Lotus blossom, Haleiwa, HI. “Out of the mud grows the lotus” captures an important Buddhist teaching: that suffering and dissatisfaction can be transformed into wisdom and compassion. Photo by David Atcheson.

Statue of Shinran Shonin. Jodo Shinshu Buddhism is based on the teachings of Shinran Shonin. This photo was taken at the Honpa Hongwanji Hawaii Betsuin temple in Honolulu during Ho’onko. Ho’onko is the memorial service for Shinran Shonin and is one of six major services throughout the year. Photo by David Atcheson.

Mokulua Islands at sunrise. This image was used on the Honpa Hongwanji Mission of Hawaii’s 2015 holiday card. Photo by Alan Kubota.

Pacific Buddhist Academy Taiko Festival. Each year, the Pacific Buddhist Academy presents a taiko festival showcasing PBA’s students and faculty as well as performers from the wider community. Photo by David Atcheson.

Bodhi tree leaf detail. This closeup shows the interconnected capillary structure of bodhi tree leaves at Foster Botanical Gardens (Honolulu). The tree is said to be a genetic descendent of the tree under which Shakyamuni Buddha attained enlightenment. Photo by David Atcheson.

Pali Lookout from Old Pali Highway. From the Pali Lookout at the highpoint of the Pali Highway between Honolulu and Kailua, an old road, now used as a trail, descends. Here is the view back up to the lookout and the cliffs (or pali). Photo by David Atcheson.