The World Of Tzu Chi(Vol.114).

54 2019 • 09 Serene Reflection Between Master Cheng Yen and Mr Paul Kaihla on How to Promote Tzu Chi October 25, 1996 Mr Kaihla: Can you share your views on materialism and spirituality? Master Cheng Yen: Taiwan has become very prosperous. It has abundant material resources, but it is still spiritually poor. Therefore, there are some imbalances in society. True religion educates humanity; it elevates people’s spiritual lives. Buddhism is exactly such a religion with profound wisdom and Great Love. Most people think education can only be received in schools and colleges. However, true religion is a social education, too. All people, regardless of age, should learn about love from religion. Mr Kaihla: Throughout these 30-odd years, how do you summon the strength to keep Tzu Chi going? Master ChengYen: It’s not that I summon myself. I just feel that there is so much suffering in life; with the compassionate spirit of religion, I wish to unite the strength of kind-hearted people to help the needy. After establishing Tzu Chi, I’ve gained unlimited energy and much valuable experience because I feel what I’m doing is correct. Since the direction is right, I should keep moving forward. Taiwan is a simple and honest place with lots of kind-hearted and loving people. As long as people take the initiative, this collective strength will come together. Mr Kaihla: How do you engage in spiritual practice every day? Master ChengYen: In my daily life, 24 hours just is not enough because there are so many things to be done. Whenever I see or hear about people suffering, I worry very much and try to help them right away. Maybe this is my daily spiritual practice. Question & Answer Paul Kaihla, a Canadian writer from MacLean Weekly came to visit Master Cheng Yen, under the arrangement of the Government Information Office, accompanied by Mr Shi Qizhi. They talked about the Master’s high expectations of herself and her views on materialism and spirituality. * The article is extracted from the book “Friends from Afar: Conversations with Dharma Master Cheng Yen”.