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Israel: Marking World Falun Dafa Day at Ramat Gan National Park

June 17, 2021 |   By practitioners in Israel

(Minghui.org) Dozens of Falun Dafa practitioners from all over Israel gathered in Ramat Gan National Park on June 5, 2021 to celebrate World Falun Dafa Day.

The activity this year was postponed due to rocket attacks from Gaza. Each attack forced almost everyone in Israel to rush into shelters. They could hardly leave their homes, even though the coronavirus lockdown had already been lifted.

From morning until noon, practitioners clarified the truth to passersby and encouraged them to experience the practice by learning the exercises.

A table with truth-clarification materials was set up next to a pedestrian lane and bicycle path by a lake sparkling in the sun. A few practitioners stood by the table to speak with passersby.

Many people stopped and observed the practitioners, some wearing yellow shirts, some doing the exercises, and others sitting in meditation.

Doing the Falun Dafa exercises

The activity attracted quite an audience. People stopped by the information table and took leaflets and paper lotus flowers. They learned about the practice and its benefits, and about the brutal persecution and forced organ harvesting taking place in China.

The practitioners told passersby that Falun Dafa is a cultivation method of mind and body, and is an ancient practice from China. People learned that the practice focuses on both the physical body and the heart and mind, and also aims to improve one’s moral character. They learned that practitioners try to lead their lives according to the universal principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance. Those who practice it experience positive changes in their energy, and their health typically improves. They also become more patient and peaceful overall, and their morality improves.

Some people wanted to try the exercises, so two practitioners taught them next to the practice site. The practitioners also answered questions, demonstrated the exercises, and addressed any difficulties that people were having when practicing for the first time. The practitioners and the passersby who learned the exercises made a close, personal connection. The learners asked questions about the movements and about the principles of Truthfulness-Compassion-Forbearance, and the background of the practice.

Passersby learning the Falun Dafa exercises

Next to the truth-clarification table, practitioners showed people how to make origami lotus flowers. Parents and their children who stopped by also learned about the principles of Truthfulness-Compassion-Forbearance from the instructors. Some of the children had a hard time folding the paper properly—some didn’t understand exactly how to fold them, while others lacked the coordination to make accurate folds. The practitioners patiently and repeatedly showed everyone how to fold the paper correctly. The parents, who were at times impatient, observed in wonder. They expressed their gratitude for the practitioners’ time and patience, and the children’s opportunity to learn. They cherished the peace and tranquility. Many said that it is rare to get something for free nowadays.

Passersby learn how to make origami lotus flowers.

Here are some of the reactions from people who took part in the activity:

Halit, a 10-year-old girl: “Falun Dafa is Truthfulness-Compassion-Forbearance; I heard that from my grandmother.”

Rami, 44, asked if Falun Dafa could help his friend who suffers from diabetes. He observed, “I would like to improve and become calmer.” He was amazed to learn that so many people around the world practice Falun Dafa. He asked, “Is organ harvesting still going on? I can see that you are good people”

Yoel, 60, said, “People in Israel can be impatient, and they react very impulsively. I lived in India once, and there is much patience and mutual respect there, especially for parents, uncles, and grandparents. Today, everything in society is deteriorating, and I can see this with my children and grandchildren. I wish you the best of luck in raising awareness.”