Edwin Pao (傳精), Assistant Executive Officer;
Coordinator, Photography

Edwin, with his wife Lilia and sister Ellen, came to attend meditation classes in Ocean Sky after seeing an ad in the papers in 2004. Because of his talent in photography, he was soon asked to take pictures during ceremonies and other activities, whether inside or outside of the monastery.

As the Assistant Executive Officer, Edwin always shows concern for the monastery, especially during bad weather when he would call and ask after the well-being of the Shifus. As coordinator of the photography team, Edwin goes about his work mindfully, finding out in advance about the schedule and flow of the ceremony or activity, so that he can plan ahead when and where to situate himself to get the best angle shots. All his pictures reflect the care and deference he gives to the occasion and to the objects and people he took.

Edwin always feels he has this good affinity with all the Abbots and Abbesses of Ocean Sky. He is most respectful of the Shifus and would try his best to do a chore when assigned. He also likes to listen to Master Jianshu’s stories when he sits in his wife Lilia’s class, even if his Chinese is not that proficient. Edwin has a simple philosophy in life. He said: “Actually, I think Buddhism is quite simple. Everything leads us back to basics. We just have to live life as it comes. One should not worry about how, why, or when. Because for me, if one is not happy with life, it is like living in hell.”

In addition to his duties in Ocean Sky, Edwin also likes to volunteer at Chung Tai Chan Monastery. He has since helped-out at Chan-7 retreats for both Shifus and lay people, and comes home to describe his stints there with great Dharma joy. He remarked: “One has to simply experience how great it is to be a volunteer at the Chung Tai Monastery!”