Latest news with #Taoist
New York Times
a day ago
- Health
- New York Times
Ancient Trees, Dwindling in the Wild, Thrive on Sacred Ground
The Putuo hornbeam, a hardy tree that thrives in the damp air by the East China Sea, could be easily overlooked by visitors to the Huiji Temple on an island in the Zhejiang Province. The tree has an unremarkable appearance: spotty bark, small stature and serrated leaves with veins as neatly spaced as notebook lines. But its status is singular. As far as conservationists can tell, no other mature specimen of its species is alive in the wild. The holdout on the island, Mount Putuo, has been there for about two centuries. And according to a study published Wednesday in the journal Current Biology, its setting may have been its salvation. The study found that religious sites in eastern China have become refuges for old, ancient and endangered trees. Since the early years of the Common Era, Buddhist and Taoist temples have sheltered plants that otherwise struggled to find a foothold, including at least eight species that now exist nowhere else on earth. 'This form of biodiversity conservation, rooted in cultural and traditional practices, has proven to be remarkably resilient, persisting even in the face of modern civilization and rapid economic development,' said Zhiyao Tang, a professor of ecology at Peking University and one of the study's authors. The trees survived at religious sites in part because they were planted and cultivated there. The report noted that Buddhism and Taoism emphasize spiritual association with plants and the temples tended to be left undisturbed, shielding the areas from deforestation. Want all of The Times? Subscribe.
Time Business News
5 days ago
- General
- Time Business News
Waldorf School: Educating the Whole Child in a Modern World
Families worldwide are searching for learning environments that balance intellectual growth with emotional well-being, creativity, and practical skill. One approach that has quietly thrived for more than a century is the Waldorf School model. Founded on the insights of Austrian philosopher Rudolf Steiner, Waldorf education cultivates head, heart, and hands equally—helping students develop academic mastery, artistic expression, and moral purpose in harmony. Steiner proposed that childhood unfolds in distinct seven-year stages. Each stage calls for teaching methods and subject matter that resonate with a child's evolving inner life. In the early years, rich storytelling and imaginative play nurture wonder; in the middle grades, hands-on projects ground emerging logical thinking; and in adolescence, abstract reasoning, debate, and social projects meet the teenager's quest for truth and responsibility. Instead of teaching math, science, and literature in isolation, Waldorf educators weave them into cross-disciplinary 'main lesson' blocks. A study of ancient China, for instance, may blend calligraphy (art), the Pythagorean concept of harmony (math and music), silk-road geography (social studies), and Taoist poetry (language arts). Students experience knowledge as an interconnected whole rather than a set of disconnected facts. Each morning begins with a two-hour lesson focusing on a single subject for three to four weeks. Deep immersion allows students to experiment, revise, illustrate, and ultimately create their own hand-written, hand-drawn textbooks. Because they make the material their own, retention and personal investment soar. Painting, music, drama, and handwork are not electives; they are primary vehicles for learning. Geometry emerges through compass-drawn mandalas; neuroscience appears in clay modeling of the human brain; fractions come alive while cutting and baking bread. This artistic framing engages multiple senses, appealing to diverse learning styles and strengthening neural pathways. Research suggesting potential downsides of heavy digital exposure in early childhood has long informed Waldorf practice. Classes emphasize real-world interaction, outdoor exploration, and imaginative play. Devices arrive only in middle school, framed as creative tools—coding robots, editing documentaries, designing digital art—rather than passive entertainment. Robust Cognitive Skills By approaching abstract concepts through concrete, experiential steps, Waldorf students often display strong critical-thinking abilities and deep conceptual understanding once formal assessments begin in later grades. Creative Confidence Daily practice in visual and performing arts fosters divergent thinking—the capacity to generate original ideas and solutions—highly prized in business, science, and the arts alike. Emotional Intelligence Class groups typically stay with the same primary teacher for up to eight years, creating a secure community where children practice empathy, conflict resolution, and collaborative problem-solving. Practical Resilience Carpentry, gardening, sewing, and community service projects cultivate perseverance, patience, and a sense of real-world competence—qualities that support mental health and adaptability in adulthood. Myth Reality Waldorf is 'soft' on academics. Graduates consistently gain admission to competitive universities and excel once there, thanks to strong research and presentation skills. Technology avoidance leaves students behind. Delayed, purposeful tech use actually strengthens later digital literacy by grounding students first in logic, creativity, and self-discipline. Only artistic children thrive in Waldorf. The arts serve as learning pathways for every child; mathematically gifted students, for example, deepen understanding through geometric drawing and music theory. Seek schools recognized by reputable bodies such as the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America (AWSNA) or the International Waldorf Federation. Faculty should hold specialized certificates in Waldorf pedagogy, ensuring they are versed in child development, arts integration, and Steiner's educational philosophy. Nature is considered a co-teacher. Classrooms often feature natural wood furniture, soft lighting, and student artwork. Outdoor spaces—gardens, wooded play areas, and hand-built structures—support exploration and seasonal festivals. Parent involvement is integral. Festivals, class plays, and parent education evenings build a supportive network around each child. Before enrolling, attend an open house or fair to gauge whether the school's culture fits your family's rhythm and values. Establish Rhythms: Predictable bedtimes, shared meals, and screen-free evenings mirror classroom structure and provide emotional security. Encourage Open-Ended Play: Offer simple, natural toys—blocks, silks, clay—that ignite imagination without prescriptive rules. Celebrate Seasonal Traditions: Candle-lit lantern walks in autumn or spring garden days help children feel connected to natural cycles, reinforcing classroom themes. Model Lifelong Learning: Read widely, take up crafts, or learn an instrument alongside your child to demonstrate that growth never ends. Will my child struggle to adapt to mainstream schools later? Transitions generally proceed smoothly. Waldorf students have strong study habits, presentation skills, and intrinsic motivation, which translate well across educational systems. How does the school handle special educational needs? Many Waldorf schools collaborate with remedial educators and therapists, integrating supportive strategies—such as extra movement or speech work—directly into the student's day. Is Waldorf education religious? While it celebrates universal human values and seasonal festivals, Waldorf pedagogy is non-sectarian. Respect for diverse faiths and cultures is woven into stories and celebrations. In a rapidly shifting world that prizes innovation, empathy, and adaptability, Waldorf education offers a time-tested yet forward-looking path. By harmonizing rigorous academics with artistic practice and hands-on experience, the Waldorf School model cultivates learners who can think critically, feel deeply, and act purposefully. For families seeking an education that honors the full spectrum of human potential, Waldorf may well be the most compelling choice—an invitation to nurture not just a career-ready mind, but a whole, balanced human being. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
The Star
19-05-2025
- Politics
- The Star
RM1.2mil allocation for Buddhist, Taoist houses of worship
The Selangor state-level Wesak Day celebration at Maha Karuna Vihara in Shah Alam included multicultural dance performances. OVER 150 Buddhist and Taoist houses of worship will benefit from a RM1.2mil allocation under Selangor's Five Religions Financial Aid Scheme (Limas) for 2025. The allocation was presented during the state-level Wesak Day celebration at Maha Karuna Vihara in Elmina, Shah Alam. State executive councillor for investment, trade and mobility Ng Sze Han said the aid could be used for repairs, maintenance and upgrades of religious facilities. 'Through Limas, we have channelled systematic yearly allocations to temples, churches and viharas,' said Ng, who co-chairs the state's Special Committee on Buddhism, Christianity, Hinduism, Sikhism and Taoism. 'This year, RM1.2mil is being disbursed to Buddhist and Taoist houses of worship under phase one of Limas 2025.' Ng (second from right) presenting the RM1.2mil mock cheque to (from left) Sri Saranankara, Ming Ji and Chean Kiat during the state-level Wesak Day celebrations. — AZLINA ABDULLAH/The Star Ng said Selangor had provided such support since 2009, reflecting its long-term commitment to religious harmony, inclusion and cultural preservation. The celebration was jointly organised by Selangor government and Theravada Buddhist Council of Malaysia (TBCM), with support from Malaysian Buddhist Consultative Council and Maha Karuna Buddhist Society. TBCM president Tan Leng Huat said, 'Our national theme for Wesak this year is 'Empathy and Wisdom based on Harmony'. 'It means using empathy and wisdom as the stimulant for harmonious living.' Tan said the inclusion of multicultural dance performances, including a 'Tarian Muhibah' at the event represented major ethnic identities through a single choreographed piece. Buddhist temple chief high priest B. Sri Saranankara Nayaka Maha Thera said the presence of multiple Buddhist traditions and representatives from other faiths was a reflection of Malaysia's strength in diversity. Present were Selangor Economic Planning Unit (local authority section) deputy director Mohd Sha'walludin Aziz, Selangor State Assembly Speaker Lau Weng San, Bukit Lanjan assemblyman Pua Pei Ling and Kota Kemuning assemblyman S. Preakas. Venerable Jue Cheng, the Fo Guang Shan chief abbess for temples in Singapore, Malaysia, India and Thailand also attended, as did Federation of Taoist Associations Malaysia secretary-general Daozhang Lau Chean Kiat, Malaysian Buddhist Association Selangor and Kuala Lumpur branch chairman Venerable Ming Ji and Malaysian Buddhist Consultative Council president Lilian Tay.
Borneo Post
15-05-2025
- Business
- Borneo Post
Multi-faith blessing marks milestone in Baram Delta channel dredging project
Majang (front, sixth left) in a photocall after the multi-faith blessing ceremony. MIRI (May 15): A multi-faith blessing ceremony was held in Kuala Baram today to commemorate the progress of the RM208.9-million Baram Delta Miri Access Channel dredging and deepening project. The event brought together religious leaders and community representatives in a gesture of unity, spiritual reflection, and shared aspirations for the project's success. The ceremony began with a 'doa selamat' led by Imam Ismawi Hashim of Masjid Nurul Iman, Kampung Masjid, followed by Christian prayers led by Reverend Dato Dr Justin Wan. An Iban 'miring' ritual, performed by Sulang Runtuh from Tatau, represented the indigenous community's cultural blessings. A Taoist prayer ceremony would be held at a later date. Sarawak Deputy Minister of Infrastructure and Port Development Datuk Majang Renggi officiated the event on behalf of Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas. Also in attendance were residents of Kampung Masjid and Kampung Muhibbah, Miri Port Authority (MPA) officials led by general manager Serawa Budol, contractor representatives, community leaders, and MPA chairman Dato Paulus Palu Gumbang along with board members. In his speech delivered by Majang, Uggah underscored the importance of cultural and spiritual inclusivity, highlighting the ceremony as a reflection of Sarawak's diverse yet unified society. 'This diversity in prayer reflects not just the multicultural fabric of Sarawak, but also our shared beliefs in the power of faith – regardless of religion – to bless our work, strengthen unity, and guide us toward our goals,' he said. The dredging and deepening project, spearheaded by MPA, commenced in July last year and is currently ahead of schedule. Phase one is expected to be completed by March 2027. The initiative is part of the state government's long-term strategy to enhance port capacity, improve regional trade connectivity, and deliver socio-economic benefits to Miri and its surrounding areas. Baram Delta channel dredging Kuala Baram Majang Renggi multi-faith blessing
San Francisco Chronicle
11-05-2025
- General
- San Francisco Chronicle
Can turning purple urchins into kitchen countertop save California's seafloor?
Joe Lee surfaced from Mendocino Bay grasping a pearl. It was the 1800s, and a lush forest of kelp swayed beneath him, home to sea urchins and abalone — one of which had transformed a bit of grit into the treasure he held in his hand. That pearl is still in Lee's family, and looks much the same as it did more than a century ago. But the kelp forests along the Northern California coast have, of course, nearly disappeared, leaving the seafloor covered in purple urchins in an unprecedented devastation of an ecosystem, and the adjacent fishing industry. The Asian American communities that once thrived off those kelp forests have also changed, searching for new ways to live off the ocean that has sustained them for more than a century. When Lee found his pearl in the 1880s, he also built a wooden temple to Kwan Tai, the Taoist god of abundance, integrity and longevity. It sits in what used to be Mendocino's Chinatown, facing south toward the inlet where Big River flows into Mendocino Bay. Earlier this year, Lee's great-granddaughter, Lorraine Hee-Chorley, 72, opened the temple doors, which students in the community's Chinese New Year parade still enter to receive traditional blessings. Hot sunlight flooded onto an altar adorned with offerings of citrus, which looked out on the ocean where Hee-Chorley's family foraged for abalone and pearlescent shells that they would sell to tourists in town. 'In this bay, there used to be tons of bull kelp,' Hee-Chorley said, looking out onto the water from the temple's porch. 'But it's not there. It's just not there.' In its stead are blankets of those spiky purple urchins covering the seafloor. But now, a Bay Area scientist believes she's found a way to turn the scourge of these urchins into a profit point by using them as literal building blocks. And some of the people working with her are the Asian American fishermen who have spent decades making a living off of the ocean. In January, Mickey Kitahara swayed with the morning tide at the bottom of the Albion Cove, about 10 miles south of where Lee found his pearl in the 1880s. He returns to this spot every month to remove purple urchins encroaching on vulnerable kelp fronds with his bare hands. He knows it's an uphill battle, but he feels he has to do his part to rehabilitate the Northern California coastline — while also supporting his family. 'Those purples in here, they just consume every inch they can, stacked right next to each other on a reef, and don't leave room for anything else,' he said. A month later, Mickey, 42, and his father Mike, 75, stood on a metal dock in Albion, tending to their urchining equipment. On either side of the brawny duo were white boats with blue trim. At the bow of Mickey's boat, a yellow hose encircled itself like a snake. About 35 years ago, roughly the lifespan of an abalone, a 6-year-old Mickey was learning to breathe through a hose just like it in the hot tub outside his Japanese American family's house in Albion. That was when Mike was making more than $100,000 a year diving off the side of his boat for urchins and abalone. He was carrying on a family legacy that began in Monterey's fishery, where his grandmother, Takako Kitahara, had shucked abalone on Cannery Row — and lost one of her fingertips to a blade. He passed that legacy to Mickey by gifting him a boat on his son's 22nd birthday. It was one of about 40 that filled the Albion estuary at the time. On a gray morning in 2015, Mickey was christening his new urchin fishing license alongside his dad. 'Oh man, you're in for it,' he remembered a diver on a passing boat saying as Mickey cracked open his first catch of the day to find the shells, once plump and egg yolk-orange with roe, empty. 'The quality got so bad you couldn't sell 'em,' Mike said, looking on as Mickey stepped onto his boat. Since Mike began diving for urchins in the '70s, the number of commercial divers in the area has shrunk 90%, he said. The number of urchin processors in Fort Bragg, which used to employ around 30 people each, has halved. Today, the estuary where Mike and Mickey dock their boats sees only around a dozen on a busy day. 'It's sad to see that a lot of these boats that have been passed down for generations go into disrepair or get scrapped,' Mickey said. 'Maybe it belonged to somebody's grandfather that was passed down to his son and passed down to his son.' In the early 20th century, Mickey's great-grandparents were part of a thriving abalone fishery built by Japanese immigrants like them. Before the U.S. government incarcerated the Kitaharas' ancestors and 120,000 other Japanese people during WWII, they made up a large chunk of California's fishing community, including 80% of the fishermen in Monterey, said anthropologist Sandy Lydon. When they returned, the state had seized their boats and barred all 'Japanese aliens' from receiving fishing licenses, which they later reinstated. The Japanese community never recovered. Mickey's great-grandfather, who had previously sold fishing nets, became a gardener. Eighty years later, Mickey was doing a bit of underwater gardening, filling his nets with unmarketable urchins. He looked at his watch, which counted down the minutes to when he would surface for a break from loading urchins into his basket. Bare, whitewashed rock and droves of zombified urchin husks surrounded him on the seafloor. But in the areas Mickey has been clearing for the past four years, a few patches of kelp stalks fanned out into fronds at the surface. Since 2021, local kelp restoration projects like the Waterman's Alliance, Reef Check and the Nature Conservancy have relied on divers like Mickey to do an inverted version of what he was raised to do: collect urchins and then throw them away like piles of dry leaves. 'The idea is to get these areas to grow kelp, and then as the spores are released we can clear the area to allow for the kelp to grow without as much pressure from those purple urchins,' he said. Still, it was meditative, 'like raking leaves in your yard.' Now, kelp restoration, too, is under threat. In February, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration for Pacific Ocean restoration fired more than 1,000 employees and is slated to close three of its California offices, including ones dedicated to marine protection and fisheries. NOAA helps fund the projects that hire Mickey, so losing that support is a 'real fear,' he said as bouquets of kelp bobbed on the bay. 'If it would not be enough to survive, I would need to switch things up and go find a different avenue to bring in some income,' he said. The luster of Joe Lee's pearl, the protective spikes of the urchins collected by Mickey Katahara and even the bone of Takako Kitathara's severed fingertip have something in common: Each contains calcium carbonate. The substance is also the main component of marble, which is how Virj Kan hopes to help the kelp forest and a Northern California community built on the ocean. Two years ago, Kan was in Mendocino after earning her masters from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in biomaterials, hoping she could lend her science background to the kelp crisis. While there she met up with a burly, tanned man outside an urchin processing plant in Fort Bragg who had just culled 400 pounds of purple urchins, which he loaded off his truck in buckets and barrels. It was Mickey Kitahara. Usually, he dumps them into a large bin, which might be repurposed into fertilizer or may just sit there indefinitely, he said. This time, he handed them off to Kan, a scientist. 'She was going to make tiles or something,' Mickey remembered. In March, an urchin husk sat on the counter of Kan's home in Berkeley, a Victorian mansion built for a sea captain now owned by Stochastic Labs, a nonprofit that incubates entrepreneurs. Beakers and flasks perched on a gas stove behind Kan as she held up a small tile variegated with shades of dark and light purple. 'There's a lot of people studying the kelp forest, a lot of people that are helping to remove the urchins to bring the kelp back, but there's a missing link, which is, 'What's the market?'' she said. In April, Kan launched Urchinite, a marble synthesized from pulverized, calcium carbonate-rich urchins, whose sales she hopes will increase demand for urchin removal and kelp restoration. An Urchinite countertop measuring 40 square feet — and costing between $1,600 to $7,200, depending on its design — would restore 0.06 of an acre of seafloor, Kan said. The 12 acres within the Nature Conservancy's purview in Mendocino would translate to roughly 200 countertops. Back in Mendocino in May, Mickey looked at the renderings of Urchinite countertops and tables on his phone. 'I could see myself interested in a countertop,' he said. 'That would be beautiful.' Mickey was feeling more optimistic than usual. Tomatoes were growing in his yard and bits of baby kelp were appearing out on the ocean in little balls Mickey calls 'lollipops.' 'It is a hopeful time of year,' he said. At least once a day, though, Mickey thinks about 'Plan B': what he'll do if the fisheries don't come back, funding dries up and efforts like Kan's don't pan out enough to keep him diving. 'Some of the guys that have been doing it as long as my dad say the urchin industry is over,' he said. 'I honestly don't know.'
