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

2020 • 09 26 not feeling well, the three flowers could not get together for the time being. Seeking spiritual support in recycling Low Kwai Eng, 80, has a hearing aid on her left ear. The seat which used to be occupied by her partner is now occupied by her son, Teng Toh Meng. Kwai Eng used to run a stationery shop with her husband, but they closed it five years ago when they felt aged. As a Tzu Chi volunteer, it was Toh Meng who recommended to his parents to contribute at the recycling centre. His mother was active from the very beginning and even took part in volunteer trainings. His father, who also tagged along, received his recycling volunteer name card a year later. The couple had been volunteering at the recycling centre for a while now. Unfortunately, Toh Meng’s father passed away during the MCO due to illness, resulting in his mother feeling the loss. He said, “My family members are mourning, especially my mum. Fortunately, mum could find some solace here.” Kwai Eng suffers from hearing loss and reads lips to guess what was said. Now that everyone wears a mask, communication became much more difficult. Luckily, after years of working together, they could understand each other even without much words. A trickle of sweat flowed down Toh Meng’s face. His relief was obvious even behind the face mask. “My parents had made recycling a part of their life. Sometimes, when the session clashes with our outing, they would rather attend the session.” Nina Astati, the family’s Indonesian domestic helper also came along with Kwai Eng. “I’ve nothing much to do at home, so, I rather come here to learn about environmental protection. The volunteers are very kind and they taught me that plastics that squeak when rubbed are non- recyclable,” Nina explained as she crushed the thin plastics with her hands. Nina started by observing other volunteers. As she was not afraid to raise questions, she quickly became a good helper. She explained that the proceeds from selling the recyclables can be used to help the needy. “I’m happy that I can benefit the locals even though I came from Indonesia to work here. This is fantastic!” Nina, who assisted with the sorting, got ready to go home around noon after she had swept the floor. “Brother Teng, do you need me to give the elderly volunteers a ride home?” offered Ang Siok Kooi, who has been managing the centre for eight years. Toh Meng accepted the offer gladly. Siok Kooi would always reach the centre earlier so as to avoid elderly volunteers who arrived early having to wait outside the centre. She said, “Especially when Brother Lim has mobility difficulties, I couldn’t bear letting him wait at the door at 7-plus a.m.” Lim Chuan Chee, who has twisted feet, has difficulty walking. He relies on the aid of the walker to drag his body forward. Despite the challenge, he is able to drive himself to the centre. He is also independent with all activities of daily living. Therefore, his family is not worried about him going out alone. Be green, be a family Toh Meng is especially thankful to the volunteers who took good care of the elderly eature