During the Chinese New Year celebration, I was invited to the annual Blessings ceremony of
Tzu Chi Foundation at Penang International Sports Arena. With a crowded venue, I was glad that we arrived early for good seats.
I was first introduced to Tzu Chi Foundation a few years ago where my ex-boss was actively involved in many community projects. This non-profit organization provides help to local communities by
delivering food and warm clothes to the homeless, recycling and protecting the environment, providing relief to the victims of international disaster, offering weekend schooling for young people and providing medical support to the less fortunate.
Pictured here are some of the highlights of the event. There are about 1,600 volunteers who had dedicated themselves to this ceremony.
Some of the activities include sign language performance, inspiring documentaries, choir singing, stage drama, dharma drum and verses of incense praise.
One can also view and admire the lights that popped all over the place in a spectacular way.
It amazed me seeing all these Tzu Chi members who had worked so hard to participate in this activity, hoping to inspire people to be grateful for the past year, and to welcome the year ahead with great
love.
As can be seen on the big screen, The Great Awakened of the Universe is the depiction of Buddha of Tzu Chi Foundation. Within the statue, Buddha is letting the world witness his enlightenment. While I don't obtained deep knowledge in Buddhism, I was deeply touched by the story of hope and strength of Tzu Chi's dedicated efforts.
Together with thousands of other attendees we light candles and pray for world peace, happiness, and harmony of humankind.
The attendees went home with happiness and our prayers continue for a better world and hope the end of all suffering.
A heart full of love is the most beautiful thing in the world.
- Master Cheng Yen, Tzu Chi.
Our World