What is a monk's life like?

This afternoon, Master Jian Dan made a guest appearance at a class titled “Introduction to Buddhism” (RELS 14766) at University of Houston. The Master was invited by the instructor Ms. Ann Gleig to share his personal experience as a monk. Students were looking forward to seeing a real monk after studying about Buddhism this semester.

Master Jian Dan shared with everyone his aspiration of becoming a monk, his childhood stories that helped shape his journey into Buddhism, his several encounters with female pursuers as a monk, and how he lives in this modern world while trying to spread very traditional Buddhism concepts.

After sharing his experience, students had the chance to ask questions. Questions ranged from his family’s initial reaction when he became a monk, the meaning of different color robes, meditation techniques, what was his teacher like, to what he does to have a good time. Master Jian Dan answered each question with his usual sense of humor and sincerity.

Several quotes from the survey showcased students’ reaction to this talk. When asked “what was the most interesting thing you learned today?” students answered:

“that monks are in touch with modern reality. It showed me that this is not an ancient practice that I cannot relate to”
“That a monk doesn’t necessary have to meditate all day long everyday’
“Life in the monastery”
“The different meditation techniques used”
“About his life as a monk, his experience”
“I liked the story of how he became a monk, it shows that people join monastery for a variety of means.’
“I was fascinated to hear about the encounter with impermanence”
“the monks lifestyle and how their life is modernized but yet still use Buddhism principles”
“Just hearing about his personal experience in starting to become a monk”

Overall, students enjoyed this experience as they commented:

“Excellent, great acting skills and sense of humor”
“I liked it. It was very insightful to have a real monk speak on his experience”
“very enjoyable! And quite insightful”
“was amazed at his compassion”
“very interesting”
“fantastic. Thank you so much”

If you are ever on University of Houston campus, come to Association of Buddhist Students' Wednesday class and meet this humorous, compassionate monk who, as commented by one student, has “great acting skills.”