Saturday, 17 January 2009. Considering the strong wind condition in Singapore for the past few weeks, the weather on that morning was all calm and pleasant. The Sun was shining brightly. It was as if Mother Nature had instructed every layer of Nature's elements to get ready to welcome extraordinary guests.
It was 9.30AM. The ferry that carried Her Holiness Grandmaster Yen, His Holiness Grandmaster Wang and their contingents touched down at Harbour Front's pier. Our Tao brothers and sisters who were stationed at both Harbour Front and Changi Airport was set abuzzed. The excitement and eagerness was clearly reflected on everyone's face. We were like those children longing for the homecoming of their beloved Parents.
The sight of Her and His Holiness sparked joy and elation to those who were waiting outside the immigration clearance gate. From Harbour Front, the contingent headed towards the Airport. Her Holiness, His Holiness and their contingents spent their luncheon session at Changi Airport. It was an honour indeed to have the opportunity to serve them, or just simply to be in their presence. Tao brothers and sisters from different Holy Houses came pouring in, be it to say their greetings or even just to catch a glimpse of Her and His Holiness. There are those who come from as far as Malaysia.During the session, His Holiness took a bit of time out to talk to the youths. His Holiness reiterated that youths have always been and will always be playing an important part in the propagation of Tao and realizing the mission of Buddha Maitreya. It is time for Singapore youths to rise and answer the call. The responsibility of Tao development in Singapore is on our shoulders. Important tasks are waiting for us.
A few of us had a rare opportunity to take photographs with Her Holiness and His Holiness. We are the lucky ones indeed! Those pictures and memories will stay with us forever. Every time we see both Her and His Holiness, we cannot help but feel profoundly remorseful and consciencely guilty. A feeling so strong that it sweeps away all hatreds, jealousy, arrogance and selfishness that reside within our hearts. A feeling so strong that it overwhelms our deprived souls with a renewed sense of optimism, humility, warmth, happiness and joy.
Such is the immense energy that one radiates when one lives out the true Beauty of Mankind.
When the time came for Her and His Holiness to say goodbye, everyone bid farewell with a heavy-heart. The brief encounter has made everyone feeling refreshed and strengthened. Together, we will fulfill the responsibility that is entrusted upon us and make the World a brighter place.