By Hsiu-Lien Chu
The devastating California wildfires that left countless families homeless may have been thousands of miles away from Houston, but the students at Tzu Chi Academy in Houston found a way to bridge the distance with love and support. Through prayers, donations, and a charity sale, they turned compassion into meaningful action.
Nurturing Compassion Through Education
At the heart of the school’s curriculum lies a focus on compassion and responsibility. As part of their lessons in January and February, students were introduced to Tzu Chi’s bamboo banks—an inspiring practice where small daily savings accumulate into significant aid. This simple yet powerful concept resonated with the children, teaching them that even the smallest acts of kindness can create profound change when multiplied.
Turning Empathy into Action
When the wildfires hit, Principal Carolyn Chen urged students to go beyond prayer and take tangible steps to make a difference. “If we sit back and do nothing, how can we expect others to help us if disaster strikes our home someday? It’s never too early to ignite compassion,” she explained.
The school launched a heartfelt campaign. Students brought their bamboo banks filled with savings and participated in a second-hand charity sale. Families eagerly contributed unused toys, books, and household items for sale. The proceeds were pledged to support wildfire survivors, demonstrating how love and generosity could breathe new life into unwanted items and provide hope to those in need.
Compassionate Actions Speak Loudly
Eight-year-old Pei-Chieh Wu (吳沛絜) was saddened by images of survivors returning to their charred homes. “Everything has changed for them. It made me feel so sad,” she shared. Determined to help, Pei-Chieh joined volunteers on the streets, urging the community to donate. “Even a little bit from everyone can grow into something big. We must stay strong and keep hoping,” she said.
Parents Lead by Example
The charity effort also brought parents into the fold, inspiring them to support the cause and model compassion for their children. Yan-Gang Li (李燕剛), who had recently returned from California, reflected, “This sale teaches children the importance of helping others. Someday, they might face challenges themselves, and this experience can guide them to extend empathy.”
Jian-Yuan Li (李健源), another parent, praised the initiative for its multifaceted impact. “We’re clearing out clutter, helping wildfire survivors, and advocating for sustainability all at once,” he said. “Even if we can’t be there physically, our financial support can still make a difference. When we combine our efforts, small acts create a powerful force for good.”
Crossing Borders with Love
Among the enthusiastic participants was Mei-Hui Chien (簡美惠), a Tzu Chi volunteer visiting Houston from Torrance, California. Her grandson attends the school, and she seized the chance to contribute. “As Californians, it’s our responsibility to care for each other during disasters. I’m grateful for this opportunity to give back,” she shared.
Planting Seeds of Kindness
Principal Chen reminded students that even small gestures could create lasting change. “Every donation, no matter how small, becomes a part of a larger force for good,” she said. The students poured their hearts into handmade cards, sharing love and encouragement with wildfire survivors.
The students’ efforts embodied the teachings of Tzu Chi’s founder, Master Cheng Yen, who reminds us that through giving, we create blessings for ourselves and others.
Through these acts of kindness, Tzu Chi Academy, Houston demonstrated that compassion transcends borders. In the face of devastation, even the smallest contributions can light the path to recovery and hope.
