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

46 2020 • 02 not only helped us financially, but also offered us moral support – all without expecting anything in return. You have helped me and my family by turning our lives around. I’m glad to have all of you in my life!” enthused Ling Sien. Letting go of the past Ling Sien appears to exude an air of resigned composure, but still waters run deep. Her calm demeanour masks any signs of the agonizing lapse of emotional turmoil she was once confronted with. “Initially, I was trapped in thoughts of discontent, questioning the direction my life has taken. I felt I had betrayed myself. I used to like swimming and dancing, kept myself occupied with various activities and had my own circle of friends. But now, everything seems to have slipped away from my grasp. I couldn’t even return home to my parents because Joon Wai depended on me,” she recounted. In the end, her maternal instincts triumphed. Her love for her son rose above her longing for the freedom she enjoyed in the past and her frustration with a life of constant compromise. “TheMaster always reminds us of the futility of turning back in life. We have to take on everything that comes our way. If I keep clinging onto the past, I wouldn’t havemoved on tomy present self,” she pondered. “As a healthy individual, I have the responsibility of caring for the ill. I need to give my all in order to perform my duty well. I’m thankful to Joon Wai for the learning opportunities he has granted me. He is showing gradual improvement and deserves credit for his efforts.” Ling Sien dedicates nearly all of her time to Joon Wai, affording only three to four hours of sleep. She is only able to take a breather when other family members offer to take over her tasks, albeit in limited capacities. Her husband has to work to support the family; her mother-in-law The volunteers celebrated Joon Wai’s birthday at his home with a cake and plenty of well wishes. ouching Life Story