Editor's Note - This is an excerpt from the July 2010 issue of the Buddhist Wheel

(The following response is to a Honolulu Betsuin member’s letter to the recent newsletter article, “A New Hope”; 4/2010)

“Dear Rev. Bruce,
…Upon re-reading the article ‘A New Hope’, my feeling is that you are trying to point out that in this generation, we need to speak up and take positions on issues confronting us. To me this very important issue that you point out is somehow lost because you focus on Shinran’s teachings and I don’t see the relevance to us taking a position in controversial issues with Shinran’s spirit and teaching…Can you point them out to me?…”

Dear genuine seeker:

The relationship of Shinran’s Teachings to social justice remains an ongoing challenge to modern life as it was in Shinran’s times. When Shinran began to interpret and translate the inner view and meaning of the Buddha-dharma—as spiritual awareness—he couldn’t help but apply it to living in the real world. The Buddha-dharma as a spiritual teaching and journey is not “otherworldly” as some think; genuine religious life must include everyday living as it naturally embraces the social themes and real-life issues of the day.

Editor's Note - This is an excerpt from the June 2010 issue of the Buddhist Wheel

Today, I would like to talk about Hon-Gan, which means Amida’s wish. Hearing Amida Buddha’s wish is Jodo Shinshu. The Buddha we worship is Amida Buddha. But there are other Buddhas in this world, too. For example, there are Dainichi Buddha, Yakushiji Buddha and Shakamuni Buddha. There are many Buddhas in this world like sand on the beach. Each Buddha tries to save people. One Buddha tries to save people who are suffering from sickness. One Buddha tries to rescue people. All Buddhas wish to save us from suffering.

Editor's Note - This is an excerpt from the May 2010 issue of the Buddhist Wheel

I often live my life thinking, “I try to spend every day peacefully and calmly.”

Come join us at the Sangha Hall and YBA Hall “cinemas” for Movie Night on Friday, April 23, 2010, from 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. Three (3) movies will be available to meet the entire family’s viewing pleasure. The three movies are: UP (children); “MAMA MIA” (musical); REMEMBER THE TITANS (inspirational sport story)

The three “cinemas” are located at the 1) makai side area of Sangha Hall; 2) Sangha Hall conference room; and 3) YBA Hall. Popcorn with arare, nachos with cheese, punch, water and coffee will be served and other donations are welcome. Entry “fee” is one canned good for the support of the Hawaii Island Food Basket. This event is brought to you by the Board of Buddhist Education.

Bring a friend or two and see you at the movies~~

Editor's Note - This is an excerpt from the April 2010 issue of the Buddhist Wheel

Mathew J.T. Stepanek, best known as “Mattie“, has been writing award-winning poetry and short stories since age three. While his young life ended a struggle with a rare form of Muscular Dystrophy, Mattie’s path offers a rare wisdom and insight that has touched thousands even today.