Words From Dharma Master Cheng Yen—Standing With Wildfire Survivors

I’ve often lamented in recent years the unstoppable power of natural disasters. Take, for example, the wildfires that erupted in California, the United States, in January this year. Propelled by strong winds, the flames spread uncontrollably, showing no mercy. News footage captured the night sky over the disaster area glowing red with flames, evoking deep concern. In the face of such disasters, all we can do is stay vigilant, pray sincerely, and dedicate ourselves wholeheartedly to relief efforts.

Many affected residents had lived comfortably before the disaster, yet material wealth is never permanent—everything can be lost in an instant. In the aftermath of such a disaster, survivors may struggle to access food and water or find themselves in urgent need of clothing and blankets. Even those with financial means may face temporary hardship. When someone hungry stands before us, should we first determine whether they are rich or poor before offering them a meal? In times of crisis, such distinctions fade—disasters bring loss to all, leaving scars on everyone’s heart. That is why we must approach relief efforts with great love and compassion, responding swiftly to alleviate suffering without hesitation. More importantly, we must provide meaningful assistance—help that truly makes a difference, instead of just a token gesture.

California’s wildfire disaster brought to mind Tzu Chi’s first large-scale disaster relief effort, also in response to a fire. Late on the night of the Mid-Autumn Festival in 1969, a fire broke out in Danan Village, Beinan Township, Taitung County, in eastern Taiwan. Typhoon Elsie, combined with foehn winds, fanned the flames, causing massive devastation. Overnight, more than a hundred houses were reduced to ashes, leaving over 700 people homeless. In addition to distributing emergency cash, Tzu Chi purchased the finest blankets available in Taiwan at the time to help the displaced endure the approaching winter. Instead of distributing just one blanket per household, they were allocated based on family size—one blanket for every two people. We offered the best with love and respect so that recipients could truly feel the care behind our aid.

Our volunteers today uphold the same spirit of compassion that guided Tzu Chi’s aid efforts in 1969. In the wake of the California wildfires, they acted quickly to provide both material and emotional support. Among them was Sister Flora Yeh (吳如真), whose own home had also been consumed by the flames. Having been with Tzu Chi for many years, she deeply understands life’s impermanence and how material possessions can vanish in an instant. With this perspective, she was able to temporarily set aside her own loss and dedicate herself wholeheartedly to helping others. Survivors still had to go on with their lives—they needed not only financial assistance but also emotional support. She could empathize deeply with those she was helping, having experienced the same pain of loss herself. Her words carried great comfort.

Some of our volunteers in the United States worked directly in the disaster areas, while others took to the streets to fundraise and inspire acts of kindness. They understood that the road from immediate relief to long-term recovery would be long and arduous, requiring efforts on multiple fronts. Their first priority was to provide meaningful aid that survivors could truly feel and rely on to regain stability. But recovery doesn’t happen overnight—ongoing support and care will be essential as survivors rebuild their homes and lives.

The hearts of wildfire survivors, like scorched earth, need the nourishing rain of Great Love—an unselfish love that embraces all humanity—to heal over time. Natural disasters are relentless, and the manpower we have is limited—we cannot know how much we can help affected areas recover, but we will do our utmost. Alongside our sincere efforts, let us pray earnestly so that the buddhas may witness the love in this world and help bring recovery to those affected.

Our foundation has been around now for nearly 60 years, beginning with 30 housewives each saving a little of their grocery money every day to help the needy. We have remained true to our path every step of the way. Over time, this road has stretched far, and love has extended ever wider. When everyone cultivates kind thoughts and helps those in need, it creates collective goodness. It takes countless acts of kindness working together to dispel disasters. We must continue to make the best use of time and circumstances, moving forward with dedication on the same path and inspiring more to join us, so that together, we can help peace and well-being prevail in this world.