The Purpose of Practicing the Immediate Enlightenment Method

Excerpt from Master Ching Hai’s Lecture

Q-  Does our past karma affect the present life?  How can we believe it? What is the proof? Thank you.

M.  It is not easy to prove this, but I can try.  We do not need to talk about a past life which is unreachable for our mortal understanding.  We will talk about the present.  It’s easier to understand .  For example, if in the morning you drink alcohol, then in the afternoon how do you feel?  Lovely, fantastic or you feel drunken and terrible?   You feel terrible, right?  That is the effect of it, what we call, “the past karma affecting the present”.  If you did not drink alcohol so much in the morning, then in the afternoon you don’t feel so terrible.  You will feel clear-headed and very normal.  That is the karmic effect, we call ” the past affects the present”. It’s very easy.  Now, these things are easy to understand because they are in the same time, and in the present time.  But if something happened so long ago, in the centuries of times, then of course we do not understand.  Every time we’re born again we change into new clothes, and this body is the new clothes, and we’ve forgotten the last time we wore what kind of clothes.

The fact that we forget the past is also a blessing for us, because what is the use to us if we remember that last life we were a tiger, or we were a wolf, or we were a kind of terrible president or terrible king?  This will make a very heavy pressure on us.  We cannot even deal with our daily pressures, how much more so if we have to deal with past karmic burdens, mental burdens.  Understand?

So it is a blessing that we don’t remember our past life.  This is especially designed by God, by the lord of karma, so that we may live a bearable life.  But actually, when we practice some kind of meditation, even just ordinary meditation, not to mention our method, some people would see their own past lives.  There are some kinds of spheres which record every minute detail of our past existences, and when we reach that library we can see everyone’s life like an open book, including our own.   So actually, when we practice our method we can also reach there.  If it’s useful for you, the master will let you see, if it isn’t, and too much for your own enduring power, then the master will cover it and won’t let you see.

So the secret of life is nothing secret.  It is a matter of reaching the right library and then seeing what is in store before and after.  So you can prove it for yourself even.  You can prove it yourself, no one can prove it for you.  For example, if you ask me how I can prove your karma, now I would tell you, “Oh, before you were a tiger”.  And you would ask me for proof.  It is very difficult for me, because you are here and I am there.  I see things differently from your seeing things.    The one who is on the fifth floor see more parts of the city than the one who is on the second floor, and the one who is on the second floor will  not believe what the fifth floor is telling him because he himself doesn’t see it, understand that?

So proof or no proof, leave it till later.  You should concern yourself more with your present life. Our past life we cannot change, it’s gone, it’s already happened.  So all we can change, all we can worry about is this present life and the future. And now we can change the future, and that is a good thing.  The future and the present are so important to us, not the past.  The past, we cannot do anything about.  And we couldn’t do much even with the present, but we could minimize it, could smooth it by our own God power within us.  Every day we take it out and use it.

For example, you have a treasure and inheritance from your parents, a million dollars treasure laid and hidden somewhere, and you don’t know where it is, and every day you go and work very hard and earn a little money.  But the fact that you know you have a treasure somewhere doesn’t help you, does it?  But if you know where it is, then you will take it out and use it every day.  And now, if you owe somebody a hundred thousand dollars, you cannot change that, because you’ve already borrowed from him and you cannot change this. But you can take your money and give it to him.  You can make your life more comfortable.  Pay him some money and you can avoid the lawsuit, and avoid people coming to drag you out to scold you and beat you because of owning money.  That’s how you can change your present life.  Now, our present lives are fixed from our past karma: As you sow, so shall you reap. There for, our happiness or sorrow are fixed because of our own past actions, just like when we owe somebody money we cannot change that because we’ve already spent it.  So now we have to bear it, or if we have the money, we give it to him, and then we’re free.  In the same way, our present life may be miserable or unhappy because of our past lives or the past years wrong actions.  But now, if we practice, we can take the inner blessing power to use, and then we can minimize this misery and that’s how we can help and change the present.  And of course, in the future there will not happen anything unfavorable to us, because we have so much merit in store to alter our future.  It is the same as when we have discovered our treasure, then we can give some money to our debtor.  And then we even have a lot to use in the future.  In the future we can avoid borrowing money, we can avoid being poor.  We cannot change the past, we have to smooth the present and change the future.   And that is the purpose of practicing the immediate enlightenment method- the Quan Yin method.  Quan means contemplate.  Yin means inner vibration, inner sound.  This is a Chinese word for contemplating the inner music.

Ten Superfoods for Super Health

What are the most beneficial and nutritious foods on Earth for enhancing energy, health and happiness, the so-called superfoods? Interestingly, it’s not necessary to go to a mountaintop, jungle or secret cave to obtain these foods. They’re actually quite common, widely available and often overlooked by consumers.  We’ll look at the top 10 superfoods and see why experts suggest including them in our diet. Please remember God has blessed us with many superfoods and this list is just one possibility!

Superfood #1: Walnuts

Among the elements needed to maintain good mental health are omega-3 fatty acids. Studies show that a lack of these vital nutrients may lead to depression, learning disabilities, behavioral problems, and even sleep disorders. So how can we make sure we get enough omega-3 fatty acids in our diet?

It’s actually quite simple. Grab a handful of walnuts! Walnuts have often been referred to as “brain food” because their high concentration of essential fatty acids helps keep our brain cells functioning properly. Walnuts also contain a natural form of melatonin, a hormone that relaxes the mind and helps us sleep better. It’s interesting to note that a walnut even looks like a tiny brain!

Superfood #2: Broccoli

Another widely recognized superfood is broccoli. This humble, little vegetable, available around the world, is a powerhouse of nutrients. It’s rich in calcium and vitamin K, which help maintain healthy bones and prevent osteoporosis, and it also contains abundant potassium and magnesium. Have you ever wondered what to do for sunburn? Well, help yourself to some broccoli!

Rich in glucoraphanin, broccoli helps repair the skin. Glucoraphanin is also an anti-cancer agent. In fact, the American Cancer Society recommends eating broccoli regularly, as it contains phytochemicals that help prevent cancer. And the good news doesn’t stop there. Broccoli contains beta-carotene, as well as the trace minerals, zinc and selenium, all of which strengthen the immune system.

Superfood #3: Avocados

And speaking of enjoyment, how about the taste of a rich, creamy avocado? What’s even better is the fact that this beautiful, green fruit is bursting with valuable nutrients. An excellent source of folic acid and vitamins C, K, E, and B6, avocados also contain calcium, copper, iron, phosphorus and magnesium, and 60% more potassium than bananas.

But doesn’t an avocado contain a lot of fat? It does, but it’s “heart-friendly,” monounsaturated fat. In fact, avocados can actually improve one’s cholesterol profile, as it helps reduce LDL or “bad” cholesterol, while increasing HDL (good cholesterol). Recent studies show that the monounsaturated fats in avocados help protect against breast cancer and slow the growth of prostate cancer.

Having problems with your eyes? Get some avocados. Like broccoli they contain the carotenoid lutein, which helps protect against macular degeneration and cataracts. In fact, avocados contain more lutein than any other common fruit. So put a few slices on your salad, or make one into a “green smoothie” and see the difference in your vision!

Superfood #4: Nutritional Yeast

One of the common concerns about switching to the vegan diet is obtaining enough Vitamin B12. But if we add a small amount superfood #4, the issue is solved. What is superfood #4? It’s simply good tasting, nutty, nutritional yeast, which may be used as a delicious, healthful condiment. Besides being a great source of B vitamins, nutritional yeast is high in protein.

When buying this food, check the label to see if it’s been fortified with vitamin B12, because this vitamin does not occur naturally in nutritional yeast. It’s a bacteria that is produced separately and then added later. Secondly, B12 is light sensitive, so make sure the yeast you buy is not being stored in clear plastic, but rather in a canister that blocks the sun. Nutritional yeast can be sprinkled on steamed veggies, and will add a delicious, cheesy flavor to lightly salted popcorn, pasta, or scrambled tofu.

Superfood #5: Dark Leafy Greens

Despite differences in opinion about which fruits, grains and vegetables are superfoods, almost every expert agrees on the next candidate: dark leafy greens, possibly the most concentrated source of nutrition of any food. A rich source of minerals such as iron, calcium, potassium and magnesium, greens should definitely be included in our daily diet. They also contain vitamins K, C, E and many of the B-vitamins, and are a powerful source of phytonutrients such as beta-carotene, lutein, and zeaxanthin, which keep our cells healthy.

Concerned about osteoporosis? Then dig into the dark green veggies! Collards, kale and many others are excellent sources of easily absorbed calcium, which helps build healthy bones. Arugula, whose peppery flavor enhances any salad, is an excellent source of vitamins A, C and calcium. Also, the spicy taste of mustard greens livens up any sandwich or salad, and these greens are packed with vitamins A and K, folate and iron. So bring out the salad bowl, or add a handful to your favorite smoothie, and just feel the burst of energy they bring!

Superfood #6: Blueberries

One fruit that is on almost everyone’s superfood list is the delightful blueberry. This small fruit is a veritable powerhouse of nutrients, such as lutein, important for healthy vision. Low in calories and high in fiber, blueberries are an excellent source of fiber and vitamin C. In a study by the United States Department of Agriculture Human Nutrition Center which sought to find the best source of antioxidants among 40 fresh fruits and vegetables, blueberries ranked #1 as they help neutralize the free radicals that lead to cancer and other age-related diseases.

This humble, little fruit helps promote a healthy urinary tract and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke by preventing the buildup of “bad” cholesterol. Moreover, blueberries are delicious and can be eaten plain or made into smoothies – guaranteed to put a blueberry “smile” on your lips.

Superfood #7: Quinoa

Most lists of superfoods contain at least one grain, and among the most frequently recommended is quinoa, regarded as a sacred food by the Incas. Quinoa provides 22 grams of protein per 250 milliliters of uncooked grain, more than almost any other cereal grain. It also contains all eight of the essential amino acids required for tissue development, and is thus considered to be a complete protein.

In addition, quinoa contains calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, iron, copper, manganese and zinc, in higher concentrations than wheat, barley or corn. It’s also low in fat, gluten-free, and thus ideal for those who are gluten intolerant. With its unique, delectable taste, quinoa can be lightly seasoned and made into a wide variety of delicious dishes and is an excellent substitute for rice in many recipes.

Superfood #8: Beans and Lentils

Did you know that by incorporating certain foods into your diet, you can slow the aging process? According to world- renowned dermatologist and bestselling author Dr. Nicholas Perricone, a healthy diet is the most effective way to increase your energy, improve your well-being, and look younger! On his list of superfoods he recommends beans and lentils.

Dr. Perricone says that these legumes are unusually high in phytochemicals, protein and vitamins, all of which are essential to prevent aging. They are also low in fat and calories, thus helping to maintain ideal weight, and contain essential fatty acids, especially omega-6. Beans help prevent diabetes and manage blood-sugar disorders. Being low on the glycemic scale, they prevent spikes in blood-sugar levels, unlike refined grains and baked goods.

Beans and lentils have been part of the human diet for thousands of years, and are still among the most nutritious foods on Earth. Their varieties include kidney, black, navy and pinto beans, chickpeas (garbanzo beans) soybeans and dried peas, as well as several different types of lentils.

Superfood #9: Sesame Seeds and Tahini

Besides being a pleasant condiment, sesame seeds are chock full of nutrition, making them a worthy candidate for our superfood list. They contain phytosterol, which lowers cholesterol, as well as vitamin E, an antioxidant that makes the hair soft, shiny and healthy. Sesame seeds are also loaded with calcium for strong bones and teeth, and high in vitamin A and essential fatty acids as well as the B vitamins. Being very nutritious, they are 20% protein and among the best sources of methionine, an essential amino acid. Sesame seeds also contain lecithin, which reduces fat levels in the blood and helps protect the body from environmental toxins.

In addition, they’re rich in minerals, containing copper, magnesium, potassium, iron and phosphorus, which help keep joints, muscles and blood vessels healthy. Sesame seeds can be used in many ways, such as sprinkled over rice, salads or vegetables.

They can also be made into tahini, ground sesame-seed butter, and thus used as a spread, dip or dressing. Moreover, oil may be pressed from the seeds for use in seasoning salads, grains, or fresh veggies. In Japan, sesame is ground and mixed with salt to make gomashio, a delicious dry condiment.

Superfood #10: Sunshine!!

The last superfood on our list isn’t really a food at all, but is essential to the life of almost every plant on Earth. It’s sunshine! It is the easiest, most reliable and most delightful way to get vitamin D. Vitamin D is essential to good health because it helps absorb calcium and build strong bones. A vitamin D deficiency can result in osteoporosis or rickets. Recent research reveals that about one person in seven is deficient in vitamin D, indicating that we should spend more time in the sunshine.

How much exposure to the sun will give us enough vitamin D? Elderly people need to spend 30+ minutes twice a week, while younger people need less, perhaps only 10 to 20 minutes. Avoid wearing sunscreen as it blocks the absorption of vitamin D. Those with darker skin need more time in the sun to absorb the same amount of vitamin D as a lighter skinned person.

And sunlight has other benefits, too. It increases cell function, which, in turn, increases our body’s ability to purify itself. Sunlight stimulates the pineal gland to produce more of the powerful antioxidant melatonin. And best of all, sunshine is widely abundant and free of charge. Supreme Master Ching Hai often speaks about the benefits of spending time in the sunshine, as in the videoconference with Supreme Master Television staff in October 2010.

‘The sun has a lot of benefits: the sun cures many diseases. For example, in the old time, they did not have tuberculosis medicine yet, they would put the patient in a sunny room, or sunny area, and open a window, let the sun come in to cure the TB.

The sun cures your aches and pain, it eliminates toxins through sweat – when it’s hot, you sweat – and also it cures some of the diseases or other ailments. The sun gives also people happiness, carefree feeling. The sun is necessary for all on Earth’.

Please try some of the delicious, vegan superfoods we’ve covered today. We are sure you will love them all!  May all enjoy health, happiness and sunshine in a peaceful, vegan world.

For more information, please visit http://www.SupremeMasterTV.com

Understanding Meat-eating, Killing and Karma.

Excerpt from Master Ching Hai Lectures

Meat is the cause of all wars and suffering in this world, as well as in your personal self.  To refrain from meat is to contribute peace to this planet.  If we terminated the cause of killing, we will not reap the result of being killed or being wounded.

We respect all lives in the creative Plan of God.  We can see by ourselves that all lives resist suffering and resist death.  Therefore, when we kill or see animals being killed, they are suffering and they try to run away.  That means God empowered them with the instinct of wanting life.  If we interfere and force their lives away, we interfere with God’s will.  We should treat every being in the same way as we ourselves like to be treated.  Then our lives will be blessed with grace, with longevity and with wisdom. “As you sow, so shall you reap.”

Refraining oneself from killing also means not eating animal flesh because although we do not kill it ourselves, other have to kill so we can eat it.  This is indirect killing.  Whenever we eat meat, it is unavoidable that some of the hatred, anger and frustration in the animal’s heart caused when it departed, will be imprinted upon our consciousness, and then we will feel uneasy inside.  Therefore, when we sleep at night we have nightmares, when animals see us they are frightened of us and run away.  And when we are sick, it is difficult to heal ourselves because of all this hatred, this angry atmosphere which hangs around the meat that we eat.

For more information, please visit:  http://www.godsdirectcontact.org