(Minghui.org) On May 13, 2025, the 26th World Falun Dafa Day, two practitioners, Wilfred and Janniek, shared how their practicing Falun Dafa (also known as Falun Gong) not only elevated their physical and mental health, but also brought them inner peace and a sense of direction in a turbulent and complex world. They also expressed their deep gratitude to Master Li Hongzhi, the founder of Falun Dafa.

A Firm Cultivation Path

Wilfred began practicing Falun Dafa nearly 20 years ago.

On the eve of World Falun Dafa Day, Wilfred quietly reflected on his cultivation journey. Nearly 20 years have passed since he, his wife, and their oldest daughter began practicing Falun Dafa in December 2006. This journey not only brought the family physical and mental benefits but also gave them a deep sense of peace and spiritual elevation.

For years, Wilfred searched for a path that would elevate his spirit and guide his life. He tried meditation to find inner peace, but never experienced a true breakthrough. Every night before bed, he prayed that he would find a genuine cultivation discipline. His wish was finally granted when he encountered Falun Dafa.

Falun Dafa, a cultivation practice rooted in traditional Chinese culture, is based on the principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance. It guides practitioners to elevate their character, purify their minds, and strengthen their bodies.

Wilfred soon began to feel the changes in both his body and mind. He was more energetic than ever, and in the face of pressure and conflicts, he was no longer impatient and complaining. Instead, he began to practice self-reflection, taking the initiative to look within and improve his words and actions.

He gradually learned to be tolerant and understanding. In the face of conflicts, he no longer argued and instead held himself to the standards of a cultivator.

One of the most remarkable transformations he experienced was the ability to think calmly and rationally when problems arose. This inner change improved his relationships with others and created a more harmonious atmosphere within his family.

Wilfred realized that the Falun Dafa exercises were more than just physical movements; they were a process of dual cultivation of mind and body. During the sitting meditation, he experienced a deep level of tranquility and peace, an indescribable serenity, as if his whole being was surrounded by pure energy. His mental state became stable, his mind was clearer, and he was relaxed and healthy.

He was deeply moved by the fact that this great practice is free of charge, with no intention for fame or personal gain. He feels this purity and selflessness further highlights the nobility and integrity of Falun Dafa. Against the backdrop of materialism in today’s society, Falun Dafa demonstrates a rare and valuable moral force that enables people to recover their true hearts and conscience.

As his cultivation progressed, Wilfred became more convinced that this is a path to light and goodness. He witnessed the tremendous positive impact of Dafa in his personal and family life, and sincerely hopes that more people will learn about Falun Dafa and personally experience the compassion, beauty, and wisdom that this great way brings.

On the occasion of World Falun Dafa Day, Wilfred said with a grateful heart, “It is Master Li who brought this great way to the world, allowing us to maintain our kindness and faith, and to walk firmly on the path of returning to our original true selves in this complicated and ever-changing world.”

Grateful for the Cultivation Journey

Janniek began practicing Falun Dafa 23 years ago.

Janniek, a schoolteacher, talked about her 23-year journey of practicing Falun Dafa. She described how her life transformed from confusion to clarity, from anxiety to peace.

Janniek began practicing Falun Dafa in 2002. At that time, her husband had practiced for nearly two years, and she was impressed by his transformation—he not only gave up smoking and drinking and became physically and mentally healthy, but also began to shoulder marriage and family responsibilities. All this touched her deeply.

Out of curiosity, Janniek opened Zhuan Falun, the main text of Falun Dafa. At that moment, she said it felt like a beam of light shone within her. The book’s teachings touched her deeply, allowing her to feel the meaning of life for the first time and to discover her true path.

She began to practice Falun Dafa and for 23 years, Janniek consistently cultivated herself according to the principles of Truthfulness, Compassion, and Forbearance.

As a schoolteacher, she integrated these principles into her work, and she’s become more patient and tolerant with students and colleagues. She looks inward during conflicts and puts herself in others’ shoes. These transformations earned her the affection and respect of her students and fostered a more harmonious teaching environment.

She reads the Fa (teachings) and does the exercises every day. She said that this cultivation way not only improved her physical and mental health, but also enabled her to face the challenges of life without confusion, and to cope with everything with a clear mind and a compassionate heart.

On the occasion of World Falun Dafa Day on May 13th, Janniek expressed her deep gratitude to Master Li. She said Master Li brought this high and virtuous Dafa to the world, allowing countless people to find direction in life despite the chaos and return to a path of morality and kindness.

She said, “If it weren’t for Master’s compassionate salvation, I might still be wandering down a lost path. It is Dafa that made me a better person and taught me the true meaning of gratitude and responsibility.”

Janniek also called on people to let go of their preconceived notions and understand what Falun Dafa is. She emphasized that Falun Dafa is a righteous practice that teaches people to be virtuous and elevates their characters, and since its public introduction in 1992, it has benefited over a hundred million people.

However, in July 1999, the Chinese Communist regime launched a campaign of suppression and persecution against Falun Dafa, which continues to this day. Nevertheless, she firmly believes that good will eventually triumph over evil and that more and more countries and people are awakening to support freedom of belief and human rights.

She hopes that by commemorating this special day, more people’s good thoughts will be awakened. She said, “May more people understand the truth, begin practicing Dafa, and join us in basking in Buddha’s infinite grace.”