On Sunday 6 September, Nalandians joyfully returned for the first Sunday Morning Service since Nalanda Centre was closed earlier this year due to the Movement Control Order.  Devotees were vigilant in observing the precautionary measures out of care for the safety of everyone at the Centre.  In this service, Bro.Tan Siang Chye gave a Dhamma talk on how we can enhance our lives through living not just for our own welfare, but also for the welfare of others.

In the Sedaka Sutta of Samyutta Nikaya 47.19, the Buddha recounted the story of Medakathalika, an apprentice bamboo acrobat who performed dangerous stunts with her master.  Medakathalika wisely explained to her master that “I will look after myself, and you look after yourself. In this way, we will be able to look after each other”.  The Buddha built upon this premise and explained that by developing mindfulness, patience, harmlessness and care for others, that is how we are able to look after others by looking after oneself.

When we are able to progress spiritually, our actions, speech and thoughts will become more guarded.  At the same time, we also support the spiritual efforts of our ‘kalyana mittās’ who are striving on the same path.  As our Dhamma practice matures, we can play even more effective and significant roles in the community.

We thank Bro. Siang Chye for deepening our understanding of the Buddha’s simple yet profound teachings.  Let us act on what we can do to be of value to both ourselves and others.