By Mei-Feng Lin 

On April 6, 2025, Tzu Chi Academy in Sydney, Australia, hosted a special "Cultural Heritage Day," seamlessly blending the traditions of Easter and the Chinese Qingming Festival. This event aimed to educate children about cultural heritage through engaging activities, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of both Eastern and Western traditions. 

A Journey Through Tradition 

The dedicated teaching team crafted a curriculum that introduced students to the origins of the Qingming Festival (Tomb-Sweeping Festival) and the historical context of the Cold Food Festival. By exploring the theme of "honoring the past and cherishing the present," students were encouraged to reflect on the continuity of life and express gratitude towards their ancestors. This cultural exploration was not just a lesson in history but an emotional journey, inspiring respect and appreciation for the blessings of the present. 

A Taste of Tradition 

The event was filled with lively activities and delightful aromas as children, guided by teachers and volunteers, crafted traditional Taiwanese foods such as gua bao (steamed bun burgers) and popiah (fresh spring rolls), and learned to make rich, creamy bubble tea. 

The ingredients for the gua bao, including marinated tofu and pickled mustard greens, were meticulously prepared by volunteer The Nhu Quach, while the fillings for the popiah were lovingly assembled by volunteer Mei-Feng Lin. The aroma of freshly steamed buns and coriander introduced the children, many of whom grew up in Australia, to the flavors of Taiwan for the first time. 

Focused and enthusiastic, the children took pride in their creations, carefully placing their handmade popiah into paper bags to share with their families. This act of sharing extended beyond food, symbolizing the transmission of culture and heartfelt intentions. 

The bubble tea stand drew long lines, reminiscent of past school fairs. Volunteer Karen Cheng shared a touching story: "The little boy who used to always be first in line, Michael Tsai, is now my son-in-law!" This serendipitous connection highlights the deep bonds and enduring love within the Tzu Chi family. 

From brewing tea and simmering brown sugar to shaking the perfect cup, participants experienced the allure of this globally renowned Taiwanese beverage. One teacher joyfully remarked, "This bubble tea rivals Chun Shui Tang’s—it’s rich, smooth, and filled with happiness!" 

Cultivating Compassion and Responsibility 

Cultural learning extended beyond sensory experiences to encompass global awareness and responsibility. On the day of the event, Tzu Chi Academy Australia launched the "Inspiring Hearts, Inspiring Love" initiative, inviting students, parents, volunteers, and teachers to unite in prayer and fundraising for earthquake survivors in Myanmar and Thailand. 

Guided by their teachers, the children learned about the suffering caused by natural disasters and were encouraged to donate with love, understanding that every contribution, regardless of size, plants a seed of selfless love and compassion. 

Master Cheng Yen, the founder of Tzu Chi, once said, "Disasters are frequent; only by inspiring goodness in everyone’s hearts can we prevent them." Tzu Chi members believe that doing good is not about quantity but about intention; those who give are truly blessed. 

This cultural and educational celebration was not only a practice of humanistic teaching but also a profound spiritual experience, planting seeds of kindness deep within the hearts of the children. 

A Legacy of Love and Hope 

During Qingming, a time of remembrance and gratitude, volunteers continued traditions with warmth and sincerity, nurturing the future with heartfelt blessings. May the seeds of love sprout, shine, and thrive in the hearts of the children, ensuring the cycle of goodness continues for generations.