So, how do I embrace the paradox? What does that mean for me? Can I reconcile two seemingly opposed realities or ideals? I asked this of myself as I entered the Miao Fa Chan Buddhist Temple on Sunday morning. I was kindly directed to the "English" service where the head monk, Fa Thai, was leading a small group in silent meditation.
I quickly slipped off my shoes, tiptoed across the back of the room, found a cushion to sit on and joined the others on the floor. Then, I just sat in silence. I felt my pulse slow down and thanked God for another opportunity to embrace people from a different culture. As I sat, I became aware of my body, feeling the aches and pains that sitting on the floor can bring. I was aware that my feet were bare and cold and looked dry. I tried to cover them with my long skirt. I concentrated on my breathing, then opened my eyes to really take the time to look at the room I was in, remembering that one mantra in meditation is to be "fully present."
At the front of the room, in front of an altar of sorts with flowers and foods on it, sat Fa Thai in his gold and brown robes. He sat cross legged on the floor with palms up, looking relaxed. Behind him were enormous golden statues of Buddha and two other Chinese Gods (?). One looked like the household god with red face and angry beard, the other looked like a woman deity wielding a sword, while in the middle was the central god with multiple arms to bring justice and mercy. I thought of how Jesus said he came to bring a sword and yet, he is the prince of Peace. And how he delivers justice and mercy.
After 10 minutes or so, Fa Thai quietly began to talk about mindfulness. He talked about breathing, being aware of one's own body. He even mentioned the pain one feels after a few minutes if sitting still. He spoke of suffering in this body, nirvana and dharma (or compassion) and non-violence. He asked questions of those gathered there. The atmosphere was gentle and welcoming. Participants could ask questions of the monk. It was more of a dialogue than a diatribe.
And that's when I had my first revelation or cultural insight. In Western culture, we place "authorities" above us, yet here was a spiritual leader sitting down on the floor and talking WITH those who were gathered. In most western churches, we place our leaders on platforms, above the people so they can talk AT the people. Is it any wonder that so many of our leaders are able to manipulate and abuse those given to their charge???? When we place pastors on pedestals and call them "authorities" OVER us, is it any surprise that so many of them get big heads and run amuck?? Hmmm...interesting. I wonder if Jesus always tried to stand OVER people, physically, to impress on them that HE was the great teacher? I tend to think not.
Now as I understand paradox, we must embrace both. One way is not better than the other. In certain situations, the western tradition of placing a speaker or leader ABOVE the crowd is just more practical. In other situations, the eastern way of sitting on the same level as the crowd would be more practical.
After a few chants and prayers and offerings (Fa Thai explained the 'why' behind each action), Fa Thai stood and took a simple silver or tin bowl filled with water. He dipped a small bundle of reeds in it and 'shook' a blessing over the crowd. Now, some Christians would be offended that I allowed the monk to bless me with his Buddhist blessing, but I figure that kind wishes and good thoughts are always welcome, no matter the source. And water has always been symbolic in the church as a cleansing. So I celebrated the blessing.
Afterward, Fa Thai met with anyone who wanted to speak to him. I introduced myself and asked if he would be willing to address my class. He graciously accepted and then invited me to stay for a vegetarian lunch.
I decided to stay and meet the others, perhaps find out their stories. Besides, the temple was filled with Chinese, Vietnamese, and Thai people....I knew the food would be good! Now, in the Buddhist tradition, food is offered to the ancestors first, then the monks, then the parishioners.
It's amazing how little the ancestors eat! ha ha ha Again, I was struck by the concept of the Christian tradition of the "communion of saints" and how this must be much closer to the original tradition in the church than our modern, total disregard of those who have gone on before us. Are we or are we not surrounded by a "great crowd of witnesses"? hmmm...more food for thought...so to speak...
Now the monks must eat first, because they are only allowed to eat before noon each day. After that, they fast. So if the monks at the temple do not eat by noon, they must wait until the next day to eat.
I met people of all backgrounds from China, Thailand, Taiwan, and all over the US. It was an eclectic bunch which gathered there. Each had come for their own reasons and had decided to stay. I was there as an observer, but if I am to get the most out of my experience, then I must embrace what my conscience will allow. I am there to learn how I can grow as a follower of Christ. What practices or principles will help my faith to grow? Which ones will challenge my assumptions? Can God speak to me in a Buddhist temple? Absolutely! What a joy to be among such diverse people!!!
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