Page 45 - Popular Deities of Chinese Buddhism (Illustrated) and Symbols

being of others. Precepts are adhered to very strictly and only

vegetarian food will be eaten. On this day too loving-kindness is

practised in various manners as many people will set free birds

and animals as a symbolic act of liberation, of giving freedom

to those who are in captivity, while others choose to give alms

to the poor, make donations to temples and institutions or visit

the unfortunate ones who are at the Old Folks Homes, Orphan-

ages or similar Centres, bringing with them gifts of every kind.

Wesak brings to mind, the Great Compassion of the Buddha

which should move us to be more determined to lead noble lives,

to develop our minds, to practise loving-kindness and compas-

sion so as to bring peace and harmony to all mankind.

 