English
Y.M. Bhikkhuni Susilavati Theri, also known as Ayya Silla, was one of the original founder of Wisma Kusalayani. Along with Y.M. Bhikkhuni Santini Theri, she fought together building Wisma Kusalayani and Sangha Bhikkhuni Theravada Indonesia. From the beginning of Y.M. Bhikkhuni Santini Theri’s spiritual journey, she was one of her pillar. Before her ordination, as a disciple, Lim Siu Lan (her birth name) had a team who helped support Maechi Santini. She finally entered the life of a Samana on 19th of June 1992. She was ordained by Y.M. Bhante Pannavaro Mahathera in Vipassana Graha, Lembang, as Maechi Susilavati. Hereafter, all of the struggle is shared together. Both of them subsequently decided to be independent from Vipassana Graha and moved into what is now known as Wisma Kusalayani.
As they struggled together, hand in hand, Bhikkhuni Santini Theri as the spearhead deals with matters on the outside, while Bhikkhuni Silavati Theri handles matters inside Wisma Kusalayani and humanitarian activities. Without Y.M. Bhikkhuni Silavati Theri, surely Y.M. Bhikkhuni Santini Theri could not leave Wisma Kusalayani alone so that she could take care of external matters in a more freely manner. All matters of development and supporting training at Wisma Kusalayani were handled Y.M. Bhikkhuni Susilavati Theri. Besides being very tenacious in the struggle for the construction of Wisma Kusalayani, Ayya Silla is also very concerned about the welfare of the people who lived around Wisma Kusalayani, so she was also loved by the neighborhood. She is also known as Maechi who likes to give help. Y.M. Bhikkhuni Susilavati Theri often helped nurture people to do social services, both around Wisma Kusalayani as well as in other areas in need.
Y.M. Bhikkhuni Susilavati Theri sometimes also accompany Y.M. Bhikkhuni Santini Theri to go around the world on her sacred duties. Likewise, Y.M. Bhikkhuni Santini Theri also helped with Ayya Silla’s medical treatment process to completion, even as far as going abroad. They always support each other in going through their spiritual path, so that all the obstacles can be passed through.
Wisma Kusalayani and Sangha Bhikkhuni Theravada Indonesia will not come to a realization like it is now without the hard work and strong cooperation between the two Theri. Hopefully their struggle can benefit and inspire all people in terms of spirit, fighting spirit, teamwork and noble motivation. Sadhu, sadhu, sadhu.