November 18th, 2024
This year, the Thanksgiving celebration was held at the main headquarters of the Compassionate Service Society in Anaheim, California. About a week before the event, a small group of members gathered to plan for the day. The spirit of Thanksgiving is to bring warmth and express gratitude, so the organizing team wanted to create a fun, cozy and connected atmosphere that would allow attendees to feel appreciated. Although it was a small ceremony, the team meticulously prepared for aspects such as parking, seating, decoration, food, and entertainment.
Despite their busy schedules, over 80 members gathered on the morning of November 28, 2024, to attend the celebration. Thầy gave a few opening words for the gathering, and then Diana led the group outside for some simple, fun games under the warm sun and cool, pleasant autumn air of Southern California.
Afterward, we gathered in the worship room, where Thầy expressed his appreciation for those who had been with CSS for many years, such as the iTC group (Health and Wellness Exercise), Khai Tâm Radio, Khai Tâm TV, and the recently established groups.
Integral Tai Chi or "Càn Khôn Thập Linh" is a comprehensive exercise regimen based on ancient practices designed to nurture and heal the body, mind, and spirit for all ages—not just for the elderly. Practicing this routine leads to greater focus, increased energy, and a healthier, happier life through its 10 movements, which combine profound philosophy and breathwork, helping the body become strong, the energy flow abundantly, and the spirit be more open and positive.
Master Hằng Trường is the creator of this practice and has taught many groups around the world since the 2000s.
Mr. Vũ Duy Hiển, who has passed away, was the eldest brother and one of the key pillars in forming the Càn Khôn Thập Linh group. At its peak, iTC group had around 600 trainers who taught free classes to communities worldwide.
The Càn Khôn Thập Linh instructors have always had the intention to help people become healthy, live happy lives, and prepare for spiritual growth. They worked tirelessly and have continued this volunteer work since receiving their certifications.
From the speeches of several instructors present at the meeting, we could feel their deep sincerity. Everyone remembered Mr. Vũ Duy Hiển, a man of vast knowledge and a cheerful, harmonious personality. He, along with Ms. Anh Trâm, helped the teacher with the Khai Tâm TV program from its inception.
The Teacher (Thầy) also mentioned the Khai Tâm Radio group. A few months ago, Thầy, along with several members, visited Mr. Sâm, one of the pillars of the Khai Tâm Radio program. Mr. Sâm had been diagnosed with dementia, yet he was overjoyed and moved to see the Teacher and other members of CSS, and his mind remained sharp and clear during the visit.
Back in Vietnam, Mr. Sâm was a teacher, and he is still beloved by his former students who express their respect and admiration for him. During our visit, Mrs. Lịch (Mr. Sâm’s wife) shared for the first time with us that, when Mr. Sâm worked as an engineer for Boeing, he was so devoted to the Khai Tâm Radio program that he often stayed up late making CDs to distribute, which led to him falling asleep at his desk at work and losing his job. The sacrifices and contributions he made for CSS came at a high price. When Mrs. Lịch shared this story, I looked at Mr. Sâm, knowing he understood everything, yet he maintained a serene expression on his face, which greatly impressed me.
Mr. Sâm and Mr. Võ Văn Tùng had begun learning to edit, copy, and transfer Khai Tâm Radio programs to CD at a quite advance age. Both of them had been dedicated to the program for many years, always enthusiastic, happy, proud, and never complain.
Behind these dedicated men, their wives (Ms. Sương, Mrs. Lịch, Ms. Tâm Thường) have always been by their side, supporting their husband and contributing to CSS's mission. These dedicated individuals truly inspire admiration and gratitude.
Members also took the opportunity to express their thanks to the Teacher (Thầy), sharing the changes they have experienced in their lives and their behavior, the positive impacts on their families thanks to Thầy’s guidance and his teachings over the years. They all expressed with deep emotions and sincerity. It was touching and at the same time heart warming.
We felt that this year's Thanksgiving celebration was warm and heartfelt. After the lunch, we briefly discussed plans for an upcoming gathering on December 22 to celebrate the Christmas season together.
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