Messages from Slovenia
CONGRATULATORY MESSAGE
From Lama Shenpen Rinpoche, Slovenija
Dear brothers and sisters,
It is very important and with strong significance to have this “UN Vesak day”, and to have a whole event dedicated to it, inviting and allowing meeting of sangha from all over the world. New connections are made and we can learn about other Buddhist traditions, from different countries.
We are very glad to participate this year in Vietnam, in a country with such a long and rich Buddhist tradition. The emphasis on ecology is especially of great importance given the negative development of the weather state all over the World and the problem due to lack of clean water and resources in various areas, since the well-being of all sentient beings on this planet depends on the health of Nature. The right understanding of ecology is based on interconnectedness of all lawyers of existence. Pollution, caused in one country, brings suffering in another country, birds living on the islands, thousands of miles away from civilization, are dying because of poisoning, as their food is mixed with plastic garbage, debris being washed ashore by the ocean currents, destroying their habitat. On the other hand, sustainable development is an example of choosing the Middle path, walking the Middle way, not being too ascetic and not being too decadent either. Accepting Global Warming as a consequence of our actions (karma) and acting to reverse it, to change our perception, knowing that we are the creators of what we perceive and that we also have the responsibility to help others, who strive for Happiness as we do. Being aware of the transient nature of Samsara (everything that has a beginning and an end) helps us not to be frustrated by our projections and perceptions. Social change starts with upbringing and education. Teaching children not only with words but through example. Explaining to them that they are responsible for themselves and that they are also their brothers’ keepers. To list only a few possible starting points for discussions.
The chosen topic offers so many possibilities to deepen our understanding and learn from one another. Therefore we are looking forward to celebrating the United Nations Day of Vesak with all of you in Vietnam.
With the expression of my sincere salutations,
Lama Shenpen Rinpoche, the Abbot of the Buddhist Congregation Dharmaling
