Austin Fo Guang Youth Broaden Global Perspectives Through Overseas Study and Practice the Three Acts of Goodness

By Life News Agency Reporter Zhi Ding, Austin

On October 24, Fo Guang Shan Xiang Yun Temple in Austin invited more than a dozen members of the Buddha's Light International Association (BLIA) Youth Group to a special sharing session held during its English-language program. Claire Qu recounted a summer of overseas learning that took her to Fo Guang Shan's Osaka Temple in Japan, an international Fo Guang youth gathering, and a two-week English exchange program at Pu-Men High School in Taiwan. Together, these cross-cultural experiences widened her global perspective and taught her the value of inclusiveness, mutual respect, self-discovery, and personal growth.

Claire reflected that meeting young people from diverse cultural backgrounds and forming new friendships pushed her to step outside her comfort zone. She now approaches unfamiliar people and situations with greater openness and appreciation. She also came away with a deeper understanding of how Buddhist faith brings people together and fosters meaningful connections.

At the session, Venerable Jue Ji presented an award to Olivia Qu, who earned an Honorable Mention in the children's division of the Three Acts of Goodness Art Competition. The recognition encouraged young people to take an active part in temple activities and to cultivate positive character. Fo Guang youth member Alex Tran, meanwhile, continues to embody the spirit of service, volunteering every Saturday to help students prepare for the BLIA Buddhism Exam.

Through youth exchanges and Buddhism education, Xiang Yun Temple hopes to inspire young people to broaden their horizons, develop wisdom, and carry the Three Acts of Goodness - Do Good Deeds, Speak Good Words, Think Good Thoughts - into daily life. By engaging in service and meaningful cultural exchange, the temple encourages youth to cultivate kindness, build positive relationships, and form wholesome connections with others.