Purple Lotus Temple – English Group Practice

4Q Event – Saturday, November 7, 2009

Mori Point Park, Pacifica, California

To prepare for this event, Elizabeth and I visited the site on Wednesday, November 4, 2009 to familiarize with the environment.  As we walked to the area, I asked the Park Earth Gods to support and protect the PLT’s group upcoming visit on November 7, 2009.  I sensed their smiles of approval upon us.  As I recited the Earth Deva Privthi mantra, the image of the basic “Five Offerings” appeared, a sign I took as a reminder that we should bring those items with us during our upcoming visit.   Later, I confirmed this message with Lama Alfred and he stated that they also requested us to offer the Lotus and Mantra paper.  This was a re-validation that spirits knew everything in advance.         

On the day of the event, after a debriefing of safety rules and performing arm protection, we started our hike at Mori Point Park, Pacifica, California approximately at 10:35am.  It was a clear, sunny day with a gentle soothing breeze.  We walked on the pathway parallel to the beach, then we started our leisurely hike on the first ridge to an incredible lookout point about 500’ over the cliff, then up another 500’ above the ocean.  The view of the crashing waves and the clean ocean beach below was absolutely breathtaking. 

We set up the praying area at the top of the mountain.  Although we emphasized about traveling light, due to everyone’s sincerity, generosity and respect for the Earth Deva Privthi and Park Earth Gods, the offerings were astounding.  Aside from the “Five Basic Offers” (flowers, incense, candle, tea and fruits), lotus, mantra papers, breads, tea eggs, chips, sandwiches, pot stickers and more than ten types and sizes of liquors were presented.

As Lama Alfred led the Earth Deva Prithvi and the samdhi, all were so in tuned with the prayers that the rest of the world was in silence.  We were free of distractions, not even other hikers or any of the insects affected us.  Some experienced seeing Dragon Kings, Park Earth Gods, their ancestors, while others saw Earth Deva Prithvi standing high above the cliffs at more than 1500’ during the service.  At the end of the cultivation, strong winds blew some offerings away and chilled us briefly.  Lama Alfred explained that the Gods have come to receive the offerings.  This reminded me briefly of the time we were on the ferry for the Dragon Kings ceremony.  As the offerings were tossed in the ocean, strong winds blew upon us to announce the presence of the Dragon Kings.

We enjoyed a pleasant picnic after the service.  We socialized and further appreciated the marvelous view.  To re-enforce Earth Deva Privthi’s teaching of maintaining a clean earth, we picked up the trash.  It is critical for us as cultivators to remember to apply what we have learned to our daily lives – “Walk Your Talk.”  Another Dharma method we applied and proven effective was performing arm protection prior to the trip.  We had no injuries or lost of belongings. 

 Although a few expressed that they were uncomfortable climbing the high cliffs, everyone seemed to have enjoyed the overall experience. The total distance was approximately two plus miles with an estimation of 40-50 minutes each way.  We never knew that Pacifica could be so beautiful. If you are looking for a place to watch a sunset, this will be a perfect spot. 

Special thanks to Grand Master Lu, Buddhas, Bohittsavas, Earth Deva Privthi, Park’s Earth Gods and all the Arm Protectors’ for their blessings and protection for a safe journey.  In addition, thanks to Master Samantha for sharing Earth Deva Privthi’s message with us so we could have this wonderful opportunity to offer at the mountain.  Of course, thanks to Lama Alfred for leading the event and all the participants’ support and cooperation to make this a memorable experience. 

Everyone is looking forward to the next event.

Note: 1Q 2010 event, Seattle and Vancouver.

Om Mani Padme Hum!

Marianne Hung

PLT – English Group Practice

Event Coordinator/Assistant