Heaven, earth, and all beings
can coexist in harmony through one word: “love.
We can overcome our shared crises
through selflessness, purity, and appreciation.
May kindness and compassion steer our daily words and education. Compassion and shelter should be universal and extended to all beings under the heavens. Cherish life in all forms, from people to plants, be grateful for the harvest of grains, and honor the earth’s bountiful gifts. Heaven, earth, and all beings can coexist in harmony through one word: love. This love is selfless and untainted. Unconditional love and boundless compassion are profound words that encapsulate the very essence of life.
One may often lament, “Alas, it is too late,” all the while hoping to cleanse the human spirit and dilute the secular gloom of the world. Despite our seemingly minuscule presence when compared to the vast cosmos—akin to ants before the majestic Mount Sumeru—let us not falter, embolden our spirits to race against time, and persist in our ascent.
In the cosmic expanse, the earth is but a mote of dust. Yet upon this delicate planet, the human population multiplies, and with it, the twin shadows of pollution and destruction loom ever larger. How do we purify people’s hearts? Every day, if every person convinces ten others to do good deeds, they contribute to promoting Dharma and benefiting all beings. Even a single stone can touch countless hearts through the ripples of kindness.
Spread good words and do more good deeds. Do not quit because it is difficult, as the Bodhisattva path is long and challenging. Regardless of the time left in this life, seize each day as an opportunity to unfurl our purpose and illuminate the world. After completing this life, you must continue on the Bodhisattva path in the next life. Rare is the human incarnation, scant is the grasp of Dharma, and most arduous is the practice of the Bodhisattva path. We must believe that once our minds are resolute and our pledge is sworn, success is assured through the unwavering tenacity of our spirit. To purify the human spirit, we must embark on a journey of self-reflection, forge alliances with those who share our aspirations, and collectively strive toward a common goal. Thus, each utterance we voice and every vision we unveil has the power to influence others. Tzu Chi members give without anticipating rewards, starting from a small goal, saving two cents each day. Every donation, no matter its size, saves lives in difficult times. Looking back now, each droplet of benevolence continues to sparkle and shine.
The greenhouse effect and extreme climate change are worsening, and disasters in various countries are becoming more common and severe. There is much we can do to assist the victims. However, life is short. So, we must work together with enduring dedication to achieve our long-term goals. Tzu Chi has long collaborated with various religious organizations to perform charity and relief work on a global scale. We work very well together. We are incredibly grateful and find joy in what we do. There is no distinction between different religions. What truly matters is uniting to help humanity, and bringing people together at heart is critical to unity because when the hearts are united, the energy of love is boundless.
The Climate Clock in Manhattan’s Union Square is a stark reminder, with its countdown indicating that we only have 5 years left to avert the climate crisis. Time, elusive and unseen, passes by silently every day, every minute, and every second. The Climate Clock urgently reminds us that promoting vegetarianism, protecting the environment, and revering life are pivotal pathways toward carbon reduction at this critical juncture. To purify the hearts of humanity and forge a harmonious society, we require collective unity, tranquility, love, and cooperation. By multiplying everyone’s strength, we can reach more people, pass down the energy of love from generation to generation, and preserve the wisdom of life in the world.
