On October 5, Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto hosted a public lecture entitled “Finding Joy: Scientific and Buddhist Perspectives,” delivered by physician,humanitarian, and author Dr. Jon Kolkin. More than 100 participants attended the event, which explored how scientific understanding and Buddhist wisdom intersect to foster inner peace.

Dr. Kolkin spoke on themes including “Everyday Ch’an,” the “Seven Steps to Happiness,” and the medical impacts of stress on physical and mental health. In her welcoming remarks, Venerable Chueh Fan, Abbess of Fo Guang Shan Temple of Toronto, highlighted that Dr. Kolkin’s science-based strategies for cultivating balance, compassion, and well-being closely align with Buddhist principles such as the Noble Eightfold Path and reflect the Humanistic Buddhism advocated by Venerable Master Hsing Yun, founder of Fo Guang Shan.

With more than 30 years of medical experience, two decades of international volunteer service across 29 countries, and a long commitment to Buddhist practice, Dr. Kolkin emphasized that compassion and meaningful relationships form the foundation of true happiness. He encouraged the audience to apply mindfulness in daily activities, manage digital consumption, establish healthy personal boundaries, and create renewal through volunteerism or creative pursuits. His photography exhibition, “Seven Steps to Happiness,” was presented as a visual extension of these teachings.

During the question-and-answer session, Dr. Kolkin clarified the distinction between compassion and sympathy, cautioning that compassion without wisdom may result in emotional strain. He further underscored the value of visual communication as a powerful medium to connect across languages and cultures.

Distinguished guests in attendance included Professor Nicholas Terpstra, Provost and Vice-Chancellor of Trinity College, University of Toronto; The Rev. Dr. Christopher C. Brittain, Dean of Divinity, Trinity College; Professor Jizhang Yi; Dr. Henry Shiu of Emmanuel College, University of Toronto; and Sam Cooper, representative of Meadowvale Community Church.

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