The world of Tzu Chi Sep-Oct 2022 (Vol.143)

14 2022 • 10 pecial Feature A new journey began —Wong Siew Ching W ong Siew Ching first participated in a sutra adaptation performance in 2012, as a parent in the Tzu Chi Parent-child Bonding Class. Her tears fell each time she listened to the sutra verses and practised the sign language for the performance. She recalled, “My life was quite smooth and I often did good deeds, but somehow, I felt like something was missing. While participating in the performance, my afflictions suddenly dissipated and that marked the beginning of a new life chapter.” For Siew Ching, who did not read Mandarin characters, the revelation was nothing short of divine as it transcended language and words. She shared, “It dawned on me that everything happens for a reason, and we have to accept whatever that comes willingly because it is the result of karma.” In 2015, Master saw her notes in English taken during Master’s Dharma talks at dawn, and instructed the staff there to provide further guidance, so that more volunteers would benefit from the English Dharma learning platform. Siew Ching said, “I believe that as long as we open our hearts to embrace the Buddha’s teachings, we will be able to calm our minds no matter how chaotic the outside world is.” Siew Ching opted for a role with more sign language and kneeling movements this time. She explained, “A higher level of difficulty will motivate me to practise diligently, so the sutra verses will penetrate deeper into my mind.” While performing, Siew Ching felt as though she had travelled through time and space back to more than 2,500 years ago, listening to the Buddha preaching at Vulture Peak. She was astonished as images of her involvement in Tzu Chi’s missions surfaced in her mind. She said, “I hope this feeling will stay in my heart, spurring me on to walk the Bodhisattva Path with the Buddha and Master’s intention to steadfastly spread the Dharma, and to not give up easily.” By Lee Lay Sim Photo by Chan Tuck Meng Watch the related video here: