Moments of reflection and gratitude unfolded at the "Tea – Season of Gratitude and Youth" program
The tea-sharing night glowed softly in candlelight, carrying the deep fragrance of tea and the tender sweetness of candies upon tender Bodhi leaves, naturally settling hearts into calmness and reflection.
Under the monks' guidance, young retreatants of the November Buddhist Youth Retreat entered a short meditation, contemplating the grace and kindness of their teachers throughout their lives. From this stream of gratitude arose sincere and heartfelt sharing as they listened to the monks' stories — and offered their own — about the teachers who had guided them in their lives and about Thay Thich Truc Thai Minh, their revered Buddhist master. He is both a revered teacher and a compassionate father, tirelessly planting and nurturing seeds of goodness in all beings with boundless love.
The monks warmly shared and engaged with the participants during the “Tea – A Season of Gratitude and Youth” program
Amidst the tranquil atmosphere, young retreatants practiced meditation together, contemplating the grace and kindness of their teachers throughout their lives
Serene moments of meditation before enjoying tea and sharing heartfelt stories in this season of gratitude
Young retreatants meditated, contemplating the grace and guidance of the teachers in their lives
The tea initially had a bitter, slightly tannic taste, then slowly melted into gentle sweetness, leaving one with a sense of comfort and clarity
Young retreatants enjoyed tea and cakes while listening to stories that evoked a range of emotions during the season of gratitude
Small candles cast a warm, gentle glow across the stillness
In this intimate and contemplative space, heartfelt sharings opened a quiet connection, helping everyone understand one another more deeply
To the monks, Thay unwaveringly guides and uplifts them on their noble path to enlightenment. To the lay community – especially the young generation – Thay is a devoted gardener, patiently tending and nurturing seeds of virtue, helping each person live beautifully and peacefully in this world.
The song “Gratitude to Thay,” with its warm and gentle melody, was beautifully performed by the young participants during this evening of remembrance
Young participants raised their phone lights and sang songs of gratitude to Thay
A simple tea gathering, yet enough for them to pause, reflect, and awaken a deep sense of gratitude
The tea-sharing night, marking the beginning of November and the first day of the young Buddhist retreat, concluded in a warm, serene atmosphere, leaving the sweet, lasting flavour of gratitude imprinted on every heart of the participants.
