The world of Tzu Chi March 2021 (Vol.132)

02 2021 • 03 Earth’s environment. It is even now more necessary for us to adopt and promote a vegetarian diet. I hope Tzu Chi volunteers can set examples. This is in line with the Buddha’s teaching that all sentient beings have the innate Buddha-nature; we must save and love all beings. Grains and vegetables can provide the nutrients we need and also satisfy our palates. Moreover, we will feel more at ease and guilt-free. We must also not waste food. Instead, be grateful for the food we have, for the farmers’ hard work, and the grace of the Earth. I have always had the same wish for peace in the world and harmony in society; everyone give rise to kindness and sincerely care for all beings in the world in the spirit of Great Love. Every time when I see Tzu Chi volunteers putting their palms together close to the chest, I would feel that our hearts are connected and aligned to the Buddha’s. From everyone saving NT 50 cents daily to help the poor and needy, Tzu Chi’s charitable endeavours have been ongoing, and to-date, we have provided humanitarian aid in over 100 countries. Tzu Chi has always strived to offer long-term support instead of temporary relief to its aid recipients. In addition to caring for the recipients’ physical and emotional well-being until they can be self-reliant, Tzu Chi volunteers also inspire them to do good deeds and turn their lives around. Besides overcoming their own difficulties in life, they can also contribute to humanity. This is how we can purify everyone’s heart and mind. More than 50 years ago, I left home to Hualien to seek spiritual growth. I lived a frugal life in a small wooden hut behind the Puming Temple, spending my days copying, studying and chanting the sutras. I was alone but I met so many kind-hearted people who shared the same mission. Not only did we carry out Tzu Chi’s work together, but we also managed to pave a path for everyone to serve as a living bodhisattva. Looking back, I am grateful and moved beyond words. Samantabhadra Bodhisattva cautioned: “Our life diminishes day by day. Like fish in a shrinking pond, what joy is there?” We must always bear in mind the nature of impermanence. Our life dwindles down with each passing day. We must run after time to make every moment of our life count. As we usher in a new year, let us seize every second and aspire to be one who is ever ready to serve and who is needed by others. Let us sow blessings and nurture wisdom at all times. Please be mindful always. aster’s Teaching * Compiled from a collection of speeches delivered by Master Cheng Yen from January 6 to 16, 2021.