Eat, drink, sleep Namo Amida Butsu!

Alicia J.T. Hanakahi

Happy New Year everyone! I hope all of you had a terrific and memorable holiday season. What a way to end the millennium! Buddhist organizations all over the state are receiving a ton of attention due to the growing exposure to Buddhism in the media and power bead mania. The effect of all this attention is very apparent in youth circles. It has got them pumped up and thinking about their religion. Take our two largest gatherings for example, Y.E.S.S. Camp and the Hawaii Federation of Jr. YBA State Convention, the themes were "Reflections" and "Live the Buddha Dharma . . . Meet the Challenge." These themes suggest deep evaluation of oneself, as well as an inspirational rededication to the Hongwanji. Theses theme, I feel, beckon youth to not only let Buddhism influence them but encourage them to apply it. We move into 2000 with a ton of anticipation and a wealth of new ideas for the year.

Remember to check out the Jr. Updates below:

If you have any comments or questions, please e-mail me!