Shining World ComPASSion AWArd

VEGANISM: THE PEACEFUL WAY TO LIVEShining World Hero Awardlying on the sea floor with a Frisbee-like plastic ring around its neck. The Grey Nurse shark appeared to bediscolored and to have lost weight because the plastic ring which covered its gills prevented it from eating.Knowing exactly what to do as an experienced veterinarian, Chip decided to help the shark. He approachedthe injured Grey Nurse from behind, while John stayed close to record the event for all to see and learnfrom. Chip grabbed hold of the plastic ring and gripped the shark in a bear hug. He then maneuvered theplastic ring to get it off the shark’s neck. A few minutes later, the Grey Nurse happily swam away.This incident is just one of the many tales of marine animals being harmed by man-made debrisreleased into the ocean. The folks in the area have also witnessed such tragedies as a sea turtle being caughtin a plastic six-pack can holder, and sea birds being choked by plastic bags. Because of the alarmingsituation of ocean water being polluted, many divers in the area have been very vigilant in keeping thewater free of man-made debris to protect the marine life.In recognition of their compassionate bravery in assisting an injured Grey Nurse shark, Chip Garberand John Dickinson were honored with the Shining World Hero Award from Supreme Master Ching Hai.The award ceremony was held at John’s Scuba Works dive shop on June 7, Golden Year 7 (2010). Inaddition to the crystal plaque, representatives of the Supreme Master Ching Hai International Associationalso presented them with custom-tailored, warm Hero Jackets and a selection of Supreme Master ChingHai’s publications. Master also gave them these loving words of encouragement: “In this rescue you bothshowed heroic courage, truly admirable compassion, and wisdom in recording the plight that marine lifefaces as a result of human waste.”Chip and John thanked Master for extending to them the honor and privilege of being recipientsof this prestigious award and expressed their concern about the man-made debris damaging the life andbeauty of our marine world. Let Chip and John’s story be a reminder for us all to preserve the environmentand treat other species with consideration and loving care. May all marine life flourish in natural harmonyand balance.To watch Supreme Master Television’s interview with Mr. Chip Garber and Mr. John Dickinson, please visit:http://video.Godsdirectcontact.net/magazine/AW1415s.phpA Hero Saves His Canine Friends During a TyphoonBy Kaohsiung News Group, Formosa (Originally in Chinese)On December 23, Golden Year 7 (2010), our Association members from Kaohsiung Center presented,on behalf of Supreme Master Ching Hai, the Shining World Hero Award to Mr. Chen Shueh-jenfor his heroic action in saving more than 400 canines when a typhoon swept through southern Formosaearlier in September.30 The Supreme Master Ching Hai News No. 209