The world of Tzu Chi May-June 2022 (Vol.141)

08 2022 • 06 A t the foyer of the KL Tzu-Chi Jing Si Hall, the ambience was exceptionally calm. The illuminating soft lights from the crystal-clear Lucite Buddha statues cast a mesmerizing peace transcending earthly cares and woes. These statues lined the circular Buddha-bathing platform where participants bowed in unison, with clasped palms and prayerful postures, offering their silent wishes and confessions. “We bow to Buddha’s feet. We bow to adopt a vegetarian diet. Blessings and well wishes to all.” Under the guidance of the emcees, everyone prayed in reverence, wishing for a peaceful world. The congregation resembled a magnificent lake of lotus flowers in full bloom, radiating their light and hope to all. The post-pandemic landscape gives renewed hope and vigour. With the slowing down of Covid-19 cases and high vaccination rates, the Malaysian Government has signalled a return to normalcy by reopening businesses and borders. The only thing that remains is the unmistakable mask, now a familiar fixture to our faces. On May 7 this year, Jing Si Hall sprang to life when Tzu Chi KL & Selangor conducted a Buddha bathing and prayers ceremony. As a spiritual fortress of Tzu Chi volunteers, it continues to inspire compassion and love which define one’s interactions with the community. This time the Buddha bathing ritual was simpler, without the mass ceremony but nevertheless solemn and tranquil. More than 3,000 attendees took turns to reverently pay homage to Buddha, The Great Awakened One of the Universe. Bowing to the feet of Buddha, the devotees repented their past and visualized the water of wisdom cleansing their defilements and afflictions, and made a vow to maintain their pure nature. A second chance Tan Sri Lim Wee Chai, founder of Top Glove Corporation, who accompanied some honourable guests to the Buddha bathing ceremony, said, “Since the Covid-19 outbreak, I have not been able to come to Jing Si Hall for the Buddha bathing ceremony. I am very happy to be able to ‘come home’ and attend the ceremony today. I am glad to see everyone safe and sound, surviving this challenging time.” Lim Wee Chai, a Tzu Chi volunteer, is sympathetic about the impact of the pandemic on many families, and understands that life is not easy for many. “Now that the government has fully opened up various economic sectors, I hope everyone can gradually resume their normal lives. I believe that the situation will gradually improve.” The Buddha bathing ritual purifies the heart and inspires good thoughts. Despite his busy schedule, Lim Wee Chai has continued to apply Master Cheng Yen’s teachings in his daily life. He has also led by example— repaying society during the pandemic. In his wheelchair, Wo Ka Seng prayed earnestly in front of the Buddha-bathing platform. He was tearful as he recalled how his life had been spared. Ka Seng was diagnosed with colorectal cancer earlier this year. Although he has just completed his first round of chemotherapy, he insisted on participating in the Buddha bathing ceremony. He felt blessed to be given a pecial Feature