Monthly Archives: July 2024

Ancestors and Zen: Words from A Black Buddhist

Posted on by
Reply

Africa and Asia both share a rich history of indigenous practices that are deeply rooted in the reverence for nature, life, culture, and one’s own ancestors. These traditions have always emphasized respect for one’s lineage and the offering of food and prayers to those who have transcended this world. Unfortunately, both African and Asian indigenous faiths have often been misunderstood and labeled as pagan, satanic, or evil by outsiders who view them as foreign. Despite this, these ancient practices have been pillars of strength for communities, providing healing, nourishment, and hope to those in need. In the journey of self-discovery as BIPOC individuals, recognizing these shared traditions can be a profound way to connect, heal, and embrace our cultural heritage. As someone who has studied Mahayana Buddhism, a branch from East Asia, I’ve found a deep connection to these principles through my visits to temples, teachings, and extensive readings. The grace and peace of the monasteries have touched me deeply, resonating with my own cultural roots.

Many people may not realize it, but the act of giving offerings is a powerful form of medicine that helps heal the traumas of war, slavery, and oppression. It allows us to be present with ourselves and our ancestors, offering a space to grieve and celebrate their lives. When we give offerings, we not only honor our ancestors but also pray for all victims of injustice. As a Black man, this practice resonates with me profoundly. Every time I give offerings, I think of my ancestors, envision them, and surround them with love and light. In doing so, I mend a part of my heart that has been broken. Buddhism, which has gained significant popularity in the West, is known for its peace and non-violence teachings. Figures like Thich Nhat Hanh and the Dalai Lama have introduced many to these life-saving teachings. Even the iconic Tina Turner found solace in Buddhism during her darkest moments, embracing the Buddha’s teachings as a gem. Buddhism encourages acceptance of cultural differences and provides mindfulness and compassionate approaches to solving complex issues, offering a path that aligns with indigenous practices of honoring one’s roots and embracing love.

Despite making up just 3% of the American Buddhist community, according to the Pew Research Center’s Forum on Religion and Public Life, Black Buddhists are finding a meaningful connection with Buddhism. It is my hope that in the future, more Black seekers will explore meditation, engage with the Buddha’s sutras, and build a community founded on peace and love. The teachings of Buddhism not only align with the values of our ancestors but also offer a spiritual path that encourages unity and understanding across different cultures. As more individuals from diverse backgrounds discover the beauty of these teachings, there is potential for a harmonious blending of traditions that honors our shared history while providing community and healing in our multicultural world.

一切唯心造 – Everything is created by the mind.

Bao Jieao (Jarrelle)

Celebrating Diversity – a personal bi(multi)cultural story

Posted on by
Reply

I grew up surrounded by a mosaic of cultures and beliefs, rooted in a Southern Black Baptist and Muslim family. My family’s cultural and religious diversity laid a rich foundation for my own journey, though I stand apart as the only Buddhist among them. As the son of a Muslim father and Christian mother, I began my spiritual journey early, eventually becoming a deacon in the Christian church before finding my calling as a Buddhist monk. I’ve always been a seeker of “Truth,” or perhaps a more fitting term would be “More”—more understanding, more depth, more connection. From a young age, I felt that there was something greater to life than what could be captured in words or confined to a single path. When I discovered Buddhism at 16, it was a turning point that forever changed my perspective and direction in life.

Photo: Jarrelle Barton

At the time of my discovery, I was grappling with a diagnosis of Marfan Syndrome, a rare genetic condition that left me feeling vulnerable and self-conscious. The stares and whispers about my tall, slender frame often made me want to disappear, to hide from a world that seemed to focus more on my appearance than my essence. During these challenging times, my godmother, a wise and kind woman from Beijing, introduced me to Buddhism. She taught me about compassion, inner stillness, and tranquility, offering me a new way to see myself and the world around me. Her guidance provided a sense of belonging and peace that I had been searching for, a healthy escape where I could find solace amid the storms of life. Even as I spent many days in hospitals, which the doctors joked had become my second home, Buddhism became a sanctuary where I could retreat and renew my soul.

Through this lens of compassion and acceptance, I began to celebrate diversity in all its forms. My great-grandmother’s tales of her parents’ journey from slavery, my own experiences as a Black kid exploring Zen, and the friendships I’ve formed within the AAPI communities have all shaped the way I see the world. These diverse experiences have taught me that celebrating diversity is about living authentically—embracing your heart, dreams, and true self while encouraging others to do the same. As a person of color, I believe in the power of unity and shared experiences, and I hope that by coming together on our common grounds, we can build a stronger, more inclusive future for generations to come.

Bao Jieao ( Jarrelle )

Healthy Eating

Posted on by
Reply

Cultural foods, or traditional dishes, are a delicious representation of the traditions, beliefs, and practices of different regions, ethnic groups, and religions around the world. These dishes often reflect a community’s culture and can include unique ways of preparing and using specific ingredients. Passed down through generations, cultural foods are central to our identities and family connections. They also play a big role in religious celebrations and bring people together. Take Asian traditional dishes like sushi, dumplings, and curry, for example; they highlight the rich flavors and diverse customs that show just how important food is to culture.

In the U.S., people often follow the USDA guidelines to eat healthily, which recommend eating a variety of fruits and veggies. While they do mention some cultural foods like bok choy, taro leaves, mung beans, and lotus root, there’s still a lot of room to explore the diverse selection of healthy foods from different cultures. Food is a big part of culture, and it plays an important role in all communities. By incorporating traditional cultural foods into our diets, we not only enjoy a wider range of flavors but also gain the health benefits that come with eating a variety of nutritious foods. Eating this way can help keep everyone healthy and connected to their cultural roots.


Incorporating a variety of cultural foods into our diets not only adds exciting flavors but also provides a wealth of health benefits. While Western health websites often spotlight foods like kale and quinoa, traditional foods such as Gailan, water spinach, rice, and soybeans offer similar nutritional value. Embracing these diverse, nutritious options highlights the importance of food in cultural identity and community well-being. By expanding our healthy eating guidelines to include more traditional cultural foods, we can promote better health for everyone and celebrate the rich culinary heritage that different cultures bring to the table.

Reference:https://www.dietaryguidelines.gov/sites/default/files/2021-11/DGA_2020-2025_CustomizingTheDietaryGuidelinesFramework.pdf

Artist Teo Nguyen’s

Posted on by
Reply

Born to a glass painter and a poet, Teo Nguyen is a remarkable Vietnamese-American artist living in Minnesota. Teo is creating breathtaking new art that captures the beauty of real-life scenes, nature, solitude, struggle, and identity. His work showcases a deep connection to both his heritage and his surroundings, revealing layers of meaning and emotion in each piece.

Teo Nguyen’s artistry is a testament to his unique perspective as both an immigrant and an artist. He says, “As an immigrant and an artist, I have learned to embrace the American spirit of freedom that says if you see a road that interests you, go ahead: venture down it. Even so, I am always a stranger to what I see; always slightly outside, finding in what is ordinary to others something tender and strange.”

Nguyen finds much of his inspiration by immersing himself in nature. He begins his creative process by sketching outdoors, capturing the essence of his creations before transforming them into larger-scale works in his studio. His photorealistic pieces are so meticulously crafted that, at first glance, they could be mistaken for photographs. The balance of light and space in Nguyen’s work is masterful, creating stunning scenes that leave viewers in awe.

Teo Nguyen’s art not only reflects the physical beauty of the world but also invites us to see the extraordinary in the ordinary. Through his eyes, familiar landscapes become tender and strange, offering a new perspective on identity and existence.

Photo:Teo Nguyen

Photo:Teo Nguyen

Photo:Teo Nguyen

Reference:https://www.teonguyen.com/studiob#/galleryt3/

https://new.artsmia.org/exhibition/teo-nguyen-viet-nam-peace-project

Healthy Eating Tips

Posted on by
Reply

Maintaining a balanced diet is essential for overall health and well-being, as it ensures the body receives the necessary nutrients and vitamins to function optimally. Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats provides a wide range of essential nutrients that support bodily functions, boost immunity, and promote energy levels. Vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin D, calcium, and iron, play crucial roles in processes like bone health, oxygen transport, and immune response. Adequate hydration is also important, as water aids in digestion, nutrient absorption, and temperature regulation. Prioritizing whole, minimally processed foods and maintaining a balanced intake of macronutrients and micronutrients can help prevent chronic diseases and support long-term health.

A balanced diet emphasizing the consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy, and protein is crucial for maintaining optimal health. Including a variety of fruits and vegetables ensures a rich intake of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Whole grains provide fiber and energy, while dairy products like low-fat or fat-free milk, lactose-free milk, and fortified soy beverages offer vital nutrients such as calcium and vitamin D, which are not adequately found in other plant-based beverages. Protein sources, including seafood, lean meats, poultry, eggs, legumes, soy products, nuts, and seeds, supply essential amino acids needed for muscle repair, immune function, and overall growth. By incorporating these food groups into daily meals, individuals can achieve a nutritionally balanced diet that supports overall health and wellness.

Incorporating a diverse array of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, dairy, and protein into your diet is essential for achieving optimal health and well-being. By choosing nutrient-dense options like low-fat dairy or fortified soy beverages and prioritizing high-quality protein sources, you ensure your body receives the vitamins, minerals, and amino acids it needs to function effectively. Embracing these dietary principles supports strong immunity, energy levels, and overall vitality, paving the way for a healthier, more balanced life.

Advocate for the Federal Food Service Guideline and Wellness Policy through sharing nutritional information and encouraging healthy dietary choices.

Reference: https://www.cdc.gov/nutrition/features/healthy-eating-tips.html

St. Paul’s own, Kid $wami

Posted on by
Reply

Kid $wami, an Asian American rap artist, has risen to prominence as a contemporary hip hop sensation in St. Paul, Minnesota. Known for his unique blend of cultural influences and innovative beats, he has carved out a distinct niche in the music scene. Kid $wami’s journey from local talent to celebrated artist has been marked by his ability to connect deeply with a diverse and devoted fan base. His groundbreaking music, characterized by insightful lyrics and dynamic rhythms, is not only breaking new ground but also challenging the norms of the hip hop genre. With each release, Kid $wami continues to redefine what it means to be an Asian American artist in the ever-evolving landscape of contemporary hip hop.

Photo: Kid $wami

Kid $wami uses his music platform to address crucial issues that resonate deeply with him, drawing from his personal experiences to craft songs that touch on themes such as social justice, mental health, and self-expression. His lyrics reflect his journey and the struggles he has faced, making his music a powerful tool for advocacy and change. By candidly discussing these topics, Kid $wami not only highlights important societal challenges but also empowers his listeners to speak out and share their own stories. His message has become a beacon for those seeking to have their voices heard, fostering a community of resilience and solidarity through the transformative power of music.

Kid $wami stands as a beacon of authenticity and courage in the world of contemporary hip hop, using his music to champion social justice, mental health awareness, and the importance of self-expression. Through his deeply personal and impactful lyrics, he not only connects with his audience on a profound level but also inspires countless others to find their own voice and stand up for what they believe in. As he continues to break new ground and resonate with listeners across diverse backgrounds, Kid $wami’s artistry remains a testament to the transformative power of music and the enduring strength of the human spirit.

Reference:https://www.viberate.com/artist/kid-swami/