Last
week, Friday, 22nd - Sunday, 24th March (3 day 2 night),I had the incredible opportunity to attend a transformative event at the
Malaysian Hans Studies in Melaka. The "Ancient Teaching for Today's Challenges:
Home is where our journey begins" course, led by Principal Song, was a
profound exploration of traditional Chinese culture and its relevance in
today's world.
Over the course of three days and two nights,
participants delved into a variety of topics aimed at personal development,
leadership growth, and community engagement. The primary objectives of the
course were to empower individuals to build inner strength, become catalysts
for positive change in their communities, and cultivate lasting connections
with fellow participants.
The theme of the workshop, "Home is where our journey begins," underscores the fundamental importance of a happy and nurturing home environment in shaping individuals and communities. Indeed, a happy home serves as the cornerstone of a healthy and thriving community, impacting various aspects of individuals' lives and society as a whole.
First and foremost, a happy home provides a
sense of security and stability for its inhabitants. It is within the walls of
a loving and supportive home that individuals feel safe to explore, learn, and
grow. This sense of security lays the foundation for healthy development,
fostering confidence, resilience, and a positive outlook on life.
Furthermore, a happy home nurtures strong
and meaningful relationships among family members. It is a place where bonds
are forged, memories are created, and love is shared unconditionally. These
close familial ties not only contribute to individual well-being but also strengthen
the fabric of the community by promoting empathy, compassion, and unity.
Moreover, a happy home instills important
values and principles in its residents, serving as a moral compass for
navigating life's challenges. From simple acts of kindness and respect to more
complex concepts of integrity and responsibility, the lessons learned within
the home shape individuals' character and influence their interactions with
others in the community.
Additionally, a happy home fosters a
culture of communication, openness, and support. It is a space where ideas are
exchanged, opinions are valued, and conflicts are resolved constructively. By
promoting healthy communication patterns and fostering a sense of belonging,
happy homes contribute to the overall well-being and cohesion of the community.
In essence, the theme "Home is where our journey begins"
highlights the profound impact of a happy and nurturing home environment on
individual and community health. By prioritizing the creation and maintenance
of happy homes, we can lay the groundwork for a more harmonious, resilient, and
thriving society, where every individual has the opportunity to flourish and
contribute positively to the community.
Another
essential element of the event was the importance of "Relationship" in traditional Chinese culture. Through
discussions and activities, we explored the essential teachings of ancient Chinese
culture, including the significance of education, the power of love to
alleviate suffering, and the universal core values of benevolence,
righteousness, propriety, wisdom, and trustworthiness.
We also had the opportunity to learn about the wisdom hidden within Chinese characters, the role of music in bringing peace to our minds, and the importance of good manners in navigating life's challenges. Additionally, interactive discussion groups provided a platform for participants to share their thoughts and insights, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual support.
One
of the highlights of the event was the opportunity to network with local
community leaders and catalysts, who shared their experiences and offered
valuable guidance on leadership and community engagement. These interactions
were incredibly inspiring and left a lasting impression on all attendees.
On the culminating day of our "Ways of Enriching Our Life"
workshop, I was privileged to gain profound insights from Teacher Moey. He
eloquently conveyed the essence of life's three primary seasons: morning,
afternoon, and evening. Some individuals navigate these seasons driven by a
passionate pursuit, while others are motivated solely by monetary gain.
Teacher Philip Moey showcased his remarkable guitar skills alongside his captivating vocals.
Amongst the enriching discussions, Teacher Moey also delighted us with his latest masterpiece " The Muscial Soul Train: Discover the Song from Your Heart," which promises to guide readers on a journey of self-discovery through music and passion. In a captivating display of talent and
passion, Teacher Moey shared his remarkable guitar skills and treated us to
soul-stirring renditions of classic tunes, including "Country Road,"
"Top of the World," and "Chotto Matte Kudasai."
Additionally, he shed light on the Japanese concept of "*ikigai,"
which has garnered global attention for its ability to infuse life with purpose
and joy. This profound passion, as Teacher Moey explained, is instrumental in
enhancing mental and physical well-being.
*Ikigai is generally written as 生きがい, a compound of the verb, 生きる (ikiru), and がい (gai). The kanji character 生, has multiple readings and meanings, but is generally associated with life or living things. The rest of the word is written with
Teacher Song, on the other hand, offered her unique perspective on life's four main seasons, presenting them as spring, summer, autumn, and winter. She intertwined her enrichment journey with her love for music, particularly in honing her piano skills. Through her experiences, Teacher Song emphasized the importance of embracing each season of life with grace and enthusiasm, finding enrichment and fulfillment in every phase.
Furthermore, the
entire workshop was underscored by the principles of "Di Zi Gui
(弟子規;)," an
ancient Chinese text that serves as a guide to virtuous living. "Di Zi
Gui," which translates to "Standards for Being a Good Student and
Child," outlines the moral values and behaviors expected of individuals in
Chinese society. Written by Li Yuxiu in the Qing dynasty, this influential text
emphasizes filial piety, respect for elders, humility, and sincerity, among
other virtues.
With roots in
Confucian teachings, "Di Zi Gui" has been passed down through
generations as a moral compass for personal conduct and societal harmony. Its
enduring relevance speaks to its timeless wisdom and universal appeal, making
it a cornerstone of traditional Chinese culture and a source of inspiration for
individuals seeking to lead virtuous lives.
The workshop
served as a beacon of enlightenment, offering invaluable wisdom on navigating
life's seasons, finding fulfillment through passion and purpose, and embodying
the timeless principles of "Di Zi Gui." The teachings of Teacher Moey
and Teacher Song resonated deeply, inspiring us to embrace life's journey with
optimism, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to personal enrichment.
Throughout the course, participants
were encouraged to reflect on their own lives and consider how they could apply
the lessons learned to their personal and professional endeavors. Whether it
was through developing inner strength, embracing leadership roles, or fostering
positive relationships within their communities, attendees left with a renewed
sense of purpose and direction.
Overall, the Ancient Teaching for
Today's Challenges course was a truly enriching experience that provided
valuable insights into traditional Chinese culture and its relevance in
addressing contemporary challenges. I left feeling inspired, empowered, and
deeply grateful for the opportunity to embark on this journey of self-discovery
at the Malaysian Han Studies..
The event provided a unique platform
for individuals from diverse backgrounds to come together and explore shared
values and aspirations. Principal Song's guidance and expertise were
instrumental in facilitating meaningful discussions and fostering a supportive
learning environment.
As I reflect on my experience at the
Malaysian Han Studies, I am reminded of the profound wisdom and timeless
teachings that transcend cultural boundaries. The lessons learned during those
three days have left an indelible mark on my journey of self-discovery and
personal growth.
I am immensely grateful to Principal
Song and the entire facilitators, namely Teacher Pang, Teacher Lee, Teacher
Liew, Teacher Philip Moey, Teacher Felix Lam, Teacher Khoo, and etc., there are
far too many to mention here, at the Malaysian Hans Studies for organizing such
a transformative event. It is through initiatives like these that we can come
together, learn from one another, and strive to create a better world for
ourselves and future generations.
In conclusion, the Ancient Teaching for Today's
Challenges: Home is where our journey begins, course was indeed a remarkable
opportunity to delve into the rich tapestry of traditional ancient Chinese
culture and glean valuable insights for navigating the complexities of modern
life. I aspire and look forward to applying what I have learned and continuing
my journey of growth and self-discovery with renewed purpose and determination.
HOME IS WHERE OUR JOURNEY BEGINS
Home
is where our journey begins,
In Mahan's embrace, where love wins.
Amidst the verdant hills so green,
A haven of beauty, a tranquil scene.
Here, hearts are warmed by fireside glow,
And laughter dances to and fro.
In Mahan's arms, we find our rest,
A sanctuary, truly blessed.
Through winding paths and winding lanes,
Our souls are bound in sweet refrains.
For here, in this enchanted place,
Memories bloom with boundless grace.
Home is where our spirits soar,
In Mahan's heart forevermore.
So let us cherish every day,
In this haven where dreams hold sway.
For Mahan is not just a place, you see,
It's where our hearts and souls run free.
And in its embrace, we'll always find,
The truest home for humankind.
Acknowledgement:
With the utmost gratitude and profound appreciation, I extend my sincerest thanks for the exceptional hospitality extended to us, allowing for an enriching experience of learning and camaraderie. I am truly grateful for the gracious sponsorship of food and lodging, which made our gathering possible, and for the invaluable contributions from those who shared their videos and pictures. The kitchen team deserves special commendation for crafting sumptuous meals, desserts, and beverages, enhancing our fellowship. Moreover, I express heartfelt apologies for any shortcomings or errors on my part. Your unwavering support has been nothing short of remarkable, enriching our time together in countless ways. Thank you wholeheartedly for your steadfast assistance and dedication.
