Translated by Teresa Chang
A powerful earthquake, measuring 7.6 in magnitude, struck the Noto Peninsula of Japan’s Ishikawa Prefecture on New Year’s Day in 2024. The news footage captured the intensity of the shaking, striking fear into the hearts of residents. Our volunteers in Japan promptly reported on their safety and gathered at our Tokyo office to learn more about the tremor and take stock of available relief supplies. Upon identifying an affected area where assistance could be provided, they quickly prepared to launch a hot meal service for survivors amidst the harsh cold. The recipients of these meals were deeply grateful and impressed by the deliciousness of the vegetarian food.
Our volunteers acted swiftly in the aftermath of the earthquake, serving hot meals to nourish those affected. They also prepared blankets for distribution, aiming to provide warmth and comfort to those in need. Whenever a disaster strikes, our volunteers in the affected region rise to the occasion, supported by all Tzu Chi volunteers worldwide. In addition to providing direct aid, they work to raise relief funds and inspire others to join them in aiding the needy, fostering a spirit of compassion and encouraging collective acts of kindness.
Tzu Chi will soon mark its 60th anniversary. Rooted in selfless Great Love, our foundation has steadily progressed from humble beginnings to where we are today. I often say, “Within a grain of rice lies the sun and the moon.” What do I mean by this? Cultivating rice involves sowing the seeds, nurturing the sprouts, plowing, planting the seedlings, weeding, and finally harvesting the crop. Sunlight and water are also indispensable. Even if just one component is lacking, the desired outcome becomes unattainable. Similarly, all the right conditions must be present for a noble cause to flourish. This requires the concerted efforts of many people.
I love all people in the world, but I cannot reach everyone personally. My heart is filled with gratitude towards all Tzu Chi volunteers for enabling my love to extend to so many individuals worldwide. Our volunteers have not only dedicated their efforts to fulfilling our missions of charity, medicine, education, and culture, but have also inspired others to join our cause by earnestly sharing with them Tzu Chi’s philosophy and guiding principles. The gratitude in my heart for everyone is immense. Tzu Chi began on a small scale 58 years ago, but over time, our sphere of care has expanded. This wouldn’t have been possible without more people joining in to help. I believe that as more individuals unite in love and harmony to serve the world, our world will undoubtedly transform into a Pure Land.
When we have an abundance of food and secure meals, we should remember those who are starving. Living in a peaceful and prosperous country, we should remind ourselves, “I am truly fortunate!” As we acknowledge our blessings, let’s not forget to sow more blessings by extending love and generosity to others. When all the blessings we create combine, they form a powerful force for good in the world.
Always cultivate a loving heart. Embrace kindness towards others and appreciate everything you encounter. With a loving heart, you naturally empathize with and want to help others when they are in need. However, it’s vital to understand that giving isn’t about being the provider; it’s about cherishing the opportunity to make a difference. Those of us capable of giving are truly blessed, as it allows us to enrich the meaning of our lives. Thus, let us care for others with hearts full of gratitude.
Every day when I open my eyes, my first thoughts are always ones of gratitude. I’m thankful for the peace of yesterday, allowing me to sleep well. I’m grateful for the people and events of yesterday, leaving me content and prepared to start another fulfilling day. Joining hands with numerous good-hearted individuals worldwide in wholeheartedly dedicating ourselves to serving the needy brings a profound sense of joy and fulfillment. Each day consists of 86,400 seconds, which may seem abundant, yet they swiftly pass like the ticking of a clock. Life is fleeting; if we are heedless of time, our days slip away unnoticed. Every second eventually passes regardless of our time management skills, so we must wisely use every moment and make it count by doing good.
A bodhisattva compassionately delivers the needy from suffering, spreading love to benefit the world. Let’s all strive to emulate this spirit. Never underestimate what you can contribute. When droplets of water come together to form a river, they are capable of nourishing large areas of dry land; when the strengths of many people combine, it can bring relief to countless others. Let’s be ever more mindful.
Photo by Huang Xiao-zhe
