A Report on the 7th Annual DRBY Conference
by Steven Lin
The conference workshops were divided into two tracks designed for novice and advanced participants. In the exploratory track, the topics focused on introducing Buddhist morality and precepts, understanding these concepts in the context of other ethical systems, and the application of ethics in daily life, such as dealing with ambition and stress or the reasons for maintaining a vegetarian diet. “I really like the focus on relying on your own wisdom and experimenting with what I have learned,” observed one conference participant. “I thought the precepts were going to be burdensome rules, but they are actually helping [us gain] freedom.” In the advanced track, participants explored and discussed the purposes and nuances of each of the Five Precepts—refraining from killing, stealing, sexual misconduct, lying, and taking intoxicants. In addition, a panel of DRBY peers discussed how Buddhist ethics has affected and transformed their lives.
In either track, participants received a clear understanding of how precepts and ethics could foster their spiritual development. One conference participant commented, “To paraphrase Rev. Heng Sure’s opening lecture: when you become the best possible person, Buddhahood accomplishes itself. Love it!”
The DRBY Spring Conference, one of the most anticipated events of the year, is held every March. The conference is designed for college students and young professionals of all levels of Buddhist practice, from beginners looking to learn more about Buddhism to more experienced practitioners looking to deepen their practice, while giving participants a taste of monastic life. Those interested in learning more about Buddhism or DRBY are encouraged to participate in next year’s spring conference.
