The world of Tzu Chi December 2024 (Vol.152)

TZU CHI 152 25 can’t help others,” Gunasunderi said, urging attendees to adopt the bamboo bank practice. “I was once a care recipient, but today I stand on my own feet and have become a volunteer. If I can do it, so can you.” Gathering love to illuminate lives Fifty-eight years ago, Tzu Chi started its charitable mission with 30 housewives, each saving NT$0.50 daily in bamboo banks. To- date, such small donations remain a significant source of Tzu Chi’s funds. Beyond helping the needy, it serves to continuously nurture love and kindness in everyone’s heart. Master Cheng Yen explained, “Saving NT$0.50 daily creates 30 opportunities each month to do good and make a good wish. If you donate NT$15 once a month, you think about doing good just once…” The collective love from the public has illuminated the lives of countless families. Among them is Renukah, who shared her transformation accompanied by her parents. Years ago, her father lost a leg due to an accident and complications from diabetes, plunging her family into financial hardship. In 2014, Tzu Chi stepped in to provide school transportation fees and other support. For six years, volunteers visited monthly, caring for her education and sharing Tzu Chi’s work. Noticing her good grades, volunteers invited her to teach at Tzu Chi’s tuition classes for underprivileged children. This experience honed her interpersonal skills and expanded her social circle. Hearing about the children’s progress from their parents, she realised she was doing something wonderful. At 17, and with her mother’s influence, she changed her ambition from “police” to “teacher”. This October, 23-year-old Renukah officially became a primary school teacher. She reflected, “From the first time Tzu Chi volunteers visited my home, I knew it was God’s will for me to follow their example and contribute as much as I could.” She encouraged the young attendees: “Never give up on your dreams. With hard work and determination, the future is in your hands.” Each coin represents a blessing First-time attendee Kiranjit shared, “Every volunteer radiates love. Each home visit is warm, with them always caring about our needs and helping us through our difficulties.” Inspired by the event’s videos, performances, and testimonials, she said, “I am amazed by how Tzu Chi helps so many people! I am going to save more in my bamboo bank so I can donate more.” Fourteen-year-old Robert Raj saves a portion of his pocket money in the bamboo bank daily, driven by a deep intention to donate and pray for peace and an end to wars. His family has been receiving Tzu Chi’s support since 2020, and he often participates in Tzu Chi activities alongside volunteers. He said, “Although I can’t use the money I donate for myself, seeing others smile makes me happy.” Robert firmly believes in the power of small acts of giving. “You don’t have to be rich to donate. Master Cheng Yen teaches us that even those with little can contribute by donating a small amount. Master has proven that even 50 cents can save lives. Today, Tzu Chi has aided people in 136 countries, including my family.” Robert aspires to follow in the volunteers’ footsteps, helping others regardless of race or religion. “Clink, clink…” The sound of coins dropping into bamboo banks represents blessings for oneself and others. With love in our hearts, even the darkest days can be illuminated.