IRVING, TEXAS, JULY 22, 2001: When 12 year-old Nikki Meyer visited the dentist to have a tooth filled, she used the meditation techniques she learned in class to relax. Nikki and her brother, Michael, 11, are among the children who attended the Introduction to Buddhism and Meditation for Children class at Vajradakini Buddhist Center last week. Instead of soccer camp or swimming lessons, children spent five mornings at the center, learning about Buddhism. The class, open to ages 9 through 13, included meditation techniques, arts and crafts, teachings on love and compassion and how to overcome anger and jealousy. One morning’s activities began with the children reciting a mantra of compassion. The children then made prayer flags, carefully lettering their good wishes for the world on brightly colored felt. The successful class may provide a model for similar programs at Hindu temples.
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