On the evening of November 16, at the invitation of Venerable Chueh Fan, Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, Venerable YiKong, Elder Venerable of the Fo Guang Shan Monastery and Director of the FoGuang Shan Culture Council, engaged in an intimate and insightful dialogue withnearly 50 young participants from the Fo Guang Toronto Youth Academy and the Toronto Young Adult Division (YAD). The gathering encouraged a meaningfulexploration of the deep connection between Buddhism and youth, offering valuable perspectives on Buddhist practice, life choices, and personal growth.

Drawing on teachings from Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and eminent monastics, Venerable Yi Kong inspired the young audience to navigate modern challenges with Buddhist wisdom. She shared her transformative experience at the first-ever Fo Guang Shan Buddhist Youth Summer Camp, where the wisdom of Buddhism motivated her to dedicate her life to spreading the Dharma and serving others. Reflecting on this life-changing moment, she noted, “Buddhism is a youthful religion. The images of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas are often depicted without beards, symbolizing their eternal youth.”

Venerable Yi Kong highlighted the significant role youth play in ensuring the continuity of Buddhism, sharing stories of eminent monks who began their spiritual journeys at a young age. Among them was Venerable Master Hsing Yun, the founder of Fo Guang Shan, who entered monastic life at just 12 years old. “Buddhism needs youth, and youth need Buddhism,” she emphasized, underscoring the mutual enrichment between the two.

The participants actively engaged with questions onpractical topics, including balancing the pursuit of success with Buddhism’s teachings on reducing desires and making wise choices in friendships. Venerable Yi Kong offered thoughtful and relatable answers, encouraging introspection and deeper understanding.

When Nancy Huang asked about reconciling the “self” in daily life with Buddhism’s principle of “no-self,” Venerable Yi Kong responded with clarity: “The ‘no-self’ in Buddhism does not negate the self’s existence. Instead, it invites us to release our attachment to the self, allowing our hearts to open to a broader, more expansive perspective.”

Expounding on impermanence and selflessness, she further clarified, “Do not confuse ‘impermanence’ with nihilism. In life, we should ‘follow our aspirations’ while also ‘accepting conditions.’ Pursue your goals with courage and determination, but also calmly accept the outcomes shaped by circumstances. This balance between effort and acceptance embodiesboth wisdom and freedom.”

The youth expressed heartfelt gratitude for Venerable Yi Kong’s compassionate teachings, which bridged the gap between Buddhist principles and their daily lives. Many remarked on the clarity and strength they gained in resolving inner confusion, applying Buddhist wisdom to practical situations, and confronting external pressures.

This heart-to-heart dialogue left a lasting impression, equipping the participants with tools to approach life’s challenges with insight and resilience, while fostering a deeper connection to Buddhism and its timeless teachings.

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