The world of Tzu Chi September 2023 (Vol.147)

2023 • 09 06 In his candid sharing, Ket Wey admitted that while he may have thoughts of helping others, it was not his nature to initiate a helping hand. He had engaged in recycling activities simply to accompany Zheng Xuan, but he was deeply moved by the volunteers’ humanistic qualities and genuine care. Later, he and Li Shya began to join other Tzu Chi activities. During charity home visits, they saw families inflicted with sickness and much suffering. These encounters opened their eyes to the vast sufferings that lurked outside of the world they knew. Guided by the wisdom in Master Cheng Yen’s Dharma sessions, they gradually realised that those living peaceful and blessed lives are duty-bound to uplift those in suffering. Ket Wey’s exposure to Buddhism also enhanced his understanding about life. Grateful for his own physical well-being, he became increasingly inspired to lend aid to the less fortunate, and even assumed the role as leader of the community volunteers. The year 2020 heralded yet another significant shift, as the couple embraced vegetarianism and became advocates for a plant-based diet. Navigating life’s new course When Ket Wey turned 50 in 2020, he made a pivotal decision. During the lock- downs of the COVID-19 pandemic, he and Li Shya had to grapple with Zheng Xuan’s rebellious behaviour and mood swings – Zheng Xuan, at 17 then, was at the height of adolescence. Ket Wey recalled the advice of a doctor, which felt like a stab into the heart: “If you don’t teach your son well now, he might be called ‘a fool’ in the future.” After discussingwith Li Shya, he resigned from his job to be a full-time caregiver. This role change was quite challenging as he found himself often easily provoked by Zheng Xuan’s disobedience. His patience and emotions were really tested. He realised the need to learn techniques to be a good father and to control his emotions. It also dawned on him that Master’s teachings on the virtues of contentment, gratitude, understanding, and being accommodating, needed to be cultivated and put into practice, or otherwise, it would be as good as not knowing them at all. With that realisation, he embarked on a Rain or shine, Siew Zheng Xuan remains committed to his recycling efforts. Pictured here is his father, Siew Ket Wey, shielding him from the rain as he collects bags of recyclables.