On November 25th, 2023, the Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto hosted the Eight Precepts Retreat, presided over by the Abbess, Venerable Chueh Fan. The retreat featured a Buddhist lecture titled "The Crossroads Life of Venerable Master Hsing Yun," aimed at learning from the wisdom of Venerable Master, how through his self-cultivation and fostering enduring connections with people, events, and places within a traditional environment. The lecture sought to inspire attendees to seamlessly integrate the Dharma into their daily lives. A total of 121 participants, including 4 youths from the Buddha's Light Club of the Universityof Toronto and 20 youths under 35 years old, received the Eight Precepts.

Commencing at 8 am, the retreat unfolded in silence and order throughout the day. The comprehensive program included briefings, the Eight Precepts Retreat Ceremony, a Dharma Lecture, Sutra transcription, chores, and evening chanting, offering a transformative experience for all participants.

A heartfelt tribute was paid to the late Venerable Master Hsing Yun, and participants pledged to embody theteachings of Humanistic Buddhism in their daily lives. During the Buddhist lecture, Venerable Chueh Fan explored the modern phenomenon of a diverse workforce, using Venerable Master Hsing Yun's book "Initiating a Crossroads Life" as a guide. She emphasized the importance of self-awareness and self-education, advocating for reliance on oneself, the Dharma, and nothing else. Venerable Chueh Fan also highlighted the integration of aspiration, experience, and the wisdom of emptiness. Encouraging the audienceto embody self-awareness and awareness of others, she urged them to adapt tothe times, incorporating precepts into their body, speech, and mind, while practicing the Six Paramitas and the Four Means of Embracing to create positive connections.

Youth participant Yifei Wang shared his realization of monastic life and Buddhist etiquette during the retreat. He learned the significance of self-monitoring in one's actions and behavior, aligning with the Abbess's emphasis on mindfulness. Youth leader Shannon Yang from the Buddha's Light Club of the University of Toronto found the Buddhist lecture on Venerable Master's self-cultivation enlightening, gaining valuable insights into the principles and practices that guide a purposeful and mindful life.

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