人間菩提--延伸全球之愛
Spreading Love around the World
When my husband was still alive, I relied a lot on him
No matter what it was, I relied on him to take care of it for me.
So, when he passed away so suddenly, I felt disheartened toward everything.
I started making unsavory friends and got into smoking and drinking.
I did everything.
I even gambled.
One year later, I used up all the money my husband had left me so I too on a job working as a caretaker.
But, things got worse because while I was off duty.
I’d go gambling.
I kept gambling because I had given up on myself.
As a caretaker, we had to do health checkups.
That was how I discovered I had uterine cancer.
At first, I kept wondering, “Why me?”
I lost my husband and encountered so many misfortunes.
I thought life was very unfair to me.
See, isn’t life full of suffering?
But, because there are people in suffering, that’s why there are living bodhisattvas.
This woman, Bi-xia, is a Christian.
At one time, she was in adversity.
When her case was referred to Tzu Chi, our volunteer visited her many times despite her refusing their help and not really welcoming them.
Qiu-bi brough three volunteers to see me.
I thought to myself, “I’m Christian”
“I don’t want to have anything to do with you”
So, I ‘d glare at her.
I didn’t want to talk to her at all so I glared at her hoping that she’d leave as quickly as possible.
Despite that, she still came over to see me every 10 or 20 days.
Who could’ve known that she’d become my greatest support now.
She is just like my mother.
Once Tzu Chi volunteers (knew she was suffering from cancer)
(and was facing financial difficulties,) they would not give up on her.
That is to help others without needing to be asked.
(They didn’t give up on her, but still) tried o communicate with her.
Finally, our volunteers’ sincerity moved her and she opened her heart to our volunteers.
Her whole family now accepts Tzu Chi, and the difference in religion is not an obstacle anymore.
Now, not only is she a recycling volunteer, everyone in her family also dedicates themselves to Tzu Chi’s recycling work.
Despite her being of a different religious belief, she can still join us in our recycling effort to care for the land and work to collect donations for Tzu Chi to inspire people’s love so that everyone can have the chance to give of their love through making donations. (to benefit those in need)
The doctors told her that she had-terminal cancer and wouldn’t live past the last Chinese New Year and wouldn’t live past the last Chinese New Year.
But, she remained very strong and would not bow down to fate.
She survived the last Chinese New Year.
I was very touched by her spirit.
It made me think that if I were in her shoes.
Would I be able to face life so bravely?
As long as I am still alive, I’ll help others.
See, all this is what Tzu Chi volunteers have been doing.
Everyone, I am truly very grateful for all that you have done as Tzu Chi volunteers transcend the borders of religion and nationality.
In the footage, we see that in 2008, many natural and manmade disasters occurred in many countries around the world.
See, no matter where Tzu Chi volunteers live, wherever a disaster strikes, Tzu Chi volunteers will go there to help.
For example, after the Sichuan Earthquake struck, I appealed to Tzu Chi volunteers worldwide. (to do whatever they could to help)
So, volunteers in different countries, all went to the streets with donation boxes to raise funds, pooling together every bit of donation to help those affected by disaster.
We also see the Islamic boarding school in Indonesia.
Tzu Chi volunteers have been providing aid to them, and they can now support themselves by they can now support themselves by growing vegetables and making bread while also being able to help Tzu Chi volunteers raise funds for the disaster victims in China’s Sichuan and Myanmar.
The Muslim Elder himself participated in raising funds as well by standing alongside Tzu Chi volunteers.
This is to rise above religious differences.
Everyone, love makes no distinction between religions or races.
We can’t bear to see people living in suffering.
We truly don’t have the heart to see that.
We hear many people say that because of the economic downturn and the global financial crisis, (they are now less well-to-do)
But, giving of love doesn’t mean one has to donate a lot of money.
What we hope is to pool together, everyone’s contribution however small it may seem.
Then, with a lot of people joining together to give with a sincere heart---how much money people donate is not important.
(What’s most important is coming together---)
With more people, the amount pooled together will enable us to help others.
As I watched Da Ai News this morning, I couldn’t help but give rise to great admiration.
In the past, the blacks (in South Africa) were usually the recipients of aid from whites
But in the news this morning, I saw our black Zulu volunteers providing aid to whites.
At the first Year-end Blessings Ceremony this year, Tzu Chi volunteers around the world came back to become certified Tzu Chi members.
Among them were our Zulu volunteers from S. Africa.
After the certification ceremony in Hualien, they traveled down south to Jiayi and Yunlin.(to learn about farming skills)
They did this because I have been hoping that more people in South Africa can get involved in farming because S. Africa has very vast land and as long as people learn how to farm.
(they can support themselves and have food)
The next day after they returned to South Africa, KwaMakhutha (30 km south of Durban) was devastated by a severe storm.
Our volunteers had just returned from Taiwan, but they quickly gathered everyone together to take action to help people in the disaster-stricken area.
They quickly went to cook hot meals and distribute relief goods.
Those affected by the storm included not only blacks but also whites.
This group of Zulu volunteer bodhisattvas respectfully handed the goods to those affected by the disaster by they white or black.
Seeing how they provided the hot meals made me feel very happy.
Aren’t they all volunteers who had received seeds of love from Tzu Chi?
See, as long as we bear love, we can change the world.
History can be changed---black people don’t always have to be the ones being helped as they, too. can aid others.
This is what can be achieved.
(when we work to let love flourish in this land)
So, everyone, I would like to express my gratitude to each one of you for the united strength that comes from every bit of love you have given.
When there are lives to be saved, our volunteer doctors will go save lives.
When we appeal for bone marrow donors, many people with loving hearts will step forward to register as a bone marrow donor.
When I called upon people to use their hands to do recycling and save the Earth.
See how many of you, pitch in to collect and sort recyclables.
It is very hard work but you are not afraid and you are all very happy doing it,
All that you do gives me great strength to spread such love throughout the world.
That is why many people in so many countries have been inspired to save more people in even more places.
All this is a cycle of love.
I am truly very grateful for all your efforts.
2009-02-01
980105人間菩提英文版 Continuing to Give of Our Love Despite Hard Times
人間菩提--續植愛心度時艱
Continuing to Give of Our Love Despite Hard Times
See all the fruit I’ve prepared for you.
You must have some
Are you making an offering to Bodhisattvas?
I’m very grateful for having the chance to serve a living bodhisattva like you who are here to save people’s lives.
The woman we see is Shu-qing.
I think she is really brave.
Although she herself has devoted to Tzu Chi’s work for a very long time and was qualified to be certified long ago.
She was mindful of her family’s feelings and decided that she would only become a certified Tzu Chi member after she had gained her family’s full support.
(So, she waited until 203 to become certified)
That year, she took up the work of interacting with and caring for potential marrow donors whenever she was notified of a matched donor by the hospital.
(Her work is very important) because some potential donors families can’t bear for their loved ones to donate marrow, (so they don’t want them to donate)
Yet, those who need to receive a marrow transplant are in a lot of suffering.
What kind of suffering do they endure?
(It is something we can never understand)
However, Shu-qing knows it all as she was once diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), a form of bone marrow stem cell disorder, and she underwent a period of treatment for it, so she can understand the suffering that patients with blood diseases are enduring.
I was sick myself, so I know what it was like
So, in the future, I expect myself to spread the word about bone marrow donation so that more people can understand that donating bone marrow won’t harm our health and the marrow will grow back.
I hope that everyone can know that and work together to inspire more people to join the rank of bone marrow donation.
So, she is able to go to the potential donors’ homes to share with them her feelings and try to convince the potential donors’ families to let the matched donors donate.
Today, there are 60 marrow donors in the audience.
I am very grateful to every one of you donors.
Back when we wanted to set up a bone marrow registry, we encountered many difficulties.
It was truly not an easy task.
It was a great responsibility to shoulder and it was also very costly to set up such a registry.
But why did we persist despite all this?
To save lives.
When lives can be saved, we must not give up on our efforts.
However small the chances stand as long as there is any chance, we’d never give up.
Besides, one of Tzu Chi’s Four Missions is the Mission of Medicine and one of the aims of our medical mission is to elevate the quality of medical care in Taiwan.
(While one way of doing that) is improving existing facilities and equipment, if a marrow registry could be set up in Taiwan. The medical services provided in Taiwan would be more comprehensive.
But setting up such a registry requires many people to give of their love.
(Technical issues such as matching donors and )
(recipients as well as conducting transplants) are not problems.
But, if a matched donor is found, and procedures have prepared the recipient’s body for the transplant should the donor suddenly changes his mind.
It’ll put the recipient’s life in great danger because the recipients’ marrow have all been destroyed through total body irradiation.
Without a transplant, the patient would die.
That’s why we need volunteers to interact with potential donors and encourage them.
(to hold on to their resolution to donate) and let them know that there is someone out there who is much like a candle in the wind and needs the donor to help block the wind so that the candle wont’ be extinguished and can still continue to give off its light.
(So, it’s about saving a life)
So, see how loving Shu-qing is in making the herbal soup for the donors in making the herbal soup for the donors.
She is not related to the recipient in any way but she is grateful to the donors for their love and so she takes care of them by making herbal soup for them with her own money.
Seeing her story, I was very touched.
She has inspired many to donate their marrow.
For that, I am very grateful to her.
By saving the life of one person, the entire family of the person is saved.
Maybe the person we save is someone who can make great contributions to society or someone who can benefit humanity greatly.
All in all, by saving a person’s life, unlimited possibilities are opened up.
(So, it can benefit others tremendously)
There are also our recycling volunteers.
I am very grateful to our recycling volunteers for caring for our Earth.
While we work to help people and save lives, we must also care for the Earth so that the Earth can remain healthy and well.
The Earth is home to humankind.
No matter where we live in the world, we are all inhabitants of the Earth.
So, only when the Earth is well can we be safe and sound, too.
We now have Tzu Chi volunteers in 47 countries, who have provided aid to people in nearly 70 countries around the world.
Whenever there is a natural or manmade disaster, the local Tzu Chi volunteers will mobilize at once to go to the disaster areas and provide aid and comfort to those affected.
We have been carrying out such aid work worldwide for years.
Everyone, Taiwan is truly very blessed and we must count our blessings.
We have good land and favorable climate conditions.
Living on such a blessed land, as long as we work hard, given the good land and climate we have in Taiwan.
We can grow a great variety of crops to sustain all people in Taiwan.
But, besides good land and climate, what’s most important is harmony among people.
Only when people live in harmony can our society be safe and peaceful.
(Otherwise, the police have to work very hard)
Every time when something happens in society, the police are taxed to the limit in their effort to try and maintain the public order.
So, we must take good care of our mind at all times and live in harmony with one another.
If we can do so, no matter how bad the economy is, we’ll be able to pass through the difficult times safe and sound.
All it takes is for everyone to live a simpler life and work harder without overspending.
Everyone will be receiving the consumption voucher from the government soon.
(Please do not spend it on things you don’t need) and use it to benefit others instead
We should make use of this economic downtime to educate people (about the right way of living)
In a word, seeing how people in other countries are suffering.
Those of us living here in Taiwan should count our blessings and further work to sow more blessings by benefiting others. Only by doing so can disasters in the world be quelled; only when everyone gives of his or her love can our society be peaceful and harmonious and people have harmony and peace.
.
Continuing to Give of Our Love Despite Hard Times
See all the fruit I’ve prepared for you.
You must have some
Are you making an offering to Bodhisattvas?
I’m very grateful for having the chance to serve a living bodhisattva like you who are here to save people’s lives.
The woman we see is Shu-qing.
I think she is really brave.
Although she herself has devoted to Tzu Chi’s work for a very long time and was qualified to be certified long ago.
She was mindful of her family’s feelings and decided that she would only become a certified Tzu Chi member after she had gained her family’s full support.
(So, she waited until 203 to become certified)
That year, she took up the work of interacting with and caring for potential marrow donors whenever she was notified of a matched donor by the hospital.
(Her work is very important) because some potential donors families can’t bear for their loved ones to donate marrow, (so they don’t want them to donate)
Yet, those who need to receive a marrow transplant are in a lot of suffering.
What kind of suffering do they endure?
(It is something we can never understand)
However, Shu-qing knows it all as she was once diagnosed with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS), a form of bone marrow stem cell disorder, and she underwent a period of treatment for it, so she can understand the suffering that patients with blood diseases are enduring.
I was sick myself, so I know what it was like
So, in the future, I expect myself to spread the word about bone marrow donation so that more people can understand that donating bone marrow won’t harm our health and the marrow will grow back.
I hope that everyone can know that and work together to inspire more people to join the rank of bone marrow donation.
So, she is able to go to the potential donors’ homes to share with them her feelings and try to convince the potential donors’ families to let the matched donors donate.
Today, there are 60 marrow donors in the audience.
I am very grateful to every one of you donors.
Back when we wanted to set up a bone marrow registry, we encountered many difficulties.
It was truly not an easy task.
It was a great responsibility to shoulder and it was also very costly to set up such a registry.
But why did we persist despite all this?
To save lives.
When lives can be saved, we must not give up on our efforts.
However small the chances stand as long as there is any chance, we’d never give up.
Besides, one of Tzu Chi’s Four Missions is the Mission of Medicine and one of the aims of our medical mission is to elevate the quality of medical care in Taiwan.
(While one way of doing that) is improving existing facilities and equipment, if a marrow registry could be set up in Taiwan. The medical services provided in Taiwan would be more comprehensive.
But setting up such a registry requires many people to give of their love.
(Technical issues such as matching donors and )
(recipients as well as conducting transplants) are not problems.
But, if a matched donor is found, and procedures have prepared the recipient’s body for the transplant should the donor suddenly changes his mind.
It’ll put the recipient’s life in great danger because the recipients’ marrow have all been destroyed through total body irradiation.
Without a transplant, the patient would die.
That’s why we need volunteers to interact with potential donors and encourage them.
(to hold on to their resolution to donate) and let them know that there is someone out there who is much like a candle in the wind and needs the donor to help block the wind so that the candle wont’ be extinguished and can still continue to give off its light.
(So, it’s about saving a life)
So, see how loving Shu-qing is in making the herbal soup for the donors in making the herbal soup for the donors.
She is not related to the recipient in any way but she is grateful to the donors for their love and so she takes care of them by making herbal soup for them with her own money.
Seeing her story, I was very touched.
She has inspired many to donate their marrow.
For that, I am very grateful to her.
By saving the life of one person, the entire family of the person is saved.
Maybe the person we save is someone who can make great contributions to society or someone who can benefit humanity greatly.
All in all, by saving a person’s life, unlimited possibilities are opened up.
(So, it can benefit others tremendously)
There are also our recycling volunteers.
I am very grateful to our recycling volunteers for caring for our Earth.
While we work to help people and save lives, we must also care for the Earth so that the Earth can remain healthy and well.
The Earth is home to humankind.
No matter where we live in the world, we are all inhabitants of the Earth.
So, only when the Earth is well can we be safe and sound, too.
We now have Tzu Chi volunteers in 47 countries, who have provided aid to people in nearly 70 countries around the world.
Whenever there is a natural or manmade disaster, the local Tzu Chi volunteers will mobilize at once to go to the disaster areas and provide aid and comfort to those affected.
We have been carrying out such aid work worldwide for years.
Everyone, Taiwan is truly very blessed and we must count our blessings.
We have good land and favorable climate conditions.
Living on such a blessed land, as long as we work hard, given the good land and climate we have in Taiwan.
We can grow a great variety of crops to sustain all people in Taiwan.
But, besides good land and climate, what’s most important is harmony among people.
Only when people live in harmony can our society be safe and peaceful.
(Otherwise, the police have to work very hard)
Every time when something happens in society, the police are taxed to the limit in their effort to try and maintain the public order.
So, we must take good care of our mind at all times and live in harmony with one another.
If we can do so, no matter how bad the economy is, we’ll be able to pass through the difficult times safe and sound.
All it takes is for everyone to live a simpler life and work harder without overspending.
Everyone will be receiving the consumption voucher from the government soon.
(Please do not spend it on things you don’t need) and use it to benefit others instead
We should make use of this economic downtime to educate people (about the right way of living)
In a word, seeing how people in other countries are suffering.
Those of us living here in Taiwan should count our blessings and further work to sow more blessings by benefiting others. Only by doing so can disasters in the world be quelled; only when everyone gives of his or her love can our society be peaceful and harmonious and people have harmony and peace.
.
980104人間菩提英文版 A Peaceful Mind Brings About a Peaceful World
人間菩提--心平和‧萬象安
A Peaceful Mind Brings About a Peaceful World
If our mind can be at peace everything will be peaceful, safe, and well.
The Buddha told us that everything results from our minds.
So, if we want to live in peace and safety we have to keep our minds peaceful and calm at all times.
For those of us living in Taiwan, we should really be grateful because Taiwan is a good place to be.
It has good land and favorable climate conditions.
Look at what has happened recently in the United States, Europe, and Australia.
There were snow storms or ice storms
In some places, there wasn’t only snow, but freezing rain as well.
The climate has become really abnormal.
We also heard news that there was a snow storm in a desert area.(in Las Vegas, U.S.)
The climate has truly become abnormal.
The Buddha has said that (things are ever-changing)
Material things in this world undergo. formation, continuation, decay, and annihilation. and are changing at every moment.
So now, the climate has become abnormal.
We need to be very aware of this and on our guard as it means that Nature’s Four Elements are no longer in equilibrium.
That is why recently, we’ve seen major disasters of fire, water, and wind, as well as epidemics. wars, and famines all occurring at the same time.
This is the kind of “ear of degeneration” that the Buddha, over 2,000 years ago had said would come about in a future time.
(It’s an “era of degeneration” because) human morality and ethics is on the decline, almost to the point of completely disappearing.
So, at this time now, we must all raise our awareness and work hard to restore morality and ethics and the Dharma.
Our time now is already such an era of decline.
In such an age, the world is already gradually on is way toward the point of falling apart.
So, major disasters of fire, water, and wind will occur. Look at how Nature’s four Elements are now all out of equilibrium.
Take Cyclone Nargis which cased floods in Myanmar and the earthquake in Sichuan. China in May 2008.
What suffering it brought.
Words alone cannot describe that kind of suffering
I’m very grateful to Tzu Chi volunteers for promptly going to the disaster areas to provide aid and care all the way up till now.
See, we recently held winter distributions in Sichuan.
Many survivors have lost their loved ones and this is their first new year & winter since the quake.
Though the weather is cold, it’s not their bodies but their hearts that feel the greatest cold.
So, for this first winter, we’ve brought them supplies that include a blanket, winter clothing, food supplies, etc.
(These are material supplies) but most importantly in bringing them supplies, we also bring them love and use this opportunity to give them care and comfort them.
So, because of this distribution in Sichuan, we feel a little less worried about the survivors.
The supplies are material things, and there’s only so much that can be given, but what we really give them is something formless.
We help them to open up their hearts and we’ve sown seeds of love into the inner field of their minds.
With these seeds planted in their inner field, they will cultivate this field on their own.
See, for the past six months, many of them have continued to serve as volunteers and help others.
So, they are cultivating their inner field themselves.
Indeed, our suffering (can only be dispelled) if we can get involved in helping others and learn about (the suffering there is around the world)
As I often say, we can breathe now but we never know what the next second will bring.
That’s why I tell all of you that we must be grateful for every second that we have passed through safely that enables us to be where we are now.
I myself do not know what may happen to me in the next second.
So, no matter what, we must be grateful.
Who can guarantee that they will be safe?
That’s impossible.
So, all of us must seize every minute and second that we have
Most importantly, though everyone now says that the economy is bad that’s nothing to be frightened about
The true cause for worry is if we have bad tempers.
So, we must always look after our hearts and keep our hearts calm and peaceful.
Then, we will naturally be at peace and be well.
Look at the recent news. Besides natural disasters there has been man-made disasters, too.
In December 2008, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict flared up again and the Gaza Strip has been under air raids.
The situation is a rather complicated one.
This conflict has been going on for decades.
The hatred they have forward one another runs deep.
The United Nations has worked repeatedly to try and broker a peace agreement.
But changing people’s mindsets is the hardest (and it’s hard to get them to let go of hatred)
(So, lasting peace is hard to achieve)
(It’s like a fire that hasn’t been fully put out) so it can flare up at anytime into a raging blaze.
Yet, it’s only a minority that has this deep hatred and resentment.
They are a minority but once armed conflict breaks out.
It’s the innocent civilians that suffer.
Their homes get destroyed, and people get killed and they even have to flee to safer areas.
Why do people create such situations?
I have said earlier that Taiwan has good land and favorable climate.
But what we need most is harmony among people.
While there’s good land and climate (harmony is all the more important)
See, when there’s hatred buried in people’s hearts once something happens and the hatred flares up the ensuing conflict will escalate uncontrollably.
Even though the United Nations has called on both sides to stop fighting, the fighting still continues.
When will the fighting stop?
By the time the fighting stops, people’s homes will have been destroyed.
Rebuilding is not an easy thing to do.
Plus, with the fighting, how many people will be injured and become physically disabled for life or even lose their lives?
Their suffering is truly great.
So, for us living in Taiwan, we really need to count our blessings.
To cherish our blessings, we need to tame our mind.
I hope that for this new year, we can have favorable weather, good land, and harmony.
If we can have all three of these, even in an economic downturn, we will be able to pass through it safely.
People in Taiwan are really blessed.
So, we need to be grateful at all times.
We should always “bless ourselves” by staying positive and being grateful always
Then, blessings will come to us.
So, everyone please be mindful in this.
A Peaceful Mind Brings About a Peaceful World
If our mind can be at peace everything will be peaceful, safe, and well.
The Buddha told us that everything results from our minds.
So, if we want to live in peace and safety we have to keep our minds peaceful and calm at all times.
For those of us living in Taiwan, we should really be grateful because Taiwan is a good place to be.
It has good land and favorable climate conditions.
Look at what has happened recently in the United States, Europe, and Australia.
There were snow storms or ice storms
In some places, there wasn’t only snow, but freezing rain as well.
The climate has become really abnormal.
We also heard news that there was a snow storm in a desert area.(in Las Vegas, U.S.)
The climate has truly become abnormal.
The Buddha has said that (things are ever-changing)
Material things in this world undergo. formation, continuation, decay, and annihilation. and are changing at every moment.
So now, the climate has become abnormal.
We need to be very aware of this and on our guard as it means that Nature’s Four Elements are no longer in equilibrium.
That is why recently, we’ve seen major disasters of fire, water, and wind, as well as epidemics. wars, and famines all occurring at the same time.
This is the kind of “ear of degeneration” that the Buddha, over 2,000 years ago had said would come about in a future time.
(It’s an “era of degeneration” because) human morality and ethics is on the decline, almost to the point of completely disappearing.
So, at this time now, we must all raise our awareness and work hard to restore morality and ethics and the Dharma.
Our time now is already such an era of decline.
In such an age, the world is already gradually on is way toward the point of falling apart.
So, major disasters of fire, water, and wind will occur. Look at how Nature’s four Elements are now all out of equilibrium.
Take Cyclone Nargis which cased floods in Myanmar and the earthquake in Sichuan. China in May 2008.
What suffering it brought.
Words alone cannot describe that kind of suffering
I’m very grateful to Tzu Chi volunteers for promptly going to the disaster areas to provide aid and care all the way up till now.
See, we recently held winter distributions in Sichuan.
Many survivors have lost their loved ones and this is their first new year & winter since the quake.
Though the weather is cold, it’s not their bodies but their hearts that feel the greatest cold.
So, for this first winter, we’ve brought them supplies that include a blanket, winter clothing, food supplies, etc.
(These are material supplies) but most importantly in bringing them supplies, we also bring them love and use this opportunity to give them care and comfort them.
So, because of this distribution in Sichuan, we feel a little less worried about the survivors.
The supplies are material things, and there’s only so much that can be given, but what we really give them is something formless.
We help them to open up their hearts and we’ve sown seeds of love into the inner field of their minds.
With these seeds planted in their inner field, they will cultivate this field on their own.
See, for the past six months, many of them have continued to serve as volunteers and help others.
So, they are cultivating their inner field themselves.
Indeed, our suffering (can only be dispelled) if we can get involved in helping others and learn about (the suffering there is around the world)
As I often say, we can breathe now but we never know what the next second will bring.
That’s why I tell all of you that we must be grateful for every second that we have passed through safely that enables us to be where we are now.
I myself do not know what may happen to me in the next second.
So, no matter what, we must be grateful.
Who can guarantee that they will be safe?
That’s impossible.
So, all of us must seize every minute and second that we have
Most importantly, though everyone now says that the economy is bad that’s nothing to be frightened about
The true cause for worry is if we have bad tempers.
So, we must always look after our hearts and keep our hearts calm and peaceful.
Then, we will naturally be at peace and be well.
Look at the recent news. Besides natural disasters there has been man-made disasters, too.
In December 2008, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict flared up again and the Gaza Strip has been under air raids.
The situation is a rather complicated one.
This conflict has been going on for decades.
The hatred they have forward one another runs deep.
The United Nations has worked repeatedly to try and broker a peace agreement.
But changing people’s mindsets is the hardest (and it’s hard to get them to let go of hatred)
(So, lasting peace is hard to achieve)
(It’s like a fire that hasn’t been fully put out) so it can flare up at anytime into a raging blaze.
Yet, it’s only a minority that has this deep hatred and resentment.
They are a minority but once armed conflict breaks out.
It’s the innocent civilians that suffer.
Their homes get destroyed, and people get killed and they even have to flee to safer areas.
Why do people create such situations?
I have said earlier that Taiwan has good land and favorable climate.
But what we need most is harmony among people.
While there’s good land and climate (harmony is all the more important)
See, when there’s hatred buried in people’s hearts once something happens and the hatred flares up the ensuing conflict will escalate uncontrollably.
Even though the United Nations has called on both sides to stop fighting, the fighting still continues.
When will the fighting stop?
By the time the fighting stops, people’s homes will have been destroyed.
Rebuilding is not an easy thing to do.
Plus, with the fighting, how many people will be injured and become physically disabled for life or even lose their lives?
Their suffering is truly great.
So, for us living in Taiwan, we really need to count our blessings.
To cherish our blessings, we need to tame our mind.
I hope that for this new year, we can have favorable weather, good land, and harmony.
If we can have all three of these, even in an economic downturn, we will be able to pass through it safely.
People in Taiwan are really blessed.
So, we need to be grateful at all times.
We should always “bless ourselves” by staying positive and being grateful always
Then, blessings will come to us.
So, everyone please be mindful in this.
980103人間菩提英文版 Making Good Use of the Consumption Voucher
勤儉顧本‧善用所得
Making Good Use of the Consumption Voucher
Because we have an abundance of love and sincerity in our hearts, our love and sincerity have reached all Buddhas and Bodhisattvas above
(As such, we were able to pass through 2008)
(In relative peace and safety)
However, as we look around the world, how many disasters had happened all around the world?
In 2008, which was just a few days ago, everyone was very worried and concerned about the financial crisis and the economic downturn.
But I feel that we should use this opportunity to educate the public (to live frugally)
In the past few years, we’ve overindulged ourselves
We should return to the fundamental values of life and live amore grounded life.
We should be more frugal and work diligently.
(To boost the economy,) the Taiwan government plants to give out NT$3,600 in consumption vouchers.
As the legislation has been passed, you should go pick up your voucher.
In fact, when I learned of this news, I was very happy for you all, because you will have extra money in your pocket.
What difference does this extra money make to you?
Many said, “Not much”
Yet it will cost the government Nt$85 billion.
You each receive NT$3,600 in vouchers, but it adds up to NT$85.65 bil (US$2.58 bil)that the government has to spend.
This is the government’s program to help us so we should get the voucher and use it wisely.
While it’s meant for consumption, I hope that you can use it to create blessings.
So, I’ve already found out that this voucher can be donated to charity.
Indeed, if people can donate it, it can be used to benefit the needy.
I hope that this money can be used wisely to help the poor or those who have lost their jobs to help them get through this difficult time and get back on their feet again.
This money can help them do this.
If we can make good use of this money, 80 some billion NT dollars, it can really help a lot of people.
When I’ve asked people about the voucher, most say that it doesn’t really help them much.
It feels a bit regrettable.
So, I want to tell everyone that please don’t think that it’s only NT$3,600 that you’ll be getting.
We have to think about the NT$80 some billion
We should not let this money go to waste and toward young people, especially, we should use this opportunity to teach them.
(to be frugal and do good deeds)
Thinking back to when Tzu Chi started 43 years ago.
Taiwan was not as prosperous as it is now.
Forty or fifty years ago, Taiwan had only come out of Japanese rule for a number of years.
The US was providing aid to Taiwan.
(When Tzu Chi started, it had little resources)
At that time, Tzu Chi was the only civic charitable organization in Taiwan.
When we registered, there were no other civic charities in Taiwan.
Tzu Chi was the first and we had founded Tzu Chi 43 years ago.
(with funds coming from)people saving NT$0.50 of their grocery money daily.
From that beginning, today, while we are here in Taiwan.
There are Tzu Chi volunteers.
(in numerous other countries around the world)
In many places, when there are disasters, Tzu Chi volunteers closest to the disaster area would promptly go to provide aid and care.
And, these volunteers all say that the help is from Taiwan.
So, now the aid is coming form Taiwan whereas before, we used to receive US aid.
Many countries around the world now are receiving aid form Tzu Chi—and thus form Taiwan.
A few years ago, when there was a fire in Los Angeles County, US, Tzu Chi volunteers went to care for those affected.
Back then, we hadn’t started producing blankets so a check for US$500 was given
One of the aid recipients was a woman who had moved to the US from Taiwan.
Her home had been destroyed by the fire.
Tzu Chi offered aid to all people affected by the fire, no matter if they were American or Chinese.
We gave aid to everyone equally.
Because that woman was from Taiwan, she started sobbing when she received our aid.
She said that she wasn’t crying because the fire had destroyed her home.
She was crying because though she was in the US in her time of need,
It was a group from Taiwan that came to her aid.
Ever since then, Tzu Chi members there have been offering care and aid in those parts whenever a disaster happened.
Recently, we’ve produced blankets made from recycled PET bottles.
Hundreds of thousands of blankets have already been given out, especially in the US.
So long as we have love in our hearts by joining together, we can do a lot.
We learned the story of a volunteer
(My mom can be quite violent)
She would hit us when we were little when we were only this big.
Master De Yang kept telling me that I need to let go of my hatred (toward my husband) and help him join Tzu Chi.
After ten years, he finally became a Tzu Cheng.
Every time he came back from the volunteer work, he would be very happy.
After he became a Tzu Cheng member, my hatred towards him gradually disappeared.
After his volunteer work one time, he went to see the doctor.
The doctor told him that he had terminal stage lung cancer.
“I failed in my business”
“I also wrecked my marriage”
“I messed everything up”
When I was taking care of him, there were many things he was afraid to tell me.
He would tell the patient staying next to him to tell me that he loves me.
When he was at the terminal stage of the cancer, all he said to me was that he was sorry.
This made me realize that we really need to say what we truly feel and not wait until it’s too late.
His only worry at the end was his mother.
So, I promised him that I would take good care of his mother.
I lost my mother when I was four.
So, I treat my mother-in-law as my own mother.
She would treat me as her own daughter.
Our family is a happy and harmonious one.
We get along really well.
My daughter-in-law is just like my own daughter.
I’m very happy that my son joined Tzu Chi with my daughter-in-law. I’m very grateful.
My son and daughter-in-law are very filial to me.
I’m very proud of them.
Every day is a new beginning.
Now that I think about it, all the suffering that I’ve endured are all in the past.
Why be bitter about it?
There’s no need to hold on to it.
I just want to follow Master life after life.
Women truly have a hard lot.
The women whose real-life stories are portrayed on our Da Ai Dramas all endured a lot.
Even so, this volunteer truly has the heart of a bodhisattva and motherly love, and has forgiven (her husband)
Seeing her life story, doesn’t it.
Remind us(not to bear hatred)?
Her story teaches us to open our heart and mind.
So, among people, we can learn about the Dharma.
(We should be a living bodhisattva)
We have to use the Buddha’s teachings in our lives and serve as a bodhisattva.
The Buddha’s teachings should be widely applied to this world and everyone can serve as a bodhisattva.
We should have the sense of mission (to help others)
Living in this world, the most blessed person is a person who can (make people’s lives better)
This is the most blessed person.
Making Good Use of the Consumption Voucher
Because we have an abundance of love and sincerity in our hearts, our love and sincerity have reached all Buddhas and Bodhisattvas above
(As such, we were able to pass through 2008)
(In relative peace and safety)
However, as we look around the world, how many disasters had happened all around the world?
In 2008, which was just a few days ago, everyone was very worried and concerned about the financial crisis and the economic downturn.
But I feel that we should use this opportunity to educate the public (to live frugally)
In the past few years, we’ve overindulged ourselves
We should return to the fundamental values of life and live amore grounded life.
We should be more frugal and work diligently.
(To boost the economy,) the Taiwan government plants to give out NT$3,600 in consumption vouchers.
As the legislation has been passed, you should go pick up your voucher.
In fact, when I learned of this news, I was very happy for you all, because you will have extra money in your pocket.
What difference does this extra money make to you?
Many said, “Not much”
Yet it will cost the government Nt$85 billion.
You each receive NT$3,600 in vouchers, but it adds up to NT$85.65 bil (US$2.58 bil)that the government has to spend.
This is the government’s program to help us so we should get the voucher and use it wisely.
While it’s meant for consumption, I hope that you can use it to create blessings.
So, I’ve already found out that this voucher can be donated to charity.
Indeed, if people can donate it, it can be used to benefit the needy.
I hope that this money can be used wisely to help the poor or those who have lost their jobs to help them get through this difficult time and get back on their feet again.
This money can help them do this.
If we can make good use of this money, 80 some billion NT dollars, it can really help a lot of people.
When I’ve asked people about the voucher, most say that it doesn’t really help them much.
It feels a bit regrettable.
So, I want to tell everyone that please don’t think that it’s only NT$3,600 that you’ll be getting.
We have to think about the NT$80 some billion
We should not let this money go to waste and toward young people, especially, we should use this opportunity to teach them.
(to be frugal and do good deeds)
Thinking back to when Tzu Chi started 43 years ago.
Taiwan was not as prosperous as it is now.
Forty or fifty years ago, Taiwan had only come out of Japanese rule for a number of years.
The US was providing aid to Taiwan.
(When Tzu Chi started, it had little resources)
At that time, Tzu Chi was the only civic charitable organization in Taiwan.
When we registered, there were no other civic charities in Taiwan.
Tzu Chi was the first and we had founded Tzu Chi 43 years ago.
(with funds coming from)people saving NT$0.50 of their grocery money daily.
From that beginning, today, while we are here in Taiwan.
There are Tzu Chi volunteers.
(in numerous other countries around the world)
In many places, when there are disasters, Tzu Chi volunteers closest to the disaster area would promptly go to provide aid and care.
And, these volunteers all say that the help is from Taiwan.
So, now the aid is coming form Taiwan whereas before, we used to receive US aid.
Many countries around the world now are receiving aid form Tzu Chi—and thus form Taiwan.
A few years ago, when there was a fire in Los Angeles County, US, Tzu Chi volunteers went to care for those affected.
Back then, we hadn’t started producing blankets so a check for US$500 was given
One of the aid recipients was a woman who had moved to the US from Taiwan.
Her home had been destroyed by the fire.
Tzu Chi offered aid to all people affected by the fire, no matter if they were American or Chinese.
We gave aid to everyone equally.
Because that woman was from Taiwan, she started sobbing when she received our aid.
She said that she wasn’t crying because the fire had destroyed her home.
She was crying because though she was in the US in her time of need,
It was a group from Taiwan that came to her aid.
Ever since then, Tzu Chi members there have been offering care and aid in those parts whenever a disaster happened.
Recently, we’ve produced blankets made from recycled PET bottles.
Hundreds of thousands of blankets have already been given out, especially in the US.
So long as we have love in our hearts by joining together, we can do a lot.
We learned the story of a volunteer
(My mom can be quite violent)
She would hit us when we were little when we were only this big.
Master De Yang kept telling me that I need to let go of my hatred (toward my husband) and help him join Tzu Chi.
After ten years, he finally became a Tzu Cheng.
Every time he came back from the volunteer work, he would be very happy.
After he became a Tzu Cheng member, my hatred towards him gradually disappeared.
After his volunteer work one time, he went to see the doctor.
The doctor told him that he had terminal stage lung cancer.
“I failed in my business”
“I also wrecked my marriage”
“I messed everything up”
When I was taking care of him, there were many things he was afraid to tell me.
He would tell the patient staying next to him to tell me that he loves me.
When he was at the terminal stage of the cancer, all he said to me was that he was sorry.
This made me realize that we really need to say what we truly feel and not wait until it’s too late.
His only worry at the end was his mother.
So, I promised him that I would take good care of his mother.
I lost my mother when I was four.
So, I treat my mother-in-law as my own mother.
She would treat me as her own daughter.
Our family is a happy and harmonious one.
We get along really well.
My daughter-in-law is just like my own daughter.
I’m very happy that my son joined Tzu Chi with my daughter-in-law. I’m very grateful.
My son and daughter-in-law are very filial to me.
I’m very proud of them.
Every day is a new beginning.
Now that I think about it, all the suffering that I’ve endured are all in the past.
Why be bitter about it?
There’s no need to hold on to it.
I just want to follow Master life after life.
Women truly have a hard lot.
The women whose real-life stories are portrayed on our Da Ai Dramas all endured a lot.
Even so, this volunteer truly has the heart of a bodhisattva and motherly love, and has forgiven (her husband)
Seeing her life story, doesn’t it.
Remind us(not to bear hatred)?
Her story teaches us to open our heart and mind.
So, among people, we can learn about the Dharma.
(We should be a living bodhisattva)
We have to use the Buddha’s teachings in our lives and serve as a bodhisattva.
The Buddha’s teachings should be widely applied to this world and everyone can serve as a bodhisattva.
We should have the sense of mission (to help others)
Living in this world, the most blessed person is a person who can (make people’s lives better)
This is the most blessed person.
980102人間菩提英文版 Leaving a Meaningful Life Story by Working to Benefit Others
人間菩提--撰寫生命歷史
Leaving a Meaningful Life Story by Working to Benefit Others
“Thank you”
“Every department donates”
“This is from the News Department”
“This is from the Production Department”
“and the News Team from Taichung”
“This is Zhu-qi’s coin bank”
“Dong-liang’s is a jar”
“This is from the 7th floor”
“Master, this is from the Financial Dept.”
“This is for our winter distributions”
“Master, our Program Department”
“has been responding to Mr. Tang’s call to”
(save a coin every day)
“Thank you”
“This is from the Foreign Languages Department”
“So, are they all U.S. coins in there?”
“Mr. Tang did put”
“U.S. coins in there every time he came”
Early this morning, a big group of our staff at the cultural center came to see me. It was truly a big group.
Today, they brought their coin banks with them are presented these coin banks to me.
Every department at our cultural center has been saving coins in the coin banks.
Seeing that, I am very grateful.
Our staff at the cultural center truly know my heart and share (Tzu Chi’s ideals)
(and are models of)
(Tzu Chi’s culture of Great Love)
Every one of them has been doing their work with a sense of mission.
In the course of their work, they interact with our Tzu Chi members are through these interactions, these staff have been touched and inspired by our volunteers.
That’s why they don’t consider what they do as a job only, but consider the work they ddo as their mission.
In recent years, we’ve seen how staff at our Da Ai TV report true stories and guide people to have a correct perspective.
(Da Ai TV) is a media outlet that reports stories that are true and beautiful.
With a heart of kindness and goodness, our staff reports stories about the goodness our staff reports stories about the goodness and beauty of mankind.
That’s why I often say that Da Ai TV truly serves to purify people’s minds and the reports that our Da Ai TV produces cannot be found on any other channel.
If other media can report on such stories of goodness and beauty,
I am sure that this world of ours will be very beautiful.
Just now we saw the stories of two gentlemen and both were very touching.
One story we saw was about Mr. Li.
He was in his eighties when he passed away.
He had been serving as our recycling volunteer for over a decade. He was very steadfast in this and dedicated himself to the work every day.
But it the recyclables he collects or those his neighbors bring to him, he’d carry them to our recycling stations on his bicycle.
Though he’s getting on in years, he still rides his bike like this.
Every time we tell him there’s work to do, he never refuses.
I feel that he is setting an example for e to follow.
Because, despite his age, he is still able to do the work.
Seeing him working like that, we don’t dare to slack off.
He is still doing the work at such an age and we are younger than him.
How can we do less than him?
I am doing this because Master says:
“Just do it”
“That’s very true”
“As long as I am able, I’ll follow Master and keep doing this.”
I was told that our volunteers had hoped that after making this film of him, he could
go onstage (to personally tell his story)
To everyone’s regret, he passed away last month.
But, he has passed on his love and his work, to his daughter and son.
See, Mr. Li passed away in his eighties and he had been serving as our volunteer for over a decade, thus leaving a legacy of love.
If he didn’t get involved in Tzu Chi’s work, even if he had lived to a hundred, he still might not have left any legacy.
But in the ten plus years he dedicated himself every day, (through his selfless contributions) he was writing a beautiful story of his life.
See, didn’t he set a fine example for his children and also for our Tzu Chi volunteers?
We also saw the footage on Tzu Chi members bringing aid to Afghanistan in 1998.
At the time, our volunteers brought a large amount of medicines and nutritional supplements from the U.S. to Afghanistan along with Sir Edward Artis from Knightsbridge International.
Dr. Artis brought a cardiologist along with him.
Together with Mr. Huang, our volunteer from the U.S. staff from our Rhythms Monthly and other Tzu Chi members.
There were a total of seven in the group.
The airplane that they took was one full of bullet holes.
Despite that, they still bravely got on that airplane and flew over the skies of Afghanistan.
There were cannons on the ground and on the plane, they were discussing what to do, if the plane was hit by cannon fire, and how many parachutes they had onboard.
It turned out that there were only four.
But there were seven people. So, what to do?
(There weren’t enough parachutes for everyone)
After discussing it, they decided that since the purpose of their trip was to deliver antibiotics and other medicines and nutritional supplements to the people.
They might as well use the parachutes to carry these supplies so that they could land safely.
I was very moved when I heard them recounting this.
They took the mission so seriously that they didn’t even consider their own lives.
If their plane was to be hit by cannon fire, all they hoped for was that the medicines and supplies could land safely so those in need could use them.
See how they were willing to sacrifice themselves.
Though their lives may have been endangered, all they thought of was that many people were waiting for the medicines.
So, if something were to happen to the plane, their own welfare wouldn’t be their first priority.
I was very moved (by their selflessness)
But, (I disagreed with their thinking)
I feel that everyone should still put their safety first when doing aid work because if you lose your lives who’d be there to do the aid work?
So, everyone, I still must remind you to take good care of yourselves.
Only when we are safe and well will we be able to help others.
Everyone, all around the world, there are so many disasters.
To bring aid to those affected by disaster, we must not look down on any effort no matter how inconsequential it may seem.
As we step onto the Bodhisattva Path, we must take action and seize time to benefit others in society.
The world is filled with suffering and that’s why we need living bodhisattvas to go into the community to listen and to see where there are people in suffering so that we can reach out to them and bring them aid in person.
Just now we saw that in the year 2008 just in Taiwan, Tzu Chi has provided emergency aid to over 100,000 people, and given long-term aid to over 30,000 people.
Besides that, whenever our volunteers learn that there are families living in dirty and dilapidated houses or wherever there are people both poor and sick they’d go help clean up and repair their houses or help bathe the sick and care for them.
That is what Tzu Chi volunteers have been doing for people in Taiwan. We not only help people in other countries. Of course, we earnestly hope that everyone in Taiwan can be safe and well and at the same time, we will also work to provide aid to people around the world.
(It is our vow to help people in need)
Aren’t those who can come to others’ rescue the most blessed?
Everyone, we must diligently carry out the spirit of our Jing Si principles and walk the path of Tzu Chi by going into the community to serve.
Leaving a Meaningful Life Story by Working to Benefit Others
“Thank you”
“Every department donates”
“This is from the News Department”
“This is from the Production Department”
“and the News Team from Taichung”
“This is Zhu-qi’s coin bank”
“Dong-liang’s is a jar”
“This is from the 7th floor”
“Master, this is from the Financial Dept.”
“This is for our winter distributions”
“Master, our Program Department”
“has been responding to Mr. Tang’s call to”
(save a coin every day)
“Thank you”
“This is from the Foreign Languages Department”
“So, are they all U.S. coins in there?”
“Mr. Tang did put”
“U.S. coins in there every time he came”
Early this morning, a big group of our staff at the cultural center came to see me. It was truly a big group.
Today, they brought their coin banks with them are presented these coin banks to me.
Every department at our cultural center has been saving coins in the coin banks.
Seeing that, I am very grateful.
Our staff at the cultural center truly know my heart and share (Tzu Chi’s ideals)
(and are models of)
(Tzu Chi’s culture of Great Love)
Every one of them has been doing their work with a sense of mission.
In the course of their work, they interact with our Tzu Chi members are through these interactions, these staff have been touched and inspired by our volunteers.
That’s why they don’t consider what they do as a job only, but consider the work they ddo as their mission.
In recent years, we’ve seen how staff at our Da Ai TV report true stories and guide people to have a correct perspective.
(Da Ai TV) is a media outlet that reports stories that are true and beautiful.
With a heart of kindness and goodness, our staff reports stories about the goodness our staff reports stories about the goodness and beauty of mankind.
That’s why I often say that Da Ai TV truly serves to purify people’s minds and the reports that our Da Ai TV produces cannot be found on any other channel.
If other media can report on such stories of goodness and beauty,
I am sure that this world of ours will be very beautiful.
Just now we saw the stories of two gentlemen and both were very touching.
One story we saw was about Mr. Li.
He was in his eighties when he passed away.
He had been serving as our recycling volunteer for over a decade. He was very steadfast in this and dedicated himself to the work every day.
But it the recyclables he collects or those his neighbors bring to him, he’d carry them to our recycling stations on his bicycle.
Though he’s getting on in years, he still rides his bike like this.
Every time we tell him there’s work to do, he never refuses.
I feel that he is setting an example for e to follow.
Because, despite his age, he is still able to do the work.
Seeing him working like that, we don’t dare to slack off.
He is still doing the work at such an age and we are younger than him.
How can we do less than him?
I am doing this because Master says:
“Just do it”
“That’s very true”
“As long as I am able, I’ll follow Master and keep doing this.”
I was told that our volunteers had hoped that after making this film of him, he could
go onstage (to personally tell his story)
To everyone’s regret, he passed away last month.
But, he has passed on his love and his work, to his daughter and son.
See, Mr. Li passed away in his eighties and he had been serving as our volunteer for over a decade, thus leaving a legacy of love.
If he didn’t get involved in Tzu Chi’s work, even if he had lived to a hundred, he still might not have left any legacy.
But in the ten plus years he dedicated himself every day, (through his selfless contributions) he was writing a beautiful story of his life.
See, didn’t he set a fine example for his children and also for our Tzu Chi volunteers?
We also saw the footage on Tzu Chi members bringing aid to Afghanistan in 1998.
At the time, our volunteers brought a large amount of medicines and nutritional supplements from the U.S. to Afghanistan along with Sir Edward Artis from Knightsbridge International.
Dr. Artis brought a cardiologist along with him.
Together with Mr. Huang, our volunteer from the U.S. staff from our Rhythms Monthly and other Tzu Chi members.
There were a total of seven in the group.
The airplane that they took was one full of bullet holes.
Despite that, they still bravely got on that airplane and flew over the skies of Afghanistan.
There were cannons on the ground and on the plane, they were discussing what to do, if the plane was hit by cannon fire, and how many parachutes they had onboard.
It turned out that there were only four.
But there were seven people. So, what to do?
(There weren’t enough parachutes for everyone)
After discussing it, they decided that since the purpose of their trip was to deliver antibiotics and other medicines and nutritional supplements to the people.
They might as well use the parachutes to carry these supplies so that they could land safely.
I was very moved when I heard them recounting this.
They took the mission so seriously that they didn’t even consider their own lives.
If their plane was to be hit by cannon fire, all they hoped for was that the medicines and supplies could land safely so those in need could use them.
See how they were willing to sacrifice themselves.
Though their lives may have been endangered, all they thought of was that many people were waiting for the medicines.
So, if something were to happen to the plane, their own welfare wouldn’t be their first priority.
I was very moved (by their selflessness)
But, (I disagreed with their thinking)
I feel that everyone should still put their safety first when doing aid work because if you lose your lives who’d be there to do the aid work?
So, everyone, I still must remind you to take good care of yourselves.
Only when we are safe and well will we be able to help others.
Everyone, all around the world, there are so many disasters.
To bring aid to those affected by disaster, we must not look down on any effort no matter how inconsequential it may seem.
As we step onto the Bodhisattva Path, we must take action and seize time to benefit others in society.
The world is filled with suffering and that’s why we need living bodhisattvas to go into the community to listen and to see where there are people in suffering so that we can reach out to them and bring them aid in person.
Just now we saw that in the year 2008 just in Taiwan, Tzu Chi has provided emergency aid to over 100,000 people, and given long-term aid to over 30,000 people.
Besides that, whenever our volunteers learn that there are families living in dirty and dilapidated houses or wherever there are people both poor and sick they’d go help clean up and repair their houses or help bathe the sick and care for them.
That is what Tzu Chi volunteers have been doing for people in Taiwan. We not only help people in other countries. Of course, we earnestly hope that everyone in Taiwan can be safe and well and at the same time, we will also work to provide aid to people around the world.
(It is our vow to help people in need)
Aren’t those who can come to others’ rescue the most blessed?
Everyone, we must diligently carry out the spirit of our Jing Si principles and walk the path of Tzu Chi by going into the community to serve.
980101人間菩提英文版 Sowing Blessings In Order to Reap Blessings
人間菩提--同造福因得福果
Sowing Blessings In Order to Reap Blessings
Living bodhisattvas, Happy New Year,
Indeed, happy new year, and may every month, every day, and every moment be just as happy and filled with peace.
Thanks to your wholehearted dedication.
We in Taiwan have been able to pass the past year in peace and safety.
The reason we can be safe and sound every day is because we’ve been sowing blessings through benefiting others with love.
With the blessings we’ve sown, we’d naturally be safe and well.
That’s especially the case for you recycling volunteers who have been cherishing resources and caring for our land by collecting recyclables.
(Besides letting resources be reused,) it also helps conserve energy and cut down carbon emissions.
See how doing recycling can benefit the Earth in many ways.
Just now I saw how our recycling volunteers in Xizhi of Taipei and Keelung went to collect the wooden pallets at a container depot in Xizhi.
If our volunteers did not collect these pallets, the container depot would’ve spent hundreds of US dollars every month to have them cleared away.
So, with our volunteers’ efforts, the depot is able to save hundreds of dollars a month, and we can also make use of the pallets.
Thank you all for spending a day every month to collect these wooden pallets and saw and organize them so neatly before transporting them back to the Jing Si Abode.
Do you know that the hot meals we have at the Abode are made possible by your contributions as you collect the wooden pallets and ever so mindfully pull out the nails one by one and saw and pile them up so neatly before delivering them back to the Abode for us to use as firewood for cooking.
Because of your efforts, my monastic disciples, do not have to worry about running out of firewood.
You have been doing this silently for years and I didn’t know until now.
Thank you. I am very grateful to you all.
After I return to the Abode, when I eat, I’ll cherish the hot dishes on the table even more as now I know that these hot dishes have been made possible by your efforts, and my heart will be filled with even more warmth as I eat the meal.
By doing this, you’re forming good affinities with those who have eaten at the Abode.
After the wood is burned, the ashes can still be made use of---my monastic disciples very mindfully draw the nails from the ashes with magnets so that the ashes can be used as fertilizer for the vegetables that we grow at the abode.
When you come back to the Abode, you can all enjoy the vegetables that my monastic disciples grow at the Abode.
This is how the cycle of love works in this world.
In this world, most things can be recycled and be reused again and again.
Truly, there are no useless things in this world.
It all depends on people---
As long as we have the heart to do it, there is nothing that we can’t accomplish.
That’s why we should not underestimate our potential.
I am very grateful.
Taiwan is truly a peaceful and auspicious place.
(Behind this lies the law of cause and effect---) when we sow blessings, we’ll be able to reap blessings.
With so many people in Taiwan doing good together with others thus sowing blessings and forming good affinities, the fruits we shall reap will be blessings.
This is the law of cause and effect. That’s why Taiwan has good weather and land conditions, and the people in Taiwan can live in peace and safety.
But when we look beyond Taiwan, how many disasters are there around the world?
We now have Tzu Chi members in over 40 countries.
In the past year, wherever there was a disaster, the local Tzu Chi volunteers would mobilize immediately and go to the disaster areas to care for the victims with love.
Look at Myanmar and China’s Sichuan. I am sure everyone still remembers what happened vividly.
At this time, our volunteers are there in Sichuan holding winter distributions because this is the first winter after the earthquake hi in May last year.
You know Taiwan actually has very nice weather.
Even though it is cold in winter, it’s not as cold as Sichuan where the temperature usually drops below zero.
So, we can imagine how the quake survivors must feel in winter, especially having lost everything to the earthquake and with the winter there being so cold.
So, our volunteers brought them blankets, winter clothing, cotton shirts, and food like rice, cooking oil, salt, etc.
So, be it food, material supplies, clothing, blankets, etc., we prepared what they needed and gave it out to them.
We have also built an activity center in Luoshui for them and the center was inaugurated a week or so ago.
They even held Year-end Blessings Ceremonies there.
The locals treat the activity center with pious sincerity and respect and also take care of it like their own home.
I saw that after an event ended, many women were scrubbing the floor.
I clean it up every day.
I stay after everyone leaves and clean it up before going home.
This is our home.
Tzu Chi built this home for us.
This is the best house we’ve ever had, so we should cherish it.
When everyone cares for the land, it will be clean.
I want to serve as a volunteer and do what Tzu Chi volunteers do.
It’s truly very heartwarming to hear and I feel that the seeds of love have already been sown in that land---
With our volunteers’ care and guidance, many of the quake survivors now can leave heir sorrow and grief behind.
After talking with our volunteers, many have opened up their hearts and their pain has also been eased.
(Seeing how they are able to smile again)
(and rebuild their lives with their own efforts,)
I am truly very happy.
(By doing this, we’re bringing aid to people)
(at the most critical moment in their lives)
When others are in need of help, we in Taiwan are able to provide aid although we’re so far away from them.
For that, we should feel very happy.
Because our heart is filled with joy from helping others, we should also be grateful for each day in the past that we’ve passed in peace.
We must be grateful every day
Every morning when I wake up the first thought I have is one of gratitude for being able to wake up to a new day again.
(I’d then move my hands and feet) and be grateful that (I am still able to move) and to continue serving others.
So, every day, at every moment, my heart is filled with gratitude.
We should se the past year off with gratitude and welcome in the new year with sincere piety.
So, for the year 2009, let us all pray with utmost sincere piety for the new year to be filled with peace, auspiciousness. blessings, and wisdom.
Sowing Blessings In Order to Reap Blessings
Living bodhisattvas, Happy New Year,
Indeed, happy new year, and may every month, every day, and every moment be just as happy and filled with peace.
Thanks to your wholehearted dedication.
We in Taiwan have been able to pass the past year in peace and safety.
The reason we can be safe and sound every day is because we’ve been sowing blessings through benefiting others with love.
With the blessings we’ve sown, we’d naturally be safe and well.
That’s especially the case for you recycling volunteers who have been cherishing resources and caring for our land by collecting recyclables.
(Besides letting resources be reused,) it also helps conserve energy and cut down carbon emissions.
See how doing recycling can benefit the Earth in many ways.
Just now I saw how our recycling volunteers in Xizhi of Taipei and Keelung went to collect the wooden pallets at a container depot in Xizhi.
If our volunteers did not collect these pallets, the container depot would’ve spent hundreds of US dollars every month to have them cleared away.
So, with our volunteers’ efforts, the depot is able to save hundreds of dollars a month, and we can also make use of the pallets.
Thank you all for spending a day every month to collect these wooden pallets and saw and organize them so neatly before transporting them back to the Jing Si Abode.
Do you know that the hot meals we have at the Abode are made possible by your contributions as you collect the wooden pallets and ever so mindfully pull out the nails one by one and saw and pile them up so neatly before delivering them back to the Abode for us to use as firewood for cooking.
Because of your efforts, my monastic disciples, do not have to worry about running out of firewood.
You have been doing this silently for years and I didn’t know until now.
Thank you. I am very grateful to you all.
After I return to the Abode, when I eat, I’ll cherish the hot dishes on the table even more as now I know that these hot dishes have been made possible by your efforts, and my heart will be filled with even more warmth as I eat the meal.
By doing this, you’re forming good affinities with those who have eaten at the Abode.
After the wood is burned, the ashes can still be made use of---my monastic disciples very mindfully draw the nails from the ashes with magnets so that the ashes can be used as fertilizer for the vegetables that we grow at the abode.
When you come back to the Abode, you can all enjoy the vegetables that my monastic disciples grow at the Abode.
This is how the cycle of love works in this world.
In this world, most things can be recycled and be reused again and again.
Truly, there are no useless things in this world.
It all depends on people---
As long as we have the heart to do it, there is nothing that we can’t accomplish.
That’s why we should not underestimate our potential.
I am very grateful.
Taiwan is truly a peaceful and auspicious place.
(Behind this lies the law of cause and effect---) when we sow blessings, we’ll be able to reap blessings.
With so many people in Taiwan doing good together with others thus sowing blessings and forming good affinities, the fruits we shall reap will be blessings.
This is the law of cause and effect. That’s why Taiwan has good weather and land conditions, and the people in Taiwan can live in peace and safety.
But when we look beyond Taiwan, how many disasters are there around the world?
We now have Tzu Chi members in over 40 countries.
In the past year, wherever there was a disaster, the local Tzu Chi volunteers would mobilize immediately and go to the disaster areas to care for the victims with love.
Look at Myanmar and China’s Sichuan. I am sure everyone still remembers what happened vividly.
At this time, our volunteers are there in Sichuan holding winter distributions because this is the first winter after the earthquake hi in May last year.
You know Taiwan actually has very nice weather.
Even though it is cold in winter, it’s not as cold as Sichuan where the temperature usually drops below zero.
So, we can imagine how the quake survivors must feel in winter, especially having lost everything to the earthquake and with the winter there being so cold.
So, our volunteers brought them blankets, winter clothing, cotton shirts, and food like rice, cooking oil, salt, etc.
So, be it food, material supplies, clothing, blankets, etc., we prepared what they needed and gave it out to them.
We have also built an activity center in Luoshui for them and the center was inaugurated a week or so ago.
They even held Year-end Blessings Ceremonies there.
The locals treat the activity center with pious sincerity and respect and also take care of it like their own home.
I saw that after an event ended, many women were scrubbing the floor.
I clean it up every day.
I stay after everyone leaves and clean it up before going home.
This is our home.
Tzu Chi built this home for us.
This is the best house we’ve ever had, so we should cherish it.
When everyone cares for the land, it will be clean.
I want to serve as a volunteer and do what Tzu Chi volunteers do.
It’s truly very heartwarming to hear and I feel that the seeds of love have already been sown in that land---
With our volunteers’ care and guidance, many of the quake survivors now can leave heir sorrow and grief behind.
After talking with our volunteers, many have opened up their hearts and their pain has also been eased.
(Seeing how they are able to smile again)
(and rebuild their lives with their own efforts,)
I am truly very happy.
(By doing this, we’re bringing aid to people)
(at the most critical moment in their lives)
When others are in need of help, we in Taiwan are able to provide aid although we’re so far away from them.
For that, we should feel very happy.
Because our heart is filled with joy from helping others, we should also be grateful for each day in the past that we’ve passed in peace.
We must be grateful every day
Every morning when I wake up the first thought I have is one of gratitude for being able to wake up to a new day again.
(I’d then move my hands and feet) and be grateful that (I am still able to move) and to continue serving others.
So, every day, at every moment, my heart is filled with gratitude.
We should se the past year off with gratitude and welcome in the new year with sincere piety.
So, for the year 2009, let us all pray with utmost sincere piety for the new year to be filled with peace, auspiciousness. blessings, and wisdom.
971231人間菩提英文版Turning Storms into a Spring Breeze
人間菩提--轉化風暴為春風
Turning Storms into a Spring Breeze
Nowadays, we see that ethics and moral values are on the decline.
This is truly very worrying.
The global financial crisis or storm we’re facing is nothing to be frightened about
What’s truly frightening is the spiritual storm ravaging people’s minds.
A downturn in the economy isn’t anything we need to panic about but it’d be worrying if people cannot face it calmly and peacefully.
Nowadays, many companies are cutting back staff.
But if employers and employees can have gratitude and love for one another---
Employers should be grateful to their employees because without their employees their businesses could not have been established.
Employees should be grateful to their employers because without the employers and their business plans the employees would not have jobs.
So, employers and employees should be grateful to one another and be more understanding of each other.
Only when everyone keeps a calm and peaceful mind like this can we survive the financial crisis and survive this period of job cuts.
This is a cause you staff at our cultural center can contribute to
At this time when the global financial crisis is
(affecting us and moral values are on the decline) carrying out our work is like birds flying against the wind or fish swimming against the current.
It’s truly not an easy job.
But at a time like this if we go with the trend, (the situation will grow worse, and we’ll)
(bring upon ourselves even bigger crises)
So, in the midst of such a storm, we must not go with the flow but strive to transform it so it can become a soothing breeze.
To do that, what’s most important is to adjust people’s mindset.
(and change people’s way of thinking)
When our perspective and way of thinking is right, I’m sure that the economy will recover and the financial crisis, we’re experiencing will pass soon, and then we can start all over again and I am confident that we’ll be alright.
So, to serve as birds flying against the wind and fist swimming against the current, we need to exert more effort.
I know it’s very strenuous.
(That’s what I’d like to encourage everyone to do)
Actually, the economic downturn recently has also affected me.
In fact, I was among the first to be affected.
Be it natural or manmade disasters---
To tell the truth, ever since the start of this year, there hasn’t been a single month when my mind has been at peace.
It’s not just the disasters that I have to worry about. There are also
(people that I have to deal with) each with his or her own mind, personality. habits, and inclinations.
In such a time of many disasters, how can we pacify people’s minds and moreover, guide people away from their unwholesome habits and tendencies so they can follow the right direction in life.
With all the disasters around the world and dealing with people’s habitual tendencies.
I find myself like a bird flying against the wind because no mater what, I must persist in our mission.
With so many disasters occurring, can we let the victims suffer without aid?
The economy is very bad right now, but it’s not that people are strapped on cash
It’s that they don’t know how to use their money. wisely. Instead, they spend it as they wish.
We should really use the money to benefit others.
(are not spend it on things we don’t really need)
In May this year, when Myanmar was devastated by a cyclone and Sichuan of China by an earthquake, we began soliciting donations. But, people weren’t as generous with their donations as they have been in the past.
Concerned, I quickly called on Tzu Chi volunteers worldwide to appeal for relief donations.
I also called on our volunteers to promote the practice of saving a coin every day.
(to benefit those in need)
So, this time, I’m truly very grateful to our volunteers in Canada and the U.S.
Actually, a large part of the funds for our relief missions in Myanmar and Sichuan came from the efforts of our volunteers in the U.S. and Canada.
(This actually highlights a worrying situation)
(I understand that)
(people are less well-to-do)
(because of the recent economic downturn)
But when people cannot bring themselves to donate when they know there are people being affected by disaster, that worries me because it’s important for people to seize the time and opportunity to do good.
People must know how to best utilize their money to benefit others.
This is what’s most important.
So, I’m truly very worried.
So, it is my hope that we can work to inspire love in more people in Taiwan.
This morning I watched Da Ai News and saw our winter aid distributions in Xiamen, Fujian province of China.
Before our volunteers left for the distributions I kept telling them that they must promote the practice of saving a coin every day among the locals so that they too can help others.
While helping the poor, we must also encourage them to help others as we hope that from now on.
(they can become rich spiritually)
Leading a simpler life is the way to richness.
By that, I don’t mean living in poverty.
Even if people truly live an impoverished life, we also hope that we can encourage them to help others and thereby cultivate blessings.
So, we saw that those who came to receive relief goods put their money into the coin bank and many of them even put bills in our coin bank.
See how responsive the locals were
Though their donations may seem small when pooled together, they can do a lot.
It’s not only about the money they donated.
What matters most is the good thought that people give rise to
(Such thoughts can bring)
(peace and harmony to this world)
So, no matter if the disasters facing us are natural or manmade, if people don’t know to give rise to loving-kindness, that is what worries me the most.
However, seeing how our staff at the cultural center.
(are even more united and committed to)
(our mission of promoting goodness in the world,)
I truly feel there is hope.
It takes people to spread the Dharma---
But who has the capacity to do this?
Those working in media and communications.
It is you who work in media and communications who have the power th make right values widespread.
But, our work must also be of good quality.
Of course, our work is able to spread right values.
(because you report on Tzu Chi members’ deeds)
So, it is thanks to them.
Ever since Tzu Chi began 43 years ago and continuing to the present their direction has never wavered and they’ve walked the path diligently always moving forward.
They truly have left solid footprints every step of the way.
So, the work that you staff at the cultural center do is all centered around our Four Missions and Eight Footprints.
The work that our volunteers do is very touching and their deeds have become the source material for the work that you staff at our cultural center do.
As you share their deeds which contain the Dharma. It is my hope that step by step.
We can present the Dharma to people in a way that is easy for them to understand so that people can come to accept these.
Dharma teachings and take them to heart.
This is truly very important.
We must report what is true and guide people onto the right path so it’s important that our direction is correct.
So, how are we to bring peace of mind to people and inspire goodness and love in people’s hearts so as to further tame people’s minds and guide them onto the right path in life?
That’s why I said that we have to be like birds flying against the wind and like fish that swim upstream.
Although this is truly hard work every one of us must work in joint effort towards the same goal (of inspiring love in people)
Turning Storms into a Spring Breeze
Nowadays, we see that ethics and moral values are on the decline.
This is truly very worrying.
The global financial crisis or storm we’re facing is nothing to be frightened about
What’s truly frightening is the spiritual storm ravaging people’s minds.
A downturn in the economy isn’t anything we need to panic about but it’d be worrying if people cannot face it calmly and peacefully.
Nowadays, many companies are cutting back staff.
But if employers and employees can have gratitude and love for one another---
Employers should be grateful to their employees because without their employees their businesses could not have been established.
Employees should be grateful to their employers because without the employers and their business plans the employees would not have jobs.
So, employers and employees should be grateful to one another and be more understanding of each other.
Only when everyone keeps a calm and peaceful mind like this can we survive the financial crisis and survive this period of job cuts.
This is a cause you staff at our cultural center can contribute to
At this time when the global financial crisis is
(affecting us and moral values are on the decline) carrying out our work is like birds flying against the wind or fish swimming against the current.
It’s truly not an easy job.
But at a time like this if we go with the trend, (the situation will grow worse, and we’ll)
(bring upon ourselves even bigger crises)
So, in the midst of such a storm, we must not go with the flow but strive to transform it so it can become a soothing breeze.
To do that, what’s most important is to adjust people’s mindset.
(and change people’s way of thinking)
When our perspective and way of thinking is right, I’m sure that the economy will recover and the financial crisis, we’re experiencing will pass soon, and then we can start all over again and I am confident that we’ll be alright.
So, to serve as birds flying against the wind and fist swimming against the current, we need to exert more effort.
I know it’s very strenuous.
(That’s what I’d like to encourage everyone to do)
Actually, the economic downturn recently has also affected me.
In fact, I was among the first to be affected.
Be it natural or manmade disasters---
To tell the truth, ever since the start of this year, there hasn’t been a single month when my mind has been at peace.
It’s not just the disasters that I have to worry about. There are also
(people that I have to deal with) each with his or her own mind, personality. habits, and inclinations.
In such a time of many disasters, how can we pacify people’s minds and moreover, guide people away from their unwholesome habits and tendencies so they can follow the right direction in life.
With all the disasters around the world and dealing with people’s habitual tendencies.
I find myself like a bird flying against the wind because no mater what, I must persist in our mission.
With so many disasters occurring, can we let the victims suffer without aid?
The economy is very bad right now, but it’s not that people are strapped on cash
It’s that they don’t know how to use their money. wisely. Instead, they spend it as they wish.
We should really use the money to benefit others.
(are not spend it on things we don’t really need)
In May this year, when Myanmar was devastated by a cyclone and Sichuan of China by an earthquake, we began soliciting donations. But, people weren’t as generous with their donations as they have been in the past.
Concerned, I quickly called on Tzu Chi volunteers worldwide to appeal for relief donations.
I also called on our volunteers to promote the practice of saving a coin every day.
(to benefit those in need)
So, this time, I’m truly very grateful to our volunteers in Canada and the U.S.
Actually, a large part of the funds for our relief missions in Myanmar and Sichuan came from the efforts of our volunteers in the U.S. and Canada.
(This actually highlights a worrying situation)
(I understand that)
(people are less well-to-do)
(because of the recent economic downturn)
But when people cannot bring themselves to donate when they know there are people being affected by disaster, that worries me because it’s important for people to seize the time and opportunity to do good.
People must know how to best utilize their money to benefit others.
This is what’s most important.
So, I’m truly very worried.
So, it is my hope that we can work to inspire love in more people in Taiwan.
This morning I watched Da Ai News and saw our winter aid distributions in Xiamen, Fujian province of China.
Before our volunteers left for the distributions I kept telling them that they must promote the practice of saving a coin every day among the locals so that they too can help others.
While helping the poor, we must also encourage them to help others as we hope that from now on.
(they can become rich spiritually)
Leading a simpler life is the way to richness.
By that, I don’t mean living in poverty.
Even if people truly live an impoverished life, we also hope that we can encourage them to help others and thereby cultivate blessings.
So, we saw that those who came to receive relief goods put their money into the coin bank and many of them even put bills in our coin bank.
See how responsive the locals were
Though their donations may seem small when pooled together, they can do a lot.
It’s not only about the money they donated.
What matters most is the good thought that people give rise to
(Such thoughts can bring)
(peace and harmony to this world)
So, no matter if the disasters facing us are natural or manmade, if people don’t know to give rise to loving-kindness, that is what worries me the most.
However, seeing how our staff at the cultural center.
(are even more united and committed to)
(our mission of promoting goodness in the world,)
I truly feel there is hope.
It takes people to spread the Dharma---
But who has the capacity to do this?
Those working in media and communications.
It is you who work in media and communications who have the power th make right values widespread.
But, our work must also be of good quality.
Of course, our work is able to spread right values.
(because you report on Tzu Chi members’ deeds)
So, it is thanks to them.
Ever since Tzu Chi began 43 years ago and continuing to the present their direction has never wavered and they’ve walked the path diligently always moving forward.
They truly have left solid footprints every step of the way.
So, the work that you staff at the cultural center do is all centered around our Four Missions and Eight Footprints.
The work that our volunteers do is very touching and their deeds have become the source material for the work that you staff at our cultural center do.
As you share their deeds which contain the Dharma. It is my hope that step by step.
We can present the Dharma to people in a way that is easy for them to understand so that people can come to accept these.
Dharma teachings and take them to heart.
This is truly very important.
We must report what is true and guide people onto the right path so it’s important that our direction is correct.
So, how are we to bring peace of mind to people and inspire goodness and love in people’s hearts so as to further tame people’s minds and guide them onto the right path in life?
That’s why I said that we have to be like birds flying against the wind and like fish that swim upstream.
Although this is truly hard work every one of us must work in joint effort towards the same goal (of inspiring love in people)
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