As the crisp air of December fills our sur- roundings, it’s a reminder that another year is drawing to a close. This month, often marked by festivities and the spirit of giv- ing, prompts us to reflect on the nature of the gifts we share and receive. Our Vietnamese American Buddhist community profoundly un- derstands that the most cherished gifts often transcend the material.
Buddhist teachings illuminate the path to understanding the impermanence of life and the significance of living in the pres- ent. December, a time of joy and celebration. offers a perfect backdrop to practice and em- brace these teachings. As we understand it. The true essence of giving is not found in tan-gible objects but in the intangible yet deep- ly impactful gift of presence. In the Buddhist context, presence is much more than being physically available. It embodies the art of wholeheartedly engaging in the moment, of-fering our full attention and awareness to our surroundings and those we interact with. It’s about experiencing life as it unfolds, without the filters of past regrets or future anxieties.
Let’s encourage ourselves and our com- munity to practice mindfulness daily this holiday season. Mindfulness, a key element in Buddhist practice, teaches us to be fully aware of the present moment in a non-judgmental and accepting manner. It’s about appreciating the warmth of a family gathering, the kindness in a friend’s smile, the tranquility of a winter night.
In a world where material gifts often dom-inate holiday exchanges, let’s remind our- selves and our loved ones of the profound joy of the gift of presence. This can manifest in various ways engaging in meaningful conver- sations, sharing a silent moment of reflection, or simply enjoying the company of others without the distraction of digital devices.
The act of being present also extends to how we treat ourselves. In the hustle of holiday preparations and end-of-year commitments, finding moments of stillness and self-care is essential. Whether through meditation, a quiet walk, or reading a book, nurturing our well-being allows us to be more present for others.
Οur presence is a gift that keeps giving. It fosters deeper connections, nurtures empathy, and builds a foundation of mu-tual respect and understanding. As we gather to celebrate this festive season, let’s cultivate a mindful presence that enriches our lives and those around us. In embracing the true spirit of December’s gifts, we find joy not in the abun- dance of what we have but in the richness of what we share – moments of togetherness, ex- pressions of love, and the peacefulness of be- ing truly present. This December, let’s commit to giving and receiving this most precious gift the gift of our presence.
(An Tri)
