【第十二屆】112學年度靜思語與我的生命故事徵文比賽_佳作_外語系一年級_Yong Yeong Ji

 Love From The Poets

A great deal of Jing Si Aphorisms frequently leaves a profound effect on our minds and hearts. One of them has been constantly lingering in my mind. It was not too long ago that I became cognizant of its deep meaning, which enlightened me like the moon guiding me through the darkest nights when I lost my path.

It all occurred after I flew to Taiwan. The tranquility that laid in the middle of the night, when I flew to Taiwan for the very first time, attempted to provide me comforts as I stared fixedly with softness at the back of my beloved sleeping father from my soft bed. Holding on to the tears that were about to stream down my cheeks, I closed my eyes without any hesitation.

“Thank you, father.” I thought to myself instantly. The act of him flying from Singapore to ensure my first time settling down in a foreign country for educational purposes meant everything to me. It was something I would not dare to forget, especially the devoted emotional support and care that he showed by making such an effort.

All of a sudden, memories caved in on me while I laid in bed, flooding my mind mercilessly with overwhelming emotions. Five years ago, both my parents unfortunately lost their jobs as COVID-19 struck with mere brutality, putting us in a dire situation to the extent that I was unable to afford two years of school fees. Money was like a blade, it either saved my family’s future or gradually obliterated every piece of it. One of the most remarkable memories that sealed deeply in my mind was my mother hugging me tightly and sobbing heavily due to the weights of burdens she was compelled to carry throughout the years. The immense impact that the intimidating pandemic had on us drained my mother ruthlessly, suffocating her from time to time and impelling her to bottle up overwhelming emotions. Life might be difficult; however, resisting the perpetuated pressures unanticipatedly was far more challenging. 

Despite the appalling misery that had fallen upon my family, they both fought so hard in order to become my sister’s and my very last hope in life. They endlessly worked from day to night so we could maintain a steady financial situation. It was their robust resilience that had saved me from this insufferable agony. The effort they have put into taking care of me is such a blessing to me, and I honestly believe that I own them a lot.

“Of all acts of goodness, first and foremost is filial piety.” Upon discovering this Jing Si Aphorism, it was the moment I realized that my parents' love was utterly innumerable. Believing in this act of filial piety, I am willing to fulfill it. While I may not yet have a clear sense of purpose in life, one thing I am certain of is my commitment to taking excellent care of my parents once I graduate.

Everything that they have done for my sister and I is astounding, filling me up with unlimited love and support. I truly appreciate the selfless act of love they are portraying wholeheartedly, and I am extremely grateful to have them as my parents. Though life may be insurmountable, it is the immeasurable love that ultimately conquers it, leading us to a prosperous future. My parents are just like poets who are possessed of the capability of transforming torments into bliss, touching my heart and mind. So as poets, they are capable of conveying complex emotions and thoughts through their extraordinary poetry.

“I truly love my poets.”

【第十二屆】112學年度靜思語與我的生命故事徵文比賽_佳作_後中醫三年級_陳韻如

 Love Conquers Obstacles: A Journey of Transformation

In the quiet moments of reflection, amidst the hustle and bustle of life, there lies a profound truth: with love in our hearts, obstacles dissolve into opportunities. This sentiment has been the guiding light of my journey, illuminating the path through the darkest of times and inspiring resilience in the face of adversity.

   My story begins in a small town, where the warmth of community and the embrace of family shaped my earliest memories. Yet, nestled within this idyllic setting, there were challenges that threatened to overshadow the love that surrounded me. Growing up with a sibling who faced physical disabilities, I witnessed firsthand the barriers that society often erects, dividing us from one another. It was in these moments of struggle and uncertainty that I learned the transformative power of love.

   Despite the obstacles that lay before us, my family remained steadfast in their devotion to my sibling. Their unwavering love became a beacon of hope, guiding us through the storm. It was through their example that I came to understand the true meaning of compassion and empathy. With each passing day, I learned to see beyond the limitations imposed by society and recognize the inherent worth and dignity of every individual.

   As I journeyed through life, encountering its myriad challenges and triumphs, I carried with me the lessons learned from my family. In moments of doubt and despair, I drew strength from their love, allowing it to infuse every aspect of my being. It was this love that propelled me forward, fueling my determination to overcome any obstacle that stood in my way.

   One particularly poignant memory stands out in my mind, serving as a testament to the transformative power of love. It was a cold winter's day when I stumbled upon a homeless man huddled in a doorway, his eyes reflecting the pain and suffering that had become his constant companions. In that moment, I was faced with a choice: to pass by and ignore his plight, or to extend a hand of compassion and offer what little comfort I could.

   Driven by the love that had been instilled in me from an early age, I chose the latter. Sitting beside him, I listened as he shared his story, his words a haunting reminder of the fragility of the human spirit. In that moment of connection, barriers dissolved, and hearts opened wide. It was a simple act of kindness, yet it had the power to transform lives.

    As I reflect on my journey, I am reminded of the profound truth that love knows no bounds. It is a force that transcends barriers, uniting us in our shared humanity. With love in our hearts, we have the power to overcome any obstacle, to bridge the divides that separate us, and to create a world where compassion reigns supreme.

    In the quiet moments of reflection, amidst the hustle and bustle of life, let us remember that with love in our hearts, there are no obstacles too great to overcome. For in the end, it is love that guides us home, illuminating the path with its gentle glow and filling our lives with hope, joy, and endless possibility.

【第十二屆】112學年度靜思語與我的生命故事徵文比賽_佳作_醫工所二年級_Jawher Ali

Life is just like climbing a mountain. Once we reach the top, it is time to come back down. Knowing that life is like this, that we are born and then we die, we must ask ourselves if we are truly using our potential fully.

An individual's utilization of their potential is greatly affected by the metaphorical comparison of life to climbing a mountain, reaching the summit, and then descending. This metaphor captures the cyclical aspect of existence. In addition to highlighting the necessity of maximizing one's potential during the voyage between birth and death, this story serves as a painful reminder of the transient nature of existence. Living is a journey with trials, tribulations, and moments of victory, much like ascending a mountain. Climbing difficulties is a metaphor for life's challenges, setbacks, and problems that people encounter. A person's character and resilience are shaped by decisions they make, lessons they learn, and challenges they conquer at each stage. Achieving success in multiple facets of life, fulfilling a dream, or accomplishing a goal is what it means to reach the top. However, the transient nature of life's peaks and accomplishments is symbolized by descending from the mountain top. This demonstrates the inevitable course of aging, loss, and decline. Similar to how reaching the summit is a moment of victory, going down serves as a reminder of life's little moments and the importance of appreciating the trip rather than the final destination. Thinking on how life is cyclical promotes self-awareness about realizing one's own potential. Acknowledging the finite nature of life and its distinct beginning and conclusion enables individuals to harness their abilities, pursue their interests, and assess if they are carrying out their responsibilities on this planet and leaving a lasting impression. To know if they are living up to their full potential, people must examine their decisions, deeds, and contributions. These thought-provoking Jing Si Aphorism have the ability to change people by motivating them to reassess their priorities, make meaningful objectives, and pursue personal development and fulfillment. It serves as a spark for self-discovery and inspires individuals to set out on a path of self-awareness, growth, and meaningful living. People might acquire a sense of urgency, motivation, and thankfulness for the chances given to them by realizing the transient nature of life and the significance of realizing their own potential. Ultimately, the life metaphor of ascending a mountain, reaching the summit, and then descending captures the core of the human experience: a journey filled with obstacles and successes, a path toward realizing one's greatest potential. This remark serves as a potent reminder of how fleeting life is and encourages individuals to live in the present, pursue their passions, and leave a lasting impression on the world. As you negotiate the ups and downs of life, accepting the cyclical nature of things can lead to profound personal growth, self-realization, and a revitalized sense of purpose. and Personally it helps me a lot in my life endeavors.

【第十二屆】112學年度靜思語與我的生命故事徵文比賽_佳作_永續所一年級_Johnathan See Wern Haw

Doing good and being filial are two things that cannot be put off

The beginning of the end started with an audible click; the locks engage onboard the hearse. There we were dressed in white, myself included as we said our last goodbye. The time had come to send it off. Thus, upon the pavement we walked on our soles. Though the asphalt was set ablaze, we paid it no mind – our hearts and minds set on the long walk ahead.

        The date was February the 18^th, 2024. My flight for Taiwan departs by 1400hrs but I had not boarded. The day marked the end of my grandfather’s funeral service, and there we were for the sealing of his casket. What laid ahead was the long walk to the crematorium. The night before I had a breakdown, I could not decide on what to do. I had sent out an email notifying my university but I had received a reply wishing for my immediate return to participate in a training programme. On one hand, my flight was scheduled on the following day, the semester starting by the 19^th; on the other, my grandfather’s funeral was at its end and cremation due the next day. I was at my wits end, I spoke my mind before my parents and sister ‘I cannot leave now, this is my own grandfather’s funeral’, I said, ‘but I have not the funds to afford another flight and my programme back in Taiwan has expressed for my return’. Deep within me two sides were at war, one side fought to stay, and the other to leave.

        It was then when my mother reminded me, in as soft a tone as an autumn breeze: “my dear child, doing good and being filial are two things that cannot be put off. Surely you know what to do…” At that instant, it was as if the fog had lifted from my mind. Every memory I had with my grandfather came back to me as if they were re-lived that very moment. Ever since my enrolment into University, I had been in Taiwan. For nearly five long years I have not seen my family, and to think just as I finally had the chance to it would be to see the passing of my grandfather. I had been blinded by a mere reply! I understood then what I must do, knowing now within me had I not chosen to stay that night, my conscience would haunt me for the rest of my life – never to forgive myself for my unfilial and selfish act.

【第十二屆】112學年度靜思語與我的生命故事徵文比賽_佳作_醫學系二年級_呂毅新

破繭

    曾經，那位桀傲不遜的少年進入了慈濟大家庭，對於繁文縟節的各樣規定不屑一顧，舉凡宿舍的門禁、制服的著裝、破曉的晨掃、月下的資收，一概都置若罔聞，我行我素地衝撞體制，自命不凡地藐視師長和同儕，只因他倚仗著高中黠慧的天賦，就頂著醫學系的頭銜恣意妄為，而那位放蕩不羈的少年，正是我自己。

    直到期中考來臨，慘不忍睹的滿江紅將我帶回現實，普生不及格的慘劇加上同學的冷漠疏離，令我正視自己的卑劣與散漫；偶然徐行於和敬樓的長廊時，一句改變命運的靜思語映入眼簾，「唯其尊重自己的人，才能更勇於縮小自己」，彼時我才幡然醒悟，過往的自己簡直身在福中不知福，不僅忽略師長和同儕的關心，也漠視了學校一視同仁且身體力行的美德。

    日後，我面對了過往鑄下的錯誤並積極改變自己，恪守學校立下的每一條準則，也友善地與同窗切磋琢磨學理知識，尊重且體察自身一切，便有了更清晰地認知，習得謙虛而不自傲的品格，通曉了人外有人天外有天的事理，縮小自己去看待世界，才尋覓更嶄新的面貌，拓寬過往狹隘的眼界，生活終於出現了一道曙光。

    我真切地一嘗證嚴上人無量的智慧，就如同破繭而出的彩蝶重獲新生，一句簡單的靜思語拯救了迷失的靈魂，自身由衷地感謝慈濟的包容和寬宏，潛移默化地導正我扭曲的觀念，解開了桎梏的枷鎖，讓我再次走回正直且良善的人生道途。

【第十二屆】112學年度靜思語與我的生命故事徵文比賽_佳作_醫技系一年級_蔡金妮

 心美，是股力量_靜思語:心美，看甚麼都美

    驚蛰初至，萬物復萌，暖陽始於黃經345度的位置向我們綻放笑容。我最享受那段從宿舍到校園的徒步區，溫柔的陽光像母親的手握著我，四周的蟲鳴鳥叫也彷彿在為我們這些殷殷學子加油，而高聳的台灣欒樹彎著它的腰，正護著我們前行。這可以是一條能融化沁冷冬天的道路，也可以只是一條催促大學生上課的漫漫長路。

    曾經的我，在一張張考卷與一個個期許的點滴落下，像滂沱大雨裡的車，濛霧的前方，令人找不到方向。心時常隔著眼淚，迷失在人我是非的惶惑裡而怨嘆著所有的不滿足。直到一次跟著媽媽去訪視關懷，才見識到這世界上，真正被現實壓榨追趕的人生，與他們無奈面對生活的眼神。小學的孩子，因父母好賭且長期酗酒，照顧不到生活，而導致骨瘦如柴的他成為超商偷竊食物的慣犯...。看到這樣無法選擇的人生之苦，頓時讓我重新審視自己的生活，並體會到我們是何其幸福的家庭環境，並開始珍惜擁有的一切。

    心美，所見一切皆美好。豁然開朗的心，能容世間萬物的美好；暗無天日的心，則被烏雲填滿而再也裝不進任何陽光、找不到萬象的可愛之處。因為志工服務讓我見苦之福，終於理解「心美，看甚麼都美」這句靜思語，更學習將心打開，試著去感受每個陰晴變化，去觀察每個葉落花綻，去聆聽每段在林間草中穿梭的鳥語蟲鳴。一段平平無奇的上學途中，也開始因為心靈的昇華，而變得豐富且充滿色彩。

    生命不斷前行的道路上，有時晴空萬里，有時綿綿細雨，更有時雷雨交加、狂風暴雨，但只要我們記得將心擦亮，讓光透進來，再大的風雨和霧霾，也無法阻擋我們勇往直前。心美，不僅是擁有一顆看到周遭美好的心，更是一股能不斷支持我們突破、邁進的力量。期待因為這句話所帶給我的力量，能讓我們去幫助、影響更多苦難之人，並成為他們雪雨風霜的生命中，一道能照清前方的月光。

【第十二屆】112學年度靜思語與我的生命故事徵文比賽_佳作_醫資系三年級_Felicia Lee

 Theme : Rooted Encounter: Jing Si Aphorism Reflection

Script :

"得遇善知識, 

就得到生命中的貴人，

要尊重、學習典範；

其實遭遇惡知識，

也是逆增上緣，

讓自己心生警惕，

感恩對方示現惡形惡相，

磨練自己堅守心志，

不起煩惱、不受影響。

無論順逆，都要真誠感恩。" 

--恭録自 證嚴法師開示

 

I used to think, following the flow of the willow tree behind the girl's dormitory, near the parking lot, would give me a security. The tree, which had always been our canopy from the rain, kept me safe, forming its own world excluding outside forces. The chime of the squeals from small animals, the wind-fluttered leaves' blades which leave a sweet cinnamon-like-fragrance, hit my nostrils, telling me that this is what the so-called 'community' is. The harmony field indicated the sense of security. 

 

All I've ever known is to hope, expect, wait for a「貴人」to deal with all the possible contingencies in my life. I've never quite understood the line in the quote that reads,

「得遇善知識, 就得到生命中的貴人,」.

Therefore, I've been swaying back and forth that entire time. To the point, I've given up the search.  From that one day when I sit idly under that musky bark, a sudden realization dawned on me, and it's not the wind that brought the news. The company who had always accompany the that lonely bark, never says the direct answer. But it all comes down when the sun has set, and the living creatures around it scurried back to their homes; that's when the answer reveals itself to the tree. 

 

"Relief".

Surprising, isn't it? 

Just like me, the tree finally went back to its roots, recalling how being in a group made it realized how it lost its own footwork. Some creatures took advantage of the tree and subsequently departed. Helpless and frustrating as it seems, but a sense of relief also lingers. In terms of understanding the「知識」of the society, the creatures and the trees belong on the same page. In this way, both parties felt the same way without having a need to be leveled at, which is one of the things a tree is grateful for. Acquaintances are once friends of mutual apprehension; the compatible or mismatched are worthy enough to be classified as「...也是逆增上緣, 」or to be translated as '...it is also a step in reverse improvement,'. But by the end of the day, I pondered about the tree's situation, I summed up that as long as it sticks to its roots and strengthens its bark, irritable influences gradually become smaller. To be kind to oneself is also a form kindness to others because, rather than the tree itself spilling worry, it yields a good-natured magnetic field surrounding it. No wonder, this willow tree lives an abundant life healthily.

 

Reflecting upon the answer, finally, I waved goodbye to the willow tree. Hopefully, the friendly bark fully aware whether we have a「貴人」 beside us or not, and of every obstacle we might face, we can always learn how to be grateful for every meeting we've stumbled on just like how the Jing Si Aphorism conveys. My shoes seemed to wallow their way back to my dormitory. Invigorated, I am brimming with anticipation as I embark on the next encounter. 

 

The end.