The world of Tzu Chi (Vol.109)

2019 • 04 26 Volunteers joined the local farmers in harvesting the mung beans cultivated using the seeds provided by Tzu Chi after the flood in 2018. pecial Feature many poor farmers’ families, by relieving them of poverty, and more importantly, giving them the treasure of life wisdom. So on February 15, about 30 of us from Tzu Chi KL & Selangor, who were to participate in the first round of the distribution mission, arrived at the Yangon International Airport and were warmly greeted by the local and overseas Tzu Chi family. We were briefed by Li Jin Lan, person-in- charge of Tzu Chi Myanmar, on the footprints of Tzu Chi in the country. The determination of the local volunteers in carrying out Tzu Chi’s work despite the challenges, and the pure-heartedness of the local farmers, overwhelmed many of us. Many stories left a deep impact on me, such as, the distribution of solar panels to keep the villagers’ homes lighted at night; and how the students of different ages were learning happily despite having to share a big “classroom” with bamboo thatched roof and no walls. After gaining some understanding of the development of Tzu Chi’s missions in Myanmar, we spent the afternoon folding the Jing Si Aphorism cards (to be distributed to the beneficiary farmers); and in the evening, we familiarized ourselves with the tasks for the days ahead. When the Dharma came alive In the following five days, we started our days as early as 4 am, and at times, retired to bed near midnight. From the onset, each of us was given a few packets of Jing-Si dehydrated instant rice for our lunch. Despite the long hours and physical exhaustion, we were filled with spiritual joy; it felt like we were immersed in Dharma scent throughout the day. Every day was spent fruitfully. If we were not having rice seed distribution sessions, we would be going for home visits. It was a very memorable trip given the chance to learn from the veteran volunteers, who have been actively involved in Tzu Chi’s international disaster relief work. During the distribution days, it was like seeing the emergence of living bodhisattvas from all corners to support the great cause. The “Four All-Embracing Virtues” of charitable giving, beneficial acts, loving speech