Translated by Teresa Chang
Time slips by easily, without form or sound, and once gone, it cannot be reclaimed. How much time each of us has left is uncertain, for life is impermanent. That is why I often speak of cherishing time and making the most of every moment.
It is only through time that anything can be accomplished. Without it, we could not have achieved all that we have through Tzu Chi’s four missions. Now, nearly 60 years since Tzu Chi began, I look back with gratitude, knowing I have done my best to treasure each day and live by the instruction of my mentor, Dharma Master Yin Shun: “Work for Buddhism and for all living beings.” His words shaped my path and continue to inspire all that we do.
I am also deeply grateful to all our volunteers and staff. Without their unity of heart, joined with mine, there would be no Tzu Chi as we know it today. Moved by suffering we cannot ignore, we have worked together step by step, day by day, to bring relief to those in need.
Though I remain in the Jing Si Abode most of the time, my heart is always with the world. Thanks to modern technology, global events appear before our eyes with a single tap. We are witnessing climate instability, conflict, and unrest in the hearts of many. I worry constantly and pray sincerely for peace. I also hope that each of us will nurture genuine love so that wherever there is suffering, helping hands will reach out with care.
Today, as the global population grows year after year, we also see individuals expressing their beliefs and opinions more openly and with greater conviction. Young people, too, have their own distinct perspectives, and I often feel I can no longer keep pace. Even so, I hold fast to my faith in the inherent goodness of human nature. If we can create the right environment, those with the right affinities will be inspired to join us. By helping them see the value of living with compassion and purpose, we can walk this path together, giving of ourselves for the good of humanity and the world.
In late March, a powerful earthquake struck Myanmar. Reports of the devastation soon began to come in. Many people had been injured or killed. Hundreds of monasteries, among other buildings, had collapsed, and orphans who had once found shelter there were left without a safe haven. I was deeply concerned and immediately considered how we could help. Despite their small numbers, our volunteers in Myanmar quickly launched relief efforts. The greatest challenge we’ve faced has been transporting supplies into the country, but we have continued striving to find ways to deliver aid. Whatever strength we have, we must use it to do all we can for those in need.
Life brings many challenges, including sudden disasters like the earthquake. Reflecting on this, I feel even more grateful for our own safety and well-being. We must recognize our blessings, cherish them, and go a step further by sharing them. For instance, setting aside a few coins each day may not affect our own lives, but when combined with the efforts of others, those small acts can bring great relief. Every drop of kindness joins with others to form a river, then an ocean—and within that vast sea, your drop is there too. In giving, we find deeper meaning in our own lives.
In these uncertain times, it is especially important to bring peace to people’s hearts. Let us steady our minds, believe in ourselves, and commit to bringing goodness to the world. Giving never diminishes us. Each of us carries a spring within that can nourish others, and this source of kindness and compassion is inexhaustible—the more we draw from it, the more it flows.
There is so much to be grateful for. I’m thankful love has always lived in my heart. Though much time has passed from my youth to old age, that love has never faded. I’m also grateful for the love that has always surrounded me. Our volunteers often return to the Abode from around the world and across Taiwan. Each day, our conversations revolve around love—love that is sincere, selfless, and pure. This love is something we must continue to pass on. For the power of love to thrive in this world, it needs me, it needs you, it needs everyone. Let us be grateful for one another and support each other in passing on love and in giving. The more we give, the more blessings we create. Please be ever more mindful.
Time slips by easily, but by using it wisely, we can accomplish much. Huang Xiao-zhe
