The World Of Tzu Chi March 2024 (Vol.149)

2024 • 03 02 z z hope this compassionate intention will continue to thrive and be passed on through generations. For over 50 years, Tzu Chi has been broadening hearts and inspiring altruistic actions with Buddhist teachings. That is why I often say that Tzu Chi has truly made significant contributions to humanity. The greatest value of Tzu Chi lies in bringing together the Great Love of many people—an unselfish love embracing all of humanity—uniting Tzu Chi volunteers worldwide in a spirit of cooperation and harmony. It is like holding hands and encircling the entire globe, weaving together our threads of love. Tzu Chi is a Buddhist organisation. We are all fortunate to have the karmic affinities to learn Buddhism. Reverence for the Buddha, respect for his teachings, and veneration of the sangha (the Buddhist monastic order) are crucial. Most importantly, it is essential to practise the Four Immeasurables: loving-kindness, compassion, joy, and equanimity. Loving-kindness is about bringing joy and peace to those who encounter us. Some individuals naturally attract others, their words are readily accepted, and their good deeds inspire more good deeds. This is because they have nurtured positive connections with others. We should learn from their example. According to the Buddha’s teachings, we can encapsulate the principles of all things within a framework of three dimensions, each with four phases. In the physical dimension, everything in the universe undergoes the stages of formation, continuation, decay, and extinction. In the mental dimension, thoughts and feelings arise, remain, change, and disappear. In the bodily dimension, life cycles through birth, aging, illness, and death. All things are subject to change and impermanence, including the human mind. Making a pledge is not easy, and following through with it is even more challenging given the myriad afflictions, ignorance, and obstacles in the human realm. Without unwavering faith, a moment of compassion can swiftly dissipate, and accumulating merits becomes difficult. Receiving blessings starts with creating them, just as taking the first step is crucial for making anything possible. Progress comes from continuous effort, and each step contributes to a long journey. Time is precious and irreversible. I often say that time is running out. With this awareness in my thoughts, I consistently remind myself to diligently seize each moment, ensuring that every word I speak aligns with the Buddha’s teachings and every action I take follows the right path. Let us seize every moment to diligently cultivate merits. Blessed are those who can help others. Let us be ever more mindful. * Reprinted with permission from Tzu Chi Bimonthly. aster's Teaching