Joyful group photo with venerable monks after the talk.

On Wednesday 14 May, Nalanda members and devotees were honoured to welcome Thai Forest monks Ven. Luang Por Dtumrong, Ven. Luang Por Dumrong, Ven. Ajahn Dton, Ven. Phra Mahāpuñño and Ven. Phra Mettacitto to Nalanda Centre.  We were honoured to be able to learn with Ven. Luang Por Dumrong, who had last visited us in 2013, in the evening Dhamma teaching.

Luang Por said that though we may come from different parts of the world, we are united through the Dhamma.  Through the cultivation of merits and wholesome qualities, true happiness arises in the mind.  He encouraged us to look within ourselves, to know our own heart and mind in order to realise the true cause of happiness.

Luang Por Dumrong’s advised us on ways to be disenchanted with what we like and dislike.

Our gratitude to venerable monks for coming to visit us at Nalanda.

Luang Por Dtumrong shared his advice to leaders of the Society.

Luang Por also taught ways to overcome mental afflictions.  Using the example of greed, he suggested contemplating of the body starting  hair of the head (kesā), hair on the body (lomā), nails (nakhā), teeth (dantā), skin (taco).  Through such contemplation along with reflection on the four elements (earth, water, fire, and air), we cultivate an awareness of the body’s impermanence.  This practice reduces clinging and attachment, lessens identification with the body, and fosters a sense of not-self (anattā).  From this insight, loving-kindness (mettā) toward oneself and others arises naturally.

We express our deep gratitude to Ven. Luang Por Dumrong for his guidance and to Ajahn Dton for his kind translation, which made the teaching accessible to all.  We wish venerable sirs long life, good health, and success in all their noble endeavours.  Sadhu anumodana.

Presenting requisites on behalf of the Society.

Welcoming venerable monks to Nalanda Centre.

Luang Por Dtumrong and Luang Por Dumrong making offerings at the Main Altar.

Nalanda leaders greeting and welcoming venerable monks.

Bro. Charlie Teng brings venerable monks on a tour around Nalanda Centre.

Touring the Buddha Jayanti Exhibit with a Teenage Dhamma School student.

At the Wisdom Park Exhibition.

Devotees respectfully greet the venerable monks as they enter the hall.

Ven. Ajahn Dton translated the talk for the audience.

Seeking clarification on the ways to reflect.

Asking questions to deepen learning.

Members and devotees respectfully send venerable monks off after the teaching.