Sometimes, the smallest gifts carry the greatest meaning—and plant the seeds for something extraordinary.
In the late 1800s in Philadelphia, a little girl named Hattie May Wiatt was heartbroken. She loved attending Sunday school at Grace Baptist Church, led by Reverend Russell H. Conwell, but the room was too small to hold all the children who wanted to come. Some Sundays, children were turned away for lack of space. Hattie dreamed of a bigger Sunday school where every child could learn and feel welcomed.
Determined to help, Hattie began saving what she could. Little by little, she set aside pennies, nickels, and dimes—eventually saving up 57 cents. It was a humble offering, but a heartfelt one. Sadly, Hattie became ill and passed away at just seven years old before she could see her dream come true.
After her passing, her mother brought the small purse of coins to Reverend Conwell, explaining Hattie’s wish. Deeply moved by the child’s devotion and generosity, Reverend Conwell shared Hattie’s story with his congregation. Her simple act of love touched hearts far and wide.
Inspired by her story, the congregation began to give. Donations poured in. That small sum of 57 cents became the spark that lit a fire. With the funds raised, Reverend Conwell purchased a house that would serve as the site for Sunday school classes. But the vision didn’t stop there.
That humble beginning became the foundation of Temple College, an institution built on the belief that education should be accessible to all. Over the years, it grew and evolved into Temple University, one of the leading public research universities in the United States today.
And it all began with one little girl and her 57 cents.
The Power of a Small Act
Hattie May Wiatt’s story is a powerful reminder that no contribution is too small when it comes from the heart. Her tiny savings became the cornerstone of an institution that has educated thousands and impacted countless lives. More than just a tale of generosity, it’s a lesson in faith, hope, and the incredible potential of selfless giving.
In a world where people often feel powerless to make a difference, Hattie’s story whispers a timeless truth: every effort matters. Every kind deed, no matter how small, can ripple outward and change the world.
At 92 years old, Tasha Tudor lived a life that seemed lifted from the pages of a fairy tale. A beloved American picture book author and illustrator, her world was filled with charm, creativity, and a profound connection to nature. Her quiet, pastoral lifestyle captured the imagination of many, and a documentary about her life gained widespread acclaim in both the United States and Japan—earning her the title of one of the most admired women of her time.
Tasha was born into a prominent family, surrounded by great minds and cultural icons—her home once welcomed the likes of Albert Einstein and Mark Twain. Growing up in such an environment may have nurtured her early independence and vivid imagination. While others her age dreamed of parties and popularity, Tasha longed for a simpler dream: to own a cow and live close to nature.
At just 15, she left formal schooling to follow her passion for art and farming. This bold decision marked the beginning of a remarkable artistic journey. Over her lifetime, Tasha created more than 80 beautifully illustrated children’s books, winning the prestigious Caldecott Medal and receiving the Queen’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Her delicate, nostalgic illustrations shaped the childhoods of generations.
At 23, she married and raised four children. But when her unconventional lifestyle became too difficult for her husband to accept, they separated. Tasha pressed on, supporting herself through her art and craftsmanship.
When she was 57, and her children had grown, Tasha embraced the life she had always dreamed of. She moved to the hills of Vermont and built a cottage modeled after an 18th-century farmhouse. There, she lived without electricity, running water, or modern conveniences—choosing instead to return to the rhythms of a bygone era.
Her days were filled with meaningful simplicity: raising chickens and sheep, growing vegetables, preparing meals by hand. She wove and sewed her own clothes—elegant dresses and colorful scarves—always taking pride in her appearance, even in solitude.
Tasha found deep joy in the natural world. She built a lush, secret garden where flowers bloomed in every season, and she tended it with love. Whether watering plants or walking through her fields, she embraced each moment with a grateful heart.
Though she lived alone, she was never lonely. Her cats and dogs kept her company, and her grandchildren visited often. Her home radiated warmth, creativity, and quiet joy.
“Letting go is a kind of strength,” she once said.
In an age obsessed with material gain, Tasha Tudor’s life reminds us that true richness lies in simplicity. She let go of the noise and temptations of modern life, choosing instead a path of peace, beauty, and authenticity.
Tasha Tudor didn’t just illustrate magical worlds—she lived in one. And through her life and work, she continues to inspire us to slow down, appreciate the everyday, and create beauty from the inside out.
In a world increasingly dominated by artificial intelligence and digital innovation, Dr. Jeff Walker, a retired neurosurgeon turned philanthropist, is on a mission to “keep the humans in the humanities.” His Walker’s Rising Stars Scholarship Program, launched in 2003 in partnership with the Pinellas Education Foundation in Florida, has awarded over $970,000 to high school students excelling in Dance, Instrumental, Theater, Visual Arts, and Vocal Performance.
Now, with a bold vision to expand the program nationally, Walker is poised to reshape arts education across the United States: “I want this to expand to cover the whole country and change arts education in high school and college,” says Walker, who has made it his mission to provide free education for all.
Walker’s inspiration—rooted in personal tragedy, a love for the arts, and a deep commitment to education—drives a movement that empowers young artists to pursue their dreams without the crushing weight of student debt.
His path to philanthropy was anything but conventional. A Duke-trained neurosurgeon who performed over 10,000 operations and established a major trauma center in Florida, Walker’s career was defined by precision and impact.
Yet his drive to give back stems from a deeply personal experience at age five. “I had a tragic event, a near-drowning incident,” he recalls. His best friend didn’t know how to swim. Influenced by childhood media and misunderstanding the risks, he pushed him into the water. The outcome was devastating: his friend drowned, and Walker nearly did too. “I felt so guilty, blocked it out for 15 years,” he says. “I think I tried to overcompensate by helping people. It was something that took an incredibly long time for me to forgive myself for.”
This tragedy instilled a lifelong mission to serve others—first through medicine and later through philanthropy. His medical journey began under the influence of his father, a dentist and university chairman, and his mother. “I scrubbed in on over 200 open-heart operations,” he says. But it was in medical school that he discovered neurosurgery, drawn to the brain as “what you are.” He completed his residency at Duke by 1985, laying the foundation for a career that blended science with service.
Walker’s love for the arts, though not as a performer, also shaped his vision: “I played the piano when I was younger, very methodical, classical music,” he shares. A humbling moment came at 15 when a friend played a Beatles song effortlessly, revealing Walker’s limitations. “I couldn’t do that at all,” he admits.
Yet, this experience underscored his belief in the arts as a universal force: “Every culture has their own dance, songs, music, symphonies, operas—the arts are a unifying factor,” he says. “There’s so much diversity in America today, and this brings everyone together.”
In 2003, Walker channeled his passion for education and the arts into the Walker’s Rising Stars Scholarship Program, partnering with the Pinellas Education Foundation to support local high school students. The program, which awards scholarships for arts education, is a vibrant celebration of talent, culminating in an annual event at the Mahaffey Theater.
“The kids get there at noon, we have lunch, they audition during the day, and then put on a show at night—three-minute acts, five categories, with the county jazz band. Families are cheering, it’s super fun,” he says.
The program’s impact transcends financial support. After the show, students gather backstage, hugging and celebrating. “They’re all aspiring artists, and you can feel the love,” Walker says.
As a father of four and grandfather of eight, Walker connects deeply with the pride parents feel at these events. “You’ve taken these kids to music, art, dance lessons for years, and to see them on stage as young adults—the pride and love bounce off the walls.”
The scholarships address the broader student loan crisis, which Walker views as a significant burden on young people. “Every dollar is $1 the family doesn’t have to spend on education,” he says.
Beyond financial relief, the program instills confidence and recognition. “It’s not easy to get on that stage, knowing hundreds of kids are vying for that spot,” Walker says. “The confidence they get is key.”
He recalls a student letter that captures the program’s transformative power: “She wrote, ‘I was going to go to St. Pete College, but after winning this, I’m going to Manhattan School of Art.’ It’s a life-changing event.”
Walker estimates that the program changes “about half the kids’ lives,” with alumni achieving remarkable success. “They’re making a living in the arts,” he says proudly.
Walker’s inspiration for Rising Stars is grounded in his belief in education as a pathway to opportunity: “As a Duke-trained neurosurgeon, I went to school a long time, and I owe everything I have to my education,” he states. “In the end, when you look back on your life, it’s not what you get, it’s what you give.”
This philosophy fuels his commitment to expanding arts education, particularly in public schools. “Education is the way out,” he says. “Through hard work and education, I still believe in the American Dream—you can be anything.”
Walker also recognizes the challenges the arts face in an increasingly digital age. He trademarked the phrase “keep the humans in the humanities” to emphasize the need for genuine human creativity. “How do you combat that? You create a generation of talented singers, dancers, actors,” he explains. The program reinforces human expression and creativity during a time when automation is on the rise.
Now, Walker has announced the national expansion of Rising Stars, choosing the prestigious Sundance Film Festival to unveil his plan. His goal: establish 1,000 program sites, each supported by a $4 million endowment that yields 5% annually to fund 25,000 students each year. “After four years, that’s 100,000 Rising Stars in college—enough to transform arts programs,” he calculates.
The national rollout will replicate the local model, with auditions and performances administered through public school districts and education foundations. “Everything goes through the school district, the teachers,” Walker says, highlighting a grassroots approach. Local events will feed into regional, state, and national competitions—potentially televised to amplify awareness and participation.
“This will bring every community together to support their young people,” he says, envisioning the program as a unifying force during divisive times.
Walker also sees the initiative as a response to the underfunding of arts education. “In high school, the arts are underfunded,” he notes. “Everybody’s talking STEM these days, but an education in the arts is very difficult.”
The program aims to uplift students pursuing creative careers, helping them gain recognition, validation, and the resources they need to thrive. “This program tells them, ‘You’re a great singer, artist, you’ve got talent,’” Walker says. “It gives them the confidence to pursue their dreams.”
Scaling Rising Stars nationwide presents challenges, but Walker remains focused: “As a Duke-trained neurosurgeon, I didn’t get here by luck. We have a plan.”
He’s connecting with artists’ unions and entertainment professionals to grow the network of supporters. To aid in funding, Walker has even developed a travel toothbrush—with proceeds directed toward scholarships—and is exploring other creative avenues to generate resources. “This is a generational project,” he says. “If you can’t get the generation behind it, it’s not going to happen.”
Walker’s long-term goal is free college education for students in the arts—including room and board. “I envision a future where Rising Stars have their own dorms, live and perform together, support each other,” he says. “If a student’s parent gets sick and they can’t afford school, let’s have a concert to raise money so they don’t drop out.”
For Walker, the legacy is not about awards but impact: “In 2035, if every Oscar, Emmy, or Tony category has a Rising Star, that’d make me happy,” he says.
What brings him joy is the personal fulfillment: “At first, I thought it was about sitting in the front row, hearing nice things,” he reflects. “But it makes me happy inside. I’m a good person, and this brings fulfillment, self-satisfaction, and love for myself.”
As Walker’s Rising Stars prepares to take the national stage, it stands as a powerful testament to one man’s belief in the power of art, education, and human connection to change lives and strengthen communities.
Peace Pilgrim once said, “If you knew how powerful your mind is, you would never think a negative thought.” That quote stayed with me, but I didn’t fully understand its truth until I experienced it for myself—right in my own backyard.
At one point, we lived in a house with a large backyard that inspired me to plant organic vegetables. I imagined harvesting fresh, healthy produce and enjoying the process of nurturing life from the soil. Eager and hopeful, I bought a few small tomato plants from Home Depot and began tending to them daily. Watching them grow brought me joy and anticipation—I could almost taste the sweet, juicy tomatoes I dreamed of.
But as the plants began to bloom and bear fruit, trouble arrived. Large, green caterpillars appeared overnight, chewing through leaves and fruit, threatening to destroy the entire garden. My husband was furious and would crush them on sight. Wanting to find a gentler solution, I turned to friends for advice. One of them recommended a non-toxic spray from an organic farm store. It worked like a glue, blocking the insect’s skin so they couldn’t breathe and would suffocate to death.
When I heard that, I felt a sharp, suffocating sensation through my own skin. I couldn’t do it. I couldn’t kill them—no matter how many tomatoes I might lose. These were living beings. Their lives mattered too. I decided then and there: I would not harm them.
And then, something remarkable happened.
The very next morning, my husband came to me in astonishment. “All the caterpillars are gone,” he said. “And there aren’t even any dead ones.” I went out to the garden. He was right. The insects had vanished without a trace.
Was it just a coincidence? I don’t believe so. I believe they sensed my compassion. I believe the power of a sincere, non-harming mind created a shift in energy that led to a quiet, unseen miracle.
Later, after I began studying Buddhism, I came to understand this experience on a deeper level. Through the Dharma transmitted by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III, I learned the true meaning of the precept of “Not Killing.”
This teaching awakened a deeper sense of responsibility in me. I now strive to regard the suffering of all beings as my own, and I earnestly wish for every living being—my parents of infinite past lives—to live in harmony and peace.
I sincerely pray that all beings may enjoy happiness, good health, and abundant fortune. I constantly beseech all Buddhas and Bodhisattvas to bless them, to help them escape suffering, to encounter and practice the true Buddha-dharma, and ultimately to attain liberation from the cycle of birth and death.
This is not just a story about gardening. It is a story about the incredible power of our minds—and even more so, our hearts. When we choose compassion over destruction, mindfulness over impulse, miracles can happen.
Let kindness guide you. Let the power of your mind awaken something beautiful—not just in your life, but in the lives of all beings around you.
What if your thoughts and emotions were not just fleeting states of mind, but actual energy frequencies that shape your physical health and the world around you?
Dr. David R. Hawkins, a renowned American psychiatrist and spiritual teacher, spent decades studying human consciousness and developed a revolutionary model known as the Map of Consciousness. His work, presented in the best-selling books Power vs. Force and Letting Go, offers profound insight into how our energy levels—shaped by our emotions, beliefs, and spiritual awareness—directly impact our health and happiness.
🧠 The Energy Scale That Maps Our Inner World
Hawkins created a logarithmic scale of consciousness, ranging from 1 to 1000, where each level reflects a specific emotional and spiritual frequency. These levels are not abstract—they can be measured through kinesiology (muscle testing) and are believed to influence not only individual wellbeing but also global consciousness.
Here’s a simplified breakdown:
Level
Emotion/State
Effect on Health
20–100
Shame, Guilt, Apathy, Fear
Weakens body and immune system
200
Courage (Turning Point)
Threshold into empowering, healing energy
300–400
Willingness, Acceptance
Enhances emotional resilience and balance
500
Love, Compassion
Promotes deep healing and joy
600–700+
Peace, Enlightenment
Spiritual transcendence and lasting vitality
Hawkins emphasized that 200 is the critical dividing line. Below this threshold, people are ruled by fear, anger, or despair—states that are energetically draining and often linked to physical illness. Above 200, individuals begin to reclaim their personal power, align with truth, and tap into energies that support healing, vitality, and inner peace.
Dr. David R. Hawkins, stated that many people fall ill because they lack love and are filled only with pain and despair. When a person’s vibrational frequency is below 200, they are more prone to illness.
Dr. Hawkins, who interacted with many patients daily, said that he could tell why a person was sick just by looking at them—because he couldn’t find even a trace of love in them. Instead, their entire being was enveloped in pain and despair, living in a state dominated by negative thoughts.
According to Hawkins, many people fall ill not because of viruses or external factors alone, but because their emotional vibration is too low. When we live in fear, hold grudges, dwell in guilt, or resist life, our frequency drops—and the body, being energy-sensitive, responds with imbalance and dis-ease.
Chronic stress, suppressed anger, and emotional numbness are not just psychological burdens—they create an environment where illness can thrive.
If a person’s vibrational frequency is above 200, they are less likely to become ill. In contrast, emotions like anger, constantly blaming others, and harboring resentment consume a great deal of energy.
💖 Love, Faith, and Healing: The Power of High Frequency
Dr. David R. Hawkins observed that when Nobel Peace Prize laureate Mother Teresa appeared at the award ceremony, the atmosphere in the entire venue became remarkably elevated. The vibrational frequency of the space rose significantly, and her powerful presence allowed everyone there to tangibly feel her energy. In her presence, no one harbored negative thoughts.
According to Dr. Hawkins, when a person with a high vibrational frequency enters a space, they uplift everything around them—people, emotions, and even the environment itself. In contrast, someone who is filled with negative thoughts not only harms their own well-being but also disrupts the energetic field of their surroundings.
From a medical standpoint, Dr. Hawkins found the power of thought to be truly extraordinary. Through millions of tests and global surveys conducted across different races and cultures, he discovered that the impact of human consciousness was consistent and universal.
🌿 How to Raise Your Energy Level and Stay Healthy
You don’t need to be a spiritual master to benefit from Hawkins’ insights. Simple, daily practices can help you maintain a high vibrational state and support your health:
Practice Gratitude Start and end each day reflecting on what you are thankful for. Gratitude is a natural vibration lifter.
Choose Forgiveness Over Resentment Let go of past hurts. Forgiveness is not for others—it’s a gift you give yourself to release energetic baggage.
Meditate or Pray Daily Quieting the mind and focusing on divine compassion, love, or light raises your frequency significantly.
Speak with Kindness and Honesty Truthfulness and compassion are energetically aligned with the higher levels of consciousness.
Surround Yourself with Uplifting Influences Avoid negative media, toxic relationships, or environments that lower your energy. Choose art, nature, music, and people who inspire joy.
Invoke Higher Consciousness Repeating sacred names—such as “Amitabha Buddha,” “Guanyin,” or “Jesus Christ”—with pure faith has been shown to uplift energy and bring healing calm.
✨ The Ultimate Wellness Is a Shift in Consciousness
Dr. David Hawkins teaches us that wellness begins from within. By raising our consciousness, choosing love over fear, and aligning with truth and compassion, we can live not only healthier lives—but more joyful, meaningful ones.
Your mind is more powerful than you think. And your heart—when opened fully—has the power to heal not just your body, but the world around you.
“What you are looking for is what is looking.” — David R. Hawkins
My friend Wendy used to be very emotional and overly cautious. But in recent years, she has undergone an astonishing transformation.
One day, when we met up, she shared a story that showed me just how much she has changed.
At the end of last year, Wendy finally decided to buy her daughter-in-law the new car she had dreamed of for so long. The whole family welcomed the New Year with excitement and joy.
That day, her daughter-in-law drove the car out to register it, while Wendy stayed home reading stories to her granddaughter.
Not long after, the phone rang. On the other end, her daughter-in-law’s voice trembled with panic:
“While turning, I got hit by a truck going straight. The entire front bumper is smashed. It’s all our fault. Mom, I’m too scared to come home—your son is going to be furious.”
Wendy replied calmly, “As long as you’re okay, that’s what matters. Just come home.”
A while later, her son returned from work. Before he could react, Wendy sent her granddaughter over to ask him to tell her a story about a carpenter.
He couldn’t resist her pleading eyes and began reading in an animated voice:
“There was a kind-hearted carpenter who, though already old, still had no house and couldn’t find a wife. His elderly mother was terribly worried. Finally, a young woman agreed to marry him—but only if he could provide a home.
So the carpenter worked tirelessly, chopping and hammering for two months until he built a beautiful wooden house. One day, while he was out, a fire broke out next door and burned his house to the ground.
People thought he would collapse in despair, but instead, he searched through the charred remains. Everyone was puzzled—what could he possibly be looking for? At last, he found an unburned axe and exclaimed with relief, ‘I finally found you!’
People thought he must be crazy—his house was gone, and he was happy just to find an axe? The carpenter said, ‘As long as I’m here and I have my axe, why would I worry about not having a house?’”
Just then, the daughter-in-law slipped quietly back into the house, looking like a child who had done something wrong.
When her son learned what had happened, he exploded:
“You’re such a spendthrift! No brains at all! So careless—on the very first day, you wrecked a car worth hundreds of thousands!”
Wendy looked at her son calmly and asked:
“Are you done yet? The car is already damaged—will shouting fix it?
Just a minute ago, you were telling your daughter that as long as you have an axe, you can build another house. Now you’ve turned into a chameleon—how will you teach her in the future?
What’s more important: people or cars? A damaged car can be repaired or replaced. But if something had happened to your wife, this family would be over.
It’s the New Year. What matters most is that we are safe, healthy, and together. Everything else is just material. You should be grateful she came home without a scratch. So many people are facing life-and-death partings right now. Be content.”
Her son made a face and joked, “Mom, ever since you started practicing Buddhism, you’ve changed. You’re always siding with your daughter-in-law—have you forgotten you have a son? I feel like I’m adopted!”
Wendy rolled her eyes at him, and the whole family burst into laughter as they sat down to dinner.
Later, Wendy told me that after studying Buddhism, she finally understood how to let go of the suffering that comes from clinging to the self and how to transform afflictions into wisdom.
I watched in amazement as what could have been a chaotic family argument dissolved effortlessly in her hands. In the end, everyone was able to celebrate the New Year in peace and joy.
Life will always bring troubles and joys. A grateful and content mindset makes happiness bloom everywhere, while a lack of appreciation can turn even good fortune into heartache.
Hearing Wendy’s story reminded me how powerful a positive mindset can be in times of conflict. I hope more families can draw on the wisdom of the Dharma to transform challenges into understanding, live long lives free from illness, and enjoy peace, prosperity, and lasting happiness.
A single father had just lost his job. All day, he wandered the streets, clinging to the hope that he might find work. But as the sun set, he returned home empty-handed.
Defeated and exhausted, he stepped into a small tavern, spent his very last coin, and finally stumbled back to his modest home.
That evening, he discovered that his son’s grades had slipped. He didn’t say a word. Instead, he shot the boy a harsh glare before collapsing into bed without another thought.
The next morning, out of habit, he opened his diary and wrote:
March 7, Tuesday. This is the worst day ever. Lost my job, out of money, no work to be found, and my son is a disappointment. A day of utter discouragement.
After his son left for school, he happened to notice the boy’s diary lying open on the table. Curious, he began to read:
March 6, Monday. Today, on my way to school, I helped a blind man cross the street. I was so happy. My grades weren’t good this time. I told Dad, and he didn’t scold me. He looked at me with such deep affection. I felt so encouraged. I’m determined to study hard so I won’t let him down.
Affection? the father thought, bewildered. I was glaring at him in frustration. How could he have seen that as love?
He turned another page:
March 5, Sunday. The old grandpa next door is playing the violin better and better. He’s so old but still practices so diligently. I really want to learn from him.
His heart sank as he flipped to his own entry from that same day:
March 5, Sunday. That annoying old man next door is playing that wretched violin again. On my only day off, he won’t even let me sleep in peace. So hateful—I wish I could smash that stupid instrument.
In that moment, the father felt the weight of shame press him down onto the bed. He was in his fifties, yet his spirit had been broken by hardship—his mindset darker and more defeated than that of his young child.
He realized, with painful clarity, that he had been looking at life through a lens clouded by bitterness. And that lens had distorted everything.
Deeply remorseful, he resolved to learn from his son—to face every trial with acceptance and gratitude instead of resentment. He knew he could no longer wear the mask of anger while searching for work. No matter how difficult life became, he would choose a sunnier disposition.
And when your mindset changes, everything changes.
The very next day, he found a suitable job. He began to meet life’s challenges with a heart full of gratitude.
Life is like a mirror: when you smile at it, it smiles back. When you cry, it weeps with you.
The human heart is also a mirror, reflecting the world within us. It reveals whether we carry kindness or bitterness, whether we live in light or in darkness.
With a single thought, we can create heaven or hell. Everything depends on whether we imprison or liberate our own hearts.
In the end, we are the creators of our own destiny.
I’ve always enjoyed exploring new recipes, especially when they’re healthy, simple to prepare, and vegetarian. There’s something deeply satisfying about discovering fresh flavors that not only nourish the body but also bring joy to my family and friends.
Recently, I came across a collection of easy and wholesome recipes on Zhaxi Zhuoma’s website. These dishes are perfect for early summer—light, refreshing, and full of natural goodness. I’m excited to share a few of my favorites with you here. I hope they inspire you to enjoy healthy cooking as much as I do!
Tofu with Gochujang Sauce
I fell in love with gochujang and when I bought my first tub from Amazon, I tried it on everything—ok, I didn’t put it on ice cream, but I considered it. It is complex and good enough to just use by itself with a little oil or butter, maybe cut with miso or doenjang (Korean soybean paste) if it is too spicy. Different varieties vary in sweetness and heat, so go easy with it until you get the Goldilock spot for you. I use gochujang paste which keeps forever and is more concentrated. Sometimes it is sold as a sauce and comes with other ingredients like vinegar and sugar added. It is cheaper and can be used, but adjust the other ingredients you add accordingly.
The following is a wish list—use what you have on hand. I rarely have all the ingredients when I feel an urge for Korean flavors. You can use the sauce alone, too—without the tofu or with beans, chicken breasts, shrimp, hamburger, etc. There are some other options to consider.
GOCHUJANG SAUCE
1/4 cup soy sauce
1-2 tbsp gochujang (may be part Korean doenjang or Japanese miso)
1 tsp-2 tbsp maple syrup, brown sugar, honey, monk’s fruit, molasses
1 tbsp avocado or olive oil
1/2 tsp sesame oil
1 clove of garlic, minced or grated
1 inch ginger, minced or chopped
Lime juice & zest or rice vinegar to taste
1/2 tsp black pepper
Toasted sesame seeds sprinkled in
1-2 scallion chopped, white parts may be sauteed first
TOFU
1 tub firm tofu
Neutral oil for sauteing
TOPPINGS: Green scallions, Sesame seeds, Diced seeded tomatoes, Diced bell peppers, Diced Chili peppers, raw or canned or pickled, Grated cheese, Greek yogurt-whole milk best, Sour cream, Diced Avocados, Fresh raw corn cut off cob, Shredded crisp lettuce or other greens, Finely chopped parsley or cilantro leaves, Finely chopped nuts-walnuts, peanuts, cashews, Fried or poached egg, Baby Shrimp (non-vegetarian), Red onion pickle, etc.
SAUCE OPTIONS: If you can’t find gochujang, ketchup or tomato paste and chili powder is an option, but no substitute; Coconut milk; Fish sauce (non-vegetarian); Anchovies (non-vegetarian); Kimchi (often non-vegetarian); Grated apple or pear for sweetener; Chickpeas or beans.
Directions:
If you want to use grated cheese as a topping, and I do recommend it, try grating it from a brick and avoid the prepackaged grated cheese. I finally understood why—too often the commercial gratings are dusted with something to preserve shelf-life and they do not melt correctly.
TOFU-CRUMBLED or CUBED: If you use crumbled tofu, it is best to leave in tub in freezer overnight or longer. The ice crystals that form when frozen -thaw- and extract the water from within the tofu. You can squeeze the tofu like a sponge and it will expel the majority of the water. It then is very able to absorb whatever sauce you put on it. If you don’t have time to freeze and thaw it, you can still dry or press tofu to remove as much water as possible, then crumble unfrozen tofu with a fork or cut into bite-size cubes. Either way saute tofu until crispy in neutral oil and add sauce.
TOFU-AIRFRY: You may also cut tofu into slabs pressing out as much water as possible and then either just rub or spray slab with oil or first dip in starch/flour or Panko crumbs or egg or combination of these and then airfry at 400F for about 10 minutes on both sides or until golden.
Serve tofu with Gochujang Sauce on rice, noodles, polenta, or pasta with your choice of topping(s) or wrap a piece of tofu in lettuce leaves with topping(s) and eat like tiny tamales with your favorite dipping sauce.
Eggs Florentine-Air Fryer or Oven
Eggs and spinach are always good together. This is just a contemporary version of a classic. I’m using my air fryer again as I am cooking in my cave instead of the temple kitchen. I do that when someone is doing a Solitary Retreat and needs the kitchen. I try to not have any contact with anyone on such a retreat, but I do sometimes forget, especially when the person doing the retreat is so quiet that I even forget they are also living here. Last week I heard someone shaking the screen door leading to the kitchen and I was sure it was our very pregnant Lucy Lentil trying to find a nest inside and I yelled. She had already ripped the screen and managed to get in before. I had forgotten to close the back door when I went to water the herbs and veggies. It was not Momma Lucy, but a very startled and thoughtful person trying her best to observe silence. Embarassed? Yes,very. Sorry.
Ingredients:
3 Cups Fresh or frozen spinach, thawed and drained,
1/4 Kosher salt,
1/2 Cup Ricotta cheese,
2 Tbsp Heavy cream or coconut cream,
2 Garlic cloves, minced (optional),
1/8 tsp Black pepper,
2 tsp Unsalted butter, melted,
3 Tbsp Grated parmesan cheese,
1/2 Cup Panko gluten-free crumbs,
4 Large eggs.
Directions:
Mix spinach, ricotta, cream, garlic (if used), salt & pepper. Also mix butter, cheese, and panko. Set aside. Scoop spinach mixture into individual serving circles on oiled air fryer basket or sheet pan. Set air fryer to AIR ROAST, set temperature to 375F degrees, and set time to 15 minutes select START/PAUSE to begin preheating. When preheated, slide basket or sheet pan into oven. After 8 minutes, press PAUSE and remove the pan. Make an indentation in each spinach serving, crack an egg into the indentation and sprinkle with panko mixture over the surface of the egg.
Return the pan to oven and push START to resume cooking. After 5 minutes, check eggs. Cook longer, if needed.
CONVENTIONAL OVEN: Set temperature at 400F degrees. May need to be cooked a few minutes more at each stage.
Chocolate Waffles
Ingredients
4 Eggs, whisked
1/3 Cup canned coconut milk
2 Tbsp maple syrup or raw honey (some kind of sweetener)
1 1/2 Cups almond meal/flour
2 Tbsp heaping unsweetened cocoa
1 tsp baking soda
1/4 Cup dark chocolate chips
1 tsp vanilla extract
Sprinkle of cinnamon
Pinch of salt
Toppings
Apple sauce, unsweetened creamy almond butter, Greek Yogurt coconut butter warmed to liquid state raw pecans chopped dark chocolate chopped blueberries
Directions:
Plug in waffle iron. Whisk eggs in a medium-large sized bowl. Add coconut milk and sweetener and whisk together with eggs. Next add almond flour and mix more! Then add cocoa powder, baking soda and mix together.
Lastly, add in your chocolate chips, vanilla, salt and cinnamon. Mix together thoroughly. Pour into waffle iron and cook until cooked through, about 4-5 minutes, until cooked through and crisped up.
4 Servings. I really liked them with the apple sauce toppings and Greek yogurt, but the more traditional maple syrup and butter are great, too. Enjoy!
The Enigma of Existence: Exploring Life After Death
The concept of life after death has intrigued humanity for centuries. Different cultures, philosophies, and religions have provided varying explanations, yet the mystery remains. Is there life after death, or does consciousness simply cease to exist when the body dies? In this article, we explore some of the most prominent beliefs and theories surrounding the enigma of existence after death, seeking to understand this profound question from multiple perspectives.
What Are the Most Common Beliefs About Life After Death?
Throughout history, many cultures and religions have proposed theories about life after death. Religious scholars suggest that the idea of an afterlife serves to give people comfort and meaning in the face of mortality. Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism all have distinct views on the afterlife, each offering unique insights into the question of what happens after death.
In Christianity, for example, life after death is often seen as either eternal life in heaven or eternal separation from God in hell. Researchers point out that many Christians believe that the soul lives on after the body dies, and that salvation or damnation is determined by one’s actions during their lifetime.
In Hinduism, the concept of reincarnation is central. According to this belief, the soul is reborn in a new body after death, and the circumstances of the new life are determined by the actions (karma) of the previous life. Philosophers argue that this cycle of death and rebirth is a form of spiritual evolution, with the ultimate goal being moksha, or liberation from the cycle of reincarnation.
Buddhism also supports the idea of reincarnation, but with an emphasis on achieving enlightenment to break free from the cycle of rebirth. Experts note that Buddhism teaches that attachment to the self is the source of suffering, and liberation occurs when one transcends the ego and achieves nirvana.
Scientific Views on Life After Death
From a scientific standpoint, the question of life after death is more complex. The majority of scientists assert that there is no empirical evidence to support the idea that consciousness survives after death. Neuroscientists argue that consciousness is a product of brain activity, and when the brain ceases to function, so does consciousness.
There are notable phenomena that have intrigued researchers. Medical professionals have documented instances of near-death experiences (NDEs), where individuals report vivid sensations, such as a sense of floating above their body, moving through a tunnel, or encountering deceased loved ones. While these experiences are often interpreted by some as evidence of life after death, psychologists suggest that they may be explained by the brain’s reaction to trauma, oxygen deprivation, or the release of chemicals like DMT.
While science cannot definitively answer the question of what happens after death, these experiences have raised questions about the nature of consciousness and whether it is entirely tied to the brain. The debate continues, and more research is needed to explore the mysteries of the human mind.
Near-Death Experiences: Are They Evidence of Life After Death?
Near-death experiences (NDEs) have become a focal point in discussions about life after death. People who have experienced NDEs often describe sensations of peace, floating outside their body, or meeting beings of light. Some researchers hypothesize that these experiences are the result of a brain in distress, attempting to make sense of its impending shutdown.
Many individuals who have experienced NDEs report feeling profound transformations in their lives afterward, including a greater sense of purpose or reduced fear of death. Experts in the field of psychology and consciousness studies suggest that these transformations could point to an experience beyond the physical brain, offering a glimpse into an afterlife.
The question remains: do these experiences represent glimpses into an afterlife, or are they simply a product of the brain’s complex workings during moments of trauma? The scientific community continues to study these occurrences, and while answers remain elusive, the personal testimonies of those who have undergone NDEs continue to fuel interest in the idea of life after death.
What Philosophical Theories Are There About Life After Death?
In addition to religious and scientific perspectives, philosophical theories about life after death explore the nature of existence and consciousness. Philosophers have long debated whether consciousness is purely a physical phenomenon or if it could exist independently of the body.
One of the most famous theories comes from the philosopher René Descartes, who posited that the mind and body are separate entities. According to Descartes’ dualism, the mind (or soul) can exist independently of the body and could potentially continue after death. Modern philosophers who follow dualistic thinking often suggest that consciousness may not be confined to the brain and could persist beyond the body’s death.
On the other hand, materialist philosophers argue that consciousness is entirely dependent on the brain, and once the brain ceases to function, consciousness ceases as well. These contrasting viewpoints continue to shape the ongoing philosophical discussion on the nature of life after death.
Can Science and Religion Coexist in Understanding Life After Death?
While science and religion often present differing views on life after death, some thinkers suggest that they need not be mutually exclusive. Interdisciplinary experts argue that the two perspectives can coexist, offering a fuller understanding of the mystery. Religion provides spiritual and moral frameworks for understanding the afterlife, while science explores the empirical, physical aspects of life and death.
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in integrating scientific and spiritual perspectives on consciousness. Some researchers are exploring the idea that consciousness might exist beyond the brain, and that this may have implications for understanding life after death. Scholars in the field of consciousness studies have suggested that more research is needed to bridge the gap between spiritual and scientific explanations of existence after death.
The enigma of life after death remains unsolved. Whether through religious beliefs, scientific inquiry, or philosophical speculation, humanity continues to seek answers to this profound question, driven by the desire to understand what happens after we take our final breath.
During my school days, I unknowingly picked up the bad habit of smoking. After entering the workforce as a designer, the nature of my job required prolonged thinking, which led me to smoke incessantly. Sometimes, I would smoke over 60 cigarettes a day, staining my fingers a light yellow. The smell of tobacco lingered on my hands, and even when I brought them close to my nose, I could still sense the scent. Despite knowing how harmful smoking was to my health, I simply couldn’t quit.
I always felt that smoking was a form of enjoyment. Being frugal, I would smoke cheaper cigarettes when alone and keep a better pack for social occasions. Smoking also came with a significant financial cost. In my early working years, money was tight, and I couldn’t always afford cigarettes. Often, I bought just one or two loose cigarettes. Sometimes, I would smoke a cigarette in multiple sittings—lighting it, taking a couple of puffs, extinguishing it, and repeating the process. When I had no cigarettes, I would secretly pick up discarded cigarette butts to smoke. Occasionally, I even picked up others’ cigarette butts—how miserable it was just to satisfy my smoking habit! Even now, an old classmate of mine still teases me about how, back in the day, I would visit him for a meal when I was broke. After eating, I would crave a cigarette and would blurt out, “A cigarette after a meal is better than being an immortal!” This classmate, who never smoked, still brings up this incident to mock me.
Later on, although I could afford cigarettes, I knew deep down that smoking was not a good thing. The numerous “No Smoking” signs everywhere made it clear that smoking was frowned upon. I couldn’t smoke freely in public and had to step outside no-smoking areas when I couldn’t resist the urge. Even at home, I couldn’t smoke at ease. To avoid annoying my family and exposing them to secondhand smoke, I had to hide away on the balcony to smoke. This furtive way of smoking made me feel like a thief, carrying a constant sense of guilt.
“You’re just taking a puff of smoke into your lungs and then exhaling it—what’s the point?” My wife often said this to me. She was right; there was no real meaning to it. I was spending money to harm my own health. So, I made up my mind to quit smoking!
However, quitting a habit cultivated over twenty years was no easy task. I tried every quitting method I heard of—keeping snacks in my pocket to replace cigarettes, writing a quit-smoking journal, telling people I was quitting so they could hold me accountable, and even just holding a cigarette without lighting it. I experimented with all these strategies. At best, I lasted four or five days; my longest attempt lasted three to four months. But I always ended up relapsing. Every time I finished a cigarette, I immediately regretted it and resolved to quit again. This cycle repeated endlessly—I quit, then smoked again, and then quit again. I both hated and loved smoking. I wanted to quit but just couldn’t. Quitting smoking was truly not easy.
After so many failed attempts, no one believed I could do it anymore. People would just smile knowingly when I mentioned quitting, and even I lost hope in myself. But then, due to an extraordinarily auspicious connection, I encountered the Buddha Dharma as taught by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III, who is no different from Shakyamuni Buddha. This profoundly touched my heart. I realized that this bad habit was leading me toward degeneration, so I firmly resolved to quit smoking.
I started using the money I would have spent on cigarettes to buy fruits as offerings to the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, increasing my merits. Sometimes, I used it to release captive animals or to show filial respect to my parents. This time, quitting smoking felt surprisingly effortless. My wife was amazed and praised the power of Buddha Dharma, marveling at how I had truly succeeded in quitting.
Once, a Dharma brother was setting up a Buddhist shrine in his factory. A highly virtuous master traveled from afar to lead the ceremony. More than thirty of us gathered to celebrate, and everything was prepared—except that we couldn’t find a lighter to light the lamps. No one in the group smoked, so no one had a lighter. Eventually, someone had to step outside to borrow one. At that moment, I was struck by how remarkable Buddhist disciples were—out of so many people, not a single one smoked. I thought, Surely, many of them, like me, must have quit smoking. When I asked a fellow practitioner if he had a lighter, he just smiled knowingly and shook his head.
After quitting smoking, I no longer coughed or felt nauseous when brushing my teeth in the morning. I felt lighter, both physically and mentally. However, the habit formed over nearly thirty years didn’t just disappear overnight. For a long time—sometimes even one or two years later—after dinner, I would pace back and forth on the balcony, feeling like I was supposed to be doing something but not knowing what. Only after thinking for a while would I realize, Oh! It’s the old smoking habit. This proved just how difficult it is to break ingrained habits. Truly, “A leopard cannot change its spots.”
Yet, after much effort, I finally broke the long-standing smoking habit. I realized that smoking was simply a habit, and not smoking was also a habit. H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha IIIteaches: “All phenomena become natural through habit.” That is why we must be cautious not to develop bad habits, as they can easily become ingrained. Instead, we should cultivate good habits, no matter how small, and continue to practice them.
After I quit smoking, my old friends were impressed: “You have incredible willpower!”“You’re so determined!” Receiving praise naturally felt good—much better than being criticized. I would joyfully reply, “Yes, I quit! I know this was the power of Buddha Dharma.”
Indeed, life is like a puff of smoke—it quickly vanishes into thin air. No matter how enjoyable, it is nothing more than fleeting mist. Only by maintaining good health can we have a future. Now, whenever I hold a cigarette in my hand, I smile at my past ignorance and feel grateful for my present success.
Today, as I embark on a new journey, how could I ever harm myself again? I shall light an eternal lamp in my heart, illuminating the path of my Buddhist practice with the radiant light of wisdom.
Written by: Ming Xun Edited by: Bodhi Seed & Others
Peace LiLy 