The world of Tzu Chi June 2021 (Vol.135)

TZU CHI 135 15 Staying strong through support It is often said that when it rains, it pours. The beautiful thing is that you are not alone in the storm. It makes a difference when there is someone roughing it out with you. With subsidies from Tzu Chi, Onaisah is able to continue schooling and is determined to do her best. She speaks fluent Malay and English, and acts as her father’s interpreter during his medical visits. The tempestuous journey has made Onaisah not only stronger but more mature. Volunteer Michele Ng is pleased with Onaisah’s progress. Seeing a more confident Onaisah is encouraging. “Harun is concerned about the lump on his face which would jeopardize his job opportunity. Sharing and repeating positive affirmations like ‘To a beautiful heart, everything appears beautiful’ really helps to uplift his spirits.” Michele would share the Jing Si aphorism in every home visit. “Since the start of this year, home visits are not possible due to the seriousness of the pandemic. Hence, counselling with the clinical psychologist from Tzu Chi International Medical Association (TIMA) was done online, and this effort slowly eased his mind,” said the dedicated volunteer. At each home visit, Michele would skilfully guide Harun to think positively. This included telling him again and again to “Get well soon so that you could go out to work.” “Harun started praying every day ever since he fell ill. I encouraged him to do right things that will merit others; eventually, blessings will come in disguise.” Kindness has its rippling effects. Another volunteer Heng Wa Seng found a used recliner chair at Tzu Chi recycling centre for Harun, so that he could have a comfortable sleep and aid the healing of his wounds. Tzu Chi is in the process of discussing with UNHCR to subsidize his chemotherapy treatment which amounts to RM30,000. “Father told me that his life may end soon due to this illness. Fortunately, there are kind people like Tzu Chi volunteers and UNHCR personnel, and this is something we will never ever forget,” recalled Onaisah. With tears flooding her eyes, Onaisah sobbed, “My father feels sorry for not being able to work and afford us the things that we need.” Onaisah shared that her younger sister Sowaibah has a swollen neck, a condition that has been there for a long time. In April 2021, she did a diagnostic and ultrasound procedure with an emergency subsidy from Tzu Chi. There is no doubt that storms are inevitable in the journey of life. Some seem to hit harder than others. At the time when teenagers are blissfully engaging in the pampering luxuries of adolescence, Onaisah’s life is just one hurricane after another. Will the fog ever clear? Will there be a rainbow? Till the storm subsides, Onaisah has to sail on, with courage and faith. Postscript: I Was Told to Run, and to Run Quickly