(Photo provided by volunteers)
Someone asked, "What is Tzu Chi Humanistic Culture? Why is there a need to emphasise it?"
The Master answered:
Humanistic culture is the essence of personal values. If we have a common philosophy, it does not matter whether one is a scholar, a farmer, a labourer or a businessman in Tzu Chi. Everyone is equal regardless of level. Tzu Chi volunteers worldwide claim that the blue sky and white clouds attire they put on is an international brand that is recognised and praised wherever they go.
Tzu Chi's humanistic culture is embedded within us and manifested through our appearance. Emphasising the appropriateness of attire and action is to encourage the expression of one's inner temperament through image and etiquette. Order and discipline will promote beliefs and engagement.
Internally, we should uphold the "Four Spiritual Soup" to supplement our sense of contentment, gratitude, kindness and tolerance. Externally, when we deal with people and handle matters, we should uphold the "Four Substance Soup" to achieve harmony, peace, mutual love and cooperation to allow others to feel the harmony in the group and find joy in it.
Tzu Chi's four missions are intertwined with loving-kindness, compassion, joy and selfless giving. "Compassion" is the wish for everyone on earth to be happy and blessed. "Kindness" is the desire to save lives and help those in need. The humanistic culture is present when everyone acknowledges our kind acts and feels joyful.
The "joy" mentioned here does not mean expecting others to smile or applaud for us. We should cheer for ourselves and rejoice if we are disciplined in our demeanour and able to influence others. For example, when I met with Tzu Chi primary one children earlier, I saw them neatly dressed like young ladies and gentlemen. Those who saw them naturally felt joyful. Teaching the children about life etiquette early in life is part of humanistic culture education!
Tzu Chi's humanistic culture arises from our sincere thoughts and manifests in our appearance. When others are in contact with us, they can experience it through our looks, speech, and interactions. "Internal humility is merit, and external etiquette is a virtue." Rather than hoping for others to view us as small particles, we might as well humble ourselves first, make no distinction between the rich and the poor, and treat all with an equal and humble heart because everyone is worthy of our respect.
The saying that the life of a mote is equipped with nano energy refers to the abilities and power of the mind. To embrace Tzu Chi's humanistic culture, we must let go of our status. We can only maximise our mind power to serve others when we change our mindset to view ourselves as a mote.
Translated by Lee Mui Hoon
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