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A Visit to the Indianapolis Disabilities Center -
Finding Happiness Through Giving
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Translated by Jessica Wang
June 07, 2002
Chinese
Version
Indianapolis, USA - The approval and trust
expressed by residents of the Indianapolis Disabilities Center
inspire inner happiness for Tzu Chi volunteers
When we returned to the Indianapolis Disabilities
Center for another visit, a resident approached us and anxiously
asked why we did not go see her the last time we were there.
We explained to her that we could not stop by due to a rule
against visitors loitering when a patient's caretaker is not
around. To our surprise, the lady revealed to us the secret
location of the key to her room, so that we could go and see
her anytime.
Needless to say, we were very touched by this
lady's heartwarming gesture. Furthermore, we were extremely
grateful for the trust and approval that these residents had
shown toward us. This level of friendship truly reflected the
saying that by bringing joy to those around us, we bring happiness
to ourselves.
Impermanence of life
During this visit on June 7, we decided to take our time
and talk to the residents in their own rooms. With Sister Su-tseng
in the lead, we arrived at one particular young man's chamber.
This gentleman was once a medical school student. His illness
tragically paralyzed most of his body and left him unconscious
most of the time. During the rare moments when he was aware
of his surroundings, he could interact with others only by blinking
his eyes. That day when we all gathered in his room, Sister
Hui-ming was worried that he might feel uncomfortable with our
big crowd, so she asked him whether we ought to leave. Everyone,
especially his caretaker, was astounded when he yelled out "No!"
in response. Usually, he hardly spoke a word throughout the
day.
Looking at this young man who at one time
seemed to possess such a bright future and now is confined to
bed, we could not help but lament the impermanence of life and
offer our best wishes and prayers for him.
Sharing of memories
Our visits often conclude with us
listening to entertaining stories of the past from one particular
elderly resident. We are overjoyed whenever any of these residents
willingly share their thoughts and memories with us. To me,
every one of these visits is a unique learning experience. The
more I listen to the residents' heartwarming stories, the more
I grow to comprehend life.
