Yesterday, when the sea of clouds swept over the mountains of Madagascar, the morning bell of Xizu Temple had just begun to ring. On this land thousands of miles away from the motherland, a special film screening was quietly taking place. Abbot Shi Wule led all the monks and devotees in lighting heart-lamps before the Buddha, as they watched the patriotic film The Volunteers together. A red legacy transmitted across vast oceans.
This was not the first time Xizu Temple had organized such a film screening. Over the years, at every significant historical juncture, the temple has arranged viewings of patriotic films—from The Photographer of Nanjing to The Volunteers. This tradition runs like a red thread through the cultural fabric of the temple.
“Though residing overseas, our hearts remain tied to China.”
Abbot Shi Wule often says, “Patriotism is the duty of every Chinese, and we must always remember to serve our homeland.” The abbot’s profound intention: learning from history to face the future.
“Only by remembering history can we journey further into the future.” After the screening, Abbot Shi Wule shared his insights: “Watching these films is not to dwell on the past, but to draw spiritual nourishment from history.”
The abbot’s thoughtful efforts are reflected on multiple levels:
Cultivating patriotic sentiment: In the multicultural context of Madagascar, holding fast to a Chinese heart is especially precious.
Practicing Humanistic Buddhism: Integrating spiritual practice with social responsibility and national sentiment.
Promoting China-Madagascar friendship: Using Buddhism as a bridge to convey the Chinese people’s ideals of peace.
From viewing to practice: The contemporary application of patriotic spirit.
A loyal heart remains undimmed, regardless of distance or separation.
As the sun set, the monks and devotees slowly walked out of the hall after the screening.
Geographical distance cannot sever the bonds of blood; the passage of time cannot alter the初心 of a loyal heart. On this land, we spread the teachings of Buddhism, as well as the friendship and peaceful ideals of the Chinese people. This, in itself, is an extension of patriotic action.
A gentle breeze rustled the wind chimes under the eaves of Xizu Temple, their clear tones echoing like longing across the oceans. Here, patriotism is no longer an abstract concept but is woven into every prayer chanted between morning bells and evening drums, and into every act of sharing the Dharma for the benefit of all.
Because we understand the path we have traveled, we recognize the way home; because we remember history, we cherish the present. The bells of Xizu Temple will continue to resonate across this African land, telling stories of faith, heritage, and an enduring Chinese heart that never fades.
