The world of Tzu Chi February 2020 (Vol.119)

02 2020 • 02 predicament, volunteers also distributed rice seeds to them, hoping that they could sustain their livelihood through their own efforts come harvest season. A few local entrepreneurs also worked together with the volunteers from different countries in preparing and transporting the relief supplies; and they also pledged to join the ranks of volunteerism. When volunteers arrived at the flood-hit areas, the poverty-stricken locals thought they were only there to distribute supplies as a token gesture, but to their surprise, what they received could sustain them for months. How moving it is to feel the joy of both the receivers and givers! We are living in an era in which the four elements of earth, water, fire and wind are out of balance, and the world is plagued by incessant disasters including the unquenchable forest fires and prolonged droughts. Yet, many are still ignorant of the alarming ecosystem degradation and its calamitous impacts. I have been saying that we are “running short of time”, but now I intensely feel that we are “not acting fast enough”. We must speed up our efforts in raising environmental awareness, and taking concrete and persistent action to conserve the environment. As we witness the pain and suffering of others, we should recognize and cherish our blessings. In fact, everyone should share and take up the responsibility. We should treasure every drop of water and lead a simple life to reduce the amount of waste, including food waste, for wastage of resources is, in a way, consuming our blessings; and we should also care for all living beings in this world. By spending less on ourselves, we will have extra to share with others; and the gesture of love will come back to us as merits. The disaster victims are waiting for our love and assistance. I only learnt a few days ago that in Taiwan, a cup of coffee may cost up to NT$100 (approximately RM13.50). I do not drink coffee. What came to my mind instead was the people in pain and suffering. If everyone who lives a decent life could save the money that he or she would spend for a single cup of coffee, we will be able to help more people in need. Time passes us by, and soon, we will be ushering in a new year. Those who are diligent in spiritual cultivation will make full use of their limited lifespan to serve and benefit others, thereby adding value and depth to their own lives. Looking back on the journey of Tzu Chi volunteers in the past 50-plus years, they have exercised the power of love and led a meaningful life. Their hearts are neither full of worries nor do they have the desire to fight for or win anything. Instead, they bring more warmth to society and foster a sense of gratitude and mutual respect among the community, playing their part in safeguarding their home and country. Just like there are four seasons in a year, human beings go through the stages of childhood, adolescence and adulthood in life. As one’s life diminishes with the passing of each second, I now cherish my life even more than before. I train myself to speak and walk with more steady steps [despite my frail health], for I do not want to waste any moment of my life in vain. Let us always be compassionate, do things that benefit others and create blessings in the world; this is our direction. Please be mindful always. aster’s Teaching * Compiled from a collection of speeches delivered by Master Cheng Yen from December 2 to 16, 2019.