On July 6, the Mississauga Subchapter 4 of the BLIA Toronto Chapter hosted a Dharma lecture at the Conference Room of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto. Themed “The Buddha’s Light Four-Line Verse – A Legacy of Buddhist Education,” the lecture featured BLIA Lay Dharma Lecturer Ms. Winnie Kwong and drew 61 participants, including Subchapter President Ms. Lisa Luong, committees, and members.

The event began with opening remarks from Venerable Ru Zhong, the subchapter’s Monastic Advisor, who encouraged attendees to study the verse with sincerity and to integrate its wisdom into daily life through the practice of Humanistic Buddhism.

Lecturer Kwong opened her talk with the first line of the verse: “May kindness,compassion, joy, and equanimity pervade all worlds.” Drawing on the Buddhist teaching of the Four Immeasurables, she emphasized that true compassion not only uplifts others but also brings inner joy. She encouraged participants to emulate the spirit of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva through kind words, helpful actions, and the sharing of goodwill.

The second line, “May we cherish and build affinities to benefit all beings,” highlighted the importance of treasuring one’s blessings and actively cultivating positive relationships. Kwong pointed out that simple acts—like offering a smile or greeting—are meaningful ways to practice generosity and connection in everyday life.

In addressing the third line, “May Chan, Pure Land, and Precepts inspire equality and patience,” Kwong referenced teachings from Venerable Master Hsing Yun, founder of Fo Guang Shan, to emphasize the importance of integrating meditation and precepts into practice. She noted that the principle of equality is central to Buddhism and encouraged cultivating patience and understanding inthe face of life’s challenges.

Finally, on the line “May our humility and gratitude give rise to great vows,” Kwong urged attendees to regularly self-reflect, foster gratitude, and develop a heartfelt vow to live out the ideals of Humanistic Buddhism for the benefit of all.

The lecture was warmly received, leaving participants inspired and with a deeper understanding of how to live the Four-Line Verse as a guide for spiritual and everyday life.