I first read Thầy’s book, The Miracle of Mindfulness, in its Vietnamese version when I arrived in the U.S. in 1980. I immediately found his teachings deeply inspirational. In 1982, when Thầy came to the U.S. for the first time to lead a mindfulness retreat at Kim Son Monastery, I attended the retreat, received the Five Mindfulness Trainings, and became Thầy’s disciple. That experience was profoundly transformative and truly changed my life.
The practice of mindfulness has taught me how to live fully in the present moment, connect with the miracles of life, and find true happiness. It has helped me look inward, better understand myself, and live in harmony with others. As a result, I am more effective in my daily work and responsibilities while also managing stress more effectively.
I’ve experienced firsthand the immense benefits of mindfulness in my life, and I am deeply inspired to share this practice with children and young people. This aspiration is rooted in one of the missions Thầy entrusted to me during the lamp transmission ceremony. It is for this reason that I am dedicated to being a part of the Planting Seeds program.
Thanh’s favorite quote from Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh
“There Is No Way to Happiness – Happiness Is the Way”
I’ve experienced firsthand the immense benefits of mindfulness in my life, and I am deeply inspired to share this practice with children and young people.
Thanh Dang
Leave a Reply