I still remember that the day before the event it rained almost all day, which made me a bit anxious. I hoped that we would be blessed with a sunny day on 19/10. Sure enough, Saturday morning was a bright sunny day. A total of 17 lay sangha members, along with Ven. Zhen Ru, participated in this half-day trip. We set off from Than Hsiang Temple with five members driven by Brother Teong Hock Lye. Sister Gaik Yen drove three members from the Sungai Ara area, while Sister Swee Tin and Siew Hong shared transport. Brother Ming Tik drove himself since he needed to attend a meeting after the event. Brother Cheng Why drove Ven. Zhen Ru and three members from the Bukit Mertajam area. We all headed towards Taman Negeri Bukit Panchor in mainland Penang, basking in the beautiful morning sun.

At 8:15 AM, everyone arrived at the destination. Most members were introduced to this national park in Penang for the first time through this activity. Surrounded by many flowers and trees, especially the towering trees, the park offered fresh air. The environment was exceptionally beautiful, tranquil, and comfortable, with small bridges and flowing water—perfect for taking photos. Special thanks to our two photographer members, Sister Liang Nee and Brother Ming Tik, who uploaded many photos and videos of the event in the Lay Sangha Member group chat.

Ven. Zhen Ru, who was most familiar with the park, introduced the surroundings to everyone and led us to do some fitness exercises by the pond. It was a rare opportunity to be in a natural oxygen bar! He introduced a set of exercises created by Ven. Zhen Hua called "Ten Directions Fist," which includes four sets of movements: punching in ten directions, turning the Dharma wheel, waist exercises, and movement of hands and feet. We are grateful for the introduction, and Zhenru Shifu informed us that we could find videos to practice at home. Everyone enjoyed learning the exercises and broke a good sweat. After a short rest, we prepared for the next activity.

Usually, every gathering of the Lay Sangha will include activity that will benefit members from the Dharma. For this gathering, we have Dharma sharing by Ven. Zhen Ru. We sat on the ground in a larger covered pavilion in the park, listening to Ven. Zhen Ru’s sharings. First, he introduced to us Zen meditation lectures by teacher Godwin Samararatne. For those interested in meditation, he encouraged us to find these translated materials in Chinese to read. Then, Ven. Zhen Ru shared insights on the "Amitabha Recitation Method," discussing how to recite the Buddha's name to achieve connection with the Buddha and reach our goals.

After the talk, before leaving the forest park, Zhen Ru Shifu led everyone along the jungle tracks to admire more trees and the beauty of nature. Interestingly, there was a “friend” in the park—a dog we named Xiao Huang—who joyfully followed us, exercising, taking photos, and listening to Master’s teachings, leading the way along the mountain paths until we left.

Time flew by, and it was soon lunch time. We had made reservations at the Yuan En Nibong Tebal vegetarian restaurant. We thanked Brother Goh Ah Ba for sponsoring two tables of lunch. After enjoying a delicious meal, Ven. Zhen Ru invited the members to visit the Jawi Xiang Yun Jing Yuan.

This morning when I woke up, it was raining heavily outside. I instantly felt an immense sense of gratitude in my heart. Truly, the Buddhas and Bodhisattvas have blessed us with sunny weather, allowing us to perfectly complete our half-day trip. Amitabha!"

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