OPENING REMARK
Namo Sakyamuni Buddha,
Sangha Members, Distinguished Guests, Mr. & Mrs. Green, Ladies and Gentlemen,
Over the past week, the tragic events that took place on Sept 11, 2001 are remembered. It wasn't until then that the term "terrorism" was used frequently in the news, the media, and in our daily conversations. More now than ever, people across the world are longing for peace in order to ease their suffering, and ultimately eliminate thoughts of war and terror on a permanent level. As Buddhist practitioners, there is the natural belief that happiness can be self- attained which results in our surroundings achieving that goal as well.
Life is full of adversities, but as Buddhists we must turn suffering into happiness, ignorance into awareness, and hatred into love. A peaceful heart leads to a peaceful environment. This is an opportunity to worship the Jade Buddha as it is a symbol of peace. Jade stone has been considered the "Gem of Heaven" and is a symbolic link between humanity and spirituality. Its aim is to inspire everyone who sees it to find peace in their home, their schools, their work, and most importantly their hearts and minds.
This is made possible by Mr. and Mrs. Ian Green, with the assistance of their spiritual master Lama Zopa Rinphoche, who have headed a 5 year project to transform a simple jade boulder into an offering to the world. The Jade Buddha for Universal Peace has traveled across the continents including Australia, Asia, North America, and Europe for millions to worship.
At this tranquil event, after 8 months of dedicated preparation from hundreds of volunteers, the Jade Buddha is finally ready to be unveiled. From now to Oct 1, 2010, there will be continuous events such as chanting, praying to help forsaken spirit find peace, meditation sessions, and group discussions regarding world peace. With these scheduled events, the organizing committee would like to emphasize the true meaning of worshiping "Universal Peace" as taking initiative with one's life using the guidance of Buddha to ease suffering and to attain inner peace
Thank you for your presence. May peace and happiness be with you and your family.
Respectfully yours,
Bikkhuni Thich Nu Tien Lien
Organizing Committee President
