To help protect the health of the general public during the spread of the seasonal flu and the ongoing coronavirus outbreak, the Chung Tai Zen Center of Sunnyvale has temporarily suspended all meditation classes and events.

Through everyone’s collective efforts, we sincerely pray for the blessings of the Buddhas to help put this epidemic to an end. Let’s put our wishes into practice and dedicate the merits of our cultivation.  And how to practice?

A Buddhist sutra states, “When the mind is pure, the land is pure.”   The physical world we live in is a reflection of our minds.  If all of us eradicate negative thoughts, we will purify our inner minds and bring light to the outer world.

During this epidemic, there are many things we can do to help protect ourselves and others. First, maintaining your personal hygiene is important and that includes:  thorough hand washing and keeping your living environment clean. Second, whenever possible, avoid going to public places and crowded areas where you may be exposed to viruses through contact with infected individuals. Last but not least, be compassionate.

During this difficult time, it is easy to feel restless and impatient.  We might consciously or unconsciously manifest feelings of suspicion and intolerance towards others.  However, we can replace these negative emotions with tolerance and caring through understanding how difficult it is for those who are infected.  Let our compassionate hearts bring forth healing, starting with our kind thoughts and tolerance. We can mindfully chant the sutras and meditate to pacify and purify our minds. Let’s dedicate the merits of our cultivation to world peace and wish for everyone to be free from suffering.