Written by Shih De Zao  

Jing Rui’s Happiness 

In February 1986, Tzu Chi volunteer Jing Rui had been struggling with a persistent cold. Her son suggested, "Mom, you’ll feel better if you go back to Hualien to see the Master." Sure enough, after her visit to Master Cheng Yen, she felt significantly better. 

One memorable occasion occurred when Jing Rui accompanied Master Cheng Yen on a visit to the impoverished in Taitung. Though Jing Rui had booked flights back to Taipei afterward, she decided to return to Hualien with Master Cheng Yen instead, wanting to spend more time with her. 

 In 1985, driven by shared aspirations, senior radio host Yi-Jie Lin and Sister Jing Rui joined forces to launch the radio program, "Tzu Chi World," beginning its broadcast from northern Taiwan. | Photo by Ching-I Huang 

That year, Jing Rui and her husband brought their son back to the Jing Si Abode in Hualien, Taiwan, for the Lunar New Year. Like many children, their son loved to watch television and asked Master Cheng Yen, "Grandmaster, can I stay up until midnight to watch TV tonight?"  

Master Cheng Yen gently replied, "You can stay up until ten." Although she wanted to honor the child’s request, she also believed in moderation. When ten o’clock arrived, Jing Rui reminded her son to turn off the TV, and he immediately complied. This rare display of obedience touched Jing Rui deeply—such was the power of Master Cheng Yen’s gentle yet profound influence. 

In those early days, volunteers like Jing Rui were truly blessed, as they had the opportunity to spend time with Master Cheng Yen all day and night. Nowadays, with Master Cheng Yen deeply involved in Tzu Chi's missions, many people, even residents of the Jing Si Abode rarely have the opportunity to spend time with her. 

Principal Wang’s Act of Kindness 

In 1981, when Master Cheng Yen undertook the massive project of constructing the Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, the organization had around 700 volunteers, all working tirelessly with Master Cheng Yen to raise funds and support the mission. The goal of TWD 800 million (about USD 20 million) seemed insurmountable, yet Master Cheng Yen traveled across Taiwan, inspiring countless people to contribute. 

During her visits to Taitung, Master Cheng Yen stayed at the home of Principal Tian-Ding Wang. Principal Wang had a well-worn chair that he had used for decades, yet, out of concern for Master Cheng Yen’s comfort, he purchased a new chair specifically for her. 

"Master, please use the new chair," Principal Wang offered with care. Master Cheng Yen, touched by his gesture but not wanting him to spend money unnecessarily, responded, "I’m more comfortable with the old one." Principal Wang, in his usual gracious manner, replied, "Thank you, Master. I finally have a new chair to sit on." 

 Principal Wang and his wife, Jing Guan, were among the first Tzu Chi commissioners in Taitung, fully embodying Master Cheng Yen’s teachings about frugality and making the best use of resources. Despite his devotion to the Master’s teachings, Principal Wang still placed her comfort above his own. This simple exchange illustrated the mutual care and understanding between the Master and her disciples. 

On that same visit, Principal Wang shared some good news with Master Cheng Yen—he had been elected as a director of the Cooperative Society. Seizing the moment for guidance, Master Cheng Yen advised, "Do not be overly joyful when you gain, nor too sorrowful when you lose. Face every situation with a calm heart." 

Worried about her husband’s increasing commitments, Jing Guan expressed her concern, saying, "He’s taking on too many responsibilities." Master Cheng Yen, however, reassured her, saying, "I understand his heart. He’s doing this to expand his network and promote Tzu Chi’s mission." 

Jing Yao’s Unwavering Dedication 

Sister Jing Yao was another volunteer who exemplified Tzu Chi’s spirit of dedication. Before joining Tzu Chi, she had visited over thirty temples and sought guidance from more than ten different teachers. However, it was Master Cheng Yen’s genuine efforts to build a hospital and relieve the suffering of the sick that truly inspired her. Moved by Master Cheng Yen’s mission, Jing Yao made a vow: "I will raise TWD 10 million (over USD 300,000) for the hospital."  

Through her determination, she quickly fulfilled her vow and inspired many others to support Tzu Chi’s mission. Master Cheng Yen frequently highlights Jing Yao’s example as someone who truly "possesses the Dharma." Not only does she guide herself, but she also helps others discover their own paths. 

A Legacy of Compassion and Dedication 

The early days of Tzu Chi were marked by the unwavering devotion and compassion of volunteers like Jing Rui, Principal Wang, and Jing Yao. Their experiences with Master Cheng Yen reflect the profound impact of her teachings, which not only inspired them to support Tzu Chi’s missions but also instilled in them values of simplicity, frugality, and deep compassion. 

Through small, everyday interactions and immense acts of generosity, these volunteers exemplified what it means to live out the Dharma in daily life. They helped build Tzu Chi into the compassionate global organization it is today, one that continues to alleviate suffering and bring hope to countless individuals around the world. 

As Master Cheng Yen often reminds us, with determination and a sincere heart, even the greatest challenges can be overcome. The stories of these early volunteers are a testament to the power of love, faith, and a shared commitment to making the world a better place—one kind act at a time.