Transforming
fierce fire into serene lotus
IBS Prison Program in San Diego
California USA
Interview
with Ven. Xian Zhong
15 Questions to Ven. Xian Zhong by
disciple Lih Hwa
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Q4. Are there any other prison
requests?
Ans:-
Yes, in Northern California we have requests from 5 different prisons
including; Chino State Prison, Corcoran State Prison, Lancaster State Prison,
etc. Recently, Chino State Prison has completed the screening process, thus
allowing us to begin visitation there.
“Dharma offering is the best among all.”
Q5.
What do you teach while visiting the prison?
Ans:- In the beginning you can say there
really are no Buddhists. Some are
Christians, Catholics, Muslims and even atheists. But they do understand the wisdom of Buddhism can be applied
to everyday living. In our
visitation teachings, we don't force them to become Buddhists, but simply
reinforce the ultimate truth that Buddhism outlines. Buddha taught us the truth in life- how to be compassionate
and prevent negative deeds; how to engage others as they relate to you. In the beginning we do not emphasize that
this is what Buddha says or that this is what is written in the sutras. We use simple communication and relate
it to their lives. For example, I
would say something like; you don't need to believe Buddha, because you have
not met Buddha. But you need to
believe the people around you and believe that they will become upset equally
as you are. What this teaches us is not to be careless with our actions; it
shows us the cause and effect; it teaches us how to be a better person. We never pressure them into becoming Buddhist,
but only share with them how to reduce stressors and be content; how to live in
peace with their selves and others. This is quite different from the notion
that you need to be a believer to be rescued. As the inmates discover the path through their own lives,
it will be an easier path that will enable them to have acceptance.
“The greatest generosity is
non-attachment.”
