The world of Tzu Chi March 2023 (Vol.145)

2023 • 03 24 By Lee Lay Sim Translated by Tan Hooi Lee Photo by Yong Mun Fei lobal Presence From Dreams to Reality With a wondrous affinity, a school dropout crossed paths with Tzu Chi volunteers from Malaysia and Singapore at the sacred grounds of Lumbini, the birthplace of Buddha. Through the assistance of these far-reaching volunteers, the girl’s life has been infused with a renewed sense of hope and countless blessings. A t around 4 a.m., while the world is still wrapped in slumber, Sonam Harijan rises to start her day. With an unwavering passion for learning, she braves the bitter cold and cycles along dark roads together with her friends. They are guided only by the occasional light from passing motorcyclists. At times, the gushing wind can be unforgiving, slicing through her little face like a knife, but she said, “I can withstand whatever cold weather.” Her determination touched the Tzu Chi volunteers. For Sonam, the warmth in her heart is more potent than the cold that envelops her. She knows that she is not alone in her journey, and the love and support from afar will continue to stay and energise every step of her way. The benefactors Tzu Chi volunteers first met Sonam during a medical outreach mission. They were visiting her aunt next-door, who was suspected to be malnourished. They also discovered the 19-year- old Sonam, who had to stay at home to help with household chores after completing her high school education as her family could not afford to support her further studies. Sonam’s father, Rajendra Harijan, is a farmer