The world of Tzu Chi (Vol.111)

2019 • 06 16 eature better equipped her to resolve disputes with an openmind, as she has nowaccepted that all events she encounters in the present is the outcome of her deeds in the past life. Hence, the ideal solution would be to mediate conflicts to the best of her ability and let karma run its course. The kind gestures of the volunteers inspired her to leave behind self-imposed inhibitions that have been holding her back from committing as a volunteer. She has since been actively contributing to various Tzu Chi initiatives in her local community and beyond. Her involvement in Tzu Chi has also led her to reassess her approach to parenting. She admitted that she rarely offered praise or encouragement to her children. Now, she has not only become generous with compliments, but is also supportive of her children’s decisions and spends quality time with them. In addition, she strives to take a more tactful approach in her interactions with her children, effectively improving her relationship with them. A fresh perspective on life As the leader of the living division of her local Tzu Chi group, housekeeping duties are part and parcel of Siew Giok’s responsibilities. During one of her regular cleaning tasks, she was suddenly overcome with remorse at the thought of leaving the household chores to her husband to focus on her career. She realized that as a wife and mother, she is obligated to maintain a wholesome balance between attending to her family, managing her business and volunteering with Tzu Chi. Hence, whenever she has any Tzu Chi engagements scheduled for the day, she would prepare breakfast for the family before leaving the house and prepare dinner Tan Siew Giok is seen organizing pre-loved garments for the convenience of visitors during an event aimed at raising awareness on environmental conservation. [Photograph by Chew Chin Wah]