The World Of Tzu Chi December 2019 (Vol.117)

TZU CHI 117 43 concern weighing on her mind is to fulfil her duties as a volunteer. It has been a decade since she first joined Tzu Chi; she is entering her sixth year in the charity division. Participating in home visits to the destitute has opened her eyes to the bleak circumstances of those living on the fringes of society and broadened her horizons beyond her role as a housewife, besides reminding her to count her blessings. “Ah Ngah is the care recipient I have devoted the most time to. Her case is also the most memorable. Our hearts go out to her because she has no one else to turn to, so we will stay by her side until her twilight years. She has even entrusted us with her funeral arrangements,” remarked Hoon Cheng, who continues to look after Ah Ngah after the latter took up residence at the old folks’ home. Hoon Cheng’s steadfast commitment to acts of kindness stems from her belief that unconditional compassion is a core principle expected of Tzu Chi volunteers, who are ever ready to serve wherever help is needed. HoonCheng’s involvement incharitywork has granted her opportunities for self-reflection. She has also learnt to be more considerate of those under her care by putting herself in their shoes when in doubt, before determining the next course of action. Her encounter with Ah Ngah has made her realize the importance of cherishing the present. “I invest myself wholeheartedly in caring for Ah Ngah. I tend to imagine myself living life at her age as I see a mirror image of my older self in her. She has shown me that coming this far in life is an accomplishment in itself. I would advise her to enjoy every minute at this stage of her life. Why dwell in sorrow when she could choose to live a joyous life?” quipped Hoon Cheng cheerfully. Hoon Cheng has never looked back since joining Tzu Chi’s charity mission, which enables her to cultivate wisdom from exposure to various facets of life. Participating in charity work has also liberated her from the monotony of domestic life as a housewife and expanded her capacity for love; she is now not only capable of showering affection on her family, but also extending compassion to others and attaining spiritual enrichment. “There is always roomfor growth.You have to experience charity work for yourself to gain a more profound understanding of life. Witnessing the pain and suffering of the elderly when visiting Ah Ngah at the old folks’ home has spurred me to contemplate the impermanence of life. Being able to contribute to society is a blessing that I value dearly. I hope to be of service to others until my last breath,” mused Hoon Cheng with an air of resigned composure. Volunteer Lee Hoon Cheng personally tailored a set of hand-sewn pillowcases for Ah Ngah. [Photograph by Koh Poo Leng] Watch Ah Ngah’s story by scanning the QR code