The world of Tzu Chi April 2020 (Vol.121)

45 TZU CHI 121 and tidy. Rather than give in to her impeded mobility, Tholasiamah grips a broom in both hands and slides or crawls across her home to sweep the floor. Her knees are calloused from constant friction against the flooring, yet she persevered. She used to buymeals and groceries for herself, but now she resorts to living on dry rations and canned food as walking has become too strenuous for her. Apart from requesting her daughter to shop for fresh fruits and vegetables on her behalf from time to time, she seldom asked for much. “When I come to call, I hope to donate my furniture and possessions to Tzu Chi as a token of gratitude for their assistance,” professed Tholasiamah. For the past 18 years, the volunteers have stood by Tholasiamah all along, helping her cope with the challenges of life as well as relieving her emotional burden and guiding her towards a positive mindset, enabling her to come to terms with her ailments. She is moved by the help the volunteers had accorded to her and aspires to pay the love forward. In early December 2019, the volunteers visited Tholasiamah once again to discuss transport arrangements for the upcoming year- end distribution event held later in the month. Tholasiamah gladly revealed that she had invited her children to join her for the event; her children had agreed to fetch her and to bring along her grandchildren and great-grandchildren for the occasion. She looked forward to this once-a- year opportunity to reunite with her family over a meal, proclaiming with a grin on her face: “I enjoy basking in the lively, festive atmosphere of celebrating the New Year with other families while watching stage performances. I’d definitely cherish this rare opportunity for an outing.” Tholasiamah (front row, far left) has been attending the year-end distribution event for many years; she is grateful for the support of Tzu Chi volunteers along the way. [Photograph by Lee Kin Chee]