The World Of Tzu Chi March 2025 (Vol.153)

TZU CHI 153 01 z z By Dharma Master Cheng Yen Translated by Teresa Chang In a world filled with suffering, no single person can help everyone. That’s why our collective efforts are so vital. Regardless of religion or nationality, we are united in a shared mission: to alleviate suffering and serve those in need. A t our Year-End Blessing and volunteer certification ceremonies in December 2024, I saw volunteers from over 20 countries and regions. Some had journeyed tens of thousands of kilometres to Taiwan, enduring over 50 hours of travel and transiting through three countries. Meeting like this was not easy. Some spoke different languages, and although I could not understand their words when they shared their life stories and Tzu Chi experiences on stage, I felt immense joy. This joy came from knowing they carry love in their hearts and have chosen a path of compassion and service. I believe they are among the happiest and most blessed people. As I certified each new volunteer, I said, “Bless you. Be diligent [on the Bodhisattva Path].” I am deeply grateful to all our volunteers. In a world filled with suffering, no single person can help everyone. That’s why our collective efforts are so vital. Regardless of religion or nationality, we are united in a shared mission: to alleviate suffering and serve those in need. The Buddha was born into this world over 2,500 years ago. As a prince and heir to a kingdom, he lived a life of privilege. However, upon witnessing the suffering of people outside the palace – so different from his own life – he chose to renounce his throne and seek the truth. After attaining enlightenment, he wished for everyone to understand the true nature of life, cultivate wisdom, and sow blessings. He dedicated himself to guiding others along this path. The Buddha shared a wealth of wisdom with the world, and I have always aspired to repay this kindness. Fulfilling my wish to contribute to the Buddha’s birthplace and other significant locations in his life’s journey, our volunteers from Singapore and Malaysia have travelled in successive groups to Nepal and India. In underserved villages, they have distributed aid, provided medical care, conducted vocational training, and built homes and school facilities. I deeply appreciate their dedication to uplifting the needy in these regions. aster's Teaching The Strength of Collective Love