03/30/2024

BLIA-Austin Hosts Outdoor Spring Excursion and Social Gathering

- By Hsiu, Elaine

On the afternoon of Saturday, March 30th, Tam Nyuyen, serving as the head of the English Chapter of the Austin Buddha‘s Light International Association (BLIA), orchestrated an outdoor spring excursion to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin. Joining him were the Venerables, Jue Ji, Yi Song, Yong Jia, Ru Yuan, and approximate 50 members representing both the Chinese and English Chapter of BLIA, encompassing a diverse range of age groups.

Jiaqing Chen, President of the Chinese Chapter, generously provided three boxes of donuts to share. As participants leisurely roamed through the gardens, meandering streams, and wooded areas, they marveled at the beauty of Texas wildflowers. Tam led a brief session of mindfulness meditation amidst the forest setting, offering everyone a moment of serene reflection. Venerable Yong Jia also delighted the group with his melodious singing. Meanwhile, children joyously frolicked around the playground amenities nestled within quaint cabins, while teenagers eagerly showcased their climbing prowess, exuding youthful vigor.

This spring outing not only fostered closer bonds among members hailing from diverse cultural backgrounds but also served as a reminder of the importance of nurturing all forms of life and advocating for environmental stewardship and preservation.