Grace So (傳殿), Executive Secretary;
Coordinator, Community Relations Section

Anyone who steps into Ocean Sky will see this elegant woman who welcomes all lay people, students and visitors alike with a hospitable smile. She gives support to the new and young people; and provides encourage-ment and consolation to the sad and problematic ones. She is like the gentle sunlight that constantly brings warmth. She is Grace.

Since she came to Ocean Sky in 2004, she has been the coordinator of the receptionists, and is presently the executive secretary and coordinator of community relations. Grace not only performs various chores in the monastery, she also does external administrative duties and receives important visitors. Even if she has so many responsibilities, she does them well with utmost diligence and ability. No matter where she goes, she never forgets to introduce Ocean Sky to others, because it is her wish that all people receive the benefits of Buddha’s teachings.

Grace said: “Ocean Sky has filled me with so much Dharma joy. It is here that I gained life’s most precious benefits. Every Dharma Master in the monastery has taught me so much that I feel I am so blessed just to be able to attend meditation classes. The Shifus’ Dharma talks have served as the anchor and the lamp in this dark path towards liberation.”

In 2011, with her great vow, Grace took the Lay Bodhisattva Precepts. She said: “The biggest transformation in my life right now is that I put the happiness of all sentient beings ahead of mine. I now think of others before my own well-being. In taking the Bodhisattva Precepts, I vow to eradicate pride, let go of attachments, and constantly reflect back to my speech and actions. I should also repent for my wrongdoings and be diligent in my practice. I remind myself that I have to be a good disciple of Buddha and set a good example for others to follow.”

Grace’s health also benefited dramatically. She said: “Ever since I went vegetarian, I have become much healthier. My blood tests, which previously marked high risk, now all came back normal. I am thankful I can practice the bodhisattva path in Ocean Sky.” She sincerely prays that “I can find my true mind soon and my fervent hope is that Ocean Sky will have a bigger place so that more students can come to class to find their true minds.”