The world of Tzu Chi April 2021 (Vol.133)

TZU CHI 133 41 Great Love goes beyond imagination Geok Ping observed that Chia Chiang did not lack effort, but basic information and knowledge. For example, many job hunting and house renting websites are available online, providing a more effective and convenient means, as compared to his method that restricts his search areas to within the perimeter of his walking-distance, thus resulting in limited choices and a less satisfactory outcome. Hence, the volunteers need to guide him slowly so that he can reconnect with society, and eventually live a stable life on his own. Through the internet and friends’ help, Geok Ping found a cleaning job at a 24-hour convenience store for Chia Chiang. She then found him some second-hand clothes and a bicycle from the Tzu Chi recycling centre, and drove him to a shop to buy safety shoes for work. Considering Chia Chiang had to commute to work by public transport, which would cost him about RM200 a month, Geok Ping drove him to and from work almost daily. After settling in his job, the volunteers helped him find a place closer to the workplace, making it possible for him to commute to work on foot. On January 1, 2021, the volunteers helped him move to the new place. Chia Chiang was grateful and said, “I thought Tzu Chi would only help provide for my living expenses, but the volunteers’ enthusiasm went far beyond my imagination. I am deeply touched! Without Tzu Chi and the volunteers, I could not have stood up on my own again.” The volunteers witnessed Chia Chiang’s diligence at work. He worked hard and was reliable for tasks that were entrusted to him. His superior was very happy with his good performance. As he began to live a normal and spirited life with proper diet and a stable job, his physical health has also improved. Chia Chiang admitted that he had heard of Tzu Chi before, but his only impression of Tzu Chi was that “it was just a Buddhist organization”. It was only after receiving aid that he began to realize Tzu Chi is a Buddhist organization that helps people regardless of race, religion or nationality. It was the pandemic that connected him with Tzu Chi, and made him realize that such a selfless organization has indeed existed in this world. He honestly felt that a society would be at its best and most beautiful if everyone is loving, compassionate and willing to help each other. As he is aware that when the collective strength of many are collated, they will form a great force, he began to make small donations into his bamboo bank daily to accumulate the power of helping others. “Do not underestimate the power of 5 sen a day. This small amount of money has helped me through the most trying time of my life!” With gratitude, Chia Chiang made a vow: “Tzu Chi has been helping me all this while, so I must work hard to earn for my living, and repay Tzu Chi’s kindness. I want to become a volunteer to help others.” In January 2021, Chia Chiang received his first salary, after more than nine months of unemployment. He said happily, “Finally, I can support myself and I can afford to pay for my rent and living expenses.” Having been through the pain of unemployment, he cherishes all the blessings that have been bestowed on him, and pray hard that the pandemic will be over soon, and that everyone will be safe and healthy, and the world will be in peace!