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The Philosophy of Tzu Chi –
Part 1 |
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By: Anzor
Ben Modzgvreschvili
Oct 31, 2004
I
developed a deep interest in philosophy and psychology when
I turned fifteen. Both subjects were introduced to me by one
of my high school teachers. He was incredibly wise and had a
deep understanding of every topic that one could think of. Through
psychology, I developed an understanding of how the mind works
and I learned how I could make the best use of my abilities
by consciously developing an awareness of my thoughts and actions.
Through philosophy, I developed a strong sense of morals and
ideals. I became more sensitive to what was going on around
me and in the environment. I was determined to understand the
true meaning of life and the universe. My own cultivation of
wisdom has begun.
The spiritual home of Tzu Chi –
Still Thoughts Abode.
Before I began cultivating my mind, I was
very ignorant and arrogant. I used to waste a lot of time worrying
over trivial matters, but now I had realized that besides cherishing
what I have, I should also give back to those who are not as
fortunate. Many people drift through society without even realizing
the consequences of their actions. This is primarily because
most people are governed by ignorance. People are lost and confused
in their own minds and they let their environment control their
behavior. However, the only thing that we can control is in
fact, our own actions. So we must constantly self-reflect in
order to be certain that our own minds are at peace, eliminate
the bad habits that consume our lives, and also be sure that
our actions are righteous.
When I came to the realization of how many
people in the world were suffering from poverty, starvation,
and lack of medical care, I felt great despair. I desperately
wanted to ease their sufferings, but I didn’t know what
I could do. I had initially planned to join one of the U.N.
humanitarian programs to do relief work. However, later that
day while I was flipping through some T.V. channels, I came
across Da Ai television. A small Buddhist nun, Master Cheng
Yen, was talking about all of the sufferings that exist in the
world and how our ignorance and desires continue to thrust us
deeper into the cycle of destruction that humanity has been
locked in for so many years. She then went on to say that in
order for us to escape these cycles, we must rid ourselves of
ignorance by gaining wisdom, and then purify peoples’
minds by spreading love. It was as though she had read my mind.
I had that exact same conversation with my teacher earlier that
day. When I discovered how much Master and I had in common with
our philosophy about life, I was instantly hooked to her every
word.
I began listening to her speak everyday
and used her as an example of how I could further cultivate
my own mind. Hearing her speak with so much wisdom about human
nature and the ideal society really moved me. I think the issues
she brings up are not often talked about in the society, and
because of this, it is not surprising to see why there is so
much suffering and chaos in the world.
So, I compared myself to her and I found
that the biggest difference between us is that she put her wisdom
into action in order to help the mankind. I thought to myself
“Why don’t I do the same? Wisdom without action
is not enough. If I really want to see the end of all suffering
in the world, I have to take action now.” It is important
not only to practice inner cultivation of the mind, but also
to practice spreading love and purifying minds.
Worldwide Tzu Chi volunteers get
together in Taiwan.
Through Da Ai television, I learned about
the Tzu Chi Foundation. I thought that this was a very unique
organization because it takes all the wisdom and compassion
that are found in Buddhism, and uses them to generate a force
that will benefit all living beings. I was so ecstatic that
Master has captured the true meaning of religion. It is really
sad that very often, in the western world anyway, religion often
becomes a scapegoat for people to pursue their own special interests.
Furthermore, the principals that Tzu Chi
was founded on are genuine and sincere. Through Da Ai television,
I saw that the volunteers truly understand the meaning of unselfish,
unconditional love to all living beings. They give themselves
selflessly to better society, and at the same time, set a good
example for the rest of the mankind to follow. The volunteers
of Tzu Chi sincerely understand great love, compassion, giving,
and joy. They have acquired the true meaning of altruism, which
is something that few people can honestly do.
Tzu Chi is not only a humanitarian organization,
but also a place of cultivation. It would be a wonderful experience
for me to further develop my mind and spread great love and
wisdom to others who are suffering. If people are in an environment
where everybody support and teach each other about wisdom, the
potential for self-growth can become limitless. Once the strength
of a group is combined, and everyone is working in harmony,
each person can create endless blessings. This love will continue
to spread and grow stronger, so we will have inexhaustible energy
to help eliminate the suffering of all beings. Once our wisdom
and compassion have come to fruition, we will not only be able
to give boundless joy, but also have immeasurable strength created
by love.
Tzu Chi volunteers from the Michigan
office.
