The world of Tzu Chi September 2020 (Vol.126)

TZU CHI 126 23 when we gather those capabilities, we become an all-rounded community where everyone has something to do, and everything has someone in charge. The KK REC is also known as a place where individuals with disabilities come and find peace as many stroke patients have successfully reintegrated into the society there. For 76-year-old Ku Ah Ba, despite having a slight mobility problem, no one could tell he was a stroke patient. Ah Ba had a minor stroke during the Movement Control Order (MCO). As his family members were tied up by work, it was up to Chin Chin to take care of him during his golden period of recovery. Chin Chin sought help from a physiotherapist from the Tzu Chi International Medical Association. After a period of intensive treatment, Ah Ba’s condition improved and he regained his ability to move. After the 76-year-old’s slight recovery, he was allowed to re-join the KK REC. Overly conscious of what others might think of him because of the stroke, he was reluctant to re-join. Upon encouragement from fellow volunteers, he finally gave in. What moved him most came from a fellow stroke patient who often came to the centre for second-hand compact discs. Ah Ba was deeply touched by his encouragement, as he would urge Ah Ba to take steps to recover from his stroke. This immensely touched his heart and helped open up his inner self. “The physiotherapist also encouraged me to frequent the centre, and even came to observe my movements,” he shared. “The physiotherapist found that the sole of my left foot was leaning outwards, and reminded me to walk with the correct posture. After some efforts, my movements finally returned to normal,” he added. “Initially, I was really worried that I’d be a burden to everyone, but so far no one has expressed loathing at me. Working here is far better than watching the TV or phone at home. I like to come here! With everyone talking and laughing, the day passes quicker!” he continued. During the afternoon, the cool breeze filled the air at the KK REC, making the place cooler. The tall trees and green environment have kind of become home to the volunteers. This showed that working together is especially important in a community. In recycling, no one should be left out. Volunteer Low Teng How is especially grateful for the contribution from the local residents. Even during the MCO, no recyclables were left to pile up at the centre’s entrance. The residents were not only very helpful, they even took the initiative to sort out the recyclables themselves, taking care to avoid burdening the Tzu Chi volunteers. “Once, a rich lady in a luxurious car came to send her unwanted materials. Among the trash, there were non-recyclable materials, to which we kindly asked her to take them back.” A while after she left, she unexpectedly returned. As it turned out, the lady decided to help by bringing along the rest of the centre’s non-recyclable trash with her. “You’re all working so hard, I should also do my part,” said the lady before leaving. Teng How was touched by this. For him, it is everyone’s responsibility to take care of the environment. As long as you take recycling to heart, you’ll influence others to protect the environment too. Tzu Chi’s Three Decades of Recycling