Carol Hu grew up in a Buddhist family and learned about Buddhism mainly through rituals and disciplines. Looking back, she realizes that she had only scratched the surface of what Buddhism is about.
In 2017, she attended a Buddhist event with her father and was introduced to 84000—a project to translate the entire Tibetan Buddhist canon. “I learned that 84000 is an extraordinary undertaking that spans over a century,” Carol says. “This deeply moved me, as I recognized that 84000 is laying the essential groundwork to benefit future generations.”
At the same event, Carol also received a copy of Dzongsar Khyentse Rinpoche’s commentary on the sūtra, The Teaching of Vimalakīrti, and began reading it with great interest. “The whole experience felt like a reintroduction to Buddhism, sparking my curiosity and revealing a vast, non-dualistic way of thinking,” Carol says. “I explored more of Rinpoche’s teachings over the years. Although I haven’t been as diligent in my practice as I’d like, the Buddha’s wisdom has already helped me navigate life’s changes with a different perspective. I feel fortunate to have encountered this wisdom, and I hope others may be similarly inspired.”
Since then, Carol has followed 84000’s progress and rejoices in what the team continues to accomplish. She is now part of our Give Each Month (GEM) Mandala, a community of thousands of generous, compassionate, and committed people, like Carol, representing more than 46 countries around the world. As one of our precious GEMS, Carol contributes a modest amount each month.
“It feels like the best way for me to continuously support this effort. Through this act, I hope 84000 will make more of the Buddha’s teachings accessible to future generations,” she says. “On a personal level, I hope to cultivate the aspiration to benefit others and the merit to deepen my understanding of Buddha's teachings.”
Learn more about our Give Each Month (GEM) program and join our GEM Mandala!
If you are inspired by Carol’s generosity, please write to us at readers@84000.co and tell us about your own 84000 experience!