New Year Gift Exchange 2024

Reported by Ms. Usha Chakma, PhD student

International Buddhist College (IBC) held a New Year Gift Exchange event on 29 December 2023 (Friday) at the IBC Main Lobby. The event was participated by all IBC members. The International Buddhist College is a place where people from everywhere come together. It is like a big family with lots of different cultures. During the New Year celebration, IBC combines Buddhist teachings and education with cultural sharing and spiritual reflection. The celebration is not just about having fun, but also about understanding and respecting each other’s cultures. This year’s program for the New Year celebration at IBC commenced with the calm and soothing chants of the three distinct Buddhist traditions. Venerable Dipananda led the Theravada tradition, marking a peaceful beginning. Then, Venerable Yao Zhong took over for the Mahayana tradition, adding a compassionate touch. Finally, transitioning smoothly to the Vajrayana tradition, Khenpo Rangdrol added a unique and profound dimension to the ceremony. With each tradition, the ceremony became a mix of peaceful rituals, bringing everyone together in a harmonious and respectful way, which truly embodies the spirit of the IBC community.

We had a memorable New Year celebration at IBC, with two inspiring speakers sharing the Dharma. Khenpo Rangdrol spoke about how compassion and wisdom can enhance our lives in the coming year. He stressed that these qualities can foster personal growth and benefit the world. Venerable Zhen Ti, speaking in Chinese, also offered New Year sharing based on IBC founder, Ven. Wei Wu’s teachings on the source of genuine happiness. She explained that happiness comes from virtues like generosity, loving-kindness and wisdom; and not from poisons like greed, anger, and delusion. She urged us to make positive changes in the new year, by remembering the Buddhist concept of impermanence. She said that everything changes, so we should use that as a motivation to improve ourselves.

The highlight of the event was the gift exchange ceremony. All of us, including the staff, teachers and students exchanged gifts among ourselves. It was a very happy moment, as we wished each other a great time in the new year. This gift-giving tradition made us closer and happier, showing that we are like a big family at IBC, celebrating and supporting each other for the year ahead.

After that, the celebration continued with delightful performances from the Sangha members, professor, and students. They showcased their talents, making the event lively and enjoyable. The event also served delicious food, adding a festive flavor to the celebration. The program concluded on a spiritual note, as Venerable Dipananda led the transference of merits to all beings. We shared good thoughts and wishes with everyone, feeling connected and happy together.

We would like to extend our profound appreciation to each and every individual who contributed to the success of this event, irrespective of the nature of their involvement. The collective efforts have significantly enhanced the New Year celebration at IBC, making it a memorable occasion. We also would like to express our sincere gratitude to the working committee team and all those involved in various capacities for their commendable efforts. May the forthcoming days be abundant with happiness, prosperity, and positive experiences. Thank you and a very Happy New Year to all!

NOTE:
Please find your New Year Gift Exchange photos from the link below:
https://ibc-elibrary.thanhsiang.org/node/1040