Vipassana Meditation Master
Acharavadee Wongsakon
Those who refuse to seriously practice meditation will never understand how just seven days ofVipassana meditation can completely transform a person’s entire life. Dhamma must be experienced firsthand, because it is personal and cannot be grasped merely by memorizing words or imagining it in your mind.
In this article, I’d like to share with you the “turning point” in my life. It is indeed a crucial step for people who strive for spiritual liberation.
My turning point is nothing greater than becoming a Vipassana meditation teacher. Of course, not everyone will have such an extraordinary experience because most people are afraid to change.
Even my close friends didn’t believe that my life had immensely changed like this—from a brandname fashionista to a local product supporter, from a luxury business entrepreneur to a Dhamma teacher. Having options to choose is a challenge. If we have no choice,we won’t have a chance to realize our strength. And if ourlife is completely predestined, what would be the meaning of it? In fact, our life is 60% destined by Karma, and the other 40% depends on our decision—which direction we want to go—dark or bright, hell or heaven, or even Nirvana. We must choose by ourselves.
The turning point of most people usually resulted from a tragedy in life. But those who have the courage to change themselves without any pressure are truly strong, as they can control their own destiny.
Some people wondered how I live as a Vipassana meditation teacher who has practiced for thousands of hours, with full dedication to Buddhism. Actually, what’s more interesting is how I lived my life before that.
Back then, I lived a luxurious lifestyle. After work, I’d often attend social events— some for networking and business, some for enjoyment, and others out of obligation or reciprocity, like charity galas, weddings, orfunerals. Today, I only attend events that tied to duty, tradition,or respect.
Social life had me obsessively focused on image. I had to dress up and use high-end products because in that world, people judged you from head to toe. At every event, you had to look flawless, elegant, camera-ready — especially with journalists always around, waiting to snap a photo.
Because of this illusion, so many people wanted to be part of high society—to feel special. But it wasn’t easy to join them; each person would be scrutinized by insiders and the media. Anyway, in the end, regardless of family background and social connection, money was the deciding factor—those rich and famous would be most welcomed.
At one point, what started out as fun became no longer enjoyable. I began to see impermanence in such a lifestyle. I saw outsiders trying to enter while insiders struggled to maintain their status. And above all, I saw my mind full of ego. The longer I stayed, the more I was deluded by shallow pleasure and fleeting fun. The more I indulged, the more addicted I became. Finally, I saw it as a trap that made everyone perceive themselves as special and superior.
My turning point was partly caused by boredom, but most importantly, I no longer valued what I was doing. After practicing Dhamma, I became aware that my work carried poison in it. Selling and designing diamond jewelry was about creating craving in others. Once they got a small diamond, they would desire a bigger one. There must be a new and grander collection day after day. Stimulating desire and creating illusion were the key to success of my business. Eventually, it came back to hurt me because I was constantly struck by the craving of others. So, I started planning on closing down the business within seven years.
Life had already shown me everything, from the deepest pain to the sweetest joy. While I lost my passion in what I did, I could clearly see the new path for my life.
Before bidding farewell to my business, I carefully and slowly planned every step so it wouldn’t affect others, especially my staff. But then, the only worry was about myself. As a very energetic person, would my life become dull and stagnant without work? Eventually, when things fell into place, I was peaceful like never before. My energy has been channeled into Dhamma work. I sold all luxury stuff to raise funds for religious work, in addition to monetary donations, without even the slightest feeling of regret.
Today, my favorite shoes cost only 200 baht, and my sunglasses are simple—all cheap and durable, with no brand. This is my standpoint, the opposite side of the material world.
Do not be afraid to change your life. For those who have responsibilities, you have to make sure that your decisions do not cause any trouble to others. Each person has different status, but all have the same duty: taking care of oneself and others. If we make a good plan, when the party is over, we can say goodbye to each other with good memories.
I don’t feel regret for the life I’ve left behind. In fact, I’m grateful for it. Failure and success, honor and dishonor, happiness and sadness – all these directed me to where I stand today.
Now, there is no question left without an answer, whether it be worldly or spiritual. Everything shines bright and clear within my heart.
From glamour to simplicity—a meal that costs ten thousand baht is no different from a simple omelet with rice at home. C’est la vie!
No matter who you are, as long as you’re still alive, you should feel good and value your life. Sometimes, it might feel painful; just take it as a test that will strengthen your heart.
The turning point should come from strong determination, not from Karma dictating our fate. We can determine our life, to fly high or low, to live moderately or aimlessly.
Let’s live a meaningful life. Carry yourself appropriately in every status and role you take on. And remember this… The highest point in life is the point beyond the power of the universe—to be someone who rises above all Karma.
The path of Dhamma is supreme and absolute.
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