BUDDY Blog

BUDDY's Wesak Eve 2011 Performance...

2011-09-30T17:06:00.003+08:00

BUDDY REUNION: The Great Return

2011-06-07T00:09:00.002+08:00

Retreat was a blast, and now Reunion is coming up. Head on to our Fb Pages BUDDY 2011 camp "The Great Escape" and BUDDY REUNION: The Great Return to keep in touch and find out our latest Retreat events!

WTH? RM 220?!

2011-05-04T02:53:00.000+08:00

Here's a quick break down of what the RM 220 is for :)

1. Hotel Accommodation.
This is what the Chin Swee temple rooms look like:

It will be 3 person per room. There's a private bathroom for each room ; so there won't be long lines and rushing for cubicles!

You can scout around, and check the prices for rooms on average in Genting :) You'll be surprised.

2. Food
You'll be served excellent restaurant food. 3 meals a day :)

3. Transportation
There will be a comfortable, safe and certified bus transporting all you monkeys up to Genting!

4. Insurance
Plus, your parents can be reassured that your safety is our priority with an insurance on you.

5. Micellaneos
T-shirt & stationery & games

Do some simple mathematics, and you'll see the how this might be the best deal you'll ever get :) Rm 220 for 3 days 2 nights to Genting, inclusive of nearly every need. You won't get anything better than this.

BUDDY'S GREAT ESCAPE!

2011-04-30T02:37:00.011+08:00

BUDDY's Retreat: The Great Escape is designed for those who wish that time would stop. It is for those who want to get away from the current hectic academic and social life.

The Great Escape will be an abode for you to rewind and relax. But, fret not! It won't be meditation and chantings all day long--even we won't be able to take that level of purity. In fact, we are here to present you the best of youth spirit and the best of Buddhism. It will be the perfect holiday getaway: fun, inspiring and intellectually adventurous!

This is a journey to somewhere far and beyond your worries.

Now, ready to escape?

Details:
Date: 3-5 June 2011 (Friday-Sunday)
Participating Age: 15-20 years old
Venue: Chin Swee Caves Temple Hotel, Genting Highlands
Price: RM220 (inclusive of hotel lodging, restaurant food,
transportation, insurance, and miscellaneous)
Contact: Melinda - 016-296 9637
or Jeen Pei - 012-213 3636

Sign up here.
You may pay your fees at our booth, every Sunday 9am - 10am @ Uttama Bodhi Vihara.

click here for Facebook page :D

2011-04-13T03:30:00.002+08:00

ANNUAL BUDDY CHARITY CAR WASH HAS BEGUN!
Bring over your cars to the community hall carpark just beside BUBS UBV for a quick scrub while donating to charity.
Date: 17th April 2011
Time: 8.30 to 11.30 am
Price: RM 8 per car/RM 10 for express wash
Venue: Community Hall Carpark (next to BUBS)

If you want to help out, feel free to contact us by writing in the comments below. Or just support us by bringing over your cars to wash. See you there!

BUDDY T-SHIRTS!

2011-03-25T20:05:00.002+08:00

Dear lovely amazing BUDDYs...BUDDY T-SHIRTS ARE NOW AVAILABLE!! Please order ASAP!!!

Here's how to order: Write your
1. Name
2. T-shirt size (Size ranges from XS, S, M, L, XL)
3. How many shirts you want. (Not required if you only want one)

Each shirt costs RM20.

As a guide, you know the 'The Brains' shirts that the commitee wear? Yeah, the girls wear XS shirts, the guys wear M.

I need orders in by March 31st. ^^ Those who order will get the sizes they want. Those who don't will have to make do with the extra stocks we have.

So. Very Simple: Save RM20, reply BUDDY's message, and wait.

Btw, this is BUDDY T-shirt, so we'll be wearing it to any BUDDY events, like the charity car wash coming up soon.

Reply to this post to order. :D

Participant's Briefing

2011-02-18T17:04:00.001+08:00

There will be a participant briefing this Saturday , 26th of February (one day before the race!).

Here we will tell you what to expect, what to bring, general rules, etc. Not to mention, you'll get to meet some of the 20 facilitators!

It is EXTREMELY important that you attend or else you would be completely lost. We're not making it compulsory but do know that your absence is entirely your lost. Plus, if you're not there and other teams are, they will be more familiar with the grounds, mechanics, rules and facilitators than you are. Just saying, y'know :)

Place : UBV, Bhavana Hall (refer to map)
Time : 2pm - 3.30pm
Attire : Below-knee pants/skirts. No SLEEVELESS

Confused?

2011-02-15T23:29:00.001+08:00

So we've been getting a few questions on the registration form.

Here's to clear it all up!

1. Team name
Don't bother on getting a super canggih name because it's only used for reference. You can put 'stupid', 'ikan bilis', 'supercallifragilous", etc as long as all 4 of your members type the SAME name, we're happy.

Your team names will NOT affect your 'coolness'. Its just for our reference.

2. Team Leader
The person is not going to take 100% blame + responsibility, he/she is someone we will contact if we need extra information regarding your team.

Don't stress on starting an elections and all. Chill, kids, chill. Just pick someone who owns a phone.

3. Registration Form
The form has to be filled by individually. You cannot ask someone else to fill it in for you.

TopAnswerOfTheDay: No, we cannot register you manually. ALL is done online.
It's the 21st century, ya'll.

We're going paperless!

4. Submitting
You can hand in the money and the indemnity form THIS Sunday from 9am - 12 pm at UBV. We'll be there with our checklist and everything. (We might be there on Saturday but we're not sure yet. We'll keep you posted on this)

However, the registration form MUST reach us ONLINE.

If you've any more questions, please pop it in. We'll reply you as fast as we can.

5 days left! HURRY!

How To Prepare ?

2011-02-13T23:33:00.003+08:00

So now that you're almost done with registration, what should you do within these two weeks?

Exercise.
We are not kidding. The park is huge and trust us when we say we will fully utilize the space.

But of course, you can always decide to bum at home and grow fat. Just remember your competitors are training hard for the race while you are pigging out.

Just saying :D

Rest Well
Drink a lot of water and keep the fittest that you can for the race!

Not only will you be more prepared to win the prize, but you might just catch the eye of some hot dude/chick. Who knows whom you might meet ? :)

I mean, friends. Not you know, yeah. We're not promoting B.G.R HERE! Just accepting the fact that we all have hormones. :D

Lepak
It would be a very good idea to hang out more often with your team-mates and come up with funny strategies or code names for the race! To win this race, it takes more than just tolerance. You want to have the best communication strategy.

In the TV series, there's only another partner to deal with. At our race, you have three other members to cooperate with. ---that is not exactly the easiest thing unless you know your team very well !

Merry!
Promote our event to people you hate/dislike. Nothing is better than the satisfaction of beating that friend you gossip often about.

TOTALLY KIDDING :) Hahah!

But yes, you get the idea. Help spread the word if you'd like!

Good luck & see you soon!

p.s : for those who have not register, please do so soon! You have less than a week left!

WHAT ARE YOU PAYING FOR?!

2011-02-12T19:42:00.001+08:00

Here's a quick post to explain what RM 20 will include:

1. Food & Drinks

2. Transport

3. Insurance

4. Fun!

RM 20 will not even get you that on normal days! You are in fact being subsidized by BUBS and other sponsors during this event.

Not to mention, there will be 12 stations. RM 20 divide by 12 = RM 1.67 per station. Without even calculating food&drinks, transport and insurance.

We're all stressing and sweating just to deliver you fun.

lovieyouverymuch, buddy.

photocredit : http://browse.deviantart.com/?q=money&order=9&offset=48#/d1bdq90

DEAR ALL,

2011-02-06T04:30:00.004+08:00

We, BUDDY, with pride and joy presents...
THE AMUSING RACE
It's big, it's fun, and we want YOU to be a part of it.

Date: 27th February 2011 (Sunday)
Time: 7.00 AM to 5.00 PM
Age: 13-19 Years Old
Fees: RM 20 Per Person (4 Members/team)
Venue: Metropolitan Park Kepong

Call: Melinda - 016-266 9637
Jeen Pei - 012-213 3636

"What is it?"
It's BUDDY's very own version of The Amazing Race. We're tired of letting KevJumba and the others have all the fun while we sit at home, legs restless, hands twitching, wondering how on earth we could ever join.

So we came up with this. A race-themed competition where teams of four battle it out with 11 other teams to emerge as the best of the rest.

Each team will have to accomplish tasks in order to get clues which will eventually lead them to the 'pit stop'. The first team to complete all tasks by the rules and arrive at the pit stop wins the race, and with it comes a prize of bragging rights and other unmentionables. We don't want to give the surprise away too soon, but trust me, it'll be worth it.

Food and transport will be provided, as well as fun and amusement. All you really need to do is get 3 friends, sign up and show yourselves on that day.

ERM, HELLO??

WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?!?!

REGISTRATION ENDS 20TH FEBRUARY!!! THAT'S TWO WEEKS AWAY!!!

The stage is set, the seats furnished, and the set prepared,
and now it's your turn to do your part and join in the fun!

HURRY AND JOIN!!!
We miss meeting friends and strangers and having fun too!!

Click here to find out how to join!

How To Register for the Amusing Race ?

2011-02-06T03:48:00.030+08:00

Online Form
Click HERE to register !
This has to be completed by everyone.

Payment
All payments should be collected and handed up to the Committee as a team. This would mean a total of RM80. The payment can be handed in to the UBV Office, or given directly to anyone in the committee.

To hand it directly to the committee, contact anyone of them lovely girls:
Chan Li Synn - 017 233 8043
Cecilia Yeow - 017 347 3533
they will be able to hook you up with the nearest committee member that can collect the money from you. Eg, same college, same high school, same cousin, father, uncle, mother, etc. You get the idea.

Accident Waiver and Release of Liability Form
Download THIS form, print it and complete it with a parent.

Submit it the same way as described above. We can only accept hard copies (that means we don't take fax or scans).

Wait for confirmation!
When all the document and payments have been received, we will send you & your team emails to confirm your participation. So do check your email as often as you can!

It is that simple: Form. Pay. Sign. Wait.

But do keep in mind of the deadline for ALL documents to reach our side : 20th of February
That doesn't leave any one of us a lot of time, so don't procrastinate!

All of us facilitators and committee members welcome you to our biggest event yet on February the 27th.

See you and all the best!

2011-02-02T17:23:00.001+08:00

DEAR ALL,

DID YOU...MISS US?

FELT LIKE WE HAVEN'T MET SINCE LAST YEAR?

WONDERED WHAT WE WERE UP TO?

Since the beginning of the year, BUDDY has been on a part-time hiatus...

And for good reason.

We needed the time, you see, to plan something.

Something big.

REALLY BIG.

Like big enough we had to pour all our brains and muscles and bones into one big giant cauldron just to make it happen.

'Well, what is it?' You ask?

Trust me, it's gonna be legend- wait for it...

2010-12-16T09:42:00.001+08:00

BUDDY Choir - 31 October 2010 (Cradled in Buddha's Arms & Stand By Me)

2010-11-17T09:10:00.002+08:00

BUDDY CHOIR IS NOW RECRUITING

2010-10-30T15:48:00.004+08:00

click on image to enlarge

Choir Practise

2010-10-23T01:52:00.004+08:00

So our choir performance is coming up very soon and I hope all of you have memorised your notes and lyrics :D There will be practise at 1pm on Saturday, 23rd October, and again from 11am on Sunday, 24th October. Hopefully all those involved will be able to make it to our last few practises.

We'll be fantastic if we keep up our progress and might manage to pull off an amazing performance.

Cheers!
Ken Hui

2010-06-03T11:43:00.001+08:00

ONLY 3 MORE DAYS LEFT TO SIGN UP FOR CAMP!

hurry!

Click here to sign up.

BUDDY CAMP 2010

2010-05-14T19:46:00.005+08:00

GUESS WHAT?

We are all so excited to launch our second youth/teen dhamma camp! This year, we'll be adopting the theme : Kalyana Mitra.

It's a 4-day, 3-night camp for buddhist youths or teens above the age of 15. This camp is specially designed for beginner and intermediate buddhists, which is why we've chosen the theme "Kalyana Mitra". We're all young buddhists who should grow our network of friends to learn the dhamma.

Knowing that our campers would be all young and energetic, all our programs have been designed to tap on that. Our games will blow your mind away and teach you one of the few important lessons you've been missing out on.

Our programs concentrate mainly on team-building, interaction and the dhamma. We BUDDYies believe in learning the dhamma through youthful, fun, and crazy ways. (: We're the new generation of Buddhists and this is what we'll want you to experience at our camp.

So are you interested?

The camp fee is RM80 which includes:

1. Accommodation

2. Food

3. Insurance

If you register online, you may make the payment by coming forth to our buddhist centre, UBV to pay. Our booth is opened every Sunday from 9.00am onwards.

You may also sign up at our booth using our paper registration, but we encourage online registration as it lowers our carbon footprint!

You can also contact anyone of us to sign up OR to inquire:

Melinda - 016- 2969 637

Jeen Pei - 012- 2133 636

(notice the last 3 numbers of ours are related? cool right? Haha)

& LASTLY, we'd like to let all of you teens and youths that we'd love to have you, your zeal and your talent at our camp!

Metta,

BUDDY Committee.

2010-04-17T01:01:00.001+08:00

BUDDY Fellowship Party!

2010-04-05T13:14:00.002+08:00

HELLO! (:

As some of you already know, we will be hosting a Fellowship Night Party at UBV this month! It will be a night of food, fun and friends! So, bring your friends, yourself, your spirit and all that's good about you to this party (:

Place : UBV
Date : 17th of April
Time : 6.00pm - 10.30pm

Attire : Casual but appropriate.

It will be a potluck party, so for BUDDYies, it would be best if you could bring something to the party.

Here's a list of things not being volunteered to prepare yet :
Fried Rice

Curry
Tidbits
Fingerfood (frenchfries , etc)
Pastries

Soft drinks (4 bottles)
Packeted drinks ( 1 dozen)

Leave a comment at the cbox for which food you would like to bring (: Or, text me your name and the food you'd like to bring at 016-2969637.

Guidelines for food preparation

1. Prepare for 25-30 people.
2. You have to be responsible for the food. Which means, if there's leftovers, you'll have to bring it home. Unless of course, someone else wants it.

Do come, and we look forward to seeing all of you that night (:

With Metta,
THE BUDDYs.

BUBS Education : Basic Photography Course

2010-01-29T14:26:00.002+08:00

Tired of having your memorable photo ruined because it was blurred? Or disappointed because your once-in-a lifetime holiday photos came out too dark? Not sure of what all those buttons on your camera are for? Then come join BUBS Education’s Basic Digital Photography Course that will teach you how to avoid common problems and take great photos. The course will comprise of course lecture on key photographic concepts, tips and tricks and a practical hands-on sessions; presented in a well thought out, systematic and practical approach.

About the Course Leader

Bro. Chong Su Lim is an active volunteer with the BUBS Sunday Dhamma school. Bro. Chong has photography listed as one of his key hobbies, and has handled cameras since the age of 12. Starting with a Kodak Instamatic film camera, he moved on to film SLR cameras and eventually into the world of digital photography. He currently uses Nikon DSLR and Canon compact digital cameras and has been entrusted with updating the Gallery section of the BUBS website. He brings additional knowledge as an experienced IT professional.

Course Content

- Introduction

- Understanding Digital Cameras

- Understanding Camera Handling

- Understanding Focus

- Understanding Focal Length

- Understanding Exposure

- Understanding Composition

- Understanding White Balance

- Understanding Basic Flash Photography

- Understanding Camera Accessories

- Understanding Basic Photoshop

- Internet:

o Sharing your work online

o Forums

o Where to find product information

- Hands-on Sessions

- Cameras to Consider

- Buddhism & Photography

- Q & A

Date: 6th March 2010 (Saturday)

Time: 2 pm to 6 pm

Venue: Uttama Bodhi Vihara, 3 Jalan BU3/1,

Bandar Utama , 47800 Petaling Jaya

Course Duration:Half Day (4 hours)

Course Fees: RM 50, all proceeds will go to BUBS Building Fund (external

instructors charge RM 250 for a similar course)

those interested, please leave your email address in our ChatBox, and we'll e-mail you the registration form!

WE'RE BACKK ! (:

2009-12-17T23:43:00.002+08:00

HELLOOOOOO . YOU ! (:

I've got the best news ! (;

BUDDY sessions are now back!
we are still having it the same time, from 11 - 12.30.

but do know that we have moved to the new temple (refer to previous blog post).

(: I promise a only-fun Sunday session this week! (:
so bring your friends & relatives over !

OH! we now have our very own Youth Room.
it is located on the first floor, the room with blue coloured door! (:

HOPE TO SEE YOU ALL THIS SUNDAY! (:

BUBS'S NEW LOCATION

2009-12-17T00:58:00.006+08:00

Please be informed that WE HAVE MOVED to the new BUBS Building at Jalan BU6/5.

View Uttama Bodhi Vihara, Jalan BU 6/5 in a larger map

The new youth room is on the first floor, with a nice lovely blue door.

Cheers!

Buddhism in the United States

2009-10-28T00:05:00.002+08:00

HELLO ! (:

just dropping by to share something new (:

I was very impressed with the following news I found on the internet:

From the years 1990 to 2001, Buddhism had grown 170% and transformed itself into the 4^th most practiced religion in

America

Since the year 2001, Buddhism has experienced an ever greater interest and growth among native born Americans that gives us the impression that the number and percentage of Buddhist adherents must be even larger in 2006 than in 2001. For instance, since 2001, in the State of Connecticut, the appearance of the Buddhist Faith Fellowship and other successful and growing Buddhist congregations have brought about an explosion of Buddhist practitioners in this state. The rapid growth in the Buddhist Faith Fellowship exceeds 1000% since its inception in 2001.

and then there was more :

Buddhism in

America

is an emergent alternative religion poised to be a spiritual, cultural and political force in the 21^st century. The Guide to Buddhist America, published in 1998, lists more than 1,000 Buddhist meditation centers in the

United States

and

Canada

So , I went up and searched more, and then stumbled upon a forum for Buddhist Teens.

Here are some of the threads.

I take the book from the shelf, and looked at it. It seemed alright. I figured that it contained the information that I was looking for. It was titled "Buddhism" and I was given shocked and appalled looks from everyone in general.

"Did you convert?"

"Why? Don't you believe in Jesus?"

So began my journey as a Buddhist. It has been two years since that first day. It was so hard to tear away from the wave of Christianity that stalked me everywhere that I went. Promises of hell were not uncommon. I have come along way from my previous viewpoints. I am now flattered when insulted, I am hurt when I see violence, and I face the Buddha wherever I go. I believe that when insulted, this is the only way that these people feel that they can have dignity and though I disagree with them I suppose that I am happy to be of service. Which is different from my previous view of violence and "An eye for an eye."

Would anyone like to share their experience of first becoming a Buddhist? I look forward to hearing your responses my friends!

Many Blessings!

the replies were :

I had similiar problems getting insulted, told I would go to hell, my search started as many do trying find a religious belief to identify with with my interests in Asia it was only time before I discovered Buddhism. Right away it clicked and I immediately got everything I could about it. I looked book through book started meditating, praying, chanting and I still am.
May Buddha continue to brighten your day!
peace
Dogen

i had a very similar adventure! it was hard at first, i went to a very Christian school that had bible school everyday and it was horrible, people would tell me i was going to hell when i was walking down the halls,so i transfered to public school and it was still hard but its better now!
nameste!
kayti

do join the forum if you'd like to participate in their many interesting topics for Buddhist teens just like us.

http://community.beliefnet.com/go/forum/view/34789/70569/

(: At the forum you'll find many questions regarding Buddhism, and many personal stories.

& these are the times where we really do thank Buddha for the knowledge he has shared with us.

He isn't God, he isn't an Angel, he isn't a Saint.

but as his famous line answers it all, : I am Awake.

Do be mindful of what you do. Know what you're doing, and always reflect on the 5 Precepts and the Noble 8fold Path when making your decisions (:

Buddhism doesn't require us to spread the Dharma to every living being, but it asks us to spread love (:

It's hard,
but start by complimenting your close friends this week.

try saying nice things to people you come in contact with.
tell them they have nice hair , or just something simple.

because we all need little words like these to bring us through tough days , right?

have a good week! (:

with metta (fuuh, I tau what this means ok?!),
Melinda.

BUDDY Camp 2009

2009-09-20T15:21:00.003+08:00

We are back with BUDDY Camp 2009. Aptly themed "Loving Self, Loving Others", the programs will hopefully encourage you to practice loving kindness to all around you. While at the same time, it maintains the usual fun, dynamic and fellowship-filled values that is the core of BUDDY.

Here are the deets to fulfill you curious folks:

Age group: 15 - 19 years old (those above 19 are also very much welcomed)
Fee: RM 75 per participant
Date: 17 Dec, 2009 (9-10AM) - 20 Dec, 2009 (2.30PM)
Venue: Uttama Bodhi Vihara - Jalan BU 6/5, Bandar Utama, PJ

View Uttama Bodhi Vihara, Jalan BU 6/5 in a larger map

For the camp, we suggest you bring a good supply of clothes (appropriate clothing - shirts with sleeves and bottoms below knee length), toiletries, towel and souvenirs for fellow camp friends.

If you have any enquiries regarding the camp, please contact us at buddygroup@ymail.com

We also have a Facebook event page for the camp, please check it out here!

To register, you can download the registration form's .pdf file BUDDY Camp 2009 "Loving Self, Loving Others" - Registration Form or drop by our booth at Bandar Utama Buddhist Society (BUBS) every Sunday.

Inter-Buddhist Fellowship Games 2009

2009-08-31T18:13:00.005+08:00

Hey fellow BUDDYs!

Those who has participated in the Basketball, Captainball, Volleyball, Tug-Of-War and Athletics Run, thanks for your participation! BUDDY's joining this Inter-Buddhist Fellowship Games for us to make new friends, so we are pumped with excitement and energy!

The location is now at Catholic High, it would be great if you could prepare your own transport as we are low on drivers.

The details are as follows:
Venue: Catholic High
Date: 6th September 2009 (SUNDAY)
Time: 7.45 AM - 6 PM
Transportation: Own transport. If you need any, please contact me at jiarhwei@gmail.com
Food: Lunch & water is provided

(click to enlarge)

But if you're not up for playing the sports, you can always join us for cheering and volunteering for sideline duties at the event. The more the merrier! :)

Please wear your BUDDY Camp t-shirt or BUBS shirt or anything Grey / Green!

Those who are interested to go are encouraged to:
- Wear sport shoes (no spikes allowed for athletics)
- Sunblock
- Mosquito repellent

If you have any more questions, please contact me. Thanks!

BUDDY Fellowship Party POSTPONED!

2009-08-25T22:58:00.002+08:00

HELLO (: !

I'm sure you guys are all enjoying your holidays, and while some of you will be preparing for PMR, and SPM-ers are too (:

& because of this , we've decided that we will have to postpone the Fellowship Party.

I know, booo,
but we know a large number of you won't be able to attend, and we definitely do not want guys to miss out on this awesome party! (:

Please do check back often to see the new date, it should be around the beginning of October, where most of our exams are over.

but please do leave a message in our chatbox to tell us your exam days, this way, we can set a date that'll be comfortable for everyone, yes?

sorry for any inconvenience caused ! (:

for those who are taking your exams/trials soon,

GOOD LUCK ! (:

remember all the teachings, so don't cheat during exams,
and yes, there is suffering in everything,
so, suffer a little now for your exams,
and your future is what you get in return! (:

with lots and lots and lots of metta & love,
the BUDDYies.

Reminder: Inter-Buddhist Youth Fellowship Games 2009

2009-08-13T12:36:00.000+08:00

Hey all!

Just a quick reminder that it's the last day for you to let me know if you'd like to join the Inter-Buddhist Youth Fellowship Games 2009. Read more here.

We would need more participants for the athlete running contests :)

Hope to hear from you soon!

Buddhist Stories

2009-08-10T22:57:00.002+08:00

Hello BUDDYies (:

Here are a few Buddhist Stories found on the internet. They are all very inspiring, and each have their own meaning behind them (:! Read it with patience, and remind yourself of who you are and what the Buddha has taught us. Some of these stories are from Zen Buddhism, Theravada, and Mahayana. It does not matter that much, because it's the values that matters (:

THE SIEVE AND WATER

The Zen master and his disciple made their way across the sand to the shore. The disciple carried a cup and a sieve. At the water's edge, they stood on a rock, the sea breaking around them in great, frothy swirls. 'Show me how you would fill the sieve with water,' the master said. The disciple stooped and filled the cup with water. He poured it into the sieve. Cup after cup he poured into the heart of the sieve but no matter how quickly he poured, only the smallest remnant caught in the bottom. Even that soon formed a drop and was swallowed in the vastness of the ocean. All the time the master watched, saying nothing. In the end, the disciple faced the master and shrugged. The task was hopeless. Now, the master spoke: 'It is thus with the life of the spirit also,' he said. 'So long as we stand on the rock of I, of myselfness, and seek to pour the divine life into that shell, so certainly shall that life escape us. This is not the way to fill a sieve with water, nor the human spirit with the life of the divine.'

Then the master reached out his hand and took the sieve from the hand of the disciple. He thrust his arm far behind him then launched the sieve as far as he could, out into the face of the deep. For a moment, it lay glinting in the morning sunlight on the face of the water. Then it slipped far below. 'Now, it is full of water,' the master said. 'It will always be so. That is how you fill a sieve with water and the spirit with divine life. You throw the myself, the I, far out and away to sink into the deep sea of the divine life.'

FOUR THINGS THAT WILL NOT LAST

There was once when the Buddha was discoursing for his Bikshus in Jetvana Vihara. A young Brahman with a sullen face came scurrying in to pay the Buddha homage before saying:"Buddha! Kindly help me solve two of the most troubling happenings I have ever encountered to ease my sorrow."

" Young Brahman! What is troubling you?"

" Buddha! The first concerns my pretty and clever daughter who was only fifteen when she died a few days ago as a result of a serious illness. The second concerns my wheat crop, which was all ready to be harvested but was consumed by a fire that broke out in the fields. All that I have toiled for have been lost within a matter of days. How can I not be driven to the brink of madness? In my lethargic and sorrowful state, I was told that the Buddha could alleviate all afflictions. So I have now come to seek the Buddha's help."

The Buddha took pity on him, and said:" Young Brahman! Do not be miserable. All this is predetermined karma which is unsalvable by human power. Everything in this world is subject to the law of impermanence. There is never a banquet which does not disband, a flower which does not wither, and a leaf which does not fall. It is the same with all natural phenomena and everything else in life. There are four things on earth that will not last: 1. All things that come into being are impermanent. 2. Where there is wealth, there will be poverty. 3. Those who come together will have to separate. 4. Even the strong will have to grow old and die of sickness."

The young Brahman listened attentively, and contemplated on every word that the Buddha said.

The simple words of the Buddha had inspired the young Brahman's perception of the unpredictability of impermanence. The light of the Buddha had cast its beam onto the young Brahman's mind, and his troubles had all at once dispersed. He shaved off his hair and beard, and vowed to follow the Buddha to become a Bikshu so that he could practise on the liberation from defilements as well as work for the deliverance of others.

A COMPLETE PERSON

One day, the Buddha discoursed: " You have to be a complete person. A complete person needs to have compassion, wisdom, right views, be in accord with appropriate conditions, socially harmonious, positive and open. You must never be an incomplete person."

His followers then asked: " What are incomplete persons?"

The Buddha said: " Incomplete persons are:

1. unhappy when they should be happy.
2. indifferent when they should laugh.
3. unkind when they should be kind.
4. reluctant to practise the good even though they realise what is good.
5. unashamed of doing bad."

Sariputra exclaimed: " Buddha! Whenever I preached the Dharma, there would always be some people who would not look at me in attention. Even when the others were delighted and enthusiastic, they would still appear uninterested and emotionless. Are they to be considered incomplete persons?"

The Buddha said: " Yes! These are people who are unconcerned about words of good and who therefore are incomplete people. They usually have defects in their personalities, which make them isolated and difficult to integrate. Very often, they will spend a lifetime in misery. For a person to be happy, he would have to enjoy and laugh when he should, be kind when he should, practise the good when he learns about it and correct his wrongs when he is aware of them. This would make him a complete person."

His followers finally understood the meaning of the five kinds of incomplete persons.

We can tell whether a person is progressing by seeing if he cares about advice on being good. Buddhism originally teaches the riddance of attachment. But if words of good are being ignored and not taken to heart, it is like a stubborn disease which could not be cured by even the best medicine. This kind of people are the incomplete ones.

THEY ARE NOT YOURS

The Buddha once came to propagate in the city where the father of Yasodhara was chieftain. As the Buddha had deserted Yasodhara to learn the Way, her father hated the Buddha for it. He ruthlessly blocked the Buddha's path on his round of alms in the city to obstruct the Buddha's begging. In abusive language, he said to the Buddha:" Aren't you ashamed to come to my city for your alms? I am going to order all my citizens to ignore you.You have abandoned your country, your father and your wife to cultivate in madness. Although there is plentiful store of food in my city, it cannot be given to someone who disregards his country, his father and his wife. I order you to leave this place at once!"

The Buddha was not at all angry at his behaviour, but only explained in kindly manner:" Please do not condemn me. From what you have said, I know there is some misunderstanding. My renunciation to search for the Way does not amount to abandonment of my country, my father and my wife. In fact, I have assumed the world as my country and all sentient beings as my family. I have accomplished all the merits and wisdom of the Awakened One. The universe and I are one, and my compassion pervades everywhere. As chieftain of this place, you should love and care for your people; and as Buddha of this world, I have to look after all sentient beings. I can appreciate your reasons for attachment to personal love, but in the face of the Truth as represented by the Buddha, you should discard these reasons. Just think clearly and carefully, and you will realise that the city is not actually yours, nor is the store of food for your own use. What you really own are the deeds of good and evil. The citizens and food supply will eventually be gone, but your actions and the karma they effect will always be following you close behind."

Yasodhara's father was not awakened by these words of the Buddha. Although his rudeness had been completely accomodated by the Buddha's compassion, the karma he generated could not escape the law of cause and effect.
He met his sudden death within seven days of this incident.

these are a few short stories I got off from the internet. I'll just put up these for now, if you like them and would like to learn more about Buddhist Stories, visit : http://www.buddhisteducation.co.uk/stories.htm
and
http://www.sln.org.uk/storyboard/l1.htm

the second link has a few good stories, but mostly are related to taoism. But then, there's still nothing wrong with that, (: visit it anyway.

I hope you're having a good week (: And if you're not, I'm sure it'll turn better soon.

see you next Sunday (:

Inter-Buddhist Youth Fellowship Games 2009

2009-08-09T15:18:00.004+08:00

Updated with rules and new category!

In conjunction with Buddhist Institute Sunday Dhamma Schools' (BIDSD) 80th anniversary, they are organizing the first Inter-Buddhist Youth Fellowship Games in their efforts to promote 'Dhamma-in-Motion' through sports and games.

Aiming to bring Buddhist organizations together in the name of fellowship and unity amongst youths in the spirit of Kalyana Mitra, the activities are mostly team games which is said to be exciting and challenging!

Here are the deets:

Date: 6th September, 2009 (Sunday)
Time: 9 am - 6 pm
Venue: Victoria Institution KL
Participants: 15 - 30 years old (both male & female)

And for the activities and categories that you can join:

Basketball
- 7 players per team - 5 on court and 2 Reserve players
- Males only
- Each game is approximately 20 minutes
  (1^st half: 8 minutes / Break: 3 minutes / 2^nd Half: 8 minutes)
*Kindly email jiarhwei@gmail.com for “Official Basketball Rules” The match will follow closely to the rules from there.
Captain Ball
- 9 players per team - 7 on court and 2 Reserve players
- Females only
- Makeup of 7-a-side team: 1 Catcher, 1 Blocker, 5 Runners
- The Catcher is to remain on the Chair at all times.
- The Blocker is not allowed to go beyond the defending half of the court.
- Each game is approximately 20 minutes
  (1^st half: 8 minutes / Break: 3 minutes / 2^nd Half: 8 minutes)
SCORING
- A goal/point is scored when the catcher takes possession of the ball (with both hands on the ball) and holds onto it for at least 3 seconds whilst on the chair.
- A successful goal shall count as one point.
- After a goal is scored, game play will resume with a pass from the non-scoring team’s Blocker.
JUMP BALL
- A Jump Ball takes place at the start of the game when the Referee tosses the ball between any two opposing players at the center of the court.
- Each Jumper shall stand with her feet within her own Defending Half.
- The Referee shall then toss the ball vertically upwards between the Jumpers to a height greater than either of them can reach by jumping.
- The ball must be tapped with the hand(s) by one or both of the jumpers after it reaches its highest point.
SUBSTITUTIONS
- Rolling substitutions are allowed throughout the game.
- There will be no stopping of time during substitutions.
OUT OF BOUNDS
- The player is out-of-bounds when she touches the floor or any object on or outside a boundary.
- The ball is out-of-bounds when it touches a player who is out-of-bounds or any other person, the floor, or any object on, above or outside of a boundary or the supports or back of the backboard.
- The ball is caused to go out-of-bounds by the last player to touch it before it goes out.
- After the ball is out-of-bounds, the team that did not cause it to go out of bounds, shall designate a player to make the throw-in. She shall make the throw-in at the spot out-of-bounds nearest where the ball crossed the boundary.
VIOLATIONS
- Captain ball is a non-contact game. No player shall knock or push an opponent or interfere with her play, either accidentally or deliberately.
- Swatting the ball away from a player is allowed only when that player has one hand on the ball; the same action is not permitted when the player has two hands on the ball. This applies to the catcher as well.
- Bouncing the ball and moving with it (like dribbling in basketball), or deliberately using your legs to play the ball (such as to block/kick), is not allowed. However, if the ball touches/hits a player’s legs without her deliberate action, play continues.
- Players are not allowed to “spike” the ball. A “spike” is defined as spike in a volleyball game.
- For every violation committed, the ball will automatically be given to the opponent and the game will start from the opponent’s side.
FOULS AND PENALTIES
- Travelling Foul- A player may receive the ball with one foot grounded or may jump to catch and land on one foot. While that landing foot remains on the ground the other foot may be moved in any direction and any number of times, pivoting on the landing foot if desired. Hopping is not allowed.
- A player may receive the ball whilst both feet are grounded, or may jump to catch and land on both feet simultaneously. The player may then choose to move either foot and the remaining foot shall then be considered to be the landing foot. Proceed as in above.
- Jumping Foul - Occurs when a player with the ball jumps and then lands with the ball still in her hands. Once a player jumps with the ball in her hands, it must be released (whether via a pass or a try) before she lands.
- Holding Foul - A player is allowed possession of the ball for a maximum of 5 seconds only. If the ball is still in her possession after 5 seconds, a holding foul is committed.
- Defensive Foul- Where any contact is made on the player holding the ball, a defensive foul is committed.
PENALTY FOR FOULS COMMITTED
- Whenever a foul is committed, play is resumed on the spot, with the defending team standing at least 1 metre away until the ball has been passed or a shot has been attempted.
- If the foul occurs within 1 metre of the catcher’s chair, the defending team is allowed to position only one player in front of the catcher to block the shot.
Volleyball
- 8 players per team - 6 on court and 2 Reserve players
- Males and Females
- Each time there must be at least 2 females on court playing
THE SERVE
- Server must serve from behind the restraining line (end line) until after contact.
- Ball may be served underhand or overhand.
- Ball must be clearly visible to opponents before serve.
- Served ball may graze the net and drop to the other side for point.
- First game serve is determined by a volley, each subsequent game shall be served by the previous game loser.
- Serve must be returned by a bump only, no setting or attacking a serve.
SCORING
- Rally scoring will be used.
- There will be a point scored on every score of the ball.
- Offense will score on a defence miss or out of bounds hit.
- Defence will score on an offensive miss, out of bounds hit, or serve into the net.
- Each game is approximately 20 minutes
  (1^st half: 8 minutes / Break: 3 minutes / 2^nd Half: 8 minutes)
ROTATION
- Team will rotate each time they win the serve.
- Players shall rotate in a clockwise manner.
- There shall be 6 players on each side. (Reserve Players : 2)
- Maximum of three hits per side.
- Player may not hit the ball twice in succession (A block is not considered a hit).
- Ball may be played off the net during a volley and on serve.
- A ball touching a boundary line is good.
- A legal hit is contact with the ball by a player body above and including the waist which does not allow the ball to visibly come to a rest.
- If two or more players contact the ball simultaneously, it is considered one play and the players involved may not participate in the next play.
- A player must not block or attack a serve.
- Switching positions will be allowed only between front line players. (After the serve only).
SUBSTITUTIONS
- Rolling substitutions are allowed throughout the game.
- There will be no stopping of time during substitutions.
BASIC VIOLATIONS
- Stepping on or over the line on a serve.
- Failure to serve the ball over the net successfully.
- Hitting the ball illegally (Carrying, Palming, Throwing, etc.).
- Touches of the net with any part of the body while the ball is in play. If the ball is driven into the net with such force that it causes the net to contact an opposing player, no foul will be called, and the ball shall continue to be in play.
- Reaching over the net, except under these conditions:
Tug-Of-War
- 10 players per team. Advisable to have extras on stand by.
- Males and Females (with minimum 4 females participating)
ROPE MARKINGS
There will be five tapes or markings fixed to a rope:
- A red tape or marking at the centre of the rope which will be level with the ground mark at the start of every pull.
- Two white tapes or markings each 4 metres either side of the red centre tape or marking
- Two blue tapes or markings each 5 metres either side of the red centre tape or marking. The first puller in each team shall grip the rope within 30 cm, and outside of, these outer blue tapes or markings.
THE START
- When teams are called they shall go to their designated end, pick up the rope and set their grip and footing.
- When the Line Judge sees that each team is correctly in position, he or she will raise their arm.
- One position shall be marked, at right angles to the line of the rope, where the centre of the rope will be at the start of competitions.
TO WIN
- A pull shall be won when one of the white tapes or markings on the rope has been pulled over the mark on the ground (4 metres), and will be signalled by the umpire blowing his or her whistle and pointing in the direction of the winning team.
Athletics - 100m Sprint
- 1 Team - 2 Males and 2 Females
- Meaning that there will be 4 representatives from each organisation/society
- Reserves are on Stand By only, they do not need to register
RULES
- Participants will be allowed ONE false start.
- There cannot be two false starts in any single race otherwise the last athlete to false start will be disqualified.
- The Run:-
TO WIN
- The runner that passes thru the finishing line first will win the race.
Athletics - 4 x 400m Relay Run
- 1 Team - 4 Males and 4 Females
- Meaning that there will be 8 representatives from each organisation/society
- Reserves are on Stand By only, they do not need to register
RULES
- There will be FOUR runners in a team.
- Participants are allowed ONE false start at the starting line.
- There cannot be two false starts in any single race otherwise the last athlete to false start will be disqualified.
THE RUN
- The first runner MUST remain in the same lane for the full lap.
- After receiving the baton, the second runner may leave his/her lane after the first turn.
- The third and fourth runners are assigned lanes based on the position of the team’s previous runner when he/she is halfway around the track.
RELAY RULES
- The baton can only be passed within the exchange zone.
- If the passing of baton is made outside the exchange zone, the team will be disqualified.
- Passers must remain in their lanes after the pass to avoid blocking other runners.
- The baton must be carried by hand throughout the race. If it’s dropped the runner can leave the lane to retrieve the baton as long as the recovery doesn’t lessen his/her total running distance.
- Runners CANNOT wear gloves or place substances on their hands in order to obtain a better grip of the baton.
TO WIN
- The runner that passes thru the finishing line first will win the race.
- After the race is completed, the last runner MUST hold and return the baton to the line keeper at the finishing line.

* Please note that you can join more than 1 category and that BUDDY is required to join ALL categories.

BUDDY is hoping that you'll be interested in joining in any or ALL of the categories! Rules and the regulations of each game will be further notified, however there will be tropics awarded to the Top 3 winners of each games. Not just that, they will also award the 'Championship Trophy' for the overall winner!

Those who are interested can contact me at jiarhwei@gmail.com to let me know which category you'd like to join.

It'll be great if you could bring some friends along and we'll get to meet the other Buddhist youths in Klang Valley! We'll need to register before 14 August, 2009 (Fri) so please let me know soon.

Dharma Tunes

2009-08-03T22:33:00.003+08:00

Hello BUDDYies! (:so this is a quick update on what happened last Saturday @ the Dharma Tunes event.

first off, it was really cooling that evening, and everyone enjoyed the amazing scenery plus the genting-ish mist! (:Though, the centre was real high up at the hilltop,
(which kind of makes you say : no wonder the name)
but we all managed to 'hike' up anyway (:

So, for now, I'll just let the pictures do the blogging (:

in conclusion, it was a great event! considering the fact that it was an event where buddhist from all over Klang Valley came and sang hymns! (:

There were Sri Lankans who came all the way and performed a few of their traditional dances, and it was just so generous of them to perform that night.

everyone who went enjoyed it very much, and it was definitely one night wisely spent (: Bro.Chong should really organize more of these events.

So before this entry ends, I'd like to promote the Dharma Tunes book!

It is the FIRST ever Malaysian Buddhist Songbook! (:
it would be awesome if you'd just head out to your nearest, friendly, buddhism store and purchase a copy of it !

I have. And honestly, it is really user-friendly! (: There's a CD inside too! (:

Or, you can just make a donation to make the Second Publication another hit! (:
head down to http://sulimation.webs.com/dharmatunes.html.

okay BUDDYies! (:
it has been a awesome weekend!

SEE YOU NEXT SUNDAY!

BUDDY Fellowship Party

2009-08-02T16:59:00.002+08:00

Hymn Singing Performance

2009-07-27T22:54:00.006+08:00

Hello BUDDYies (:

If you have not heard (which is likely), the Youth and Teen Hymn Singing Group will be performing THIS saturday !

Location : Hilltop Buddhist Centre
Street : off Jalan Awan Pintal, Taman Tan Yew Lai

Time : 6.30 pm - 8.30 pm

(: You should come along and support them as they've practiced real hard, and they'll be representing BUDDY! (:

The last time, I went to this Hymn Singing Competition and noticed that BUDDY could use more supporters to cheer from them. I'm sure our cheers can beat the other teams who bring busloads of supporters!

So, it'll be GREAT if you'd come along, and show your support for your very own hymn singing group!

Transportation can be arranged.
Please just leave a message in the cbox with your email, and I'll get back to you ASAP!
Or you can email me directly at:

melinda.loves.dramatism@hotmail.com

(Yes, laugh at it. Laugh.)

ON ANOTHER NOTE!

The Hymn Singing group is also looking for awesome, enthusiastic, talented people, for example, YOU! (:

Don't worry if you can't sing, we've got an Opera Singer who'd teach you Singing 101! (:
I'm not pulling your leg alright?! She's really a trained singer (:

We'll be learning basic inhaling and exhaling techniques, rythm, and all sorts of singing stuff (:
anyone can sing, you just need to know how!

Our practices are on Sunday mornings, 10.30 - 11.30a.m

Yes, it sort of clashes with BUDDY session, but you can always dismiss yourself earlier if you'd like to.

Do leave a message at the cbox if you want more information or if you're interested! (:

That should be it.
Have a good week (:

BUDDY Guitar Lessons for Beginners!

2009-06-20T19:22:00.004+08:00

*click to enlarge*

Great news! Starting this Sunday, we'll be having free guitar lessons thanks to Sister Melinda! For those who have a guitar, haven't had the time/money to start on lessons, this is for you!

The program will be carried out for 1 and a half months, so be sure to attend every class to make the best out of it. You wouldn't need to bring anything except for a guitar and have those fingers at the ready :)

If you are interested in joining the session, please email your name to Melinda at melinda.loves.dramatism@hotmail.com

Congratulations, Jia Wei!

2009-06-15T14:53:00.004+08:00

Congratulations, Jia Wei for bagging First Prize for the Secondary Solo category of the 5th Inter Dharma School Hymn Singing Competition.

D2Y: Public Speaking Workshop

2009-05-29T21:05:00.000+08:00

Objective: To improve the youth's public speaking and presentation skills with their peers in a friendly environment

This workshop is made for: All youths who has the time, effort and intention to remarkably change their presentation and public speaking skills.

You definitely have to go, because: At this workshop, we will not laugh at people who makes mistakes, we will laugh with each other. Therefore, there's no shame in attending this public speaking workshop. There's so much to gain and so little to lose. You will never regret spending your time at this public speaking workshop because this experience could possibly be life-changing for you

And the really important deets:

Date : June 14, 2009 (Sunday)
Time : 11.00 AM - 4.00 PM (1.00pm to 2.00pm is lunch break)
Venue : Buddhist Maha Vihara (exact location to be confirmed once venue booking is done)
Charges : RM6 (for your lunch)

Bring along: a strong intention to learn and if possible, have your pen and paper along. Another thing to bring is money for your own lunch or your lunchbox if you are not fond of eating out!

To those interested, please drop me an email at jiarhwei@gmail.com by Monday (29 May) for me to register for you :)

Buddhist Declaration on Climate Change

2009-05-19T10:20:00.005+08:00

Dear friends,

Today I received an email asking me to check out the Buddhist Declaration on Climate Change and to sign my name if I were to agree with the statement.

Please just take 5 - 10 minutes of your time to check it out.

Buddhist Declaration on Climate Change

"Collectively, we are violating the first precept—“do not harm living beings”—on the largest possible scale. And we cannot foresee the biological consequences for human life when so many species that invisibly contribute to our own well-being vanish from the planet."

It is a very interesting article, so please do take a look because we all play a part for our future (and those after).

By the way, support the earth by refraining the usage of plastic bags and practice recycling! Turn off the switches if you're not using the computer / laptop / radio and when you're not in the room.

Yes, the future is in danger. You have been warned!

Wesak Charity Sales 2009

2009-05-09T03:52:00.001+08:00

Come by our booth tomorrow to buy a limited edition BUDDY GOES GREEN bag!

Wesak Blood Donation Campaign 2009

2009-05-02T23:33:00.006+08:00

written by Jiar Hwei

On Labour Day (1 May 2009) fell BUBS annual Wesak Blood Donation Campaign. This year, I vowed to donate my blood instead of chickening out *cough* like the last two years.

Basic guidelines to follow when you want to be a blood donor:

Enough rest/sleep before donating
Had food before donating
17 years and above (17 years old require parents' consent)
Feeling well (and do not have any serious medical conditions e.g. HIV/Aids, STDs)
Weigh 45 kg and above (this one I pass lah, for sure)

I was there early with my mother, hoping to be one of the first few. I have this feeling that they always treat the first few people with more care. Heh.

First, you have to fill up an extensive form (it's dwibahasa like your SPM paper) about your information and medical background. You then weigh yourself (!) and wait for the guy to test you blood. They prick your finger with this cool plastic thing to get the blood out and they test the iron consistency in it by seeing does it sink to the bottom of the liquid. After that, they test your blood type by doing cute doodles on their clipboard. Hah. I'm type B.

Next you get your heart/blood pressure measured by a fresh/training doctor. I had to get it done twice, so I was kinda afraid that there was a problem with me. When that was done, it was just getting my donors book ready and done!

So here's the part that makes me nervous. I was the 2nd donor of the day and was determined to get this over and done with. But, the nurses couldn't find my vein to poke in. I was panic, saying things like "Am I too fat? Is that why you can't find it?" Well, they just ignored me lah, 'exercised' my hand to get the nerve out.

The getting the needle part in was hard, I'll admit, but wasn't as painful as I thought it'd be. My mother was trying to distract me until she couldn't stand the sight of blood herself. After that, my hand was numb and I couldn't feel a thing while my bag was filling up with blood.

I finally overcame a fear of thinking it's super painful to donate blood when it really isn't. A whopping 450 ml! I did get a little dizzy after but I just had to lie down for a minute and down a super sweet cup of gluclosin (grape flavour!). It's really a great meritorious deed to give your blood to someome who needs it. So if you do fulfill the guidelines, I urge you to give it a go!

PS: Vice Prez Eugene was there to donate his blood too, like a pro. Btw, he's special cause he's type O.

PPS: I rewarded myself by stuffing down a Big Mac during the McDonald's 12-3 lunch promo.

BUDDY Camp 2008

2009-05-01T17:49:00.004+08:00

The first ever BUDDY Camp made it's debut at Shah Alam Buddhist Society on 18 - 21 December last year. Its participants of 35 rowdy youths made the camp as lively as it could be, making sweet memories before we say goodbye. Despite a committee made out of many who has no experience, they all pulled it off with such an amazing feat!

But pictures are a thousand of words, so here they are for your viewing pleasure.

Ok, after much feedback, apparently Photobucket is sloowwwww. So I'll just put a couple of pictures here and the rest please head over to the photobucket album here.