“An le”, a phrase that is commonly used in Chinese community, means
internal peace, happiness, harmony and joy. It is very simple and popular,
yet it is full of wisdom. Buddhists believe in achieving the status of “an le”,
whether it is done for the benefit of oneself or for others. The underlying
meaning is much deeper, and the “dual combination of joy and emptiness”
of Anuttara Tantra also emphasizes “joy” as an obvious element, whereas
the ultimate goal is a state of “emptiness”. There is nothing else to
accomplish apart from joy and emptiness – one can still possess a body and
an appearance, but the interior and the nature of this body can be “empty”.
I am honoured to share with you the heavenly treasures entrusted in my
custody in this life: those valuable antiques of Tibetan Buddhism that I am
blessed to keep for your appreciation, such as Thangkas (including those
very rare ones such as gilt bronze Thangkas), Ga’us and ritual implements
of various types, and the pieces of Chinese Buddhism comprising gilt
scriptures. Although many countries around the world are facing challenges
of different kinds, the situation is expected to be only temporary. I hope the
following treasures can bring “an le” to your preoccupied minds and hearts,
and refill them with peace and harmony.