Journey of Awakening Storytelling Series – Living Essence Event
On a serene evening under the celestial dome of the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, we gathered for “The Journey of Awakening Storytelling Series – Living Essence,” an event transcending boundaries to celebrate the harmony between ancestral wisdom, modern spirituality, and creative expression. With a lineup of world-renowned speakers, healers, and artists, the night unfolded into a transformative experience, touching every soul present.
When and Where: Friday, September 20, 2024, at the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre, Vancouver
Founder/Chair and Co-Chair: Yajing (ChiChi) Wang, Zhen ( Chris ) Gong
Speakers: JianHu Shifu, April Liu, Flavio Santi, Annie Briard, Heidi Kwok, Andrew Francis, Peng Wang
Exploring Chan: Chan Master Jianhu Shifu’s Enlightening Wisdom
Guiding us through the serenity and profound depth of Zen, Chan Master Jianhu Shifu shared his spiritual journey, resonating deeply with the audience. His reflections on inner peace provided a gateway for individual introspection, culminating in a guided meditation that brought the room into a unified state of calm and introspection.
Connecting with Nature: April Liu and a Message from Flavio Santi
April Liu beautifully intertwined ancient wisdom with mindfulness practices, exploring the profound bond between human consciousness and nature’s healing properties. Through personal stories and scientific insights, April urged us to reconnect with our roots and embrace nature’s essence.
Although unable to attend in person, Ecuadorian Shaman Flavio Santi left a heartfelt video message highlighting the challenges his community faces, from environmental degradation to social instability. His words served as a powerful reminder that our connection to nature is not only philosophical but a call to action.
Visual Storytelling: Annie Briard’s Artistic Vision
Annie Briard captivated the audience with her exploration of perception and the unseen. Her work invited us to view the subtleties of life through a new lens, sparking a profound appreciation for the beauty in everyday moments.
Breaking the Mold: Heidi Kwok’s Journey to Authentic Self-Discovery
Heidi shared her path to awakening, detailing her courageous shift from a traditional career to a holistic therapist. Her story encouraged others to explore their true selves and embrace life authentically.
Finding True Harmony: Andrew Francis’s Journey from Fame to Inner Fulfillment
With vulnerability and authenticity, Andrew recounted his journey from fame to self-discovery, expressing the realization that fulfillment lies beyond societal expectations. His journey back to his inner truth through sound healing resonated deeply with the audience.
An Enchanting Musical Experience: Master Peng Wang’s Guqin Performance
Master Peng Wang’s performance transported us with the timeless, meditative sounds of the Guqin, an ancient instrument symbolizing harmony between heaven and earth. His mastery evoked a deep emotional response, as he breathed life into each note, immersing the audience in a tranquil space of musical transcendence.
Founder Yajing (ChiChi) Wang concluded the evening with heartfelt reflections on life’s essence, inspired by her recent journey to Machu Picchu. She shared that life’s purpose can be explored through multiple lenses—artistic, philosophical, scientific, Indigenous, and spiritual—all emphasizing humanity’s deep interconnectedness. Each perspective offers a unique view: life as a harmonious art form, a philosophical quest for meaning, a scientific exploration, a sacred journey with nature, and a spiritual path of inner discovery.
ChiChi encouraged everyone to recognize the “Sage within,” an inner wisdom that guides us to realize our dreams and connect with the world. By listening to this inner Sage, we uncover life’s treasures, bringing light, hope, and compassion into our lives and others. She expressed profound gratitude to the speakers and friends, and especially to the H.R. MacMillan Space Centre for their partnership, which brought this evening to life. ChiChi invited everyone to carry forward the inspiration and wisdom gained here, knowing that even the smallest spark can light the way on our shared journey.
