Pictures of Zen Center visit

Click to see more pictures of Zen Center visit

It was truly an enlightening visit to the Chung Tai Zen Center of Houston this afternoon. Read the picture captions to get a glimpse of what we experienced today. Hope to see you in our next field trip.

Pictures of field trip to Bodhi Center

I am a bird because I like to travel and see the world
I am a dolphin because I am smart
I am a panther because I am fierce
I am a bat because I like to sleep
I am a beaver because I work all the time
I am a cow because I work hard
I am a fish because I am free
I am a lion because I want to be a king

We started a fun-filled day by playing this game in the van on our way to the center. Each person had to pick an animal that resembles their personality.Maybe this was a window into our inner self? Was it the true self? the imagined self, or the wishful self?

We arrived a little earlier so we sat and meditated for about five minutes. After lunch, we gathered in a gazebo and had some interesting conversations with the Abbott of Jade Buddha Temple, Ven Hung- I. The afternoon breeze made us feel right at home. Afterwards, we toured the center on a hay ride. Ven Hui Yong, a native Texan, gave us the tour of the memorial hall, the walking trails, and the meditation hall. After two group games, we were tired and ready for some rest. We rested for a while, washed our hands, and learned how to make dumplings. Since we made the dumplings ourselves, don't you think they tasted especially delicious?

The Texas summer heat exhausted us quickly but we had a lot of fun. Take a look at the pictures and see for yourself. More pictures will be uploaded so check back again. If you had fun, share your experience by leaving us a comment at the blog. If you have any suggestions, please email us so we can improve our upcoming activities.

A temple visit and another field trip (to the lake/beach) are in the planning. Stay tuned. What would be more interesting to get to know new friends by knowing what animals they are? Join us next time.

Party pictures

Thanks everyone for coming. Here are some pictures from the party.

Did you find yourself?
Did you find the new friends you met?
What do you remember the most about the party?
Do you have suggeestions?

We want to hear from you. Leave us a comment at the blog.

Again, our weekly meditation will start next week - August 29th from noon to 1pm at UC Lone Star (280).