Speeches 

It is a distinct privilege and pleasure to welcome the advent of the Kadampa Buddhist Centre to Papatoetoe - the jewel in the crown of Manukau. The siting of such a centre for supernal studies is an exciting addition to the many existing congregations that seek to serve one greater than them and the flowering of the human spirit.

At the start of every day in your Parliament your representatives - we, still our minds bow our heads and, with humility, pray for guidance to secure "the public welfare, peace and tranquillity of New Zealand" - yes even in Parliament!

There is a saying in Chinese that declares "a still mind sees far". Meditation and prayer allow us to surrender ourselves to a greater wisdom, to see our daily actions, anxieties and thoughts in a wider context of compassion for others.   Mediation and prayer attune us to the values of our heart and the heart of our community - we can find courage and enthusiasm for the richness of life, for together we serve and together we prosper.

1,000 Kadampa Buddhist Centres are widely spread throughout the world - they are acupuncture points of influence that contribute to the drug-free healing of humanity...a philosophy based on reverence and respect, never fear.   Today we think of the gifts of one person, Venerable Titual Rinpoche, who studied Buddhism in Tibet from age 8.  His example of service shows just how much can be achieved by one wide-awake person ... Buddha literally means ‘awake' - awake to the many gifts that each of us have as individuals, bigger gifts granted when we enthusiastically engage others in the spirit of service we sense here among us today.

A spirit of service underlies leadership and leadership should always be by example for all of us regardless of our position in society are leaders. From caring for one's family to the highest positions in our community you are a leader and watched by others.

Thank you to the organisers, for your outstanding commitment, your hard work putting this together has resulted in a fantastic gathering.  There is an exemplary level of craftmanship, skill and endeavour witnessed by this temple.

I must also acknowledge the essential support of your sponsors, without them events such as this just don't happen.

I am delighted to be here with you today and to sense the ways in which you will work to secure "the public welfare, peace and tranquillity of (our beloved home) New Zealand"   I will watch your progress with interest and as the local member of parliament I am here to serve you.

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