Offerings from the Cloud Dawning Awareness- Master Hsin Tao’s journal collection from 2010 retreat

 The retreat commenced at 4 pm yesterday. It was already 7 pm by the time I finished a session of practice, yet, I still had 1,000-time of Great Compassion Mantra (Long Dharani) to complete. I came out of the room and began my recitation while watching the ocean. Finally, I finished at around 1 am.

Today was also the first day of the Grand Tsok Offering. Interestingly, the cloud formed into the shape of an offering tray with a tint of pink. Like a red lotus in the sky, it was an auspicious day. 

Recalling from the previous retreat, the cloud seemed to be making offerings every day with fascinating shows. Many students also captured some exceptional images. That’s also when I began to take pictures of the sky. 
 
In every retreat, I’d conduct a Grand Tsok Offering, a practice of accumulation. I recalled that the cloud was performing and dancing beautifully as an auspicious offering. I believe it was a manifestation of collective merit. Those who witnessed the dance found it very blissful and joyous. 
 
Another interesting incident of today: when I was taking a break under a tree while reciting the mantra, I saw an ant carrying a chunk of food on its back. This little fella seemed desperate for help and its friends were coming to the rescue from afar. I decided to give it a hand with a leaf. Unfortunately, I wasn’t too helpful… the ant lost its food, its friends were startled… unsure what we were busy about.