The world of Tzu Chi Nov-Dec 2021 (Vol.138)

02 2021 • 12 concern. Out of the nearly eight billion people in the world, more than 800 million suffer from chronic hunger. What can we do to help? It would only take ten of us eating a little less to save enough to feed one hungry person. Eating a little less and refraining from wasting food is not difficult for most people, but the benefits are huge. Most of all, it can help prevent people from starving. Do not underestimate yourself and think that helping the needy is the exclusive province of the rich. Anyone willing to give can help and contribute. Everyone can do good. If we all contribute what we can, our combined strength will make a huge difference. Impermanence strikes all the time. The pandemic is just one instance. Climate change has increased the frequency and intensity of natural disasters, for example. We have seen countless instances of mudslides swallowing lives and homes in the blink of an eye, and of unstoppable forest fires wreaking havoc. Our planet has a large population. To satisfy the needs and wants of this large population, we have caused a lot of damage to the ecosystem. We have done much that is bad for the Earth—much of it purely for the sake of our enjoyment. And yet how long can such enjoyment last? Many people have everything, but they are not content and happy—they still feel lacking and want more. Every day I keep an eye on what is happening around the world. What I see weighs me down and makes me feel worried and anxious. It is hard to describe my feelings. These days, with my physical condition, I often have to exert a lot of force just to speak. Yet, even so, I tell myself I must continue giving all I can. I work with the sincerest wish to inspire the pure, undefiled love in everyone’s heart. I work with the sincerest wish to inspire everyone to walk together on the Path of the Bodhisattvas. Time flies by so quickly. There is no way we can stop it. The only way we can counter the passage of time is to do our best to cultivate ourselves and benefit others. Tap into your inner wellspring of love. Light a lamp for others to brighten their path; give a glass of water or a handful of rice to those in need. When we contribute to the common good of the world, when we help others live in peace, we create a meaningful chapter in our lives. aster’s Teaching * Compiled from a collection of speeches delivered by Master Cheng Yen from October 2 to 18, 2021. Reprinted with permission from Tzu Chi Bimonthly.