The world of Tzu Chi (Vol.106)

TZU CHI 106 45 A team of volunteers from Tzu Chi Taiwan carried out five sessions of relief distributions at El Menahel International School in Sultangazi, benefitting 3,250 refugee families. Deputy Governor of Kayseri Province, Ali Uslanmaz; Professor Cuma and Muslim cleric Hussein were present at the event to give their blessings. The “We Are One Family” sign language performance presented by the Taiwanese and Syrian volunteers moved the Syrian people. One of them was deeply touched when volunteer Faisal Hu explained that the 32 volunteers from Taiwan had brought the love and care from Tzu Chi people worldwide. He asked all the Syrian people at the event to give thanks to Tzu Chi. “When all other countries in the world left us, you continue to stay by our sides and bring us warmth. We will never forget this warmth that you bring us. It represents borderless Great Love, which is the greatest and true spirit of love.” Lubanah, who is in her late 20s, is a language teacher with El Menahel International School. She approached and hugged Taiwanese volunteer Cheng Yan Jing while saying, “I long to go home! Thanks for visiting me. I really want to know your name because you are like my family!” When can the refugees stop fleeing and living an unsettled life? Lubanah said, “It is so very hard for a family to reunite!” In 2015, she and her parents successfully fled to Turkey. Her elder sister and her children fled to Sweden, while her two younger brothers were in Saudi Arabia and Germany respectively. Because of war, the family of six were separated and “home” exists only in their hearts. Lubanah said, “My hometown, Aleppo, is always the most beautiful place in my heart.” She wants to help her students heal the wounds in their hearts by painting their future hopes. Turkey 2018.11.25 There for the Refugees lobal News Reported by Tzu Chi Documenting Team Translated by Lee Hui Yieng Photograph provided by Tzu Chi Taiwan Headquarters