(Clearwisdom.net) May 13, 2011 marks the 12^th annual World Falun Dafa Day, and is also the 60^th birthday of Master Li Hongzhi, founder of Falun Dafa. Practitioners in the greater Washington area held a series of activities on May 8 on the lawn of the National Mall to joyfully celebrate World Falun Dafa Day and wish Master Li Happy Birthday. The peaceful and harmonious scene drew the attention of many passers-by to come to learn about the practice. More than 20 people learned to practice the Falun Gong exercises on the spot.

Group practice of practitioners on the lawn of the National Mall to celebrate World Falun Dafa Day

Many visitors are drawn by the peaceful exercises and learn to do them themselves

A practitioner teaches a man the exercises

Passers-by stop to look at the truth clarification photo exhibit on the lawn

Visitors learn the facts about Falun Gong

Practitioners gathered on the lawn of the National Mall at noon on May 8. They demonstrated the five sets of exercises and offered free instruction to passers-by. Some practitioners distributed information about Falun Gong. They also set up a photo exhibit featuring more than a hundred historic photos as a record of Falun Dafa's spread throughout China and around the world. There were also photos depicting Falun Gong practitioners' truth clarification and their efforts to stop the persecution. A steady flow of visitors was drawn to learn about the facts of Falun Gong.

Minghui School students perform dance to celebrate World Falun Dafa Day

In the afternoon, practitioners presented songs, dances, and a waist drum performance to praise Falun Dafa and express thanks for Master's grace.

Practitioners in the greater Washington area celebrate World Falun Dafa Day and wish Master a Happy Birthday on the lawn of the National Mall

Background:

Falun Gong, also known as Falun Dafa, is a traditional Chinese spiritual discipline for mind and body. The practice involves slow, gentle movements and meditation. It is easy to learn, enjoyable to practice, and free of charge. Its guiding principles are based on Truthfulness-Compassion-Forbearance. The practice was first introduced by Master Li Hongzhi in China in 1992 and quickly spread by word of mouth throughout China and then beyond. Its beneficial effects in uplifting an individual's physical health, spiritual well-being, and moral character, not to mention its positive influence in the community and society as a whole, are undeniable. In fact, Falun Gong is practiced by over 100 million people in 110 countries. The main works of Falun Gong are available in over 30 languages.