January 10, 2002 Falun Dafa was introduced to the public in 1992 by founder Li Hongzhi.

Truth, Compassion and Tolerance are the buzz words in Brockport this month.

By unanimous adoption of a proclamation Dec. 17, the Village Board declared January 2002 "Truth, Compassion and Tolerance Month" in Brockport.

"(Village residents) recognize that these timeless principles can provide harmony in times of peace, and courage in time of conflict," the proclamation reads.

Truth, compassion and tolerance are the principles of Falun Dafa - a self-improvement technique that promotes moral and spiritual living.

Falun Dafa was introduced to the general public by founder Li Hongzhi in 1992. The benefits of practicing the technique are said to range from improved health and newfound energy, to mental clarity, stress relief and peace of mind.

The practice of Falun Dafa consists of primarily two components - self-improvement through studying the teachings of the founder, and performing Falun Dafa's five exercises. Books outlining the practice are available in more than a dozen languages.

The technique was brought to the Village Board's attention by resident Lee Randazzo, who credits Falun Dafa with making a major difference in his life.

Randazzo made a presentation about Falun Dafa to board members on Monday, Dec. 3.

"I hope that the village of Brockport will see how special this practice is, how truth, compassion and tolerance can be guides for all our lives, and celebrate our freedoms that we have here in the United States," wrote Randazzo in a letter to Village Board members dated Dec. 4.

The Brockport Post was unable to contact Randazzo for an interview.

Brockport Mayor Josephine Matela said that the principles of Falun Dafa are especially important in the aftermath of Sept. 11.

"Especially at this time, I feel the country is in need of healing and people have to reach down deep and rekindle the stuff that has kept us together," she said. "If there was ever a time we needed more compassion, truth and tolerance, it's now."

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