A
bazaar featuring over a hundred booths was recently held at Tashe
Park in Chiayi County to raise funds for the construction of the Tzu
Chi Talin Hospital. This time the Yunlin - Chiayi Center also participated
in the activity sponsored by the Buddhist Compassion Relief Tzu Chi
Association.
Work
was divided among local fellow practitioners as usual. An announcement
was aired in a radio program produced by initiates for regular broadcasting
on the Choshui River Radio Station. Widespread enthusiasm among fellow
initiates ensured that the preparations were complete before the bazaar
opened. The simple yet elegant setting, graced by a photo of the merciful
Master, transformed the booth into the likes of a majestic ashram.
However, perspiration streamed down the backs of the initiates working
in the stifling heat under the canvas top stretched over the booth.
Finding no comfort in the warm air set into motion by the electric
fans, the participants wished for air conditioning. But how could
this be possible in a booth at a bazaar? Finally, the initiates purchased
two huge blocks of ice and placed them in front of the fans. The warm
air cooled into air conditioning. We were so proud that our "wisdom
eye" had opened somewhat.
The
bazaar took on a festive mood with performances organized by its sponsors.
At the invitation of the Chiayi-Yunlin Center, Kaohsiung initiates
from southern Formosa presented the "Peaceful Drum Dance."
They immediately became the focus of attention when they appeared
in dazzling costumes. Their lively dance and rhythmic steps brought
the show to a climatic peak within minutes.
 |
Receipt
from the Buddhist Compassion Relief Tzu Chi Association for
the NT$20,000 contribution from initiates.
|
Among
visitors to our booth was a member of the Tzu Chi Association who
came to discuss issues about life with initiates. The self-confident
and happy looks of the initiates convinced her that there was something
worth exploring here. She expressed the hope of visiting Hsihu Center
and that this activity would remind people to be concerned not only
about physical ailments but also the eternal liberation of their souls.
However, even though brother Ni of Kaohsiung was in the last stages
of stomach cancer, he defeated death with the meditative power of
the Quan Yin Method and gained greater enlightenment and wisdom in
the process. His example tells us that the supreme Method is the one
that brings both physical and spiritual benefits. 
Love
In Action
