The World Of Tzu Chi March 2024 (Vol.149)

TZU CHI 149 13 Broad heart, broad path R eturning to the KL Tzu- Chi Jing Si Hall after a long absence, Lai Yoke Foong, the first person-in- charge of Tzu Chi Kuching, felt a rush of joy and was moved to tears as she watched the sutra adaptation performance unfold on the stage. Her emotions deepened as she listened to Echo Chien share about the early days of Tzu Chi in Malaysia. It felt like reliving her own early days of involvement with Tzu Chi. From childhood, Yoke Foong had a strong inclination to charitable work. She would visit nursing homes to show care and recite Buddha’s name with the elderly on her off days. In 1996, she visited Tzu Chi in Malacca with a few Buddhist friends. She recounted, “Brother David was incredibly kind. He spoke to me at length. While I did not grasp everything he said, what resonated most were our visits to a nursing home and a hospital. These were the things I enjoyed doing…” Upon returning to Kuching, Sarawak, Yoke Foong embarked on her journey with Tzu Chi. She installed a Da Ai TV set and listened to the Master’s teachings. Within a few months, the volunteer team in Kuching was already caring for about 20 to 30 care recipients. Despite her courage, she lacked understanding towards Tzu Chi’s philosophy and was afraid of making mistakes. She shared, “At that time, Tzu Chi affairs were not as hectic. Whenever I called, Sister Echo and Brother David would come over to East Malaysia to offer guidance and support. When they had to leave, I would cry because I was apprehensive. There were so many charity cases to manage, but I did not know how…” Nonetheless, Yoke Foong was willing to learn. Not one who is eloquent in speech, she influenced others through her actions. Now, there is no room for “difficulty” in her mind. Through various trials, she has come to deeply understand, “With a broad heart, one can accomplish much; the more Tzu Chi’s missions expand, the broader the heart should be.” She wished for the volunteers to rediscover their initial aspirations and commitment, and continue to cultivate diligently on the Bodhisattva Path.