By Ying-Hsiu Wang and Hui-Ling Lu 

As winter settled in Bodh Gaya, morning dew sparkled on the windows like pearls on a jade tray. Pei-Li Leong from the Tzu Chi office Bodh Gaya reminded everyone to stay warm, offering herbal drinks to ensure the volunteers’ well-being before they set out on their mission. 

Teaching in the Heart of the Market 

On November 18, volunteers traveled to Buddha Gyan Niketan Residential School and Rahul Nagar Primary School to teach sign language and share Jing Si Aphorisms. The journey through Bodh Gaya’s bustling market was a lively adventure, with tuk-tuks weaving through crowded streets and the sounds of street vendors creating a vibrant symphony. 

Upon reaching Buddha Gyan Niketan Residential School, volunteers were greeted by the sights and sounds of a vibrant wholesale market. Despite the chaos, the weathered school building stood as a symbol of hope for the children inside. 

A Humble Classroom 

Carefully navigating narrow stairs, volunteers entered a modest classroom of just 20 to 23 square meters. Wooden planks served as desks and chairs, with children sitting cross-legged on the floor. The room doubled as both a study and sleeping area, with walls lined with children’s belongings and every corner used for storage. 

A poster of Jing Si Aphorisms hung on the wall, reminding everyone to cherish what they have and care for their surroundings. 

Sharing the Beauty of a Smile 

Local volunteer Deepa Singh, alongside international volunteers Piang-Boon Tai and Lee-Hoon Chiew, taught the children the sign language song The Most Beautiful Smile, demonstrating the universal language of kindness. Their patient instruction brought warmth and joy to the children, many of whom come from underprivileged or broken families. 

Afterward, Deepa reviewed Jing Si Aphorisms, encouraging the children to embrace gratitude and filial piety. 

Challenges and Dedication 

At Rahul Nagar Primary School, children from impoverished families trickled into the classroom even as the session began. The school, located in a remote area with limited resources, struggled to provide basic education. 

Among the students was Chandan Kumar, a boy with coordination challenges caused by a childhood illness. Despite his difficulties, he followed the teachers’ instructions with immense determination, striving to master The Most Beautiful Smile. 

Moved by his persistence, Deepa knelt beside him, offering gentle guidance. Her tears reflected the deep connection she felt with the children. “Seeing Chandan’s struggle yet determination touched me deeply. It motivates me to become a better sign language teacher,” she shared. 

Compassion Lights the Way 

The inspiring words of Indian poet Rabindranath Tagore, “Let your life be a light, for you never know who it will guide out of darkness,” echoed in this moment. The volunteers and children became beacons of hope for one another, illuminating each other’s paths with compassion and shared effort.