“We peacefully commemorate Vesak because of your dedication,”- Army Commander

(May 08, Colombo, Sri Lanka Guardian) Commander of the Army Lieutenant General Sarath Fonseka, in his message on account of Vesak (Thrice Blessed Day) commemoration pays tribute to his troops who have selflessly dedicated themselves to inherit a better future for a great Nation.

Here is the full text of his message;

“On this sacred Vesak Full Moon day (8th May) when Thrice Blessed Day is commemorated by all Sri Lankan Buddhists, let me extend my best wishes too to all officers, other ranks, civil staff and their families by wishing them a very happy Vesak, filled with peace, spiritual emancipation and loving kindness as taught in Buddhism.

We are fortunate to have been born in this land, turned sacred with the arrival of Gauthama Buddha and a resultant culture, based on basic principles and unblemished doctrine of Buddhism. Today, all Sri Lankan Buddhists are able to mark this noble Full Moon Day with an enlightened mind because of your committed dedication that would create a better future for this great Nation.

This Day of utmost significance to Buddhists all over the world would facilitate all of us to live in peace and happiness, giving pride of place to religious observances such as Dana (alms-giving), Seela (observance of virtues), Bhavana (meditation) while sticking to Amisa and Prathipatti offerings. At the same time, let’s resolve ourselves to follow the footsteps of the Compassionate One and lead our lives accordingly.

Today, everyone reaps the results of the noble efforts that were taken by you for the betterment of all Sri Lankans with much dedication, patience and responsibility for protection of this blessed Motherland which had been suffering from the clutches of ruthless terrorism for over three decades. It is my belief that blessings of the noble Triple Gem as well as the sentiments of all our countrymen remain with you as a protection for that invaluable effort, conducted in keeping with the tenets of Buddhism.

Finally, let me share my thoughts and sentiments with family members of all those War Heroes who had perished or gone missing during their fighting for defence of the Motherland. May they attain supreme bliss of Nibbana !. May all the injured War Heroes in hospitals and those turned disable receive speedy recovery and consolation! May Triple Gem Bless you all !”, the message concluded.

-Sri Lanka Guardian