Diwali is the festival of Lights. We have a lamp inside us. The oil of that lamp is our breathing, our steps, and our peaceful smile. Our practice is to light up the lamp. When light shines, darkness becomes the light.

Diwali's essence lies in the ancient Sanskrit verse, that underlines the vision of spiritual goal of every seeker "Asato Ma Sat Gamaya; Tamaso ma jyotirgamaya". It means "Lead me from ignorance to truth and from darkness to light."

Similarly, we have to light the lamp of happiness and compassion, the lamp of prosperity and the lamp of knowledge to dispel sorrow, poverty as well as disease.

As Meditation Master Thich Nhat Hanh says "Throughout your meditation, keep the sun of your awareness shining. Like the physical Sun, which lights every leaf and every blade of grass, our awareness lights our every thought and feeling, allowing us to recognize them, be aware of their birth, duration, and dissolution, without judging or evaluating, welcoming or banishing them. It is important that you do not consider awareness to be your "ally," called on to suppress the "enemies" that are your unruly thoughts.

We can kindle light in many hearts just like a lamp which can light many lights.

Wish the Festival of Lights bring lots of joy, peace and prosperity to you and your family! 

Happy Diwali 2020!

Truong