“Vesak, the Day of the Full Moon in the month of May, is the most sacred day to millions of Buddhists around the world. It was on the Day of Vesak two and a half millennia ago, in the year 623 B.C. that the Buddha was born. It was also on the Day of Vesak that the Buddha attained enlightenment, and it was on the Day of Vesak that the Buddha in his eightieth year passed away. The teachings of the Buddha, and his message of compassion and peace and goodwill have moved millions.” (UN.org)

Vesak falls on May 7th this year – in these times of crisis, gain a mental boost by spending the day focusing on peace and compassion.

Learn about Buddha with the family with these resources on Hoopla and Overdrive:

  • Buddha by Tammy Gagne – “Buddha is known throughout the world today as one of the greatest spiritual leaders in history. But at one time he was the prince of a small kingdom in India. However, Siddhartha, as he was then known, didn’t fit into his royal world very well. Although he tried in many ways, Siddhartha just didn’t care about wealth and power the way other young men his age would have. Instead, he dreamed of achieving enlightenment and helping others to discover this highest state of human existence. At the age of 29, Siddhartha walked away from his life in the palace. What he did after that departure would change the lives of countless others up to the present day.”
  • Buddhism by Rita Faelli – “Learn more about the history, religious symbols, and special events of the Buddhist religion in Buddhism.”
  • What is Buddhism from the “Oh My God" series – designed for school based learning, this 26 minute video introduces concepts and celebrates Buddha’s birthday.

Doing a solo Vesak retreat? Celebrate the day with these options:

  • Buddha, the World, the Eightfold Path by Nyanatiloka – “Buddha, The Word discusses the teachings of Guatama Buddha. The Four Noble Truths teach that suffering is inherent in life, but that through acknowledging the origins of suffering and following the Eightfold Path, suffering can be ceased. The Eightfold Path teaches how understanding, thought, speech, action, livelihood, effort, mindfulness and concentration can all be undertaken with rightness.”
  • A lighthearted approach can be found in Buddha Doodles by Molly Hahn – “With simple, whimsical drawings and simple, profound truths, Buddha Doodles celebrates the amazing possibilities of the divine light within us all. These inspiring messages, little doodles, and feel-good sayings can help you get in-tune while you meditate or inspire you toward mindfulness.”
  • Listen to Jonathan Reese narrate Buddha’s Teachings by Bukkyo Dendo Kyokai  or In my Own Words written and narrated by The Dalai Lama to de-stress and have a moment of calm.

Or try meditation with one of our Hoopla television series: Search Digital Library, use the Limit Search Results on the left side to select Electronic Format, and check mark the Hoopla television and Include, enter meditation and hit Search