joyful path to travel inward and find the true love of light within.  Thank you Bhante for your generous gift through that guided meditation.  A homage to the Buddha in form of a group chant in the Pali language was enjoyed and offered up as a form of gratitude and respect.  This was followed by an English translation by Warren Schenk, a DMC devoted meditator.  To end the evening, another devoted meditator, Brandon Bertram, gave a lively, clear and personal message about his journey with meditation and the impact it has had on his life. All were captivated as the evening drew to a close.
           With “a calm”- abiding in the atmosphere, all willing were called to gather for a group photo and a closing refreshment.  It was truly a celebration which recognized the conscious action displayed through joyful efforts from members and devotees and visitors.  A community based, non-profit  organization that for four years now, stands strong in its vision and commitment. This commitment, as seen through the second annual publication of DMC’s Newsmagazine,  offers a glimpse both through illustrations and delightful stories of that vision.   A true celebration which was gratefully launched in the eye of Buddha’s Enlightenment Day.  What a beautiful way to spend warm spring evening.  An applause goes out to all who attended in making this event one to be remembered. 
                               Namo Tassa Bhagavato, Arahato, Samma Sambuddhassa.
                                         ~By Monica Antonowitsch