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May palms be joined in every world in
kindness, compassion, joy, and giving.
May
all beings find security in friendship, peace, and loving care.
May
calm and mindful practice seed patience and equanimity deep.
May
we give rise to spacious hearts and humble thoughts of gratitude
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Origin of Buddha's Birth Day
This
festival celebrates the birthday of Buddha who was born on the 8th
day of the fourth lunar month (May) in 600 BC. He was originally known
as Siddhartha, a crown prince of a kingdom located in Northern India.
What's
the Festival about?
Since
Buddha's Birth Day festival started in 1997 at Brisbane's South
Bank Parklands, its popularity has almost doubled every year.
In the seven years since it first began, the festival has grown
from an original audience of 5,000 to almost 200,000 in 2003.
The festival was developed in response to the organisers' interest in promoting peace and harmony, and countering racism issues. It was also an opportunity to provide community
access to Buddhist activities by "bringing the temple to
the people".
Festival's
success
The
festival mainly attracts parents or grandparents who bring their
children. They recognise and appreciate how the event promotes
good family values, and a healthy balance between body-mind-spirit.
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