Tag: history

Your Own Resolution: Living Lincoln’s Legacy Today

linda changLeave a comment

How Abraham Lincoln’s words remind us that perseverance begins within.

“Always bear in mind that your own resolution to succeed is more important than any other.”
— Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln is remembered not only as one of America’s greatest presidents but also as a timeless symbol of perseverance, moral strength, and inner conviction. His life was marked by hardship and failure, yet through every setback, Lincoln never lost sight of his determination to rise above circumstance and serve a higher purpose.

Born in a humble log cabin in Kentucky in 1809, Lincoln’s path was anything but easy. He had little formal education, often studying by firelight after long days of farm work. Throughout his early years, he faced financial difficulties, career failures, and deep personal losses — including the death of his beloved mother and, later, two of his children.

He failed in business, lost several elections, and faced harsh criticism from both supporters and opponents. Yet each time, he stood back up. His perseverance was not fueled by ego or ambition, but by a steadfast belief in purpose — the belief that doing what is right matters more than comfort or success.

Lincoln’s life reminds us that greatness is not born of ease, but of endurance.

“Your Own Resolution Is More Important Than Any Other”

When Lincoln spoke these words, he wasn’t offering mere encouragement — he was revealing a universal truth about the power of inner determination.

In life, we will always face opinions, expectations, and pressures from the world around us. People may doubt us, situations may discourage us, and even our own fears may whisper that we are not enough.
But Lincoln reminds us: what truly determines our path is not what others think, but what we resolve to do.

Our resolution — that unwavering inner decision to keep moving forward — becomes the compass that guides us through storms.

It is what pushes a student to keep learning after failing an exam, an artist to keep creating despite rejection, or a parent to keep loving and protecting despite exhaustion. It is what allows ordinary people to do extraordinary things.

In today’s world of instant gratification and constant comparison, Lincoln’s wisdom feels more relevant than ever.
We often measure ourselves by the world’s standards — success, wealth, recognition — and forget that true strength comes from within.

When we cultivate resolution, we learn to stand firm in uncertainty.
We begin to trust our purpose more than our fears.
We stop seeking validation from others, and start building quiet confidence from persistence and integrity.

Lincoln’s life teaches us that no matter how dark the moment, perseverance can bring light.
His story shows that success is not defined by how often we win, but by how often we rise after falling.

To live by Lincoln’s words is to live with courage — not the absence of fear, but the determination to act despite it.
It means believing in our capacity to grow, to change, and to make a difference, no matter how small our beginnings.

When challenges arise — whether in our work, relationships, or personal goals — we can remind ourselves of Lincoln’s steady faith in resolution.
The world may test us, but as long as we hold our own conviction close, we will find a way forward.

Lincoln’s words have always spoken deeply to me.
Whenever I face uncertainty or moments of self-doubt, I remind myself of his quiet strength — how he stood tall not because life was kind, but because his heart was steady.

His quote, “Your own resolution to succeed is more important than any other,” reminds me that motivation is not something we wait for — it is something we choose, moment by moment.
And in choosing it, we slowly build the courage to move forward again, with hope and purpose.

Link:https://peacelilysite.com/2025/11/13/your-own-resolution-living-lincolns-legacy-today/

The Thousand-Year Wonder: Fengguo Temple and Its Eternal Great Hall

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Hidden in the quiet county of Yixian in northern China, Fengguo Temple has stood for over a thousand years as a living testament to ancient Chinese wisdom and spiritual devotion. Its magnificent Mahavira Hall, the largest single-story wooden structure of its time, houses seven colossal clay Buddhas that have miraculously survived the centuries. This temple is not only an architectural marvel but also a sacred symbol of harmony, resilience, and faith that continues to inspire all who visit.

A Thousand Years of Faith and Architecture

Beyond the Shanhai Pass, in the northern part of Jinzhou City, Liaoning Province, stands the quiet county of Yixian, home to one of China’s most magnificent ancient temples — Fengguo Temple. This remarkable site, founded over a millennium ago, is not only a masterpiece of Liao Dynasty Buddhist architecture but also a living testament to the extraordinary ingenuity of ancient Chinese builders and the enduring power of faith.

In 2020, Fengguo Temple celebrated its thousandth anniversary. Through a thousand years of wind, snow, wars, and earthquakes, its grand Mahavira Hall still stands tall — a miracle in both architecture and spirituality.

The Majestic Great Hall

The heart of Fengguo Temple is its Mahavira Hall (Great Buddha Hall), one of the Eight Great Structures of the Liao Dynasty. Built in 1020 CE, it measures 49.5 meters wide, 26.6 meters deep, and 19.9 meters high, covering an area of 1,317 square meters. Standing on a 3.2-meter-high platform, the hall is the largest single-story wooden structure of ancient China — magnificent, solemn, and breathtaking.

Ingeniously designed, the hall uses a “reduced-column” method to maximize interior space while maintaining perfect stability. Ancient builders applied advanced techniques known as “side-foot” and “rising beam”, ensuring the building’s balance and graceful proportions. The massive bracket sets under the eaves are bold yet refined, exuding strength and elegance.

Thanks to its precise structural mechanics, the Great Hall has remained perfectly upright for a thousand years, without any sign of warping or tilting — an unparalleled achievement in the history of wooden architecture.

The Seven Buddhas: Eternal Clay Sculptures

Inside the Great Hall, seven colossal clay Buddha statues, each about nine meters tall, sit side by side upon a brick platform. From east to west, they are:
Kashyapa Buddha, Krakucchanda Buddha, Sikhin Buddha, Vipashyin Buddha, Visvabhu Buddha, Kanakamuni Buddha, and Shakyamuni Buddha.

These are the “Seven Buddhas of the Past” mentioned in Buddhist scriptures, symbolizing the eternal cycle of enlightenment in our world. Each Buddha exudes solemn dignity, with serene expressions and graceful postures, reflecting the Liao Dynasty’s continuation of Tang-style Buddhist artistry. Two bodhisattvas stand beside each Buddha, adding vitality and compassion to this sacred tableau.

This magnificent ensemble is the oldest and largest group of colored clay Buddha statues in the world. Despite being made of fragile clay, they have miraculously survived for over a thousand years, their colors still soft and luminous. This endurance is nothing short of a miracle — a union of artistic mastery and the blessings of faith.

The Legend of the Buddha Catching a Shell

During the Liaoshen Campaign in the late 1940s, Yixian became a battlefield. Amid the chaos, a shell pierced through the roof of the Great Hall and fell directly into the right hand of the Shakyamuni Buddha statue. Miraculously, the shell did not explode.

Locals still tell this story as “The Buddha Caught the Shell with His Hand.” Whether fact or legend, it adds an aura of mystery and divine protection to the temple’s long history — as if the Buddhas themselves were silently safeguarding their sacred home.

The Flying Devas of Liao

The beams and rafters inside the Great Hall are adorned with over 4,000 square meters of original Liao Dynasty murals. Among them, the heavenly maidens — the Flying Devas — are the most enchanting. With radiant faces and flowing ribbons, they drift gracefully through clouds, offering flowers and fruits to the Seven Buddhas below.

Their movement contrasts beautifully with the Buddhas’ stillness, creating a breathtaking scene of divine harmony and devotion. The surrounding walls also preserve Yuan and Ming dynasty murals depicting ten Buddhas, eight Bodhisattvas, and the Eleven-Faced Avalokiteshvara, adding even more layers of spiritual and artistic richness to this timeless sanctuary.

A Thousand Years of Wonder

Standing before this majestic hall — a wooden structure that has endured a millennium — and gazing upon the clay Buddhas whose serene faces have survived a thousand winters, one cannot help but wonder:

How can a wooden palace withstand ten centuries of storms and wars? How can clay sculptures remain whole and radiant after a thousand years?

Is it the wisdom of the ancients? The strength of art? Or the blessing of the Dharma itself?

Perhaps the answer lies within every beam, every brushstroke, and every tranquil smile of the Buddhas.

May the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas bless all beings with peace, compassion, and happiness.
Namo Amitabha.

Link：https://peacelilysite.com/2025/10/23/the-thousand-year-wonder-fengguo-temple-and-its-eternal-great-hall/

Source： https://www.hzfxy.net/detail_1020_10154.html， https://zhuanlan.zhihu.com/p/721178084

The World’s Largest Buddhist Temple: Borobudur, Indonesia

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In the heart of Central Java’s fertile Kedu Valley, embraced by volcanic peaks and emerald landscapes, rises a monument unlike any other—Borobudur, the world’s largest Buddhist temple and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built more than 1,200 years ago, this colossal stone mountain is not just an architectural wonder, but a spiritual journey carved in stone.

A Monument Born of Devotion

Borobudur was constructed in the 8th and 9th centuries under the Sailendra Dynasty. Without a drop of mortar, two million volcanic stone blocks were precisely interlocked like a massive puzzle, forming a structure that has endured centuries of nature’s tests. From above, its shape is breathtaking—a giant mandala, the sacred geometric symbol of the Buddhist cosmos.

The temple rises in three tiers, each representing one of the realms of Buddhist cosmology:

  • Kamadhatu – The Realm of Desire: The base, adorned with reliefs that portray the karmic law and the cycle of birth and death.
  • Rupadhatu – The Realm of Form: Five square terraces lined with intricate reliefs and 504 serene Buddha statues.
  • Arupadhatu – The Realm of Formlessness: Three circular platforms crowned with 72 bell-shaped stupas, each sheltering a meditating Buddha. At the summit stands the great central stupa, symbolizing ultimate enlightenment.

A Living Story in Stone

Walking through Borobudur is like entering a vast storybook. The temple’s bas-reliefs, stretching across 2,500 square meters, are the most complete ensemble of Buddhist reliefs in the world. They illustrate tales from the life of Shakyamuni Buddha, Jataka stories, and profound teachings, guiding pilgrims step by step upward—from worldly desires to spiritual liberation.

Buried, Forgotten, and Found Again

Despite its grandeur, Borobudur fell silent between the 10th and 14th centuries, likely due to political shifts and the spread of Islam in Java. Nature reclaimed it—volcanic ash and thick jungle hid the monument from the world’s eyes. For centuries, it slumbered, until 1814, when Sir Thomas Stamford Raffles, the British governor of Java, was informed of a “buried hill.” Excavations revealed not a hill, but a hidden treasure of human devotion.

From Restoration to Reverence

In the 20th century, Borobudur was painstakingly restored with UNESCO’s support, safeguarding its stones against further decay. In 1991, it was declared a World Heritage Site, recognized as both a cultural and spiritual masterpiece.

Today, Borobudur is not just a monument of the past—it is alive with faith. Each year, thousands of Buddhists from across Indonesia and beyond gather here for Vesak Day, celebrating the birth, enlightenment, and passing of the Buddha under the full moon. Lanterns rise into the night sky, echoing the timeless aspiration for wisdom and compassion.

Borobudur is more than stone, stupas, and statues. It is a meditation frozen in time, a pilgrimage for both the feet and the heart. For travelers, standing atop Borobudur at sunrise—watching the mist lift from the valley as the first rays of light kiss the central stupa—is an experience beyond words.

This temple is not just Indonesia’s pride; it is humanity’s shared treasure, reminding us of the enduring power of faith, art, and the human spirit.

Travel Guide: Planning Your Visit

If Borobudur is on your travel list, here are some helpful tips:

📍 Location

  • Situated in Magelang, Central Java, about 25 miles (40 km) northwest of Yogyakarta.
  • Easily accessible by car, bus, or organized tour from Yogyakarta (1–1.5 hours).

🕰 Best Time to Visit

  • Sunrise tours are especially popular. Watching the first light illuminate the misty valley and stupas is unforgettable.
  • The dry season (April–October) offers clearer skies and comfortable weather.

🎟 Tickets

  • General admission is separate for local and international visitors.
  • Sunrise access often requires booking through official operators.
  • Combination tickets are available if you also wish to visit Prambanan Temple, another UNESCO site nearby.

👟 What to Bring

  • Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll be climbing many steps).
  • A hat, sunscreen, and water—the tropical sun can be intense.
  • A respectful outfit: shoulders and knees covered, as Borobudur is a sacred site.

🛕 Nearby Attractions

  • Prambanan Temple – A magnificent Hindu temple complex about an hour away.
  • Mendut Temple – A smaller Buddhist temple with a giant Buddha statue, often part of the Vesak procession.
  • Yogyakarta City – Known for its royal palace, batik art, and vibrant street food scene.

Link: https://peacelilysite.com/2025/09/12/the-worlds-largest-buddhist-temple-borobudur-indonesia/

Ancient Buddha relics returned to India

linda changLeave a comment
A joyous day for our cultural heritage! It would make every Indian proud that the sacred Piprahwa relics of Bhagwan Buddha have come home after 127 long years. These sacred relics highlight India’s close association with Bhagwan Buddha and his noble teachings. It also illustrates our commitment to preserving and protecting different aspects of our glorious culture. #VikasBhiVirasatBhi Source: https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1950483627323670760

The following article was published by the BBC News, Soutik Biswas, July 31, 2025:

Auction house Sotheby’s has returned a set of sacred jewels believed to be linked to the Buddha’s remains in India, after facing mounting pressure from the Indian government and global Buddhist leaders.

The Piprahwa Gems – described by archaeologists as one of the most astonishing finds of the modern era – were due to be auctioned in Hong Kong in May. But the sale was called off following diplomatic intervention and threats of legal action from Delhi.

The Mumbai-based conglomerate Godrej Industries Group has acquired the jewels, Sotheby’s said.

Sotheby’s said it was “delighted” to facilitate the return, following two months of negotiations involving the owner, the new buyer and the Indian government. The relics will now go on permanent public display in India, the auction house said.

Photo of William Claxton Peppé, an English estate manager, excavated the stupa and found the jewels. courtesy of the Peppé family.
William Claxton Peppé, an English estate manager, excavated the stupa and found the jewels. courtesy of the Peppé family.

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced the return on Wednesday, calling it a “proud and joyous moment” and a victory for the country’s cultural heritage. The relics, he said on X, were coming home after 127 years.

Godrej Industries Group, the buyer of the jewels, serves over 1.1 billion consumers worldwide across sectors including consumer goods, real estate, agriculture, finance, and chemicals, according to its website. Many of its products are household names in India.

“We are deeply honoured to contribute to this historic moment. The Piprahwa gems are not just artifacts – they are timeless symbols of peace, compassion, and the shared heritage of humanity,” Pirojsha Godrej, Executive Vice Chairperson of Godrej Industries Group, was quoted as saying in a government press statement.

Unearthed in 1898 by English estate manager William Claxton Peppé from a stupa in Piprahwa in northern India, near the Buddha’s birthplace, the cache included nearly 1,800 pearls, rubies, sapphires and gold sheets – buried alongside bone fragments identified by an inscribed urn as belonging to the Buddha himself.

Photo of The jewels were unearthed from this stupa in Piprahwa, northern India in 1898, Icon Films.
The jewels were unearthed from this stupa in Piprahwa, northern India in 1898, Icon Films.

Peppé eventually handed most of the gems, relics and reliquaries to the colonial Indian government: the bone relics went to the Buddhist King of Siam (Rama V). Five relic urns, a stone chest and most other relics were sent to the Indian Museum in Kolkata – then the Imperial Museum of Calcutta.

Photo of Four containers made of steatite (a type of stone) and one made of rock crystal were found inside a sandstone box at the Piprahwa stupa, courtesy of Peppe family.
Four containers made of steatite (a type of stone) and one made of rock crystal were found inside a sandstone box at the Piprahwa stupa, courtesy of Peppe family.

For over a century, the rest of the dazzling jewels remained largely hidden in a British private collection.

A set of 300 gems held by the Peppé family was publicly displayed at Sotheby’s Hong Kong in February and May. Over the past six years, the gems have appeared in major exhibitions, including The Met in 2023. The family has also launched a website to share their research.

Historians consider the relics the shared heritage of the Buddha’s Sakya clan and Buddhists worldwide. The bone fragments have since been distributed to countries like Thailand, Sri Lanka, and Myanmar, where they remain objects of veneration.

Photo of The jewels are considered among the most extraordinary archaeological finds of all time, courtesy of Sotheby's.
The jewels are considered among the most extraordinary archaeological finds of all time, courtesy of Sotheby’s.

The planned sale of the Buddha relics by Sotheby’s in Hong Kong had sparked widespread ethical concerns, with scholars and Buddhist leaders questioning whether sacred objects – especially those linked to human remains – should be treated as commodities.

Critics challenged the seller’s authority to auction the relics, while defenders said a transparent sale was the fairest way to transfer custody. For many Buddhists, the jewels are inseparable from the sacred remains and meant to be venerated, not sold.

“Are the relics of the Buddha a commodity that can be treated like a work of art to be sold on the market?” Naman Ahuja, a Delhi-based art historian, had told the BBC in May. “And since they aren’t, how is the seller ethically authorised to auction them?

“Since the seller is termed the ‘custodian’, I would like to ask – custodian on whose behalf? Does custodianship permit them now to sell these relics?”

Chris Peppé, great-grandson of William, had told the BBC in May that the family looked into donating the relics, but all options presented problems and an auction seemed the “fairest and most transparent way to transfer these relics to Buddhists”.

He said that in all the monasteries he had visited “no Buddhists regard these as corporeal relics”.

“A few Buddhist academics at Western universities have recently offered a convoluted, fact-defying logic whereby they may be regarded as such. It’s an academic construct that is not shared by Buddhists in general who are familiar with the details of the find,” he said.

On 7 May, Sotheby’s postponed the auction of the jewels following media reports and concerns raised by the Indian government, citing the need for further discussions. A week later, it confirmed ongoing talks with India to find a mutually agreeable resolution.

This week, confirming the return of the jewels, Sotheby’s said it was “grateful to the Peppé family for having safeguarded the gems and for having worked with us – and with the Government of India – in good faith to achieve this historic outcome”.

Link:https://peacelilysite.com/2025/09/05/ancient-buddha-relics-returned-to-india/

Guangsheng Temple — The Hidden Gem of Shanxi’s Ancient Treasures

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Shanxi is often called the cradle of Chinese civilization, a province with one of the richest collections of cultural and historical relics. Guangsheng Temple is part of that story. First built during the Eastern Han Dynasty (25–220 CE), it is one of the earliest Buddhist temples in China. Over the centuries, it has endured wars, fires, and devastating earthquakes, yet it still stands, its beauty renewed through reconstructions in the Yuan (1271–1368) and Ming (1368–1644) dynasties.

The temple complex is composed of three main parts:

  • The Upper Monastery — home to its most famous landmark, the glazed pagoda.
  • The Lower Monastery — housing grand halls and statues.
  • The Water God Temple — known for its remarkable Yuan Dynasty murals.

Rising in the upper monastery is the Flying Rainbow Pagoda (Feihongta), an octagonal, 13-story glazed brick tower reaching 47.31 meters high. Built in 1527 during the Ming Dynasty, it’s an explosion of color in the sunlight. The walls and roofs are covered in multi-colored glazed tiles — deep emerald, golden yellow, sapphire blue, and rich purples — that glisten like jewels, casting rainbow-like reflections on sunny days.

Every tier of the pagoda is adorned with intricate glazed reliefs — Buddhas in serene meditation, fierce guardian kings, bodhisattvas in flowing robes, mythical beasts, and dragons coiled in eternal motion. Inside, the foundation hall houses a five-meter-tall bronze statue of Sakyamuni Buddha, radiating quiet majesty.

This pagoda is not only beautiful — it’s a survivor. It withstood the catastrophic 1556 Shaanxi earthquake and the 1695 Pingyang earthquake, both exceeding magnitude 8.0. Its resilience is as awe-inspiring as its artistry. In 2018, it was recognized by the London-based World Record Certification as the tallest multicolored glazed pagoda in the world.

Murals of the Yuan Dynasty — Life Painted in Color

The temple’s murals are a vivid window into the Yuan Dynasty. In the Water God Temple, nearly 200 square meters of wall space is alive with color: scenes of divine processions, farmers at work, musicians playing, and children at play. One remarkable panel shows “Cuíwán” (捶丸) — a sport similar to golf — offering a glimpse into pastimes of the Yuan era.

The mural on the gable wall of the Great Hall of Sakyamuni Buddha in the lower monastery is equally stunning, painted with an expressive style that blends religious devotion with snapshots of daily life. Researchers prize these works for their artistry and for the wealth of cultural detail they reveal — clothing, architecture, social customs — all preserved in pigment for more than 700 years.

The Zhaocheng Buddhist Canon — A Literary Treasure

In 1930, during restoration work, the temple revealed another extraordinary surprise—a cache of ancient relics now preserved in the Shanxi Museum. These included Buddhist scriptures, statues, and ritual objects, some dating back hundreds of years earlier. Printed during the Yuan Dynasty, this monumental project took 24 years and the collaboration of countless monks and artisans to engrave the wooden printing blocks. The texts preserve Buddhist thought, philosophy, and art from centuries ago, making them one of China’s most precious Buddhist literary relics.

The discovery deepened Guangsheng Temple’s reputation as one of the great guardians of China’s Buddhist heritage.

Today, whether you approach as a pilgrim, an art lover, or simply a traveler drawn by curiosity, the moment you first see the rainbow-like shimmer of the Glazed Pagoda through the mountain mist is unforgettable. It is not merely a structure—it is a bridge between centuries, a beacon of faith, and a reminder that beauty, once created with devotion, can endure against time itself.

Link: https://peacelilysite.com/2025/08/15/guangsheng-temple-the-hidden-gem-of-shanxis-ancient-treasures/

Source: http://shanxi.chinadaily.com.cn/2022-05/06/c_748899.htm?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Childlike Delight — A New Vision of the Owl

linda changLeave a comment

Owls have always fascinated me with their air of enigma. Creatures of the night, they rest in the shadows by day and emerge only after dusk, rarely granting humans more than a fleeting glimpse. Across cultures, they have inspired legends both wondrous and foreboding. In ancient Greece, the wise and fearless goddess Athena chose the owl as her emblem, making it an enduring symbol of wisdom. So revered was this bird that Greek coins bore Athena’s face on one side and the owl on the other. Yet, in other parts of the world, the owl has been shrouded in darker associations, seen as a harbinger of misfortune or an omen of ill will.

In Chinese culture, the owl’s symbolism is particularly layered—holding both shadows and light. In ancient times, owls were often viewed as inauspicious creatures, linked to misfortune, death, and the old saying, “When the night owl enters a home, it never comes without cause.” And yet, in certain cultural contexts, they also stand for wisdom, keen insight, and even mysterious, almost magical power.

A Chinese ink painting by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III

When most people picture an owl, they think of its round, unblinking eyes and penetrating gaze—features that can feel cold, even intimidating. But my perception shifted entirely when I encountered the Chinese ink painting Childlike Delight by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III.

This is no ordinary artwork. With the freehand grace of traditional Chinese brushwork infused with a touch of dreamlike realism, it bridges the poetic subtlety of Eastern art and the fresh, luminous clarity of Western modernism.

With just a few effortless strokes, the artist creates a whimsical, pure, and gently humorous world—a dreamscape that seems to invite the viewer into the peaceful slumber of childhood. The small owl, covered with delicate ink spots of varying sizes and shades, appears almost as if glimpsed through a soft morning mist. Look closely, and you might see the tender image of a sleepy child, finger to lips, caught in that sweet moment before surrendering to dreams.

This is not a literal portrayal of nature, but rather nature reflected through the artist’s own heart—capturing not merely the physical form of a creature, but its spirit, vitality, and essence.

Here, the owl is reborn—not as the ominous figure of superstition, but as a symbol of innocence, purity, and quiet wisdom. The artist’s compassionate and unblemished inner world radiates through the painting, gently cleansing the heart of the viewer until it feels as fresh and clear as morning dew.

Childlike Delight reminds us that we can close the sharp, competitive eyes of rivalry and open instead the eyes of kindness, innocence, and warmth—gifts that have the power to heal, to inspire, and to light the world.

Link:https://peacelilysite.com/2025/08/15/childlike-delight-a-new-vision-of-the-owl/

Plato and Socrates on Love, Marriage, and Happiness: Timeless Lessons for Life

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What is love?
What is marriage?
What is happiness?

These are questions that have echoed through time. The Greek philosopher Plato once asked his teacher Socrates these very questions. The answers he received were not in the form of lectures or definitions, but through simple, thought-provoking experiences that revealed profound truths about life.

What Is Love?

When Plato asked, “What exactly is love?” Socrates didn’t reply with words. Instead, he told Plato to walk through a wheat field and pick the biggest, fullest ear of wheat he could find. There was only one rule: he could pick only once, and he couldn’t turn back.

Plato returned empty-handed.

“I saw some very large and golden ears of wheat,” he explained, “but I kept thinking that there might be an even better one ahead, so I didn’t pick any. As I walked further, none of the wheat looked as good as what I had already passed. In the end, I walked out with nothing.”

Socrates smiled and said, “That is love. We often think something better lies ahead, so we pass by the one who may have been most right for us. And when we finally realize it, it’s too late to turn back.”

What Is Marriage?

Next, Plato asked, “Then what is marriage?”

Socrates responded, “Walk through the forest and cut down the biggest, strongest tree to use as a Christmas tree. Remember—you may only choose once, and you cannot turn back.”

This time, Plato returned with a tree that wasn’t the tallest or thickest, but still sturdy and pleasing.

When Socrates asked why he had picked it, Plato said, “I remembered the lesson from the wheat field. When I saw this tree and thought it was good enough, I cut it down. I was afraid that if I kept looking, I’d again end up with nothing. It may not be the best, but it’s mine—and I’m content with it.”

Socrates nodded and said, “That is marriage. It may not be perfect, but it’s real, reliable, and something you can walk through life with.”

What Is Happiness?

Finally, Plato asked, “What is happiness?”

Socrates told him to walk through a meadow and pick the most beautiful flower he could find, again under the same rule: choose only once, and no turning back.

After some time, Plato returned with a lovely flower in his hand.

Socrates asked, “Is this the most beautiful flower you saw?”

Plato answered with certainty: “When I saw this flower, I felt it was the most beautiful, so I picked it. Even though I saw other beautiful flowers later, I didn’t regret my choice. I stayed firm in my decision. This one, to me, is the most beautiful.”

Socrates smiled and said, “That is happiness. When you choose to see something as your happiness and cherish it, happiness is already yours.”

Through these three simple parables, Plato came to understand love, marriage, and happiness—not as things to chase endlessly, but as choices to recognize, embrace, and be content with.

  • Love is like the perfect ear of wheat you keep hoping to find ahead, only to realize—often too late—that what you passed by may have been the best match for you.
  • Marriage is like the tree that may not be flawless, but stands strong with you through the everyday winds and storms of life.
  • Happiness isn’t about always having the best. It’s about choosing something, valuing it, and finding contentment in it.

In a world driven by comparison, desire, and constant pursuit of “more,” true happiness arises when we stop looking outward and begin appreciating what we already have. When we make peace with our choices and nurture them with gratitude, we come to see: we already possess love, marriage, and happiness in their truest forms.

Link: https://peacelilysite.com/2025/08/05/plato-and-socrates-on-love-marriage-and-happiness-timeless-lessons-for-life/

Lingyan Temple: A Millennium of Buddhist Grace and Sculptural Treasures in the Heart of Mount Tai

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Photo from Wikipedia

Located in the northwest of Mount Tai, Lingyan Temple was founded during the Eastern Jin Dynasty and boasts a history of over 1,600 years. It is regarded as one of the most important sacred sites of Chinese Buddhist culture. Since the Tang Dynasty, Lingyan Temple has enjoyed great renown, and together with Qixia Temple in Nanjing, Guoqing Temple on Mount Tiantai in Zhejiang, and Yuquan Temple in Dangyang, Hubei, it has been hailed as one of the “Four Great Temples of China.” The eminent monk Tang Xuanzang once resided here to translate Buddhist scriptures. From Emperor Gaozong of Tang onward, many emperors stopped to worship at this temple on their way to perform imperial rites at Mount Tai, a testament to its revered historical status.

Although I personally prefer the majestic beauty of untouched natural landscapes, I was deeply moved by the profound cultural and religious artistry of Lingyan Temple. Within the temple grounds, ancient trees such as Chinese wingnut, cypress, and banyan rise skyward, creating a tranquil and sacred atmosphere. As an integral part of the World Natural and Cultural Heritage site of Mount Tai, Lingyan Temple is especially renowned for its colored clay sculptures of Arhats, which hold a prominent place in the history of Chinese sculpture.

Stepping into the solemn Thousand Buddha Hall, one is struck by the breathtaking sight of the Arhat statues—40 lifelike clay figures arranged in a semicircle along the inner walls. Among them, 29 represent disciples of Shakyamuni and Indian masters such as Bodhidharma and Kumarajiva. The remaining 11 depict eminent Chinese monks, including Huiyuan, Huike, Huichong, and various abbots of Lingyan Temple. According to inscriptions and scholarly research, the original set consisted of 32 statues, first created in the third year of the Zhiping reign of Emperor Yingzong of the Song Dynasty (1066). Additional painting and sculpting were done in the first year of the Zhiyuan reign (1328) during the Yuan Dynasty. The Thousand Buddha Hall was renovated in the 15th year of the Wanli reign (1587) in the Ming Dynasty, at which time the number of Arhats was increased to 40. The final touch-up was completed in the 13th year of the Tongzhi reign (1874) of the Qing Dynasty.

Each statue stands about 1.6 meters tall and is seated on a waist-high brick pedestal roughly 80 centimeters in height, with the top of each statue rising 105 to 110 centimeters above the seat. The overall sculptural style is remarkably realistic, emphasizing the individuality and inner spirit of each figure: square faces, prominent noses, distinct facial features, and dynamic, textured robe patterns. The ancient artisans broke away from conventional, stylized Buddhist iconography and instead grounded their work in real life, endowing each Arhat with unique expressions and postures—some sit in meditation, others clasp their hands or hold staffs; some appear ragged and emaciated, while others exude noble dignity and elegance. Each figure is infused with spirit and personality, appearing almost alive, as if they might speak or move at any moment.

What’s even more astonishing is the meticulous attention to detail in both facial expressions and bodily movement, as well as the relationship between the robes and the human form. The flowing lines of the garments, the way the folds respond to motion, and the tactile quality of the fabric all reflect a masterful understanding of form and rhythm. One medical expert even remarked that, “Through the Arhats’ robes, one can perceive the ancients’ precise grasp of human anatomy.”

The Arhat sculptures at Lingyan Temple are not only masterpieces of religious art but also represent the pinnacle of ancient Chinese realistic sculpture. The renowned scholar Liang Qichao once visited the site and inscribed a stone tablet calling them “The finest sculptures in the land.” Famed art master Liu Haisu also praised them, writing: “The Arhats of Lingyan—first under heaven—vivid and lifelike, with flesh and spirit.”

Lingyan Temple is more than a place of worship—it is a living chronicle of Buddhist heritage carved from clay and shaped by the hands of genius. Whether you are a devout practitioner, a history enthusiast, or an art lover, a visit to Lingyan Temple will surely leave you moved by its rich cultural legacy and breathtaking artistic beauty.

Link:https://peacelilysite.com/2025/07/31/lingyan-temple-a-millennium-of-buddhist-grace-and-sculptural-treasures-in-the-heart-of-mount-tai/

The Pope of Buddhism His Holiness Dorje Chang Buddha III

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The conferment of the Pope of Buddhism to His Holiness Dorje Chang Buddha III originated in January 2018 when the World Peace Prize Awarding Council and World Peace Prize Religious Leaders Title Awarding Council passed the resolution to confer to H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III the title of Pope of Buddhism, the highest leader of Buddhism in this world. However, His Holiness the Buddha refused to accept the conferment.

The Pope of Buddhism H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III

For the sake of propagating Buddha Dharma and benefitting living beings, the World Buddhism Association Headquarters took the liberty to accept the conferment decree and the Pope of Buddhism Scepter. When the World Buddhism Association Headquarters respectfully presented the Pope of Buddhism Scepter and conferment decree to H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III, His Holiness the Buddha III said: “I see that on top of this Scepter is the seated Shakyamuni Buddha, we should be respectful to Namo Shakyamuni Buddha.” His Holiness the Buddha then raised the Scepter above His head and made a symbolic closed palm gesture with one hand to express His respects. However, H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III also expressed that He is just a humble cultivator and resolutely would not accept such a conferment. Hence, His Holiness the Buddha immediately returned the conferment decree and the Pope of Buddhism Scepter to the two Councils.

On September 23, 2020, the World Peace Prize Awarding Council and World Peace Prize Religious Leaders Title Awarding Council passed an ultimate joint resolution, determining that the return of the Pope of Buddhism Scepter and conferment decree by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III was not effectible. On September 24, the joint Chair of the World Peace Prize Awarding Council and World Peace Prize Religious Leaders Title Awarding Council Suzi Leggett made the ultimate announcement at the Holy Miracles Temple of the World Buddhism Association Headquarters: “Over the past several decades, the World Peace Prize Awarding Council has presented the World Peace Prize to presidents, spiritual leaders, and prime ministers of many nations, including President Ronald Reagan, Hon. Mahatma Gandhi, and H.E. Yitzhak Rabin. There has never been a precedence of an award being retracted or returned. All determinations made and implemented by our Councils are very solemn, serious, and absolutely cannot be changed. The return of the Pope of Buddhism Scepter and conferment decree by H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III is deemed not effectible. The title, status, and authority of the Pope of Buddhism belong only to H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III, and cannot be exercised by anyone else.” Chair Leggett once again requested that the World Buddhism Association Headquarters accept and present to H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III the Pope of Buddhism Scepter and conferment decree that His Holiness the Buddha previously returned.

Representing the World Buddhism Association Headquarters, Venerable Mozhi Rinpoche accepted the conferment decree and Pope of Buddhism Scepter. He said during his speech, “The World Buddhism Association Headquarters considers that the decision made by the two Councils is remarkably proper and sagacious.

“Ever since Namo Shakyamuni Buddha entered parinirvāṇa, there has not been a supreme leader who has the authority to guide all Buddhists the same way that the Buddha did. However, the authoritative position of the Pope of Buddhism certainly is not a role that a leader of a single Buddhist sect would have the attributes to fulfill; rather, the Pope must be a leader who has authority over the entirety of Buddhism, namely, a Buddha.

“Namo H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III holds the perfect teachings of Buddhism and meets the criteria used by all Buddhist sects to recognize a Buddha. His inherent nature is in accord with that of a Buddha. His unsurpassed, complete, and perfect enlightenment is in accord with that of a Buddha. Just based on the accomplishment of H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III in Lifting the Pestle onto the Platform, surpassing His own base weight standard by 59 levels, no one else can possibly reach such a record.

“The state of virtue of H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III is that of a Buddha. His Holiness the Buddha has perfect mastery of Exoteric and Esoteric Buddhism, perfect accomplishments in the Five Vidyas, and so forth, all of which accord with the unsurpassed, complete, and perfect enlightenment of a Buddha.

“In more than 2,000 years, there has not been a Buddhist Holy Guru in this world who possesses the same Buddha level qualities. Just by the facts that H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III vowed and carries out the vow to benefit living beings purely on a voluntary basis and does not accept any offerings throughout His entire life, and that He possesses perfect wisdom and unimpeded accomplishments, no other Holy Guru can be of comparison. Only Namo H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III can take on this immensely noble, holy, and heavy responsibility of the Pope of Buddhism, to properly guide Buddhists onto the correct path of learning Buddhism.

“Therefore, on behalf of Buddhists, the World Buddhism Association Headquarters thanks the World Peace Prize Awarding Council and the World Peace Prize Religious Leaders Title Awarding Council for having made the ultimate decision.”

H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III is selfless and noble, and the first person in Buddhism to possess substantive holy realization power of a Buddha and perfectly flawless accomplishments at the pinnacle of the Five Vidyas. These are the qualities that no other eminent Buddhist monastic or virtuous person in this world has so perfectly attained. It is naturally a matter of course that H.H. Dorje Chang Buddha III is the veritable Pope of Buddhism.

Source: https://asianjournal.com/life-style/arts-culture/the-pope-of-buddhism-his-holiness-dorje-chang-buddha-iii/

Why Ancient Roman Buildings Still Stand—And Modern Ones Don’t

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Have you ever stood before the Pantheon in Rome or looked up at the towering aqueducts from ancient times and thought:
“How are these structures—built over 2,000 years ago—still standing strong, while modern buildings crack, rust, and collapse in just a few decades?”

It’s not a miracle. It’s ancient wisdom and material science far ahead of its time.

By Rabax63 – File:Pantheon_Rom_1.jpg, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=87626466

Pantheon, Rome, c. 125 C.E. (photo: Darren Puttock, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

Sanctae Mariae Rotundae (photo: Steven Zucker, CC BY-NC-SA 2.0)

🏛 The Secret of Roman Concrete

Unlike the Portland cement we use today, ancient Roman concrete was made with volcanic ash (pozzolana), lime, water, and volcanic rock. This special mix triggered a chemical reaction known as the pozzolanic reaction, which formed a remarkably stable and durable material.

From https://news.mit.edu/2023/roman-concrete-durability-lime-casts-0106

This volcanic ash came from regions like Campi Flegrei near Naples, rich in silica and alumina. When mixed with lime and water, it formed bonds that strengthened over time—rather than weakened.

🌊 Stronger with Time—Even Underwater

Even more amazing? Roman concrete exposed to sea water didn’t erode—it grew stronger. Scientists discovered that seawater reacted with the volcanic materials to create a rare mineral called tobermorite, which reinforced the concrete’s internal structure.

This is why many ancient Roman ports and sea walls still stand intact after 2,000 years—even without modern rebar or waterproofing.

Ruins in Privernum, near Rome, where researchers collected ancient concrete samples from a bordering city wallREDA & CO srl/Alamy

🔧 Self-Healing Capabilities

Roman concrete even had a kind of “self-healing” ability. When small cracks formed, water seeping into the cracks would trigger new chemical reactions, filling the gaps with more binding minerals and sealing the damage naturally.

No wonder structures like the Pantheon’s massive unreinforced concrete dome—still the largest in the world—have stood strong for two millennia.

Today’s concrete (Portland cement) is fast to produce and easy to use—but it’s not built to last. It’s vulnerable to carbonization, water infiltration, and the corrosion of internal steel reinforcements. Many modern buildings begin to deteriorate in as little as 50 to 100 years.

What’s more, many structures are built with thinner supports and cheaper materials to cut costs and speed up construction—further sacrificing long-term durability.

Ancient Roman builders weren’t just engineers—they were environmental designers who worked with nature rather than against it. Their materials were local, natural, and synergistic. They designed for longevity, not just appearance or convenience.

Modern architecture, for all its technological advancements, could learn a powerful lesson:
Durability is a form of sustainability.

We often assume that more advanced technology means better quality. But perhaps what truly makes a structure strong isn’t just engineering—it’s wisdom, respect for nature, and a mindset rooted in harmony and longevity.

If we embrace these ancient insights, maybe our future buildings won’t just house us—they’ll endure for generations.

Link:https://peacelilysite.com/2025/07/21/why-ancient-roman-buildings-still-stand-and-modern-ones-dont/