During the ten days of the recent grand celebration, I was blessed with the opportunity to meet and pay homage to the Most Venerable Elder, whom I had previously spoken with via Zoom regarding the Dhammacetiya Stupa project.

To me, he is the embodiment of loving-kindness and humility. Serene yet profound, he observed all things in quiet contemplation. He was present at every program throughout the celebration, without missing a single session.

At the Lao Pavilion where the Pāḷi Tipiṭaka was recited —whether under the sun or in the rain—he was always the first to arrive, especially for the daily Dhamma talks. He would come ten to fifteen minutes before the Dhamma preacher was formally invited. That first seat on the left consistently bore his calm presence, even when the Dhamma preacher was a young monk, still a junior in monastic age.

He would silently and attentively listen to the entire discourse, and at its conclusion, offer a gentle smile before quietly retiring to monastic quarters. Day after day, throughout the festival, he walked alongside the assembly, through rain and sunshine, through each solemn and sacred moment.

Only after the grand celebration ended did I have a chance to converse more with him. He inquired in detail—about the costs of the large and small tents, the expense of 24,000 candles, the total budget of the event, and the current progress of the Dhammacetiya Stupa project, etc.

After I presented the details, he expressed his joy, offered praise, and gave encouragement. He said:

“The chanting of the Pāḷi Tipiṭaka is deeply meaningful and deserves to be held annually. I and the Lao Sangha will support it.”

My heart overflowed with indescribable joy. In that moment, I knew with certainty that my path was silently upheld and supported by the Elders.

He then added:

“The Lao Sangha abroad will make an offering of a small stupa for the Dhammacetiya project. Once that is complete, I will continue to call for further contributions.”
Upon hearing this, I was deeply moved and profoundly grateful for the favorable condition of having encountered and been close to such a noble Teacher.

Then came the moment of parting. The Venerable left Hương Đạo Buddhist Temple and returned to his monastic residence with a promise to reunite next year.

With utmost reverence, I bow in gratitude to the Venerable Elder.

Disciple,
Bhikkhu Paññakāra Tuệ Nhân

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