The world of Tzu Chi September 2024 (Vol.151)

TZU CHI 151 11 woven with not only the dedication of her teacher, but also the unwavering support and encouragement of her father, Annuar Ishaq. Annuar, who sustains the family through meagre earnings from grass-cutting, firmly believes that education can equip children with essential life and livelihood skills. Hence, despite life’s many trials, he prioritised his children’s education. “I never truly considered whether we have enough money,” he asserted. “Even if I earn little or struggle to put food on the table, my children must receive an education. My wife and I don’t mind enduring hardship, but we don’t want our children to face the same struggles.” As the eldest daughter, Senuwar lived up to her parents’ expectations and set a positive example for her younger siblings. After work, she would tutor and care for her siblings who are attending the Tzu-Chi Harmony ALC. From illiteracy to becoming an assistant teacher, Senuwar gained not only knowledge and a salary, but also a life rich in purpose and value. Stepping into the lives of refugee families proved profoundly moving. One father, in particular, confided that he deliberately shielded his children from the truth of their harrowing escape, fearing that such knowledge might sow seeds of bitterness in their innocent hearts. Instead, he chose to nurture their perception of the world’s inherent beauty. His words resonated deeply, prompting introspection: If our roles were reversed, could we maintain such unwavering positivity and live earnestly, refusing to squander life’s opportunities despite the odds stacked against us? Seeing for ourselves their predicaments, let us extend our kindness to them, allowing them to glimpse hope and believe that even amidst displacement, they too can achieve remarkable things. Senuwar aspires to make a difference through education. Afterword Watch the related videos: