Devotees calming their minds to ready themselves to learning.

On Sunday 1 March, Nalanda members and devotees returned to Nalanda Centre for the Chinese New Year Sunday Service and tea-offering ceremony.

During the Dhamma talk, Sis. Nandinī Tan shared the H.O.R.S.E. Principles of Parenting, offering a meaningful reflection for families at the start of the new year. She reminded parents that How You Live matters most, for children learn more from our daily conduct than from our lectures. Our emotional tone, consistency, and integrity quietly shape their character.

Reflecting the meaning behind the offering items.

Devotees offering light and water to the Three Jewels symbolically.

Bro. Vincent and Bro. Yeong leading the congregation in chanting.

She encouraged parents to Offer Conditions rather than control outcomes, with a home environment filled with safety, warmth, structure, and wise boundaries, understanding that growth cannot be forced but can be lovingly supported. In moments of tension, she emphasised the importance to Respond, Don’t React, pausing before speaking or acting, allowing wisdom and compassion to guide our response instead of impulse.

She further highlighted the need to Seek Harmony, reminding everyone that a peaceful home is far more valuable than raising a merely “successful” child. When there is mutual respect, psychological safety, and understanding within the family, children naturally flourish. Finally, she encouraged parents to Express Gratitude, for gratitude transforms parental duties into joy and strengthens bonds within the household.

Through these simple yet profound principles, families were inspired to cultivate patience, harmony, and wisdom, making this Year of the Horse a truly meaningful year for all.

Devotees taking refuge in the Three Jewels.

Devotees happily wishing each other well with kindness and appreciation.

Sis. Nandinī Tan shared the H.O.R.S.E. Principles of Parenting.