The world of Tzu Chi (Vol.106)

TZU CHI 106 33 Actions and behaviour of teachers are the best role models. Daniel’s teachers always encouraged him. Hence, he also wishes to be a good teacher in the future. He said, “I hope to be able to teach students just like my teacher. I want to encourage students not to give up in their studies and give them a better future.” Danusha a/p Krishnamoorthy is a recipient of the “Filial Piety Award”. Four years ago, her mother was involved in an accident that resulted in her being bedridden. At a young age, Danusha not only had to handle her schoolwork, but also had to bravely assume responsibility in caring for her mother. This brought certain stress to Danusha and she shared saying, “At the beginning, I would always hide in a corner to cry. Luckily, my grandmother was with me and she calmed me down. She talked to me and solved my worries. Together with Tzu Chi volunteers’ help, I slowly cried less and less.” Upon realizing how the stateless children in Tawau were unable to attend school, Danusha was concerned. In reflection, she felt blessed to be able to receive Tzu Chi’s assistance and has aspired to use the study aid well for her educational purposes. Charity is not only for the rich, but also for those willing to give. Volunteers guided the children in saving coins in the bamboo bank daily, to accumulate their love to all others in the world. On the day of the ceremony, 17-year-old Danusha also brought her bamboo bank filled with money to donate and help others in need. She hopes to be able to reciprocate society like how Tzu Chi volunteers do. Sixteen-year-old Ong Zi Qian is a well- behaved and kind student from Tsun Jin High School. His father was paralysed due to an accident. After his demise a year ago, Zi Qian and his six siblings are cared for by his mother single-handedly. He was very excited to receive the “Excellent Performance Award” after winning the gold medal at the Mathematics Olympiad in his school, as well as maintaining good results. He said, “I will pass the aid from Tzu Chi to my mother to manage.” Other than being hardworking at school, Zi Qian is also a good assistant to his mother. He would help with household chores, care for his siblings and even prepare meals for his family. Although his family’s situation is difficult, he would still save up his leftover pocket money into his bamboo bank in order to do charity. Zi Qian’s 14-year-old sister, Xin Lu, has been diagnosed with systemic lupus erythematosus, which leads to various health conditions, such as cataracts, high blood pressure, and more. However, her health does not affect her desire to receive education and she was overjoyed to receive the “Filial Piety Award”. Like others, Xin Lu was also touched by the video of “Lighting Up the Dark Areas”. She found that although she is weak in health, in comparison to others who are suffering, she is still safe and blessed. Through it, she learnt that those in peace should care and pray for those in need. She hopes that when she grows up, regardless of her medical conditions, she wants to be a Tzu Chi volunteer to help others in need. Eagles stretch out their wings to soar high, but still rely on the assistance of wind. Children are the future of our country and Tzu Chi has managed to provide the assistance they need in their hardships. The saplings of today will grow to be shades of tomorrow. We hope that despite their environment, they will have positive and righteous attitudes in order to bravely stride towards their own futures. By achieving success, they will also be able to give back to society. Today’s Sapling, Tomorrow’s Shade