The world of Tzu Chi June 2024 (Vol.150)

TZU CHI 150 15 with manpower and financial support, but also recommended iRehab Centre for my daughter’s treatment and constantly cheered us on. I am deeply grateful for your help. You have been there for us day and night, and your care for us is beyond words. I can only pray for blessings upon you.” For Aidah, her 21st birthday, which fell on December 8, 2023, was a day to remember. On that day, Tzu Chi volunteers planned a surprise birthday celebration for her during their monthly visit. Their thoughtful gesture brought tears to Aidah’s eyes. Exerting all her efforts, she uttered word by word, “Tzu Chi volunteers are like family to me. You make me feel loved and cared for. I used to be bedridden and unable to speak. Now, I can talk and even sit up. My birthday wish is to walk again, go to university, speak fluently, and draw.” Aidah expressed her deep gratitude to Chiah Wen for her year-long free therapy, and to her mother, saying, “I love you!” Nor Rohimah gently embraced her tearful daughter and chokingly assured her, “Mum will always pray for your recovery. Be strong and get well soon, so you can return to school. As long as Mum is alive, I will do everything I can to help you…” The touching scene deeplymoved the volunteers, and some quietly wiped away their tears. As Master Cheng Yen aptly put it, pouring a large bucket of water onto dry soil under the blazing sun may quickly evaporate, rendering it ineffective, whereas a consistent trickle of water, albeit small, sustains the soil, keeping it moist and vibrant. Likewise, the volunteers’continuous care and support will enable Aidah to traverse her long rehabilitation journey with even greater courage. Nor Rohimah (right) relocated with her children, Nurul Aidah (left) and Muhammad Khairi Isyam (middle), from Sandakan, Sabah, to West Malaysia.