Article by Sis Huarong (translated by TMBS Translation Team)

On May 22, 2024, The Mahaprajna Buddhist Society held a Vesak Day ceremony, with over 700 devotees in attendance. Such a grand event required the active participation of Dharma protectors to prepare the meals. This year, it was the students from the 37th Chinese Dharma Class who assisted the cooking team in preparing delicious food.

The Dharma protectors began their busy preparations the day before the ceremony. They cleaned cooking utensils and bowls, purchased groceries and seasonings, and under the guidance of experienced seniors, everything proceeded in an orderly manner.

On the day of the ceremony, the Dharma protectors arrived at the venue before dawn, greeting each other warmly and sharing simple breakfasts they had brought. They quickly and quietly got to work, each person contributing earnestly and meticulously. Washing vegetables, chopping ingredients, lighting fires… Some of the senior brothers, despite their age, skillfully wielded large ladles and effortlessly tossed around heavy bags of rice noodles, filling the air with the aroma of cooking. Everyone worked together seamlessly, assisting each other in packing the cooked dishes. After finishing the packing, they immediately and voluntarily began cleaning up, ensuring everything was completed naturally with everyone’s best efforts.

The friendly and cooperative team spirit fostered an atmosphere of joy and harmony. After putting their hearts and souls into the preparations, the Dharma protectors joyfully sampled the vegetarian meals they had prepared themselves. Smiles adorned their faces, filled with the joy of the Dharma, knowing that food prepared with such care always tastes especially sweet and delicious.