Edgardo Torres (傳義),
Coordinator , Operation Section

In my study of engineering, I memorized loads of scientific formulas and equations, and solved problems while performing experiments in the laboratory. I practically ate and slept with heaps of technical information in my head. To balance things, I read books not related to my studies. One that interested me was about the great religions and philosophers of Asia. That was when I came across such phrases like Four Noble Truths and Eightfold Path, and words like nirvana, precepts, meditation, and impermanence.

Years later, I discovered Ocean Sky, and the words from the books became a practice for me. Starting with beginners’ meditation, all the way to Sutra Studies, the Zen courses gradually teach students to acquire a deeper understanding of Buddha’s teachings. Through meditation and listening to Dharma talks, we are made aware of the real meaning of our incessant pursuit of true happiness and of life itself.

Meditation enables me to have a calm mind. I practice at least three times a week for one hour per session. My wife Agnes and I became volunteers, attended ceremonies, joined the chanting class, and also went on the Tour of the Bodhi Mind to ChungTai, where we
took the Three Refuges and acquired our Dharma names. All these activities allowed us to have a deeper appreciation of the Dharma to further develop our wisdom.

I realized my personality and behavior have undergone considerable changes. In my work, I would command respect and obedience from hundreds of subordinates under me by invoking legal and company policies and regulations. Now, with the practice of Buddha’s teachings, I could achieve similar results. The virtue of compassion and tolerance starts to manifest within me as I deal with people inside and outside the Monastery.

Now I know that the Buddha is always in us, that all sentient beings have the inherent Buddha Nature. We are the Buddha. Ultimately, I have realized that the study of Buddhism is a study of ourselves.