Albert Lin, The Merit Times staff writer
November 6, 2023

On October 28th, Hsi Lai Temple (I.B.P.S.) hosted the "Hsi Lai Parent-Child Carnival." This event was organized by Buddha's Light International Association (BLIA) YAD Los Angeles I, focusing on the principles of "Three Acts of Goodness" and "Four Givings." Nearly 200 parents and children from Scout troops and TAG School participated in the event.

Venerable Zhi Xing, Department Leader of the Hsi Lai Temple Social Education and Outreach Department, stated that darkness instills fear in people. When surrounded by pitch darkness, it's natural to seek the switch for a light. Similarly, when one's heart is dark, there's a longing for light. Practicing the Three Acts of Goodness is akin to turning on the inner light, illuminating oneself and others, facing the world without fear together.

Venerable Zhi Xing shared the founding story of the Waldorf Astoria hotel in Manhattan, USA: On a stormy night, wealthy couple William Waldorf Astor sought shelter in an inn, but it was fully booked. The waiter, George Boldt, warmly accommodated them, offering them his own room for free. Impressed, William Waldorf Astor built the Waldorf Astoria hotel and hired George Boldt to manage it. Venerable Zhi Xing used this story to encourage everyone to seize opportunities and practice the Three Acts of Goodness.

Children who answered correctly passed the station and received candies. photo／The Life News Agency

The carnival featured different stations along the "Path to Buddhahood." Children answered questions such as "What are the Three Acts of Goodness?" and "What are the Four Givings?" Those who answered correctly passed the station and received candies. BLIA YAD Los Angeles I also prepared activities like face painting, origami, and games, and screened movies.

BLIA YAD Los Angeles I also prepared activities like face painting, origami, and games, and screened movies. photo／The Life News Agency

The event concluded with a "Costume Contest" divided into four groups, each based on themes of "fun," "creativity," "cuteness," and "quirkiness." The monks served as judges, selecting winners from each group.

Children participated in the "Costume Contest." photo／The Life News Agency

16-year-old BLIA YAD Los Angeles I executive Leo Xu served as the overall coordinator for this event for the first time. He expressed that during the nearly two months of planning, he learned the importance of teamwork and was delighted to share his childhood joyful memories.

Armando Cabanlit, from the TAG School Parents' Class, attended the carnival event with his whole family. He expressed that sharing joyful moments with everyone was very worthwhile and that this was a meaningful and special event.