"Sharing Dhamma, Spreading Metta"

Theme For the 10th Dhamma Youth Camp 2002 - Reflections

* Dhamma refers to the Teaching of the Buddha. It is the Truth or the true Nature of all things ... all physical and mental phenomena. 'The Gift of Dhamma Excels All Other Gifts'. Hence to teach the Dhamma or to share the Dhamma with others is the most meritorious act of Dana or Charity.

* When one learns, understands, practices and realizes the Dhamma, one can
- become more happy and peaceful.
- be more calm and tanquil.
- cope and solve problems and conflicts much better.
- grow in compassion and wisdom
- cut one's greed, hatred and delusion.
- have a good rebirth when one transits from this world.
- attain to the Bliss of Nibbana.

* The central Teachings of the Buddha include the following:
- The Four Noble Truths
- The Noble Eightfold Path
- The 3 Characteristics of Unsatisfactoriness, Impermanence and Non-Self
- The Law of Kamma and Rebirth
- The Law of Dependent Origination

* The promotion and propagation of Dhamma is the most noble and meritorious action. The Buddha exhorted His disciples to go forth to spread and share the Dhamma for the happiness and peace of all mankind. Let us all be Dhammafarers or Dhammaduta workers. Let our commitment for the Dhamma cause grow and grow.

* Metta is Loving-Kindness, a boundless and unconditioned love for all sentient beings. Metta is one of the four Brahma Viharas or Divine Abodes. This Sublime State brings benefits and happiness to oneself and others. The practice of Metta or Metta Bhavana ( Meditation on Loving-Kindness) generates very good and wholesome Kamma. There are 11 benefits that one can obtain through the practice of Metta Bhavana.

* Our world today is filled with so much anger, aggression, ill-will, hatred, strife and enmity. It is indeed in need of loving-kindness and compassion. Let us spread Metta to all sentient beings.

* The Buddha said, "You should develop thoughts of love to a friend and foe alike. And having reached perfection in love, you will attain Enlightenment."

With Metta,
Bro. Oh Teik Bin