The world of Tzu Chi December 2023 (Vol.148)

2023 • 12 02 z z generously donated a significant sum initially intended for their future home. They deemed Tzu Chi’s work more important, so they redirected their savings to support the hospital’s construction. Although they lived in a shabby rental, their act of giving filled their hearts with joy. We can find such kind-hearted people not just in northern Taiwan, but in the southern regions of the island as well. During the construction of Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, when I travelled to Pingtung, Taiwan’s southernmost county, a couple approached me with a bag. “Master, can you spare us a moment?”, they said to me. Unwrapping layers of newspaper and old cloth, they revealed pieces of gold jewellery, which turned out to be the wife’s dowry and gifts from relatives and friends when their children were born. (In Taiwan, it is customary for people to give gifts of gold on important occasions.) This couple sold freshly made puffed rice cakes from a cart each day, living a life far from affluent. I asked them, “Why are you offering me these pieces of jewellery when you have to work so hard to sustain yourselves?” They replied, “Our material life may be challenging, but finding inner joy is more important to us. We realise that Tzu Chi has a lot of work to do, and we wish to contribute.” After they happily fulfilled their wish, they left. I have never crossed paths with them again. I have no idea what they are doing now or whether they have become Tzu Chi volunteers. It is unlikely for them to come forward from the crowd and say, “Master, we are that couple.” However, they have left an indelible mark in my memory. I am grateful to everyone, past and present, who has contributed their love over the years. I see more and more people giving without seeking recognition. They may expect nothing in return, but surely, all the spiritual merits they deserve will be theirs. Furthermore, by joining forces with like-minded people to alleviate suffering, they form good affinities with many others. It has been more than 50 years since Tzu Chi was founded. Looking back, I see how our foundation, with everyone’s support, has progressed step by step from our humble beginnings. The light from a single firefly may be weak, but when many fireflies come together to give light, their collective brilliance illuminates even the darkest of nights. The smallest acts of kindness can lead to profound change. * Reprinted with permission from Tzu Chi Bimonthly. aster's Teaching