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

2022 • 06 40 eople Tzu Chi volunteers formed orderly lines, sending Yap Choong Lin on his final journey in the most dignified manner. [Photo by Boon Wui Kong] instructions to others. Shea Sieng and Choong Lin were both in charge of the venue and floor plan for the “Dharma as Water” sutra adaptation performance hosted by Tzu Chi KL& Selangor in 2015. During the ten consecutive days of working together, Shea Sieng learnt a lot from his fellow collaborator. He recalled, “After the last performance, the team was wrapping up and preparing to leave for home. Brother Choong Lin was already sound asleep in the passenger seat even before I drove out of the stadium parking. He was obviously exhausted, but still, he persevered to finish his duties. This left a deep impression on me.” It was painful having to part forever with this good friend, but Shea Sieng could only pray for Choong Lin to make a quick return to this world. “He has taken an early leave to pave the Bodhisattva Path for us, before returning to lead us again.” Choong Lin’s diligence has become a gold standard for Shea Sieng that is carved deep into his heart. “We, brothers, will uphold his spirit in doing Tzu Chi work—be the first to take the lead, and the last to leave.” At one with the flood victims Choong Lin’s selfless dedication also moved the heart of volunteer Lim Eng Soon. When Choong Lin and his family relocated to Puchong in 2018, the community recycling centre was undergoing expansion. At Eng Soon’s invitation, Choong Lin willingly took up the planning role, despite having just moved into a new environment, and being busy with his own business. “Brother Choong Lin used to work tirelessly into the night. And in stormy weather, he would only rest after