The world of Tzu Chi January 2020 (Vol.118)

55 TZU CHI 118 through the selection of books on display in the premises, his gaze settled on a copy of Challenges, a volume that features anecdotes of Master Cheng Yen’s wisdom in overcoming obstacles. He found himself moved to tears by the Master’s compassion and generosity with every turnof the page.TheMaster hadweathered hardships in the early founding years of Tzu Chi and persevered through various challenges. His own experiences of failure seemed insignificant in comparison, yet he would brood over them. This realization compelled him to reflect on his own attitude when faced with trials in life. For the next ten days, he arrived at the café early in the morning and spent the most part of his day there. He was introduced to Tzu Chi’s values and missions by the café staff, who also recommended titles authored by Master Cheng Yen to add to his reading list. In April 2008, Sew Loon decided to leave his business venture behind and devote himself to volunteering with Tzu Chi, starting with dedicating two months to gaining a deeper understanding of the organization. Volunteering for kitchen duties gave him the opportunity to leverage his culinary skills for the benefit of others. In addition to feeling at ease to be his true self when interacting with fellow volunteers, his knowledge of the Dharma grew alongside his level of commitment to voluntary work. He had also embraced a vegetarian diet that same year and developed his own vegetarian recipes, which he generously shared with others. “Transitioning from cooking meat-based dishes to vegetarian meals is possible, so long as one is committed to make the change,” he asserted. Sew Loon had previously worked in the kitchen of the KL Tzu-Chi Jing Si Hall, whipping up wholesome meals that warmed the heart from the inside. The humble, thoughtful cook craftedmenuswithTzuChi KL&Selangor staff in mind. “I find gratification in knowing that my cooking brings joy and satisfaction to all,” he shared. Sew Loon, now 47, tied the knot last year, marking a significant milestone in his life. He has learnt to cherish the quality time spent with his family following the demise of his father and older brother. This coming Chinese New Year is especially meaningful for Sew Loon, who has since scaled down his catering services and currently operates from his home kitchen, as he has decided to pay full attention to his family and pour his heart into personally whipping up a festive spread for his loved ones. He has also resolved to honour his mother by not only treating her to homemade festive fare, but also devoting more time to her and taking care of himself to ensure her peace of mind. This Chinese New Year, Sew Loon has resolved to spend quality time with his wife and mother in the spirit of togetherness.