For more than ten years, Zhang Yu Nian had not only been applying a physical layer of thick makeup on her face – she had also buried her heart deeply within her soul, shutting herself off from others. Years of feeling neglected and not having been understood by others, had developed in her an intense anger and hard headedness. However, the day she once again donned the Tzu Chi uniform, she found herself back on the path to reclaim her pure and simple heart.
A nurse by profession, Sister Zeng Xiu Ling, also known as Sister Anne, used to be so known for her sharp tongue that even the doctors feared her. Her superior knew that despite her sharp tongue, she had a soft heart; however despite repeated advice, her fiery temper showed no signs of abating. The turning point came when Sister Anne participated in the “Dharma as Water” sutra adaptation, where amidst tears of repentance, she suddenly came to the realization that with just words or a mere thought, one could either plant the seeds of negative karma or positive affinity with others.
“Have you gone vegetarian?”In convincing our friends and relatives to become vegetarian, it is never easy even when we can do so face-to-face. For Sister Chen Sai Zhen, the use of technology as a means to transcend geographical barriers proves that nothing is difficult when we set our hearts on achieving a goal. With the help of social media, Sister Sai Zhen has already managed to persuade others to consume more than a thousand vegetarian meals!
The Chen family’s affinity with Tzu Chi began some eight years ago, when their son, Chen Guan Zheng contracted leukaemia. With his subsequent passing, the unwavering support and concern of Tzu Chi volunteers touched them greatly, and they slowly began to emerge from the depths of their grief. During the end of year 2012, the family transformed their gratitude into action. They joined the Water Repentance Text community study sessions and participated in the presentation of the Sutra adaptation during the Year-End Blessing Ceremony in the hopes that this same love and concern can touch the lives of more people.