The world of Tzu Chi September-October 2021 (Vol.137)

TZU CHI 137 11 second filter that ensured everyone who came for the vaccination had an appointment and was in good health, thus enabling a smooth operation for the vaccination centre. At the beginning of July, the pandemic situation worsened in KL and Selangor. As part of stricter safety precautions, we set up a special counter at the temperature check station, catering to anyone who had special condition. Being the team leader, I was duty- bound to be in charge of this counter. I clearly recall that on July 17, a man was brought to the special counter because his risk status on the MySejahtera app was orange, indicating that he was a close contact to a Covid-19 patient. According to the Government’s SOPs, he was supposed to go for a Covid-19 test and self-quarantine for ten days. However, he still came for his appointment. “My family was infected, but I have got tested twice, both came out negative. The doctor said I can go for my vaccination.” He uttered slowly, which sent chills down my spine. I apologized and explained that we could not let him in due to his feverish symptoms and that he was categorized as a close contact. However, he refused to leave. Upon assessment by a TIMA volunteer, it was confirmed that we could not administer vaccine to him. Then, a volunteer reminded me, “Sister, you would better sanitize your whole body.” Actually, I was not worried at that moment. It was not until the following day, when a teammate informed me that she was feeling feverish and had a sore throat, that I started to feel concerned. Hope for family reunion “Is my teammate infected? Will I be infected too? What if I spread the virus to my family?” Endless questions went through my mind. I told my husband and son what had happened the day before, and said, “In case I am tested positive for Covid-19, please don’t blame Tzu Chi. It was my choice.” Fortunately, everything remained normal and I felt relieved. Master Cheng Yen once preached, “Practice brings you to reality. When your mind is clear of afflictions, you have to go among the masses and serve to benefit humanity.” I felt fortunate that I diligently listen to Master’s Dharma talk each dawn. Master has always reminded all volunteers to make safety our priority. I am thankful that I have always adhered to the SOPs, and I knew then that I had to quickly ease my anxiety. In fact, as soon as I confirmed my voluntary duty at the vaccination centre, I had informed my mother, who lives opposite me, that I would not visit her for the next three months. I sought my family’s understanding as I had to avoid bringing the virus home. In late July, when I left a voice message to my mother, telling her to be safe when going for her vaccination, she replied, “When will you come home? It has been a while since I have heard your voice.” Tears swelled up but I knew I had to persist, in order to helpMalaysia achieve herd immunity so that more families can reunite. Truth be told, we fear this virus as much as anyone else, only that we try to convert our concerns into a force of kindness and continue to give selflessly and unconditionally. Jing Si Hall Vaccination Centre