The Burning Monk's Legacy: Igniting Hope and Transformation
Finding hope and resilience in the face of life's greatest challenges
The Background
In December 2022, I had the opportunity to spend time in Vietnam with my family. After returning from our 10-day trip, we all cherished our delightful memories.
A desire to learn more about Vietnam prompted me to delve into its rich history. This exploration led me to a particular photograph, and further inspiration from Mark Manson's book stirred new perspectives and emotions within me.
Vietnam was in a mess.
Two different ideologies ruled North Vietnam and South Vietnam, and the people suffered the brunt.
During the 1960s, the political and religious climate of South Vietnam was marked by tensions between the government, led by President Ngô Đình Diệm, and the country's Buddhist majority.
In 1963, tensions between Buddhists and the predominantly Catholic government reached a breaking point. Several Buddhist monks organized protests calling for religious freedom and equal treatment.
On June 11, 1963, a peaceful Buddhist monk sat in meditation posture at a busy urban intersection and did something which shook the world.
