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

TZU CHI 135 35 A midst a sombre pandemic backdrop, Tzu Chi members as well as the general public celebrated three joyous occasions of Buddha Day, Mother’s Day and the Global Tzu Chi Day online. The deep, rhythmic sound of drums by U-Theatre troop got the event started without any hiccups from the Hualien Tzu-Chi Jing Si Hall Companion Square. At the same time, the Dharma Masters from the Jing Si Abode, staff of Tzu Chi’s four major missions, police force, firefighters and Tzu Chi volunteers were also at the ceremony site. At another part of Taiwan, the sites of Linji Huguo Temple and Longshan Temple hosted similar ceremonies as well. Here in Malaysia, we registered more than 25,000 Malaysians joining the online ceremony which was broadcast live. Kindness reverberated, cutting across distance and time zones Once the grand online 3-in-1 celebration came to an end, the Malaysian participants proceeded with a second online session jointly organized by the four main Tzu Chi chapters. Master De Rang from the Jing Si Abode gave a Dharma discourse and offered her blessings to the Malaysian participants. She also commended on the unity displayed by Malaysian volunteers, deeming it the best gift to Master Cheng Yen. During this session, the Head of Tzu Chi Foundation Editorial and Compilation Department, Hong Jing-yuan, talked about the significance of Tzu Chi’s 3-in-1 celebration with a brief walk-through of past celebrations. Everyone was reminded to bring the Buddha to mind and, in that spirit, to continuously purify our hearts and minds. Florance Cham and her spouse participated in the Tzu Chi’s Buddha Day Ceremony for the first time this year. She was glad she could join the online 3-in-1 celebration along with thousands of other participants worldwide. “This is certainly a new experience. I am grateful for the opportunity and affinity.” This had reiterated her firm belief in the power of collective prayer and transference of merits to all sentient beings. In reflection, Florance noted the deep relationship between human beings and animals. “Humans used to keep animals in cages. Look at us now, who is being kept immobile at home!” Due to family factor, she was not able to commit to being a full-time vegetarian. However, she understood completely the maxim that “treating animals with respect could diminish much resentment and hatred animals had towards humans”, thus she deepened her resolution in reducing her meat consumption. Sowing blessings through performing good deeds Dong Min who hailed from China, is currently residing in Kuala Lumpur. She had the good fortune to attend the triple celebration Led by Dharma Masters from the Jing Si Abode, Tzu Chi's medical personnel paid homage to Buddha and prayed for peace in the world.