Good Karma Music Stories

I wondered onto this site in search of wise music and discovered that I’m to share words of good deeds to receive the wonderful sounds. I have in the past shared experiences in the context of trying to explain a principle, or in the hope of providing a comforting perspective to others. But I never had to share experiences under the category of a “good deed”. So I initially struggled and couldn’t think of anything good that I’d done. I suppose because I never considered what I do as anything special, other than my duty. I was then reluctant to speak of such, as I’ve always said and done spontaneously and unconditionally. Though on further thought, I understood and respected the spirit of this concept; of why it’s important to share good ways, in keeping alive in the world the virtuous values of doing what is right, kind and good. I am a medical doctor by day, and so I hear and see the psychological and physical anguish of the thousands with their painful stories and circumstances of such pity. I do my duty to alleviate their anguish, no matter their background; I love them all. I am an employer to a large team of clinical and administrative staff; all of whom I care deeply about, as they have families to look after. I am a friend with ears foremost to staff and colleagues. At home, I am a daughter in every way and every day to my loving parents. Not a day has gone by without my checking in on them. Except for those years away when I had to study for my degree. I am a sister to many siblings and am only one call away in their need. I am a blessed auntie to many children. The older kids look to me to guide them through exams that I once successfully took, so I make time for them, and they are really good hearted and bright kids. The younger kids love my embrace and my play with them as much as I do, plus the sweets, and cartoons on my iPad. I teach all the children the importance of being kind in life, and never to laugh at those less fortunate – as this is cruel, and to help where they can. Just as I had when I was their age, as the school house captain once – in openly ignoring the bullying trend in the class; by taking into my circle of friends those who were bullied by others. I also encourage the kids to not be lazy and to work hard at what their hearts are set upon. They learnt to pray and have faith, as I did when I was their age. I am a Dharma friend too amongst Dharma friends, and we have interesting discussions at times in our quest for the right way in our spiritual path. No matter where I am, I never depart from thinking and doing what is right, what is kind and what is good. If this means being unpopular, hated, or having to protect the weak, then absolutely no problem. I have always been this way, because my grandparents and parents were kind in showing me the virtues of goodness.

Once I had the opportunity to teach over 50 bright young monks and nuns in China how to speak the Dharma and explain sutras. We met at Lingyinsi, the ancient temple in Hangzhou for five days and for six hours every day I have the blessing of passing on my years of experience gained from the late Chan Master Hsuan Hua in speaking Dharma. We sang songs, investigated Samantabhadra Bodhisattva’s Practices and Vows Chapter of the Avatamsaka Sutra, and told lots of good stories. I got back much more than I gave from the experience. I am sharing this story with everybody hoping that they will do more good and send the music here far and wide.

Back in Colorado I was out on a summer night and I saw a homeless man, woman and their cute dog. They were holding a sign that said “anything will help.” I gave the couple and dog 20 dollars.

I was cleaning out my closet and came across my old winter coat. Not long before, I had purchased a new one and it seemed like a waste for the old coat, which was still in great condition, to just hang there unused. I thought about all of the homeless people that pass their days in the streets around my office. With the winter cold and rain settling in, it seemed liked one of them could use the coat. So on my lunch hour, I drove down the street until I spotted a couple walking down the street. They look tired and cold, especially the woman, who clasped her hands to her chest in an effort to warm them. I pulled up, rolled down the window and asked them if they would like the coat. They said yes and took the coat. But then something happened that I will never forget. The women reach through the window and grasp my hand. Her eyes were tearing up and her hand shook with emotion as she gazed intensely into my eyes and whispered “thank you.” Those were the only words that passed between us, but I finally learned what the Buddha meant when he talked about a transmission outside of words.

On the outskirts of Perry, Michigan, a handful of monks reside and teach the Dhamma at Wat Dhammasala. When I visit, I bring food and donations for alms, and assist with work around the temple.I have introduced my parents and others to the teachings of the Buddha through visits to the temple.I have learned a great deal about answering the question “is this to the benefit of myself, and to the benefit of others?”.I hope others will find the benefits of the Dhamma as I have.

For more than 10 years I have been watching over and increasing my care to my fatherless son. Many years ago when I began to study the Lotus Sutra with my wife I shared a few of those words with him and even though he is Japanese he repeated those words in elementary school and also to an abbott of a temple where I chanted the sutra. One time when my wife visited the temple the abbott heard Rocky speak a few sutra words. The abbott was surprised and smiled. So even today Rocky likes buddhist things like incense, a bell and wooden block. Rocky has a learning disability and must be cared for daily but that’s not a problem because he has a buddhist heart.

On that one Sunday in 1983 – While alone staying behind in the kitchen at the old Gold Wheel Monastery – and silently, I prayed the Buddha’s name. Others were upstairs chanting and following after the two Masters, who had completed their pilgrimage of three-step-one-bow. Grand Master Hsuan Hua stepped into the kitchen along with one of his lay-disciple, my friend’s mother, Grandma Julie. Grandma Julie explained that I could not understand Chinese – but, Grand Master smiled. His smile was just like my late Grandpa’s. Grand Master talked and Grandma Julie translated that “Buddha’s language is to be listened to with your eyes and, is to be spoken with your heart.” Then, I was told to go upstairs joining everyone and listening to Grand Master’s teachings. A little while later, I was seated on the front row and, right in front of him so that I could listen to his words with my eyes.I was devoured by his voice and my heart pranced with each of his words.This Encounter has changed my journey – delivering me onto a different ground. I am still learning to listen with my eyes – and, speaking with my heart. Moreover,Prances – my heart still,Devoured – my self is,Follow Grand Master’s light,Always – I with the heart and the eyes.With sincerity – sharing the Grand Master’s loving and kindness.Your disciple Than Mai