The world of Tzu Chi (Vol.109)

TZU CHI 109 15 are treated to his cooking. He is indeed on his way to recovery.” Last November, Kim Peow received a letter from the Social Security Organization (SOCSO) requesting him to undergo a health screening as part of the assessment criteria for medical aid. Tuck Leong and a fellow volunteer, Kok Fook Keng were aware that most people are unfamiliar with the workings of SOCSO, hence they specially applied for leave from work to accompany Tang Soong for the health screening. The volunteers’ supportive gestures motivated him to strive for recovery and discover the silver lining in life. “The volunteers are not related to me in any way. I am only a stranger to them, yet they are always willing to go the extra mile for me. I am touched by their kindness,” he said with tears welling up in his eyes. Giving of oneself to cultivate kindness The volunteers were a reliable source of moral support for Kim Peow, caring for him like family. They hoped that he would eventually regain the strength to stand on his own two feet Loke Suit Kong , volunteer Kim Peow and I hail from the same village. I would never have visited him, for he had a bad reputation. Furthermore, I could not have done much for him even if I were to visit him, given my limited strength. But now that I have joined Tzu Chi for nine years, I have come to understand that the guiding principle of Tzu Chi is charity. Those who are blessed with sufficient means should reach out to those with limited access to resources. In Tzu Chi, we never walk alone. We work as a team, as there is greater strength in unity. According to the Buddha’s teachings, all sentient beings are equal. In the course of charity work, I have learnt about the “Four Magic Soup”, the “ingredients” of which are contentment, gratitude, understanding and tolerance. Letting go is also an important lesson to learn. I have surrendered my prejudice against Kim Peow to allow myself to approach him and his family to provide care and support. Volunteers carrying out a spring cleaning session to clear the clutter around Yoh Kim Peow’s house, in preparation for the NewYear gathering and distribution event. [Photograph by Tee Kim Wooi] Serve from the Heart Ever eady to