Sister Boi Nghiem: The Hard Work Has Been Done

Meet the Monastics

Sister Boi Nghiem studied nursing before being ordained, and works regularly as a nun with the BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and teen communities.

"I think I have a very healthy relationship with myself. Very healthy mental dialogue with myself. There were times I comforted myself. There were times I'm very firm with myself, tell myself to stop thinking that way. And they help. This is why I kept on sharing the importance of self-love. Because by the end of the day, it is the self-love that helped me, that saved me, that keeps me going. Because if I continue to criticize myself or have excessive negative thoughts, I cannot do much. It's very tiring. So I think that is the reason why that helped me not to fall into burnout.""

3:07 Heartbreak, Visiting Green Mountain, Deer Park, and Plum Village 6:37 Novicehood at Plum Village 11:40 Magnolia Grove Monastery 25:00 Interest in Social Injustice 28:34 Teens 34:42 LGBTQIA+ 40:55 BIPOC 53:26 Burnout 1:07:07 Basic Practice 1:17:25 Advice for Potential Monastics

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This episode of “Meet the Monastics,” hosted by Brother Minh An from Deer Park Monastery, shares insights into the lives and practices of monastics in the Plum Village tradition.

In this episode, he interviews Sister Boi Nghiem (Sister True Pearl), who joined monastic life in 2005 at age 21. Sister Boi Nghiem emphasizes the significance of self-love and healthy inner dialogue as key practices to maintain well-being and prevent burnout. She shares her journey from a childhood in central Vietnam to immigrating to the U.S. and eventually finding spiritual direction after a difficult breakup. Initially drawn to Plum Village for personal healing, she gradually committed to monastic life.

Sister Boi Nghiem has devoted herself to supporting diverse groups, including the BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and teen communities. Her advocacy grew from personal experiences and a deep awareness of societal suffering, leading her to foster inclusivity in the Sangha. Her practice of mindfulness, compassion, and gratitude is nurtured by regular breathing exercises, walking meditation, and the support of her monastic community.

The episode also highlights the foundational role of the Plum Village Sangha and the teachings of Thich Nhat Hanh in fostering a mindful, compassionate, and engaged monastic community.

Listen without the music track.