I was introduced to the practice of mindfulness and meditation back in 1995 when I joined the Vietnamese Buddhist Youth Association. Our leader, Mr. Thanh Dang, taught us sitting meditation, walking meditation, and eating in mindfulness. I remember that while in college, before a midterm or final exam, instead of cramming in as much information as possible at the last hour, I learned and set a 10 to 15- minute break for walking meditation to recollect and bring myself back to my breathing. Each breath that I took in, I felt alive and thankful for what I had, and just simply able to breathe.
I then went to pharmacy school in New York, married, and had kids. Life got busy, and I… forgot to breathe.
After my divorce and COVID-19 pandemic, I deeply reflected and realized that life is impermanent. I pondered on the question: “What do I want to leave behind for my children?” I wanted my children to know about Buddhism, the Three Jewels, and to learn and practice the five mindfulness trainings. I recognized the increasing challenges of distractions and overstimulation induced by electronic devices and social media that our children and future generations have to face. I thought of mindfulness practice and mediation, and that I should plant the seed as soon as possible. I began to search for meditation and mindfulness programs for children and families.
We were fortunate and found it as our great blessing to know of Planting Seeds Mindfulness Program. My three teenage sons, ages 16, 15 and 13, enjoy walking meditation, Dharma talks, and mindful art. They also love singing mindful songs, eating delicious vegetarian food in silence, and letting their bodies rest during deep relaxation time. I get to practice alongside them. We totally let go of all our devices when we arrive at the center, and just be aware of our breaths, be mindful in our steps, actions and speech.
Each practice day is truly a gift to ourselves. I see myself coming back to my breathing when I am about to say something regretful to my children. I also noticed that with my sons. I am grateful for Sư Cô Hỷ Nghiêm and Planting Seeds Mindfulness Program for sprinkling the seeds of mindfulness to our children, one practice day at a time. I hope to be able to bring my children to more mindfulness practice days and help the program grow and reach more children and families.
Hanh’s favorite quote from Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh
“Happiness Is Here and Now”
I hope to be able to bring my children to more mindfulness practice days and help the program grow and reach more children and families.
Hanh Le
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