Tag Archives: BALL

The Black Buddhist Experience

Posted on by
Reply

While many people are familiar with the lineage of Mahayana, Vajrayana, and Theravada Buddhism, there’s a new branch of practice being born through the experience of Buddhism in Black communities. Being a student of the Black Buddhist experience means embracing our unique journey as Black Buddhists, and observing how our cultural, social, and spiritual selves intertwine with our Black heritage and the teachings of Buddhism. Through learning the Dharma; we notice how our understandings resonate within our Black Buddhist experience. For many of us, Buddhism offers a path that is healing, it is liberation from the generational trauma that has been carried for so long. We find peace in the teachings of compassion, mindfulness, and the wisdom of the Buddha. This guides us in navigating a world that doesn’t really see us.

Being a student of this experience is about deep inner-work, contemplation, inner-healing. We honor the struggles in our history, and we also celebrate our resilience, our unique creativity, and strength that defines us. As we learn about the Dharma, we see how our cultural heritage and Buddhist teachings are closely tied. These teachings do not subjugate a culture, and allows for all perspectives and voices to be heard, represented, respected, and honored. By connecting with others who are also exploring this cross of culture and identity, we create a support system that nurtures our growth and understanding.

Due to the reality of racism in America, it’s important for all communities to nurture compassion. Community is important, it’s essential for the greater movement of love. Rev. Angel Kyodo Williams says, “Love and justice are not two. Without inner change, there can be no outer change; without collective change, no change matters”. This quote captures so beautifully the Black Buddhist experience. It reminds us that our practice is not just about personal enlightenment but also about contributing to the collective healing and enlightenment of our communities, the path of Guan yin. As we practice, we practice in hope that all beings will benefit.

杰遨 Jieao Jarrelle

Bridging Cultures and Spirit

Posted on by
Reply

To be beautiful means to be yourself.You don’t need to be accepted by others. You need to accept yourself. When you are born a lotus flower, be a beautiful lotus flower, don’t try to be a magnolia flower. If you crave acceptance and recognition and try to change yourself to fit what other people want you to be, you will suffer all your life. True happiness and true power lie in understanding yourself, accepting yourself, having confidence in yourself.

Thich Nhat Hanh

The teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh are deeply rooted in mindfulness and compassion, offering profound resonance for our BIPOC communities that are navigating the complexities of bicultural identities. Thay’s concept of ” interbeing”, the understanding that all beings are interconnected, serves as a powerful foundation for embracing and honoring our cultural heritage within spiritual practice. For BIPOC Buddhists, these teachings provide a path to harmonize cultural identity with our spiritual journey, bringing about a sense of wholeness and acceptance. This approach encourages us to find strength in our unique backgrounds, cultivating a deeper understanding of ourselves and others through mindfulness and compassionate action.

The friendship between Thich Nhat Hanh and Martin Luther King Jr sets an example of how love and nonviolence can unite people across cultural and national boundaries in the pursuit of peace. Their shared vision to ending violence and promoting peace during the civil rights movement in the United States had given rise and connected it to the global struggle for world justice. Thich Nhat Hanh’s advocacy for nonviolent resistance and Dr. King’s commitment to civil rights created a powerful alliance that continues to inspire many today. Their partnership demonstrated that peace and social justice are deeply intertwined, and that true liberation can only be achieved through understanding, compassion, and nonviolent action.

The legacy of Thich Nhat Hanh and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. is a key part of American BIPOC history, offering wisdom and inspiration for generations. Their work together highlights the power of cross-cultural solidarity in the fight for justice. For BIPOC Buddhists, our legacy isn’t just a historical milestone; it’s a living guide for facing today’s challenges. By embracing Thich Nhat Hanh’s teachings, BIPOC communities can draw strength from our roots while working toward a more just and peaceful world, staying true to the vision of these two great leaders.

Jarrelle

Reference: https://plumvillage.org/articles/thich-nhat-hanhs-friendship-with-dr-king

Cultivating Compassion Amidst Struggle

Posted on by
Reply

As BIPOC Buddhists, we navigate a world where systemic racism, oppression, and trauma are daily realities. In the face of such adversity, it’s easy to be consumed by anger, pain, and resentment. But there is a transformative power within us—an ancient, yet ever-relevant practice that can help us rise above the suffering we endure. This power is metta, or loving-kindness. Metta is more than just a feeling; it’s an active force of compassion that we cultivate towards ourselves, our communities, and even those who perpetuate harm. In a society that often devalues our very existence, the practice of metta becomes an act of radical self-care and empowerment.

Metta allows us to confront our pain and the injustices we face with a heart full of compassion rather than bitterness. When we practice loving-kindness, we are not denying the harsh realities of systemic racism or minimizing the trauma that has been inflicted upon us. Instead, we are choosing to approach these challenges with a mindset that seeks healing and connection, rather than division and despair. By sending metta to ourselves, we affirm our own worth and humanity in a world that often seeks to strip us of both. By extending metta to others, even those who oppose us, we break the cycle of hatred and violence, refusing to let it take root in our hearts.

In the BIPOC Buddhist experience, metta serves as a powerful tool for resilience. It empowers us to hold space for our own suffering while also maintaining a sense of hope and possibility for the future. Through the practice of metta, we can transform our pain into a source of strength, our trauma into a wellspring of compassion. In this way, metta becomes not just a personal practice, but a revolutionary act—a way to reclaim our power, heal our communities, and create a world where loving-kindness can thrive in the face of adversity.

“Irrigators channel waters; fletchers straighten arrows; carpenters bend wood; the wise master themselves.” Buddha

Jarrelle (杰遨）

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

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/

Ricky Sim

Posted on by
Reply

Ricky Sim never envisioned a career in standup comedy during his youth due to his fear of performing onstage. “I was really scared to be onstage,” he recalled. Like many first- and second-generation immigrants, Sim’s concern over financial stability led him to practice law for five years. Today, however, the Queens-based writer and standup comedian uses his platform to challenge norms and address the underrepresentation of queer Asian comedians.

Photo: Andrew Max Levy

Despite starting his career in the industry around 12 years ago, Sim chose to take a hiatus due to the lack of Asian representation in comedy, which often resulted in blatant racism disguised as humor. Reflecting on that period, he recalls that most open mic nights were predominantly attended by white men, who would mockingly greet him with lines like, “Oh, look. The delivery guy is here,” whenever they saw an Asian participant.

Sim faced additional challenges due to his sexuality in a predominantly homophobic environment. Despite this, his desire to share his story, particularly about his mother and the gay Chinese-Malaysian experience, helped him overcome the scarcity mindset and embrace the uncertainties of a challenging career. “This is what my heart is telling me to do,” Sim remarked, deciding to follow his passion. In 2023, he performed at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, where he presented his one-man show, “Coming Out To Dead People.” The show’s success continued at London’s Off-West End Soho Theatre and recently debuted Off-Broadway at Soho Playhouse, before returning to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe as an EdFringe OffFest Finalist.

Reference:https://www.aaartsalliance.org/magazine/stories/how-ricky-sim-found-freedom-in-comedy

The Artist Bumpei Usui

Posted on by
Reply

Bumpei Usui (碓氷文平 Usui Bunpei, 1898—1994) was a remarkable Japanese-born American painter celebrated for his social realist cityscapes and urban life scenes. His body of work also included interiors, flower studies, and still lifes. In 1935, a critic praised his style as “cultivated realism,” while others lauded his masterful use of color, textures, and spatial values. Some even noted elements of Precisionism in his cityscapes. Usui’s paintings of people showcased both the humorous and harsh realities of city life.

Despite a period of obscurity following his death, Usui’s legacy was revived in 2014 when the Metropolitan Museum of Art acquired one of his paintings and featured it prominently in a major exhibition. In addition to his painting career, Usui was a skilled custom frame maker, furniture designer, and lacquering craftsman. He also had a passion for collecting antique Japanese swords and breeding Siamese cats, reflecting the diverse range of his talents and interests.

Photo:Smithsonian American Art Museum, Gift of Regis Corporation

Photo:Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art

The art of Bumpei Usui beautifully captures his unique vision, seamlessly blending Eastern and Western influences to create a distinct style that highlights the achievements of AAPI artists. His works, which reflect his personal experiences, have become an integral part of art history, touching the hearts and souls of people worldwide. Bumpei’s legacy endures, celebrating his contributions and ensuring his impact on the art world remains timeless.

Reference: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bumpei_Usui. https://americanart.si.edu/art/highlights/asian-american

The Art of Tshab Her

Posted on by
Reply

“The United States has forgotten about the Hmong people and what they did. We helped the Americans. We died for the Americans–and we still are, long after the war has ended. And isn’t it ironic that most Americans don’t even know who we are.”

-General Vang Pao, 1979


Through her lived experience as a second-generation Hmong-American woman, her artistic endeavors both illuminate and complicate the intricate politics of displacement. As a member of a nation-less ethnic minority originating from Southeast Asia, she grapples with the looming threat of cultural erasure. Her creative output serves as a testament to the dispersed nature of the Hmong community, probing the significance of location and the spaces in between. Employing a diverse array of mediums including embroidery, installation art, and social engagement, she navigates the realms of political and cultural discourse.

In her artistic practice, she harnesses the power of color as a communicative tool, sparking conversations about spatial dynamics, ownership, and the assertion of identity. By integrating traditional Hmong textiles, language, and strategic placement of materials, she delves into the nuanced question of belonging, whether it pertains to physical land or the autonomy of the body. Her work becomes an integral part of the ongoing dialogue surrounding the historical trajectory of political refugeeism in the United States.

Photo: Tshab Her

Art serves as her chosen platform to explore the intricate interplay between visibility and invisibility within the context of the Hmong diaspora. Through her creative process, she not only situates her own body but also those of others within this complex narrative landscape, seeking to uncover the generative spaces that exist within the margins of societal consciousness.

Heritage Vocabulary:

  1. 流亡 (Liúwáng) – Displacement
  2. 文化 (Wénhuà) – Culture
  3. 跨文化 (Kuà wénhuà) – Cross-cultural
  4. 彩色 (Cǎisè) – Color
  5. 藝術 (Yìshù) – Art

Reference:https://www.artistsonthelam.com/tshab-her