In the year of the Fire Rooster: Share your positive energy - Buddhist Monk

CEBU, Philippines - In order to be successful in the Year of the Fire Rooster, Master You Lin of the Chu Un (Compassion and Gratitude) Temple in Cebu City said people only need to remember two things: "work hard this year, and, share your positive energy to everyone."

And as the Fu Guang Shan Chu Un Temple (Chu Un Temple) usher in the Year of the Fire Rooster, the Chinese community indeed shared positive energy to everybody as it opens its doors to the public last night.

Those who went to the Temple were able to experience the Chinese culture and Buddhist practices, particularly on etiquette.

Hundreds of families, some who came in hordes, joined the local Filipino-Chinese and the Buddhist faithful at the Chu Un Temple Friday night, January 27.

The air at the Temple was filled with the aroma of Chinese cooked food, one which you only smell in Chinese cities like Hong Kong or Singapore.

Booths were selling authentic Chinese food while the Temple garden are filled with both Chinese and Cebuano families having a picnic while waiting for the strike of midnight.

At the Earth Hall of the Chu Un Temple, people were taught the basics of Chinese calligraphy and the Art of Tai Chi. An area was also designated for people interested to learn how to use the chopsticks.

Buddhist practices and procedures of the etiquette or prayer to Buddha were also taught inside the Earth Hall.

At the Great Mercy Hall or the main Shrine, a variety show was held where both Chinese and Cebuano performers shared the stage including that of Cebu's Chinese school Cebu Eastern College, and performers from the recently concluded Sinulog festival.

Dragon and Lion dances as well children dressing up as Fire Rooster performed before the crowd at the Great Hall. Singers from the Sinulog Idol contest also performed an hour-long show.

Master You Lin, head monk at the Chu Un Temple in Cebu City, said they are a sect in Buddhism that believe all people are one and the same and has high regard for life and its preservation.

 "We do not discriminate religion, races, or any belief," said You Lin whose Buddhist sect traces its origins in Taiwan.

Program Director Marlon Ardiente said that it has been a tradition and belief of the Fu Guang Shan Chu Un Temple to harmonize with the local community. In fact, the Chu Un Temple participated in the Sinulog festivities, which is basically an activity for Catholics.

She also said that "Lucky Charms" are just like purchasing insurances that eases the belief of people. They are not absolutely necessary, she added.

"What is important is what you do. Do good deeds, speak good words, and think your thoughts. That will bring you bright future," said Master You Lin.

In Buddhism, she said "what you do is what you get in return" or Karma.

For Ardiente, he believes that the festivities and lights last night will bring in more blessings, happiness, and wealth in the year of the Rooster.

They wanted the families who attended the event to have picnics as the Year of the Fire Rooster is "rooted on sharing with the family and how this family will evolve."

"It is always our advocacy to make it known to all people that the Chu Un Temple as a community celebrates Chinese New Year with everybody," Ardiente said.  (FREEMAN)