A Day on the Journey

Last night, the monks rested in an open field, sleeping under the vast sky. The strong wind made spending the night outdoors a true test of endurance. Giáp sent back an image of the master sitting in the middle of the empty field, still and serene like a statue.

Early this morning, Minh Thiện, who claimed to be the adopted son of the master’s parents, arrived and asked to join the journey. At 3 a.m., he approached the monks, but Báu firmly refused. Upon further inquiry, I learned that Minh Thiện was not truly a monk and did not adhere to the precepts as he claimed.

Today, a large number of devotees came to offer alms. Notably, more and more international Buddhist followers are becoming aware of the master and seeking him out with deep reverence.

At noon, the monks took a short rest under the shade of a large rain tree, its canopy providing a cool and peaceful refuge.

Around midday, a man named Trương Minh Quân arrived, wearing a yellow ribbon with three red stripes—a symbol of the former Republic of Vietnam. He initiated a conversation with Báu, and their discussion was open and respectful, touching on both politics and Buddhism. Quân holds political views in favor of the old regime but is also deeply interested in Buddhist scriptures. He wished to meet the master and ask a few questions. Báu agreed, but under one condition—Quân had to remove the ribbon, as the master does not wish to be associated with any political elements.

Quân was then granted an audience with the master, who graciously answered all his questions, helping him gain a deeper understanding of Buddhist teachings.

As the final hours of the year unfolded, the monks walked through a breathtaking sunset. The beauty of the pre-Tết days evoked a deep sense of nostalgia for those of us far from home. Each day, following in the footsteps of the master brings me great peace. I find myself viewing everything with a lighter heart. How fortunate I am to have been born in this time, and even more so to hear the master’s words.

Another heartwarming moment today—Linh, a Vietnamese Buddhist, prepared a Thai noodle meal for the YouTube team following the monks. Her kindness touched everyone deeply. I offer my sincere gratitude for her generosity.

Before concluding this day, I want to record one of the master's teachings from his conversation with Quân. When asked how one can let go of attachments, the master simply said:

"To let go, one must first have unwavering faith."

Perhaps I am beginning to understand—walking this path requires absolute faith in the Dharma. Like Báu, Giáp, Hà, and all those who accompany the journey, only with steadfast faith can they continue this meaningful pilgrimage.