reposted from Asia Pacific Report 31.1 (2007): 2.
The community and campus are still buzzing about a recent visit from world-renowned monk, author, photographer and biochemist, Dr. Matthieu Ricard. He visited Vancouver and UBC between March 9th and 11th to present a series of lectures as part of the Buddhism and Contemporary Society Program funded by the Tung Lin Kok Yuen Canada Foundation.
Dr. Ricard gave four free lectures over the course of his visit, speaking on topics from his most recent book, Happiness: A Guide to Life’s Most Important Skill. Crowds were so large at all four events that many were sadly turned away, including over 100 disappointed hopefuls for the Friday noon lecture titled “Training the Mind: Science and Spirituality” at the UBC Norm Theatre in the Student Union Building. Dr. Tim Cheek, Acting Director of UBC’s Institute of Asian Research, was on hand to introduce Dr. Ricard for the Friday lecture.
On Saturday, Dr. Ricard continued his lecture series with an event at the Ridge Theatre. Those who were lucky enough to score a seat (on the floor and down the walls in some cases) were treated to a fascinating lecture titled “Change Yourself; Change the World”. Dr. Tsering Shakya, the IAR’s CRC Chair in Religion and Contemporary Society in Asia, was on hand to present the French-born monk with a ceremonial scarf called khatak, as per traditional Tibetan Buddhist custom. Dr. Ricard spoke on creating a more compassionate society through change at the individual level, and responded to many questions from the audience.
The next day, Dr. Ricard spoke in the morning at the Tung Lin Kok Yuen Canada Society temple with a lecture titled “Contemplative Life and Active Life”. He ended his visit at the UBC Robson Square Theatre with a lecture titled “Cultivating the Inner Conditions for Authentic Happiness”. The lecture concluded with Dr. Ricard leading a group meditation.
Dr. Ricard, who spoke eloquently on his work, which combines Buddhist knowledge and spirituality with scientific research on brain plasticity and mind training, attracted a total of nearly 2000 people at the four lectures. All in all, the visit was a great success and a great opportunity to raise the Institute of Asian Research and its Buddhism and Contemporary Society Program’s profile in the community. Special thanks go to the Dr. Matthieu Ricard lectures organizing committee and all the volunteers for their significant contributions.
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