Thursday, July 16, 2009

Daily Readings

197. There are these five advantages of listening to Dhamma. What five? One hears things not previously heard, clarifies things previously heard, dispels doubts, straightens one’s view, and one’s heart becomes calm.

A.III.247



0 comments 1:12 PM

And A Woman Shall Not Be Subservient

by Venerable S. Dhammika

The other day someone asked me what the Buddha had to say about the relationship between husband and wife. ‘I suppose it’s the usual “and the wife shall be subservient to her husband” my questioner said. I wasn’t able to answer straight off because I wasn’t quite sure of the answer. So I checked it up and this is what I found. In the Anguttara Nikaya the Buddha comments than one of the onerous things about being a woman is that she is always subservient to a man (S.IV,239). This was not said by way of approval but only as an observation on how things are (or were), a ‘suffering’ (dukkha) for women.

When he was addressing his disciples he did speak of how he felt that it should be. In the Sigalovada Sutta the Buddha speaks about the duties a husband and wife should have towards each other. ‘He should honor her, not disparage her, not be unfaithful to her, give her authority, and provide her with adornments…She should organize her work properly, be kind to the servants, not be unfaithful, protect the family wealth and be skillful and diligent in all she does’ (D.III,190). I think the two most important things here are that both should be faithful (naticariya) to each other and that the husband should give authority (issariya vossaggena) to his wife. In the Buddha’s day that probably meant authority within the household. I think it would not be at all unreasonable to interpret this as applying to many more areas of life. When Nakulapita was critically ill his wife Nakulamata nursed him with great devotion and kept up his spirits with constant encouragement and . when the Buddha came to know about this he said to Nakulapita, ‘It is a gain, a great gain for you in having Nakulamata full of compassion for you (anukampika), full of love for you (atthakama), as your mentor (ovadika) and teacher (anusasika, A.III,298).

For someone to mentor and teach you, they have to be your equal or superior, at least in some areas. You need to be open enough to take their advice and they need to be confident enough to give it. Again this does not suggest a woman being in a passive or subservient position. In the Anguttara Nikaya the Buddha speaks of four things whereby a family prospers and endures. One of them is that they put in authority a virtuous woman or man (silavantam itthim va purisam va adhipacce thapenti, A.II,248).

The word adhipacca which I have here translated as ‘authority’ means, according to the PTS Dictionary, being overlord, supreme rule, lordship, sovereignty, power. The only thing I can find that the Buddha said suggesting that a wife should be subservient in at least some way to her husband is in the discourse where he talks about the seven types of wives, the last four of which he seems to approve of. These four are the mother-like wife, the sister-like wife, the companion-like wife and the slave-like wife (A.IV,). One of the qualities that the fourth of these should have is that she is ‘obedient to her husband’(bhattu = husband, vasa = under, anuvattana = comply with, go according to).

So that’s it. All this together is hardly a ringing endorsement of the idea that a woman must take an inferior position in marriage and render authority to her husband.


0 comments 1:09 PM

Wednesday, July 15, 2009

The walking with Buddha series continues : Enlightenment




Greetings to all! Sharing sessions have resumed!
This week we have Zeming continuing the walking with Buddha series.
The topic for this coming Saturday will be on the Buddha's enlightenment.

Please try to reach by 3pm as Puja will start at 3.15pm on the dot.
Do inform your house captains if you are unable to make it.

With that, enjoy the rest of the week and have a good weekend!
See you there!



0 comments 3:29 PM

Sunday, July 12, 2009

Viriya Ultimate Sports Camp 2009 - The Images

Yesterday, 20 members from our youth group went through the first-ever Ultimate Sports Camp, and the gruelling 24-hour challenge was captured on camera!
Hiking, Running, Swimming, Cycling are just the few activities that the participants went thru!!


At the Top of Mount Faber
Photobucket
At Henderson Waves Beginning
Photobucket
Someone tried to do a stunt, but was stunned to find himself in a different kinda effect.
Photobucket
This is the place they had most fun with, at the Henderson Waves that stretches 200m across and 68m in depth at its highest point.
Photobucket
And they started imagining Ninja Warriors, at 65m. Not one, all of them!
Photobucket
The ladies doing a beautiful walk and trying to be beautiful.. what are the guys looking at?
Photobucket
Oh MY! Its Kor Kor LOVE!
Photobucket
Hey, don't disturb this animal. its looks intense.
Photobucket
The new gang members planning to graffiti another table... (its not them who did the drawings to the table, they want to copy only)
Photobucket
Ultraman and.. Krauser..
Photobucket
At the place where all of them were at the place where Mediacorp loves to use to have many drama serials.
Photobucket
A sculpture from the Devas and Maras
Photobucket
At the treetop walk next to Hort Park.
Photobucket
Once again congratulations to the survivors of this camp and you will be receiving your singlets real soon!
Have a good rest!


0 comments 1:20 PM

Saturday, July 11, 2009


Greetings everyone. I'm not very good with words so i'll keep my post short.

BLOOD
DONATION.


is anyone willing to give up some blood to save some lives?


The platelets found in blood are used to treat leukaemia patients. A single patient often needs platelets from 10 or more donors, all within a short period of time. Add to that the short 5-day lifespan of donated platelets, and you can understand why there is a constant need for platelet donors.


Every hour of the day, 15 units of blood are used in Singapore. We need to collect at least 350 units a day, as a whopping 90,000 units are needed in a year, just to meet the transfusion needs of patients in Singapore
.



If memory doesn't fail me, one pack of blood can actually save up to 3 lives. i myself have a phobia of needles [especially anything that involves the exposing of the human organs, even as a crazy fan of Dead Space (but thats besides the point)]

I intend to go for my blood donation next weekend [probably next saturday] or any other time. It'll be good if i can get more people to go as a group and have lunch together after that.

C'mon, lets do some good. (:




retarded seaweed drummer, PEARSON.


0 comments 2:47 AM

Wednesday, July 8, 2009

RIP Micheal - Man In the Mirror

I'm posting MJ's song in rememberance to his passion, love and wonderful contribution to this world. This is one of my favourites from Micheal Jackson. The song is really good with an inspiring, meaningful and beautiful lyrics. The tune's great too! My favourtie part of the lyrics

"If you wanna make the world a better place

Take a look at yourself and make that change"







"Man in the mirror"


I'm Gonna Make A Change,
For Once In My Life
It's Gonna Feel Real Good,
Gonna Make A Difference
Gonna Make It Right . . .


As I, Turn Up The Collar On My Favourite Winter Coat
This Wind Is Blowin' My Mind
I See The Kids In The Street,
With Not Enough To Eat
Who Am I, To Be Blind?
Pretending Not To See their Needs


A Summer's Disregard,
A Broken Bottle Top
And A One Man's Soul
They Follow Each Other On
The Wind Ya' Know
'Cause They Got Nowhere To Go
That's Why I Want You To Know


I'm Starting With The Man In The Mirror
I'm Asking Him To Change His Ways
And No Message Could Have Been Any Clearer
If You Wanna Make The World A Better Place
Take A Look At Yourself, And Then Make A Change


I've Been A Victim Of A Selfish Kind Of Love
It's Time That I Realize
That There Are Some With No Home, Not A Nickel To Loan
Could It Be Really Me,Pretending That They're Not Alone?


A Willow Deeply Scarred,
Somebody's Broken Heart
And A Washed-Out Dream
They Follow The Pattern Of The Wind, Ya' See
Cause They Got No Place To Be
That's Why I'm Starting With Me



0 comments 9:50 AM

Tuesday, July 7, 2009

Viriya Ultimate Sports Camp 2009 - The Details

Dear Sporting Personalities in SBM Youth!

I'm proud to announce that the response for this year's USC has been overwhelming and we have closed the registration at 25 instead of the predicted 20!

However, we need to give u, the registered participants, a full rundown of what to bring and where to meet for USC 2009!

Here are the things that you need to have for USC 2009

What should be on your body:
- 1 track shirt (can be running jersey or drifit shirt)
- 1 running shorts (cos we are running and running in beach shorts ain't cool..)
- 1 pair of running shoes
- 1 swimming attire (it should act as your undergarment, cos we are swimming)

What you should bring along:
- 1 easy-to-carry bag. please don't bring too big a bag. u're gonna suffer if u bring too big.
- 1 towel. for cleaning body and sand off esp. after sentosa and drying sweat)
- 1 extra shirt
- 1 water bottle
- 1 pair of undergarments

Optional Items- 1 bath foam (during bath u might want to smell better.)

And here's the reporting time and Venue for the Ultimate Sports Camp 2009!

Time to meet: 0830
(Special Note: Do not be late, or not, you would have to pay back the amount that you are late by physical exercise led by myself!)
Place to meet: Harbourfront MRT Station

I suggest participants should meet each other before coming to avoid latecoming. Sorry but this camp's time tolerance is low. :) so please do abide by the timings and give respect to this Camp.

Now please check the facebook account named Ultimate Sports Camp 2009 for more details!
On behalf of the two-man planning committee, we welcome you to sports camp and please ensure u have ample rest and hydration before you come!

Good luck for the Right Effort!

Note: For members who have not registered for this event, do check back at this blog for further details! We have something planned for you!

Regards,
Cheng Shing and Alvin
Camp Commandants
Viriya USC 2009


0 comments 10:51 AM

Sunday, July 5, 2009

Inter faith dialogue - Faith and Racial Harmony

On Saturday, 7 Youth members from SBM participated in an interfaith dialogue at Ren Ci Hospital. It was organised by South West CDC and Buddhist Fellowship.





Mr Matthias, Guest of Honour


Angie Monksfield representing the Buddhist community


There were a total of 5 faiths. Namely, Taoist, Muslim, Hindu, Christian and Buddhist



It was a very fruitful session at the interfaith dialogue. It was a new and enlightening experience for me. It gave us a chance to place ourselves into the shoes of other faiths. A Christian from Poland shared with us his views on multi-religious faith. He feels that we are all seekers of Truth and just like our palms, each religion is represented by a finger. As followers of each religion walk the spiritual path, they will finaly converge at the center of the palm. It was an insightful analogy. We are all seekers of Truth, the Truth of happiness, free from craving and dissatisfaction. The Buddha too was a seeker of Truth and he found it.
Lastly, from a Christian perspective (Not representing the community), he felt that there is so much about his faith that he has yet to experience. He should worry about his own salvation first before attempting to save others. Similarly, we Buddhist should walk the path ourselves. We have the power and wisdom to save ourselves from unhappiness, anger, anxiety, craving, lust and ignorance. Before we think of liberating others from suffering, we should walk the talk and liberate ourselves from suffering.
-Zeming



0 comments 10:05 PM

Friday, July 3, 2009

Bon Voyage Melon

Our dearest bro in the dhamma Ryan Lee Boon Huee aka Melon has left for Perth in pursuit of a brighter future. He'll be completing his degree and masters in Australia. We wish him all the best in his studies and career. May he be blessed with success and happiness.


It was a weekday morning but we managed to rush in time to send him off. almost overslept..Sorry ryan! haha.



Finally, Ryan bro! I'll post all your pics here on the blog so new and old members will know and remember you. Come back with your degree! we'll welcome you with open arms.

-Zeming





0 comments 9:15 PM

Inter-Faith Forum


7 of our youths will be attending the inter-faith forum tomorrow. Stay tune to our reflections!


1 comments 10:47 AM

Thursday, July 2, 2009

Rejoice!

What would Buddhist literature looks like if Buddhism has established a strong foothold in the Western world in the 1800s?

Venerable S. Dhammika has this to share in his blog:

Paul Carus, a pioneer of Buddhism in the West wrote this in 1894. It imitates the style of the King James Version but there is nothing wrong with that and its sentiments are genuine and reverential. I have modified it just a bit.

Rejoice! Rejoice at the glad tidings! The Buddha our Lord has found the root of all evil; he has shown us the way to salvation. The Buddha dispels the illusions of our mind and frees us from the terror of death. The Buddha our Lord, brings comfort to the weary and sorrow-laden; he restores peace to those who are broken down under the burden of life. He gives courage to the weak when they would give up self-reliance and hope. You who suffer from the tribulations of life, you who have to struggle and endure, you who yearn for the life of truth, rejoice at the glad tidings! There is balm for the wounded, and there is food for the hungry. There is water for the thirsty, and there is hope for the despairing. There is light for those in darkness, and there is inexhaustible blessing for the upright. Heal your wounds, you wounded, and eat your fill, you hungry.


Rest, you weary, and you who are thirsty quench your thirst. Look up to the light, you who sit in darkness, be of good cheer, you who are forlorn. Trust in truth, you who love the truth, for the kingdom of righteousness is founded upon earth. The darkness of error is dispelled by the light of truth. We can see our way and take firm and certain steps. The Buddha, our Lord, has revealed the truth. The truth cures our diseases and frees us from suffering, the truth strengthens us in life and in death; the truth alone can conquer the evils of error. Therefore rejoice! Rejoice at the glad tidings!


0 comments 11:35 AM

Tuesday, June 30, 2009

A special event!

Hello dudes and dudettes!

Please make yourself free this Sunday, as we will be celebrating Sister Hsu's 112th Birthday!

That's right!

It's gonna be a bright sunny day filled with song singing and skits done by the youth group!

So be at SBM at 10am sharp, and why not take this chance to mingle around with the adults?

So see you there!
And for those who aren't familiar with who Sister Hsu is why not scroll on down some more!



Sister Hsu, born on July 7 1897 also known as Teresa Hsu Chih, is well known for her active social works. She has done social work in Paraguay, China and worked as a nurse in England before arriving in Singapore.

Here are some of her works:

Helping her brother start the Assunta Foundation for the poor which is located in Ipoh.
Started the first home for the aged sick in Singapore with help from her sister.
Setting up the Heart to Heart Service Centre with, fellow social worker, Sharana Yao.

She has earned many commendation awards through her selfless acts, and continues her involvment in charity works. She gives public talks in schools, welfare homes and hospitals about health and service to the needy.

She continues to inspire everyone with her actions, she is the Supercentenarian befitting the name as "Singapore's Mother Teresa".


0 comments 10:52 PM

Pre-Teen Fellowship Camp Reflections

One good reason why Pre-Teens Fellowship went smoothly is because of the strong support we have from the dedicated members of Manjusri Secondary School's Buddhist Interact Club, who took time off to come help in the camp. Below are some of their reflections:

Through this camp I realised that being a group leader is tiring but fun. At times we needed to pacify the kids, yeah it’s tiring but in the end we had so much fun with them. I also realised that we cannot pamper the kids too much, if not they cannot grow, mature and learn.


It’s really fun when I played with them; I felt that I was of the same age as them! However as a group leader I had an extra duty which was to look after them and make sure they didn’t get into any mischief or trouble. They, as any other kids, were really mischievous and playful. Hence they liked to climb around in the bunk, so we had to make sure they that didn’t fall or hurt themselves.


I felt really nice and comfortable being with them. They treated me like their friends. They shared their secret book with me. However, they lied to me, the secret book was just a page of drawing, and in the end we laughed and laughed and had so much fun. Being with them made me feel relaxed and comfortable.


Everyday with them was fun! But at the end of every day I got real tired. But this gave me a good night sleep. Thank you Mrs Cheng and SBM for giving BIC so many opportunities to lead and gain new experience. I want to thank the campers too. Lastly, I love this camp!


THANK YOU.


LOVE,
ELYSIA (:


Throughout the camp, I have observed that there are many different ways to look after a kid. Many differ according to their personalities. For example, kids who are way too hyperactive will not listen to you if you go soft on them, instead, you have to be firm and make your stand. Kids who are more pampered and mild must be spoken to in a soft and calming way. I also learnt that you need to pay utmost attention to the kids you are looking after or they will definitely get into mischief. Overall, I believe the kids had fun and many could not bear to leave on the last day. It was heart warming when the kids ran to me and gave me a big hug and said ' You are my big sis.' It definitely made my day and all the hard work paid off.

I spent most of the time in the camp looking after a 6 year old girl named Celeste. She was a group member in my group and so being the youngest member in the camp, I placed more attention on her to make sure she was okay, eventually, the kids in the camp took the role of big sisters and big brothers to look after Celeste. It was another heart warming experience. Little Celeste was definitely adorable and she made me her best friend. The sense of achievement is indescribable. I attended the camp feeling sceptical. I was unsure if I could handle the kids especially because I felt that I would not have the patience. As the days progressed, I realise I could actually manage the kids and enjoyed the experience thoroughly. Now that the camp is over, the children's names would occasionally pop out in my head. Their innocence and intelligence has truly touched me. If I have a chance, I would love to work with children more often in future.

Lastly to sum up, I think this camp has been a great learning experience to all BIC members. It was not easy taking charge of playful young kids. However, I definitely loved the time spent with the kids and would love to do it again. I believe the BIC members had an eye-opener and now understand more about dealing with children. Mrs Cheng, thank you for giving us this opportunity.

Hazel


Thank you BIC, for all the hardwork, sweat and late nights with us. For those who are joining us, welcome to the family too!


0 comments 9:16 PM

SVC '42

Kevin and Randhir helped out as actors with our recent short film project. Being student/amateurs, we were unable to give them the star treatment but even without any money nor trailers, they still performed well. Check out the stills from the film:

Kevin as the Jap. Randhir as the Indian POW.



0 comments 1:39 AM

Monday, June 29, 2009

A Post Long Over Due

This post is long overdue!

From Raymond:

First of all, want to thank everyone who helped out in the camp, making the camp a successful one, and the children enjoying the camp.

I would like to thank Vicky who is in charge of the kitchen, and a few who help out (Zequi, Pearly, Hangqi … …) and appreciate the sacrifices of sleep for making the mashed potato.

For games, want to thank yeow chong for coming up with the games. Keith, Ernest and everyone who facilitates the games when the game master wasn’t around.

The gls(BIC students: Su Hiang, Hazel, Amanda, Yanye, Wenshi and Javier), who has been taking care of the children, keeping themselves energetic, although it is tiring and need lots of patience to take care of them. Especially like Joel who needs more attention. Hope that you have learnt something from this experience.

Last but not least, Zeming ad Shixiong who has been stepping in to help, although the committee should be doing their work but only Juulia is.

To conclude, like to thank everyone who has been a support to this camp. Despite the disappointments, the committee have learnt something and vowed to improve for the next camp.

Sadhu! Sadhu! Sadhu!

From Juulia:

The organizing committee had a lot , and saying a lot might even be an understatement, of trouble getting this camp as much off the ground as we did. The entire team , myself included, should have worked more closely to make this camp possible. Instead we ended up becoming separate entities doing our own things and getting very little done in the few meetings we did have together. The past is the past however and unchangeable. I hope we can all grow from this experience and learn not to repeat our mistakes. Like Alvin said at one point during camp, we have to learn not to reply on Zeming and Shi Xiong when it comes to getting what needs to be done … done.

That being said let me begin my thanks! Words alone can not express how grateful I am to everyone who helped make camp PTF possible! I'm sending ray after ray of Metta in each of your directions! A special thanks to the BIC people who acted as our Gls. As Raymond said in his letter, some of the campers weren't that easy to handle but you guys did a great job and the kids really enjoy themselves and the parents are equally happy.

Every single one of the campers parents let me know how much their children enjoyed the camp be it via phone, email, or in person so please give yourselves a pat on the back. We might need to work on our team work, and we might need to work on our efficiency but at least we were able to provide a happy camp memory for all those who attended.

I don't feel this camp was a 'disappointment' but rather an opportunity we failed to take full advantage of. In the future, let us try to work together towards a common goal. Then and only then can we really say to ourselves "I did the best possible job I could."

Thank You with Love, Juulia


PS - Zeming I keep forgetting to get the photos from you! And Zhenyu can you pass me the video? Thank you ;D


0 comments 5:02 PM

Sunday, June 28, 2009

Youth Executive Committee 2009/2010

The Executive Committee of Singapore Buddhist Mission (Youth) 2009/2010 has been announced at our Youth General Meeting on 27th June.

PRESIDENT: Kwek Zeming
Age: 25
Tel: 94888903
Email: zenhora@yahoo.com

Zeming or more affectionately known as Ming Ming, is currently a doctorate student in NUS Bioengineering. Despite his heavy background in science and engineering, his passion remains at photography and filmmaking. He comes from a strong Buddhist background and strongly appreciates the relevance of the Buddha's teachings in our modern world of science and technology. Zeming is a true child of the Mission, having been attending SBM's activities since he was 5 years old.


VICE-PRESIDENT (OPERATIONS): Liew Shi Xiong
Age: 24
Tel: 97599802
Email: mail.shixiong@gmail.com

Shi Xiong or more affectionately known as Brother Bear is a final year student at NTU Wee Kim Wee School of Communication & Information, specialising in Broadcast & Cinema Studies. His passion is fimmaking and his greatest ambition is to someday make an epic movie on the life of the Buddha. As a Theravadan Buddhist, Shi Xiong also finds great comfort and strength in the compassion of Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva. His Buddhist name is Raja, meaning 'King'.


VICE-PRESIDENT (DEVELOPMENT): Alvin Yeo
Age: 25
Tel: 97986072
Email: alvino84@hotmail.com

Alvin or more affectionately known as Bird, is currently reading Sociology in NTU School of Humanities & Social Sciences. A trained outdoor specialist, Alvin is also a catalyst for many of the group's outdoor activities, like camps and sports games, and is always pioneering in the way he conducts Buddhist youth activities. Alvin hopes to eventually become a business entrepreneur with a strong conscious for the society. His Buddhist name is Vappa, after one of the first five disciples of the Buddha.


HONORARY-GENERAL-SECRETARY: Vincent Du Zhenglin
Age: 21

Vincent, or more affectionately known as Ah Du/Zhenglin is currently serving the nation in the Repubic of Singapore Air Force. He will be reading aeronautical engineering in NTU come 2010. Soft-spoken yet confident, Vincent is the rock of the youth group, working hard behind the scenes for many of the group's events, but never eager to take the limelight. His humility is very much appreciated in the youth group, just like the way his washboard abs is very much the envy of many boys. His Buddhist name is Ananda, the very name of the Buddhist arahant he very much admire.


SECRETARY: Amy Tong
Age: 24

A self-assured and compassionate young lady, Amy is working as a banker in a foreign bank based in Singapore. Having hailed from neighbouring Malaysia, Amy is glad to have found so many young and outgoing spiritual friends here in SBM, making her stay in Singapore enjoyable and pleasant and her spiritual path, fruitful. A devout Buddhist, Amy is a strong proponent of love and compassion, evident from her mannerism in working with people.


SECRETARY: Kwek Zekui
Age: 24

Zekui is working as a researcher at a local science and technological research agency. Despite being a soft-spoken girl, Zekui is an avid marathon runner and can run faster and longer than many of the guys here in SBM. Rumours has it that she has won thousand of dollars for coming first in a local marathon event, but she has since denied it. Zekui comes from a family with a strong Buddhist background. Her siblings, Zeming and Zeyan, also serves in the youth committee. Zekui has strong faith in the Buddha and his teachings, as can be seen from her practice of metta and karuna in her daily life.


SECRETARY: Kwek Zeyan
Age: 22

Zeyan is currently reading nursing in Australia's Griffith University and will return to Singapore to work as a nurse come July. Affectionately known as Missy Kwek, Zeyan is a dedicated and firm supporter of the Buddhist Mission, who works hard behind the scene yet never failing to volunteer for more. A loud and outspoken girl, Zeyan is one you can go for a good laugh over the simplest things in life. She is also the baby of the Kwek family.


SECRETARY: Juulia KarlstedAge: 19

Juulia comes from Finland but has been staying in Singapore for the past 4 years. She has lived her entire life on the road, having took up residencies in India, Thailand, the United States and now, the Lion City. An avid singer and actress, Juulia has been at the forefront of various youth performances and is well-known for her beautiful voice. But do not be fooled by the above picture, Juulia is a blonde who enjoys blonde jokes and is waiting for university to start.


FINANCIAL CONTROLLER: Pearly Sim
Age: 20

Pearly Sim is currently working as a Human Resource Executive in a local security company. Despite her petitie size, Pearly is a motivated member of the youth group known for her fiesty and outgoing nature, so much so a Buddhist friend from Malaysia has even nicknamed her 'Little Chili Padi' during CAMP LIONS. Pearly enjoys photography and art and finds immense solace and affinity with Avalokistesvara Bodhisattva.


OPERATIONS EXECUTIVE: Ernest Lai
Age: 21

Ernest Lai is currently serving in the Army and will be reading bio-science in NTU come 2010. He has a great enthusiasm in life and his happy-go-lucky attitude rubs off much optimism in the people around him. He is well-like by many people because of his genuine personality and his ability to not let himself restrain by the expectations of other people. Ernest enjoys rock music and plays the bass for the Buddhist rock band, Reaching Jhana. His Buddhist name is Paduma, which means 'lotus' and is also the name of one of the 24 Buddhas in the Theravadan suttas.


OPERATIONS EXECUTIVE: Victor Teo
Age: 20

Victor or more affectionately known as Vicky, is one half of our resident madcapping duo (the other being Ernest). A highly energetic and creative young man, Vicky is well known for his wisecracks and wits that never fail to liven up the mood. Well-versed with words, Vicky is also a poet and a music enthusiast who enjoys composing music and writing songs. He is the lead guitarist for Reaching Jhana and is the chief composer for many of the band's music. he hopes that his music can inspire and give hope to many people. Vicky is also well-known for his culinary skills, with his salty noodles and ketchup nuggets being cult favourites. His Buddhist name is Khanti, meaning 'patience'.


DEVELOPMENT EXECUTIVE: Lim Fangrui
Age: 21

Fangrui is more affectionately known as Mao Mao, which literally means 'Hairy' for obvious reasons. A regular in the Republic of Singapore Air Force, Mao Mao is not only a patriot, but a strong supporter of the youth group. A backstage performer who work tirelessly behind the scenes without the need for recognition, Mao Mao is also dependable when it comes for the need of discipline. No nonsense yet soft-hearted, Mao Mao is a strong admirer of the Buddhist teachings and its relevance in the real world.


MARKETING-COMMUNICATIONS SECRETARY: Png Zhenyu
Age: 18

Zhenyu is currently a final year student in studying Digital Audio & Video Production in ITE. An avid filmmaker, Zhenyu's interest in tv and film production has seen him took up a stint with a local production company, which further strengthens his resolve to work in the industry. Well-like in the Buddhist group for being yet another silent yet industrious worker, Zhenyu is the man behind some of the audio and video works here in the youth group. A young man with strong devotion to the Buddha and firm compassion in his heart, Zhenyu's Buddhist name is Wisuddha.


COMMUNITY SERVICE SECRETARY: Mabel Ong
Age: 18

Mabel (or Marbles) is currently a second year student at Raffles Junior College. As a devout Buddhist, she believes strongly that Buddhists should actively apply the teachings of the Buddha in our day to day life. A socially conscious young lady, Mabel is active in community service work, where she is constantly guided by the Buddha's wisdom in letting her love and compassion flow. Mabel hopes to become a speech therapist where she hope she can play an active part in giving back to the society that grooms her and help those in need. Her Buddhist name is Visakha, after the devout and compassionate lay woman disciple of the Lord Buddha.


HOUSE CAPTAIN: Siah Wanling
Age: 18

Wanling is the House Captain of Moggallana, the very house that saw her growth as a young girl into a teenager today. A financial business student in Temasek Polytechnic, Wanling is well-like in the youth group for her jovial and friendly attitude to the people around her, and for always saying the wrong things at the wrong time, contributing funniest home video moments after moments. Wanling finds solace in the Lord Buddha and her favourite phrase is 'Buddha poppi', which means 'Buddha bless you' in Hokkien. Her Buddhist name is Kusala, which means 'meritorious'.


HOUSE CAPTAIN: Pearson Wu
Age: 20

Pearson is the House Captain of Ananda House and is also currently a junior officer in the Singapore Police Force. Passionate and enthusiastic, Pearson has been a valuable member of the youth group with his contributions a a volunteer, despite being busy with fighting crimes. An avid musician, Pearson is also an active member of the drumming circle in Singapore and is currently the drummer for the Buddhist rock band, Reaching Jhana. Pearson hopes to inspire more young people into leading a righteous and happy Buddhist life.


VICE HOUSE CAPTAIN: Raymond Tham
Age: 18

Raymond has been with the youth group since he was 13 and today, he is a senior youth member and is currently studying engineering at Republic Polytechnic. An avid performer, Raymond enjoys singing and is also a member of a local acapella group. He loves to laugh and get himself crazy and is the group's resident unglam poser. Raymond has a lot of faith in the Buddha's teachings and is continually seeking to improve his Dhamma knowledge and his cultivation as a lay Buddhist. He hopes to work in the entertainment industry when he grows up.


VICE HOUSE CAPTAIN: Kevin Lee
Age: 19

Kevin arrives in Singapore from Penang a year ago to pursue his education here in Ngee Ann Polytechnic. A fitness nut, Kevin participates actively in dragon boating and has recently led his team to the championship. Kevin is also a devout Buddhist who firmly believes in leading his life in accordance to the teachings and guidance of the Buddha. He hopes to do well in his studies and continue his university education here in Singapore. The greatest love and concern in his life is his parents in Malaysia, whom he feels indebted to for bringing him up into the man he is today. Kevin's Buddhist name is Khemananda.


VICE HOUSE CAPTAIN: Lee Xinyi
Age: 18

Xinyi has had a strong Buddhist education, having attended sunday classes for more than ten years. With her strong faith, Xiny has been a dedicated youth member here at SBM, serving with compassion and enthusiasm. She has waited for a long time to join the group, having participated with youth acitivites since she was 13, but only joining as a member after her O-levels. Currently, she is studying Early Childhood Education at Ngee Ann Polytechnic and she hopes to work with children after her graduation. She also enjoys a good game of volleyball and despite her demure appearances, does not shriek at the bruises from the game.


CAMP MASTER: Teo Kaiwen
Age: 20

Kaiwen is currently a final year student at Republic Polytechnic, specializing in animation and gaming. Despite his busy schedule rushing for his FYP, Kaiwen finds meaning in serving the youth group. With Camp Ehi-Passiko being an important event in the youth calender, Kaiwen is confident that he will be able to deliver his best for the camp, while juggling with other commitments in his life. A smart and inquisitive young man, Kaiwen's analytical mind finds peace and harmony within the teachings of the Buddha, thus convincing himself of a devout Buddhist lifestyle.



CAMP MISTRESS: Chua Chenxin
Age: 18

Chenxin or Sincere describes herself as crazy and insane. An Early Childhood Education student at Ngee Ann Poytechnic, Chenxin loves children and hopes to work with them when she grows up. Chenxin also appreciates how she can find peace within the Dhamma and how Buddhism can be relevant to her life. A sociable and energetic young lady, Chenxin enjoys outdoor activities and campings and hopes her enthusiasm for the sun and the rain will bring happiness to the people around her.


0 comments 8:26 PM

Friday, June 26, 2009

HAIRY POTTER!





HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO HAIRY / MAO MAO / Fangrui!

May the light of the Buddha, Dhamma and Sangha shine on you!


0 comments 9:30 PM

Pinginanin's Praise


Just as a man, well satisfied with some choice flavor, long not for other flavors that are coarse; even so, whenever one hears the good Gotoma’s Dhamma one longs not for the talk of others, crowds, other samanas nor brahmans.

Just as a man, overcome by hunger and weakness, may come upon a honey cake and, whenever he tastes it he enjoys a sweet, delicious flavor; even so, whenever one hears the good Gotoma’s Dhamma one experience joy and serenity of heart.

Just as a skillful physician might in a moment take away the illness of one sick and ailing; even so, whenever one hears the good Gotoma’s Dhamma one, all grief, sorrow, suffering, lamentation and despair just vanish away.

Just as a man, tortured by heat, by heat overcome, wearied, craving and thirsty, might come to a pool, clear sweet, cool and limpid, a lovely resting place, and might plunge therein, bathe, drink and allay woe, fatigue and fret; even so, whenever one hears the good Gotama’s, all woe, fatigue and fret just vanish away. (A.III,239)


0 comments 9:29 PM

Heal The World



RIP Michael Jackson



There's A Place In
Your Heart
And I Know That It Is Love
And This Place Could
Be Much
Brighter Than Tomorrow
And If You Really Try
You'll Find There's No Need
To Cry
In This Place You'll Feel
There's No Hurt Or Sorrow

There Are Ways
To Get There
If You Care Enough
For The Living
Make A Little Space
Make A Better Place...

Heal The World
Make It A Better Place
For You And For Me
And The Entire Human Race
There Are People Dying
If You Care Enough
For The Living
Make A Better Place
For You And For Me

If You Want To Know Why
There's A Love That
Cannot Lie
Love Is Strong
It Only Cares For
Joyful Giving
If We Try
We Shall See
In This Bliss
We Cannot Feel
Fear Or Dread
We Stop Existing And
Start Living

Then It Feels That Always
Love's Enough For
Us Growing
So Make A Better World
Make A Better World...

Heal The World
Make It A Better Place
For You And For Me
And The Entire Human Race
There Are People Dying
If You Care Enough
For The Living
Make A Better Place
For You And For Me

And The Dream We Were
Conceived In
Will Reveal A Joyful Face
And The World We
Once Believed In
Will Shine Again In Grace
Then Why Do We Keep
Strangling Life
Wound This Earth
Crucify Its Soul
Though It's Plain To See
This World Is Heavenly
Be God's Glow

We Could Fly So High
Let Our Spirits Never Die
In My Heart
I Feel You Are All
My Brothers
Create A World With
No Fear
Together We'll Cry
Happy Tears
See The Nations Turn
Their Swords
Into Plowshares

We Could Really Get There
If You Cared Enough
For The Living
Make A Little Space
To Make A Better Place...

Heal The World
Make It A Better Place
For You And For Me
And The Entire Human Race
There Are People Dying
If You Care Enough
For The Living
Make A Better Place
For You And For Me

Heal The World
Make It A Better Place
For You And For Me
And The Entire Human Race
There Are People Dying
If You Care Enough
For The Living
Make A Better Place
For You And For Me

Heal The World
Make It A Better Place
For You And For Me
And The Entire Human Race
There Are People Dying
If You Care Enough
For The Living
Make A Better Place
For You And For Me

There Are People Dying
If You Care Enough
For The Living
Make A Better Place
For You And For Me

There Are People Dying
If You Care Enough
For The Living
Make A Better Place
For You And For Me

You And For Me
You And For Me
You And For Me
You And For Me
You And For Me
You And For Me
You And For Me
You And For Me
You And For Me
You And For Me
You And For Me


0 comments 9:21 PM

Thursday, June 25, 2009

Pictures of Post PTF camp

A long walk to the beach
Finally after 8 years of CEP we get to use the canoe!!!


You really don't know whats underneath

An artistic shot. No comments

Briefing done by safety officer general Alvin yeo

Ernest was enjoying the sun at first

Then kenna arrowed to push saftey officer


Another shot of the beautiful scenery



The biggest and widest smile I've seen in the water. Ying hui's happy!




Moss filled ground
LOL no comments
Saftey officers
Natural smiles of youths having fun. Its lovely

MOSStage

Beloved MJR girls and PTF Camp GLs

LOL Wong Fei Hong?


A picture I felt beautifully composed in terms of colouring and contrast. However, the position of Cherise was too centralised.

Alvin waiting for his turn

Whats with the face...lol

There were many dogs at LCK. This picture is kinda ironic. The dogs seem to be imprisoned but in fact they are truely free to roam in their natural habitat.

The long and winding road

The search for the sunken canoe

These photos were taken by Cherise, Kaiwen and Zeming. It was a fun day out for our members and will stay as a lovely memory in our hearts. It was a day to bond and reward our members with an experience of praticipating in the activities that they have been organising in CEP for so many years.
I wish all the best for our members and friends of SBM youth group. May you all be successful, healthy and happy!
I'll be updating more pictures to come! stay tuned!!!!
-Zeming



0 comments 2:24 AM

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

What's Up!?!?


Yo Yo Yo! What's Up!? This is Brother Bear in the HOUSE!

So WHAT'S UP THIS WEEK, I hear you say!

Saturday
27th July 2009
No Sharing Session
General Meeting for Reorganization of General Meeting
3:30pm

All members of SBM Youth are strongly encouraged to come for this session where you can voice your views, nominate your friends or even yourself into the new committee, share with us and be an active part of how we want SBM Youth to develop and grow from here!

Please be punctual and meet at 3:15pm, where we will start PUJA at 3:30pm SHARP!


See You All!


0 comments 1:52 AM

Roaring at Sentosa

The boys finally had enough of Mao Mao and his hair issues

The Biggest Bird Catches The Hairiest Fish
(Anyone gets the Big Bird thingy?)

Xiao Hei heard a rumour (as usual, we never quite know where his sources come from) that sand actually helps revert the process of suntanning. Better still, you have temporary abs for show. Doesn't work for Wanling though... (is it Wanling? Looks like Meng Kuan also...someone clarify?)


0 comments 1:40 AM

HAPPY BIRTHDAY

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

Today is 24th June. 24th June is Peary Sim's 20th birthday!

A week ago was Fu Zhong the Asura's birthday. He is no more a boy at 19 now.


May Pearly, Fu Zhong and all June babies have a blessed and wonderful year ahead. May the guiding light of the Buddha, Dhamma and Sangha shines with you!


0 comments 1:35 AM

Tuesday, June 23, 2009

A film on the life of the Buddha!

Light, Camera, Buddha!
by Venerable S.Dhammika

When I first heard the news I was delighted. But after thinking about it for a few moments I started to have a panic attack. Ashutosh Gowariker is going to direct a mega-budget film on the life of the Buddha. His last several films, especially Jodha Akbar, have been hits and there is no denying the finesse and skill of his directing and camera work. And apparently the film will be based on Thich Nhat Hanh's Old Path White Clouds which is a good retelling of the Buddha's life. The Dalai Lama has 'given his blessing' to the film but I really don’t think that counts for much. He 'gives his blessings' to just about anything nowadays.

On the downside, I read that the film is going to be shot in the Himalayas which will take the Buddha's story completely out of its historical and geographical setting. And when I think about the other attempts to film a life of the Buddha it has to make you a bit nervous. 'Little Buddha' was, lets face it, a disaster. The lotuses sprouting from the ground as baby Prince Siddhattha took his first steps was as visually impressive as anything Bernardo Bertolucci has ever done and Keanu Reeves did look something like what I imagine Prince Siddhattha looked like. But where did they get the pancavaggiya bhikkhus from? - a home for retired and toothless Indian beggars? And as for the idea of Lama Dorje being reborn into two, three or four different bodies, I have spent much of the last 16 years trying to explain to people that this is an idea unique to Tibetan tradition and not at all in harmony with mainline Dhamma.

The Hindi silent movie Buddhadev done in the 1920's was, if I remember correctly, the first attempt to make a film on the life of the Buddha but I know nothing about it. I have seen Teinosuke Kinugasa's 1954 effort and its not bad, except that the actors, the setting and the costumes are all Japanese. Those of you from my generation will have probably seen Conrad Rooks' 1972 Siddhartha in which the Buddha appears without actually being seen. Then there is Sheshagiri Rao's recent Buddha which I am told by Indian friends is long, dull and biographical inauthentic. Then there is the matter of who they are going to have for the leading role. If they asked me (and they haven’t done so yet although I am expecting a call any day now) I would choose the young Telugu star Siddhartha Suryanarayan. He is a relatively good actor, or at least no worse than the others, he has the looks and he even has the right name.

But seriously, a good film on the life of the Buddha is long overdue. Many incidents in the Buddha's life should lend themselves well to skillful cinematography; it’s a wonderful story (no killing, executions, rapes, crucifixions, etc), and it could have an appeal beyond a Buddhist audience. Lets hope Ashutosh Gowariker can do the needful.


1 comments 11:04 PM

Monday, June 22, 2009

Cars and PTF Camp

The first ever Pre-Teens Fellowship Camp organised by the youth group saw cars as part of its 'collateral damage'.

Who says Singaporeans don't care? These Singaporeans sure do. Just a day before my car tyre got punchek, we were on Zeming's car to the crab farm. Someone took the driver's seat and what happened within 5 minutes can be seen below.


Even along a deserted road in Lim Chu Kang where the traffic was really sparse, we had 1 taxi, 2 lorries, 1 van and 1 sedan stopping to help us. You can see the big lorry helping to pull the car out of the ditch with the chain, orchestrated by the Malay encik in blue overalls. The uncle in the lorry refused reimbursement. The best thing was those that stopped to help us include the friendly encik, the Indian taxi driver and the Chinese.

It is funny how a day later, my tyre went flat just a kilometre away from the above site and another Malay Encik helped me out.

As Buddhist youths ourselves, let us always be thankful for the kindhearted soul, aways willing to give a hand to even strangers. We ourselves should exemplify this practice too. Lets walk the talk of helping with love and compassion. On the otherhand, lets also be mindful and celebrate racial and religious harmony at its very best!

Cheers!

Brother Bear


0 comments 11:21 PM

About Us
SBM Youth Executive Committee 2009/2010


Contact Us
Singapore Buddhist Mission
9 Ruby Lane Singapore 328284
Tel: 62997216




Sunday, 5 July 2009
Sister Hsu's 112 Birthday Celebrations
Time:10.00 AM
Venue: Singapore Buddhist Mission
Please be punctual!

Saturday, 11 July 2009
Viriya Ultimate Sports Camp
Time: To be confirmed
Venue:Sentosa
Please be punctual!

Saturday, 18 July 2009
Sharing Session: Walking with Buddha Series
Time: 3pm
Venue: Singapore Buddhist Mission
Please be punctual!

Membership Form (click to download)





July 2008
August 2008
September 2008
October 2008
November 2008
December 2008
January 2009
February 2009
March 2009
April 2009
May 2009
June 2009
July 2009

Singapore Buddhist Mission
Singapore Buddhist Mission (Youth)
Camp Ehi-Passiko Video
Camp Ehi-Passiko
Buddhist Rock Band: Reaching Jhana
Dedication of Merit MTV
Buddhist Youth of Singapore
Bee Low See Youth
Buddhist Fellowship Youth
Manjusri Buddhist Interact Club
Dharma In Action
Young Buddhist Chapter
Youth Ministry

The Buddhist Channel
Venerable Chuan Guan
Venerable S. Dhammika
Venerable Heng Sure
Just Be Good
Moonpointer
The Buddhanet