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I have followed the Master's teachings
very seriously and diligently.
I feel very sad to take part in this memorial ceremony today. Over a decade ago, for a three year period I was able to be at the side of Venerable Master Hua, receiving his teaching and care, and to take part in the ascetic cultivation and Sutra lectures at the City of Ten Thousand Buddhas and Dharma Realm Buddhist University. That was a very touching period of my life, during which I witnessed the Master's greatness in ascetic cultivation and in teaching his disciples. That experience has benefitted and encouraged me greatly in my life. That is why, up to today, I have followed the Master's teachings very seriously and diligently.
The Venerable Master took Buddhism to America, and yet he did not forget about China. He returned to Taiwan several times and held Dharma sessions to protect the nation and avert disasters. Everyone is aware of how concerned he was about Taiwan's future.
Although the Master has completed the stillness, he has not left us. He is still mindful of the human race and of the entire society. We should unite and work hard together, guided by the Master's example, to build a better nation and society. This is what I feel we must do.
If someone sees the one of Proper Enlightenment
As liberated and free from all outflows,
And as not being attached to all worlds,
That person still has not certified to the Way-Eye.
If someone knows the Thus Come One's
Body and marks do not exist,
And cultivates and attains this understanding,
Then that person will quickly become a Buddha.
Flower Adornment Sutra, Chapter Nine, Light Enlightenment
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