The Power to serve ~ Fo Guang Shan (North Island) Volunteer Chen Hong Chai

Everyday early in the morning whether rain or shine or a cold wind that chills to the bone, nothing can stop the 72 years old volunteer Chen Hong Chai from dutifully sweeping the fallen leaves from the corridors within the Temple building.
Sister Chen migrated from China to New Zealand 9 years ago. She spent her teenage years in Myanmar where she used to follow her mother to Buddhist temple and regained her Buddhist faith when she visited Fo Guang Shan (North Island) with her daughter last year and started to work as a volunteer.
She said, “The fulfillment of keeping the temple clean is something money cannot buy. I am so focused when I sweep the floor that I forget all my worries and problems. I used to have a sore neck and joints and have sleeping disorder; however, everything has gone ever since I became a volunteer in the Temple. Furthermore, encouraged by the Venerable, I have joined Buddhism courses which enrich my retirement.”

Last week, Sister Chen even participated in the one day meditation retreat for the very first time. Although she did not know what was going on and felt the pain on both legs during meditation, she insisted in completing the retreat. She thought she would be sore afterwards, however, to her surprise, she was not sore and she can walk better and faster than ever! This has strengthened her faith in Buddhism and has decided to take Refuge in the Triple Gem during the Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva Enlightenment Day on 25 July.
The humble Sister Chen expressed her gratitude to all the venerable, volunteers and people in the Temple for their heartwarming hospitality. She felt that what she does is trivial and yet everyone thanks her for her contributions and even addressed her as Elderly Bodhisattva”. Her husband is not a Buddhist but still shows his support by helping out with the household chores.
“Working as a volunteer in the Temple is the happiest and most meaningful moment in my life,” said Sister Chen.