2016 Midwest Tzu Ching Retreat Reflection - Frank

I must confess, this being my third time going to the Midwest retreat, at the start of camp I was worried that I fallen into routine. In other words, I was simply going to retreat because I did so every year. I remember on the first day of camp, Trisha XJ asked me why did I choose to spend my spring break here rather than elsewhere. At that time I did not have a concrete answer. Well, regardless, I had a grand old time. Before I knew it, the Tzu Ching retreat had come and gone. Now, my answer to Trisha XJ’s question is that I don’t want to miss any opportunity to be in Tzu Chi (well, that and I actually don’t spend my vacations doing much other than staying at home). Every Tzu Ching retreat has its own unique set of lessons, people, and experiences. I want to treasure all of it. I think Leonard Nimoy put it best, “Life is like a garden. Perfect moments can be had, but not preserved, except in memory. Live long and prosper.”

2016 Midwest Retreat Group 1

At camp I had the strange realization that I was no longer an underclassman. I went to my first retreat when I was a Tzu Shao in high school, so I always thought of myself as the newbie amongst Tzu Ching. But now, I’m an adult! Well, I’m also an upperclassman in college, whereas there were a lot of attendees who were underclassmen. To be honest, I did not feel that much different from my underclassman days, but I’m sure many people did not see me as the inexperienced padawan I once was. For many others at camp, this was their first time at a retreat. I wonder how all the newer students felt at camp? For those who had their first time attending a Tzu Ching retreat, were they as profoundly touched as I was when I was a Tzu Shao? Throughout camp I tried to be more friendly towards all, and in the end I hope I helped to make retreat enjoyable for those first timers. Hopefully there will be chances to meet again at San Jose 2016 and Midwest 2017 retreat and many more years to come!

2016 Midwest Tzu Ching Retreat Reflection - Elena

在2016年三月十一日哥倫布慈青隊分別用了三臺車，花了將近六小時前往芝加哥參加2016中西部慈青營隊。在這次的慈青營隊，主版單位把這兩天的活動行程規劃得很好，不僅有好吃精緻的點心素菜，還有很多各式各樣的演講和游戲，完全沒有浪費來自各個不同州的慈青們的任何一分鐘。營隊里的活動也非常有意義，從真言上人的早晨傳教到師兄師姐做人的道理的分享會還有大家一起努力的演繹都讓我受益良多，仿佛在我的人生這一本書又增加了一些有深度的内容。

在那麽多活動中，我最喜歡彩虹師姐和Marco師兄的演講的“待人的態度” 。在這段演講中我學到如果想要人見人愛，對一個人的態度是非常重要的。不管本意好壞，嘴巴說出來的話不可以帶有任何的攻擊性，要有智慧和耐心地把自己的想法傳達給他人。這個道理雖然簡單但卻又不是一件很容易就能做到的事。

Brother Alex's class

另外，Alex師兄的演講也很有意思，他説人們雖然每天把身體洗得乾乾净净地但是又有多少人會每天洗滌自己的心靈。人們往往會把生活中的煩惱堆積在心裏，久而久之變得不快樂但是其實衹要腦筋轉個彎，任何不好的事情可能就變得無限渺小所以在這個演講中我學到了不要把昨天的煩惱堆積在心裏，每天用乾净的心靈去做應該做的事，不要三心二意浪費光陰。

在這次的營隊中我也非常開心地和其他慈青們演繹“出泥蓮花”，用手語的方式把出淤泥而不染的道理傳達給大家。在排練手語期間由於時間有限，大家都在師兄師姐的領導下努力地練習，讓我感受到大家團結的力量和感動。

我非常感恩師姑給我這次機會，讓我可以參加這次的芝加哥中西部慈青營隊。我除了學到很多東西以外也結交了不少志同道合朋友。此外，我也想感謝各位師姑師伯師兄師姐在幕後默默地付出，把整個活動進行得那麽順利。

The sign language, 出泥蓮花

2016 Midwest Tzu Ching Retreat Reflection - Amy

2016 Chicago Midwest Retreat Reflection – Amy Chiu

Every TC camp has a common theme, no matter what chapter is hosting it, when it is, or what regions are attending. The feeling of being one big family is always present, even among complete strangers. This year’s Chicago Midwest Retreat was no different. From the arrival to the closing ceremony, there is a sense of unity and belonging, like you have returned home after a long trip away.


Even though I am a TC baby, there are still many volunteers that I meet every year at camps who I have never met before yet we get along as if we are long lost friends who are seeing each other after a long time apart. I believe that TC creates an atmosphere that allows us to create good affinities with each other by providing us with a common ground: compassion towards others. Some might argue that the delicious food provided might also impact our happiness and content but I disagree. The food was amazing but you could easily go to a restaurant and order what you wanted to eat. Everyone is able to get along with each other because the attendees and supporting staff members are not strangers to each other. I don’t mean a literal sense for stranger, obviously the majority of us have never met before yet we are able to look past our differences and work together to learn and make a bigger impact on the world. With all that has been said, I am truly grateful to have the opportunity this year to attend Chicago’s Midwest Retreat as an attendee rather than staff as I had the chance to sit in classes and learn more about other’s thoughts about walking on the TC path and the Dharma. I look forward to all future adventures that I know for a fact that I will have as I walk on the TC path.

2015 TCCA Leadership Conference in Houston Reflection - Kuanhung

Returning Home

Left to right: Frank Xu, Kuanhung Lin, Michael Lee

A young and impressionable Kuanhung (that's me!) was first introduced to Tzu Chi back in grade school. Like many others, the reason I attended Tzu Chi classes was simple; my mom told me to. And, like many others, I pushed back against the desires of my parents. Through my adolescent years, I stopped attending classes and meetings, only attending a few volunteer activities. The spiritual and religious roots from which Tzu Chi comes from pushed me away, as I was defiantly unreligious. That was my association with Tzu Chi until the last half year. An opportunity arose to perform in the new year's blessing, something I had turned down all past years. I decided (for a reason I can't quite recall) to participate. Visiting the service center every weekend and spending time with the people there reminded me of the sense of family, the love, and the hard work and compassion that the members of Tzu Chi all had within them. Following that, I decided to become more active, attending the adult training, and earning my Tzu Ching uniform. Throughout the rest of the summer, I found my free time filled with Tzu Chi activities, each of them fun and fulfilling. The TCCA camp this year was my first TCCA camp, and a great finale to a great TC summer.

As an OSU Tzu Ching, I was enlisted to help with a workshop that would be held at the camp. At the time, I was unaware of the large commitment of time, energy, and effort that it would take to make this one workshop work out. Nor was I quite ready for the large quantity of information that we were expected to know for this workshop to work out. Luckily, I had some great mentors, who guided the discussion and decisions. Knowing what little I did about the material, I contributed as much as I could to the final product. For me, this workshop was much less an opportunity to share my knowledge as it was to learn about the principles behind Tzu Chi. It was also resulted in great friendship, I'd like to think, between myself and the other OSU Tzu Chings. I've known most of them in some fashion or another for many years at that point, but never really spent enough time with them to call them close friends. Now, I hope we will continue our friendship for the rest of our lives.

Group 12!

Then it was time for camp. I fully expected the first few hours, perhaps days, to be awkward and embarrassing. Making friends is not exactly my forte. Making friends with people who speak in a language I can just barely converse in? Terrifying. However, on arrival at the service center, I felt for some reason, at ease with the idea of meeting new people. The attendees invited me into conversation, and the many icebreakers helped me learn names, chapters, and ages of the many new friends I made that first day. The friendly, familial atmosphere that was ever present at my local chapter seemed to exist also in the new, warm (hot) environment. Soon, I made good friends, and met more every day. We spent time together, learned about each other, and learned and grew together.

Learning was truly an integral part of the experience. My religious background is close to non-existent. As was mentioned before, it was the spiritual or religious aspect of Tzu Chi that really pushed me away from Tzu Chi. However, I was truly exposed to the dharma during the preparation for our own workshop. We read a book titled Three Ways to the Pure Land, which really was my first experience of dharma, in relation to Tzu Chi. The workshops at Houston were more vivid and engaging than the book, and provided an easy way to understand the teachings. However, not all workshops were about dharma. We talked with the head of TIMA, with volunteers in Nepal, and with Xiao Niu. We learned
about Tzu Chi work around the world, along with Tzu Chi work done in local chapters all around the US. And finally, we connected online with Master Cheng Yen, an experience that was as surreal as it was amazing.

My first TCCA camp blew away all expectations. With my return to Tzu Chi, I feel motivated, ready for the school year and all the curveballs life may throw at me. I know I've got real friends to fall back on, and a GPS to guide me through the rough seas in life. I have no doubt that next year, camp at San Jose will be just as invigorating.

2015 TCCA Leadership Conference in Houston Reflection - Frank

Reflections of a Curry Crew Member

            Hello there. This is Frank Xu, Houston TCCA curriculum team member, writing to you about the experience known as “being on curriculum team”. The past three months have felt like an escalating five-way train wreck; except everyone in the trains survived and the trains didn't actually crash into each other.

Left: Frank Xu
Right: Kuanhung Lin

Here in Tzu Chi, we are often encouraged to make vows. When I first was approached to be part of the planning committee I accepted with little consideration to the time and brainpower required for the position. So, before making a vow, try to think about what you're getting yourself into first (get out while you still can). Before I scare everyone off, I want to make it clear that the workload of a curriculum team member is very doable as long as you're semi-responsible/diligent. I sorta didn't do that at all. Kids, don't make the same mistakes as your predecessors. When you get projects over long periods of time, pace yourself.

            In hindsight, if I had worked on my classes twice a week I could have prevented a few gray hairs. Yet, the beauty in all of this was that in the end everything turned out okay. Actually, not just okay. Frakkin amazing. Being in Tzu Chi is like having the greatest safety net ever, because all your efforts are worthwhile. Even if you fail, people will still cheer/support you. It's like elementary school sports! Everyone's on the same team and we're all winners. I mean this in a completely unironic way. So, moral of the story: Nothing you do matters. Haha, just kidding. I think... that even if everything may work out in the end, being diligent and responsible about our duties can prevent a lot of stress along the way. It is nice to know that everyone at camp wants you to succeed though.

OSU Tzu Ching, GPS of Life Workshop (skit)

            Planning for a class felt like a culmination of all my life skills. I had to communicate with my team members; I had to be mindful of who my audience was; I even had to critically think for once. All of this leading up to camp felt like an intense balancing act. Then camp started, and I proceeded to have my best TCCA year ever. Much in part due to my fellow curriculum team buddies. The bond we created in those 5 days is intensely unique. There's a beauty in becoming close friends with people you only see for 1 week and maybe only once a year. No time for petty squabbles; just teamwork and good feelings all around. Beyond curriculum team, I really gotta give props to all the staff and people who contributed to this year's event. This year's camp went as smooth as conceivably possible.

            I had a lot of fun. Fun in a different way than attendee or group leader. There's a bit of freedom which comes with being a curriculum team member. During camp, I had the choice of facilitating ongoing classes or preparing for future classes. Being a facilitator for classes required awareness of the attendees and the lecturer. When I floated around groups and facilitated discussion I was able to meet all sorts of people. I don't wanna say that I screwed with or derailed group concentration, but I did enjoy prodding attendees by uh... creatively engaging them. There's a lot of entertainment in making others entertained. I suppose there's a balance to be had. Ideally, a class is both interesting and meaningful. If I ever got tired of class, I could then duck out and prepare for my own class, help another team member prep for their class, or even take a nap (not that I abused such privileges). Disclaimer: I will admit that the time leading up to my class was nerve wrecking; however, afterward it was all YOLOSOLO no holds omgwthbbq joy. Overall, going to Houston was comfy and nerve wrecking at the same time.

2015 TCCA greatest of all time? Until next year that is. See you all in San Jose 2016.

2015 YA@UN and 2015 TCCA Leadership Conference in Houston Reflection - Catherine

As I try to wrap up my thoughts on what has happened in the past two weeks, what comes to mind is that around this time of each year, everything is bittersweet. It’s the time when I get to see my friends from across the country, and it’s also a time when I make new friends.The first day is always “Hello—it’s nice to meet you,” and the last day is always “Goodbye—we’ll meet again.” When you go back home after spending two weeks with your friends constantly by your side, you feel like there is an empty space inside you that longs to be filled again. Although the feeling is bittersweet, the sad feelings are overcome with the knowledge that we will meet again, and that these friendships will last even with the distance that separates us.

I’m grateful that this year I had the opportunity to go back to the Youth Assembly at the UN as a delegate for Tzu Chi. Last year was my first time going to the YA@UN, and to be honest I don’t remember a lot of what happened during the actual YA@UN, but instead I remember the Tzu Ching and Tzu Shao that I had met through our own pre-camp. The feeling I had being part of this close-knit group was what brought me back to YA@UN this year. It was also what convinced me to take on the responsibility of being an overall team leader for our delegate team.

生命力 The Power of Life!!

I don’t consider myself to be a very outgoing person, so when I was asked if I’d like to be an overall team lead, I was a bit hesitant. I’m also someone who tends to have a lot of 煩惱 (afflictions). But surprisingly, that hesitation and worry existed for a small moment, and I made the quick decision to go for it. I was still a bit unconfident, but that feeling was a given because it was the first time that I ad to handle such a responsibility. From the moment I made my decision, I knew that there would be no regrets. Throughout the camp, I was mentally not very stressed, but I knew physically my body was very tense. It was especially noticeable whenever someone massaged my shoulders. I even kind of caught a cold that would last for a few days, probably because of the lack of sleep. Yet, I didn’t mind any of this at all—because the people around me were a support that made my worries and stress go away. Even when we received so many curveballs throughout the week, as a team we were able to catch them humbly and move forward.

Group 13!

A few days after the YA@UN, I headed to Houston for the 2015 TCCA Leadership Conference, where it would be my second time as small group leader. It was so exciting meeting my friends from previous conferences, and I was also looking forward to getting to know the people I have never met before. The workshops and classes during the conference were really fun and interesting, and I learned a lot from them. When you transform your mind and change your way of thinking, your actions can really create change not only within yourself, but also within others.

I really enjoyed the evening program we had this year—it really gave me an opportunity to see what other chapters were doing, and it was a relaxing break from a long day of classes. It was also a great time to take lots of pictures with everyone! Singing and doing the sign language with everyone for "So I Stand Up" at the end of the evening was very touching as well.

At the closing ceremony, I was once again very moved by the sign language that was performed. SGs and SBs were so cute when performing "陽光眷戀的地方 The Place Where the Sunshine Loves." I am always moved by the lyrics:

“讓我們像一家人一樣, 來分享感動化解迷惘. Let us be like one family. We can share our touching stories and end all of our doubts.
用最溫柔的目光 ,看彼此成長. Using the most gentle gazes we can watch each other grow.
張開臂膀打開門窗 讓愛照在心上. Spread out your arms, open the doors and windows—let love shine on your heart.”

Throughout the closing ceremony, a few of us were sitting in the back, somewhat separated from the others because our rides to the airport were departing during the closing ceremony. What was touching was the moment when everyone in front of us turned around to wave goodbye. At that moment, I really didn’t want to leave everyone, but leaving was something that was inevitable. We all have to go back home, back to work,back to school. I have learned so much from my fellow Tzu Ching and Tzu Shao, Tzu Ching Alumni, and SGs and SBs. I have been so inspired by everyone’s dedication and motivation. Spending my last two weeks of summer break with Tzu Chi is something that I will always look forward to doing, and I hope that in the future I can continue to attend TCCA conferences and see my big Tzu Chi family again.

Gratefully,
Catherine Lee

2015 YA@UN and 2015 TCCA Leadership Conference in Houston Reflection - Michael

Left: Peggy Hsieh (UC Berkeley),
Right: Michael Lee (OSU)

The last two weeks have been incredible. If you had asked me 4 years ago if I was going to continue TC in college, I would have downright shut you down and said no. However, after attending the TCCA leadership conference that same year in 2011, my life was changed forever. I made a vow to become vegetarian and although near the beginning of this summer I was still wavering whether or not I wanted to stay vegetarian, I think I decided to stay. I slowly became more and more involved in TC and experienced the feeling in having joy in helping others. Throughout the past four years attending camps, I met more and more incredible people, more and more dedicated people, and made more and more people who I can consider my family even if we aren't super close. Tzu Chi not only started to make me conscience of my choices, but it also became my anchor to this world through my mental struggles in high school. My parents would always tell me that even if people or things I loved were gone, TC and the people I met in TC will always be there physically or spiritually.

Go Tzuperheroes!

Saying goodbye to the people you have met and have deep discussions with is really hard, and it was even harder these last two weeks. First was the Youth Assembly at the United Nations. Spending six days with a small group of volunteers , learning how to network, talk to strangers, learning leadership skills, etc. Really lets you be able to get close to some people. Although you get the feeling here or there that some people might not like you that much, it was still incredible. Right after the Youth Assembly ended, I was blessed to have been able to have hung out with not only the friends I made, but also some new faces of the locals that lived there. However, it was a bittersweet four days afterwards, as people not attending the TCCA leadership conference afterwards slowly went home, which resulted in our group getting smaller. Even so, being in New York City for those four days really rekindled my passion for the city and the urban lifestyle.

Next came the TCCA leadership conference. I don't know why, but everytime I attend TCCA, I am always inspired. I remember my first conference, I was so scared because I didn't know a lot of people. But the amazing thing about Tzu Chi is that no matter where you go, if you are with TC people you don't even know, there is an amazing familial feeling and you feel comfortable almost instantly.

Group 2 members

Conference at Houston this year was no different. There I was, among my TC family learning, getting inspired, and connecting with other people, whether it be new friends or old friends. The days went really quickly and soon, there would be today which was the hardest, in which I had to say goodbye. Goodbye to all the people I met, the family members I had only a few days to spend with, and the close group that went to UN and then conference. However, I know that one day we will meet again, as long as we all stay on the TC path.

I've told a lot of people this, but if not for Tzu Chi, my life today would be completely different, and not in a good way. These last two weeks have taught me a lot about myself. I have a lot of issues with myself and may or may not be the best child or friend to some people. However, if I am able to change myself for the better, develop a better relationship with my parents,and continue to be inspired by others, I will be able to reach my ultimate goal which is to inspire others. And through the action of inspiring others, I will be able to help more and more people in this world.

Thank you to everyone who made these last two weeks amazing.

-Michael Lee

2015 Midwest Tzu Ching Retreat Reflection - Ling

美國中西部慈青培訓心得分享 --- 李靈

在三天兩夜的營隊中，認識了許多來自不同地區的慈青夥伴和學長學姊，讓我學到了許多以前不知道的事情，對慈濟也有更多的認識。第一天下課後，從哥倫布市開車到芝加哥已經是當地時間晚上十點半了，許多師姑師伯和學長學姊熱情地歡迎我們到來，還為我們準備了熱騰騰的湯麵和水果。

在營隊中，師姑師伯和學長姊用心準備的課程和活動，對我的人生有許多啟發。其中，印象最深刻的是謝師伯的課，學到了許多人生智慧，非常受用。師伯說：「廣結善緣，不計較不比較。」這句話聽起來很簡單，但其實藏著許多智慧。我們常常會為了滿足自己的欲望而去傷害別人，結了不好的緣。時常與人計較、比較的人，永遠不會滿足，也永遠不會快樂。如果可以做到不計較、不比較，我們就能和別人結下一份善緣。有句靜思語說: 快樂不是擁有的多，而是計較的少。如果計較比較的東西少了，其實擁有的也就多了。如果可以知足惜福的話，你會發現自己擁有的很多，也就不會起了貪念。師伯又說：「付出無所求，感恩尊重愛。」付出無所求是我們在幫助別人時，自己要以平常心對待，不在意自己付出的多少，也不在意對方是否有感謝我們的幫助。若要做到感恩、尊重、愛，就需要更多的磨練了。在付出的同時還要心存感恩，就算對方不領情，也要懷著感恩、尊重的心對待對方。師伯的課告訴我們要「時時種善因結好緣」，平日要廣結善緣，不可以與人結惡緣。人與人之間，難免會發生衝突，只要能懂得放寬心，忍讓一下其實也就沒事了。

第二天下午，我們到芝加哥的中國城，菩薩大招生。和街上來往的行人介紹慈濟和竹筒歲月，雖然以前在學校Involvement Fair 有類似的經驗，和大一新生介紹慈濟（慈青），但是這次是個不一樣的經驗，因為在中國城的人，大部分是遊客或是附近的居民。一開始沒有什麼信心和陌生人講話，想說他們應該不會想要停下來聽我們講話吧，害怕會被拒絕。在幾次被拒絕的經驗之後，終於有人停下來聽我們介紹慈濟，讓我有點信心。加上從師姑及學姊那裡，學到如何向人說慈濟之後，到後面就越講越好，也成功地送出了竹筒。在這次活動中我了解到只要有信心、毅力、勇氣，就不怕任何困難。

這次培訓每天四點多就起床，感覺一天的時間變長了許多，每天都覺得非常充實。我學習到很多人生智慧，也認識了許多志同道合的夥伴。在慈濟的路上，有更多善知識的陪伴，可以一同更精進的學習更多佛法。慈濟是一個溫暖的大家庭，這次培訓雖然只有短短的三天，卻幫助我能在忙碌的課業中，停下來休息、充電，淨化了我的心靈，使我能夠更堅定地行在菩薩道上。

2015 Midwest Tzu Ching Retreat Reflection - Frank

This was my second time going to the Tzu Ching Midwest Retreat. To be honest, I was a little worried about going, because I sometimes get irrational fears that maybe I won't fit in at camp. I hadn't met other Tzu Ching in a year. Would anyone remember me? Looking back, it seems like a childish middle-school-kid way of thinking, but I wouldn't want to miss out on bonding with anyone. Two and a half days at camp goes by very quickly. As such, I want to maximize the amount of time I can spend enjoying it with people from other regions. Of course, everything always turns out okay.

During that Friday night I arrived I was immediately welcomed by old faces from the Michigan and the local Chicago chapters. There seems to be an unspoken tradition of clapping to those arriving at the Chicago headquarters, and this time was no different. After a long road trip, it was very comforting and relaxing to see all the friendly faces welcoming everyone.

If I had to describe this camp with one word I would use “fluid”. More experienced Tzu Chi members will speak of dealing with setbacks as an inherent part of being in Tzu Chi, but from my experience at camp there didn't seem to be any major issues that could be considered “curve balls”. Meeting friends, waking up on time, staying awake... I felt it was all easier now more so than ever before. Even speaking to strangers in Chinatown and doing a rushed three hour practice for the ceremony on the final day felt relatively painless.

I think experience accumulated from attending previous camps helped me get engaged quickly this year. I encourage everyone to attend more and more retreats. Like most activities in Tzu Chi, attending retreats is not a one-and-done ordeal. There are always more ideas to learn, more people to meet, more fun to be had. I am grateful to have had the chance to go this year, and thank you, dear reader, for taking the time to read this reflection.

-Frank Xu

2013 Midwest Region 慈青精進營的分享

這次全美中西部的慈青培訓精進營，是我第二次參加，和第一次相同的是，那滿滿的正能量，無限的感動，和更加堅定的做好慈青的心。而和第一次不同的是，因為這次是在哥倫布舉辦，所以我有機會參與到活動的策劃，準備等整個過程，給了我很棒的機會去學習如何做好一個活動。從活動前的幾個星期，大家就在導論活動的內容，事無巨細，都需要大家的用心，讓我真的感受到了慈青們，作為一個團隊，一起齊心協力地將事情做好的努力和配合。個人都承擔著不同的工作，即使自己的課業也很忙，但看著有的同學們在活動前兩天，由於參與人數不斷增加，忙著安排新同學的住宿和交通，都是過了淩晨才能睡下。有的在製作名牌時，細心地一次一次調整字體、圖案、大小，希望做到最好。有的努力與每位講師溝通，整合活動開始前的PPT。所有的慈青還有學長、學姐們都在為了把活動辦好而努力。更是所有的師姑師伯們，白天上班，晚上還要陪我們開會，一遍一遍走流程，彩排。雖然是這樣的忙碌，但是大家的內心都是興奮和期待的。

之前每當我跟周圍的人在解釋什麼是慈濟，什麼是慈青，而我為什麼一直在做慈濟的時候，我都會說因為慈濟是在做好事，做善事，但其實不論是校園還是社會上都有很多慈善機構，為什麼只有慈濟讓我這麼熱衷呢？我以前也一直說不出個所以然來，只是感覺真心喜歡在慈濟做事。 通過這次活動，我發現真正“抓”住我的是慈濟的“人”。 大家會為了一個共同的目標，不懈地努力，不求回報地付出，“小我”被縮小了，實實在在呈現出的是一個“大我”的慈濟大家庭。所有人做事沒有什麼功利心，都是發心立願的要做好事。我很享受這種大家在一起其樂融融，一起努力的感覺。而且慈濟人身上都有各種各樣吸引我且值得我學習的優秀品質，每天自己的周圍都是自己欽佩的人，每天都是想到要不斷地充實自己，向大家學習，滿滿的正能量，怎麼會不幸福呢？

這次培訓要說最感動的時刻，便是UMich的慈青愷仁的分享，看到他最後擁抱Edward學長，和Beth學姐，我真的是深深的感動。借用Edward學長分享的Murmuration TED 演講的一段話“There is leadership inside, but there is no one leader.”在慈濟，正是因為我們大家都有好的初發心，大家相互尊重，縮小自己，才使得每次的活動都辦的如此的精彩，而大家又如此的團結。很幸運，真的很幸運，能有機會加入慈濟，成為慈青，認識了這麼多慈青好朋友。相信我在慈濟認識的這些善知識將會成為我一輩子的好師長，好朋友，好夥伴。

撰文 慈青張昱瑤

2013 Midwest Region Tzu Ching Retreating Sharing

Despite I have joined Tzu Chi for almost a year already, I've never attended an event like last weekend's retreat that has left me so deeply moved. Before I left for Ohio, I thought it would be just an event to know other Tzu Chings and learn more about Tzu Chi. Yet in the end, it was a retreat that taught many meaningful important life lessons. It taught me to believe in myself.

2013 Midwest Region 慈青精進營的分享

    這是我第二次參加慈青培訓，去年時還沒受服，對於很多慈濟理念還是處於懵懵懂懂的狀態。今年參加培訓，也穿上了制服一年多了，覺得身上擔負的責任也是越來越重。

    這次的培訓是美國中西部的慈青一起舉辦的，難得有機會聚在一起，所以氣氛十分熱鬧，在主持人帶領下，大家很快就熟悉了起來。這次來參加的慈青，除了我們俄亥俄州立大學的慈青以外，還有密西根大學，密西根州立大學和伊利諾伊大學香檳分校的伙伴遠道而來參加。第一天的相見歡結束之後，大家初步相互了解，對明天的培訓更加期待。

    第二天一早，師姑師伯、慈青伙伴們都早早地抵達了會所，期待著今天師姑師伯和慈青學長姐用心準備的課程和活動。課程活動中，我對於密西根慈青伙伴們表演的“慈青十戒”和誠澍學長的分享印象尤為深刻。

    “慈青十戒”是慈青必須要遵守的十條戒律。這十條戒律說起來並不複雜，可是對於即將要受服的新進慈青同學來說，理解上可能會有一些生澀。密西根的慈青同學們透過短劇表演的方式，生動地描繪出了十戒的重要性和不遵守十戒的危害。他們精彩的表演，贏得了全場的笑聲和掌聲。

    誠澍學長的講課中，學長播放了一段影片。無數的椋鳥在空中飛行，它們飛往同一個方向，整齊劃一，姿態優美。這群鳥兒中，無論隊形如何變化，沒有一隻鳥兒是領導者，在沒有領導者的情況下，卻沒有發生過一次意外。鳥兒們的團隊精神令我非常感動!  在沒有領導的情況下，鳥兒們正是靠著無間的合作和信任，才能保持團隊的整齊一致。我們的慈青大家庭也是 一樣，每一位伙伴都很用心地堅守崗位，彼此相互信任與尊重對方，像這群鳥兒一樣團結一致，朝同一個目標努力前進。

    和去年相比，今年的心態更加成熟與堅定，在師姑師伯及學長姐身上學到了很多東西，也很開心能夠看到更多的伙伴加入我們慈青的大家庭。感恩師姑師伯和學長姐的用心準備與陪伴，才能使我們這次的培訓辦得如此圓滿。希望能夠和大家，持續攜手精進在慈濟路上。

撰文：慈青洪鑫澤

2013 Midwest Region 慈青精進營的分享

我第一次和慈濟有接觸是2011年十一月，慈青蕾安邀請我去參加在學校辦的素食教學課，在吃了好吃的素食料理後，我開始對慈青社有興趣。於是，慢慢的，我開始參加了慈青社的活動。在去年三月我第一次參加了慈青培訓並且受服成為一名慈青。在參加了這一次的美國中西部慈青培訓後，我帶著滿滿的感動和收獲回家。

第一天的相見歡，在主持人侑達與佳臻的帶領下，認識了許多從其他的學校來的慈青，其中包括：密西根大學和伊利諾伊大學香檳分校的夥伴。在第二天的課程裡，我學到了很多。所有師姑師伯和慈青學長姐用心準備的課程對我的人生有了啟發。其中，我印象最深刻的是丘蕙珊學姊與周渝桉學姊的“走在慈濟/慈青道上 - 菩提種子信願行” 及Edward 學長的“慈青的使命”。

在聽完丘蕙珊與周渝桉學姊分享了他們慈濟路之後，我覺得非常受用。周渝桉學姊在課堂中和大家分享了他在高中時期和媽媽時常發生衝突，在她參加2007年的全球慈青暨海外慈青幹部精進研習會時，讀到了父母恩重難報經，瞭解到父母養育子女的辛苦。我們的身體是爸爸媽媽給我們的，他們照顧我們，養育我們，做子女的應該孝順他們，聽他們的話。小時候不懂事，時常會不聽話和爸媽頂嘴。他們會說：“晚上不能和同學出去玩，會很危險”。但是我卻不聽，偏要玩到很晚才回家。現在，我一個人在國外求學，在地理上和爸媽的差距非常遠，但透過現代科技，在心理上和爸媽的距離就變近了許多。我可以每天用Skype和爸媽聊天，或是，用手機傳訊息和爸媽聯絡。學姊分享了她用三點提醒自己有沒有做到孝順：聽爸媽的話、不要讓爸媽生氣、不要讓爸媽操心。這三點聽起來很簡單，但是真正做起來並不容易。有時候，我會因為課業忙就好幾天沒有給媽媽打電話，或是沒有回媽媽簡訊而讓媽媽擔心。學姊還分享了自己吃素的經驗。她說：“從自己開始，才能影響別人”。我想很多事情都是這個樣子的，自己開始吃素，才可以影響到身邊的人一起吃素。 前一陣子的水懺演繹，要齋戒108天，其實對我來講，還是滿困難的。因為課業繁忙，時常外食，學校附近有賣素食的店就只有幾家，一個多月，都吃差不多的東西，到最後會很膩。但想到有願就有力的這句話，相信只要有心去做，就會成功。而且吃素不但是可以愛護動物，也可以愛護地球，更可以讓我們的身體健康。

Edward 學長的課上，放了一段影片。在大自然裡，成百上千的椋鳥 (Starling) 一起在天空飛行，飛往同一個方向，一起轉彎。 在這一大群鳥兒中，沒有一隻鳥兒是領導者，領導大家往哪裡飛 。椋鳥們每天一同飛行，科學家卻從來沒有發現過一次意外，鳥兒們不曾互相碰撞過。這靠的是椋鳥們對彼此的互相合作及信任，每一隻個體在飛行時，也都在觀察其他鳥兒往哪裡飛。如果這其中有一隻鳥兒特立獨行，或是不尊重伙伴的話，那麼他們就無法那麼一致地在天空中飛行。 椋鳥在大自然界展現了合作的魅力。雖然是一大群鳥，卻很整齊的在天空飛翔。在觀看這段影片的時候，我一直擔心會不會有個別鳥兒誤導鳥群飛往錯誤的方向，可是它們沒有。這段影片讓我想起了慈青社這個大家庭。大家庭中同學們來自不同的地方，不同的的家庭，每一個人都會有不同的想法和做法，但是想著上人說的“有心就不難”，只要同學們都不分彼此，互相尊重，一條心互相合作，就能像這群鳥兒一樣齊心協力，朝著一個目標前進。學長說：“團體的美，來自個人的修養”。如果我們都用法水洗滌自己的心，破除我執，我們就能像椋鳥一樣，整齊優美的在天空中飛翔。

在這一次中西部慈青培訓之後，我感到獲益良多。感恩所有的師姑師伯和學長學姐用心準備這兩天精彩的活動及課程。我覺得很幸運地在美國有機會認識了慈濟這個大家庭。很感恩師姑師伯把我們當作自己的孩子在照顧。也常常會接到師姑噓寒問暖的電話，關心我們在生活上和課業上的狀況。我希望在未來也可以貢獻更多自己的力量給慈青這個大家庭。我相信行善、行孝都不能等，只要有好的事情，我們去做就對了。

撰文：慈青李靈

2013 Midwest Region 慈青精進營的分享

雖然這已不是我第一次接觸慈濟，不過這次在俄亥俄州哥倫布的慈青精進營真的令我受惠良多。還記得初中二的時候，在一位鄰居師伯的介紹之下，我隨著爸媽到了檳城的靜思堂一趟。當時還乳臭未乾的我經常埋怨父母爲何帶我到那麽不有趣的地方。之後，每個星期天都得犧牲我的睡眠，爲了就是要到靜思堂去念早課。我也與爸媽出席了一些慈濟的活動，不過隨後因爲爸爸工作忙碌以及他個人的一些因素，我們一家也沒有在參加任何慈濟所辦的活動了。

在那短短的幾個月裏，令我印象最深刻的是儅我們一家人到靜思書軒參加一場講座的時候，有一位姐姐遞了一盆紙條，裏邊有很多師公上人的名言。我抽了一個，打開來一看，裏邊竟然寫著：“屋寬，不如心寬”。爸媽看了都告訴我說：“你自己看看好了。連 上人都知道你是個小氣鬼。”當時我真的嚇着了。回想起來，到今天爲止，我還不能完完全全改掉我這個坏習慣。雖然我一而再，再而三地告訴我自己凡事都要看開些，不過很多時候我還是會被一些芝麻綠豆的事情，影響了自己的心情。

說真的，我萬萬也沒有想到我會再回到慈濟，甚至還成爲這個大家庭的一分子。說回哥倫布慈青精進營，這一次能夠有那麽的榮幸參加這個營隊真的要感謝俄亥俄州立大学慈青社的同學們以及師伯與師姑們的一番苦心。因爲有他們，我才能學會那麽多。

這一次的營隊，令我領悟到我本身是一個有很多瑕疵的青年。儅師姑、師伯、學長、學姐及慈青夥伴們在分享的時候，我縂覺得幾乎他們所說的東西，我都好像有待改善。或許這是因緣吧。打從靜思書軒那一張紙條到這次的營隊，我都好像被一直在提醒要好好地去改善我的缺點。雖然在這之前，爸媽都有一直在提醒我，要我戒掉我的坏習慣，我也有告訴我自己要搞掉我的坏習慣，不過我還是覺得我自己做得不夠好。就好像雅美師姑所說的，改變不是一朝一夕的事，得一步一步來。

還記得大謝師伯有說到有一個人因爲他的朋友所說的一句話，不小心傷害了他。自此就不在與他那一位朋友視而不見，聽而不聞。大謝師伯的那一番分享令我想起在幾個月前，我因爲我的室友說了一些我不中聽的話，而不在與他説話，更是把他那句話懷恨在心。想回去，我覺得自己真的做錯了。不管他在說那句話的時候是有心的，還是無意的，我都不應該那樣的冷落他，畢竟我們還是住在同一屋簷下的。我真的領悟到不要爲了某些人所說的一些話而影響自己的情緒甚至還耿耿於懷，因爲儅你在爲了那小小的事情而不開心，對方也不會被影響。

我最大的缺點除了小氣，就是那張“一發不可收拾”的嘴巴。要守口業真的一點也不容易！俗語

說：“病從口入，禍從口出”。活了那麽久，我這張嘴也給我添了不少的麻煩。我還挺好奇到底

各位師姑師伯、學長學姐到底是怎樣守口業呢？畢竟我們在一定的情況下，會忍無可忍，大動肝火嘛！

此外，在一些慈青夥伴的分享下，我發現我是多麽的不孝。還記得在中學的時候，我是不折不扣的“反對黨”，很少聽從父母的勸導，更是一個脾氣暴躁的孩子。隨著年齡的增長，我也開始了解爲何爸媽會那麽的囉嗦，不停地給予叮嚀，爲了就是要避免我犯錯。之後再跟他們聊天的時候，我也會盡量的控制自己的情緒，低聲下氣的與他們溝通。其實，我在參加這一次的營隊時已經犯了爸媽所給我設下的規矩：不准乘坐私家車到外坡。我很坦誠地告訴媽媽說我的確乘了學長的車子到哥倫布去，不過幸好媽媽沒有責怪我。

師公上人有說過：“行善、行孝，不能等”。身為學生的我，有時真的是很矛盾：到底要儘早完

成學業回到父母的身邊，還是要繼續深造？儅我看著爸媽的白髮一天比一天的多，皺紋一天比一天的明顯，我真的為他們的健康而操心。爸爸因爲高血壓曾經有輕微中風，媽媽也因爲血壓、血糖偏高開始控制食量，消瘦了許多。我不想成爲“子慾養而親不待”的一分子。希望爸爸媽媽可以健健康康，等我學成歸來，好好報答他們的哺育之恩。

在這營隊裏也有提到惜福與珍惜當下。我經常都覺得自己好像都不比別人好，不比別人優秀，一直埋怨自己沒有天資，再怎麽努力也不會比其他有天資的人優秀。有時我還埋怨爲何家境不能夠再好一些，我就不必那麽辛苦啃書就爲了要得到一份出國深造的獎學金。媽媽常告訴我“比上不足，比下有餘”這道理。不過，我就是聼不進去。我一直相信只有最優異的人才能有一番的成就，所以丞天都把自己逼得很緊，還經常犧牲自己的睡眠，爲了就是要做到十全十美。沒有一百分，也要有九十五分。這一次的營隊也教訓了我，做人一定要知足，因爲在這世界上還有千千萬萬的人還在受苦，不知自己能不能夠見到明天的曙光。在這世上，有很多事情都是很無常。或許我的人生明天將被畫上一個句號、或許我不會有希望再見到光明、也或許我的生活會來一個360o大逆轉，沒人曉得。因此，我們得珍惜當下，好好的活出今天。

我在這一次的營隊學到了很多課本中所學不到的人生哲理。這更是讓我更加了解自己，以便能夠提升、改善自己。真的很希望在參加下一次營隊的時候，我能看到自己的蛻變。最後，我再次感謝俄亥俄州立大学慈青社的同學們以及師伯與師姑們的努力讓這次的營隊畫上美好的句點。感恩！

撰文：慈青佘紹維

福從做中得歡喜 慧從善解得自在

這已經是我第三次參加慈青培訓了，從第一次作為即將授服的新同學，到第二次作為已經穿上制服一年的慈青，再到這次作為參與準備工作的一員，每一次的培訓都讓我帶着滿滿的感動與愛回家。從初時的新奇，到之後的懵懂，再到現在的承擔，我想我學會了很多，也成長了很多。儘管每次的培訓，有些課程總會重複，例如慈濟與慈青的介紹。然而，隨著一年一年的做下去，我對這些課程的理解也越來越深。慈濟的四大八法也不再是空談，我可以真真切切地感受到，作為一直小螞蟻，我行在其中。

「做中學，學中覺」

很有幸在這次培訓中可以聽到謝濟介師伯的課程：菩提新苗智慧愛。其中師伯提到了三理四相，物理的成、住、壞、空四相告誡我們沒有一樣東西是永恆常住的，而生理的生、老、病、死則預示了身體變化的分秒變遷。而我最有感觸的則是心理的生、住、異、滅四相。倘若被他人觸動後，一念好心生起，然而這念心卻很快斷了；又或是被人幫助後，一份感恩心起，卻很快又轉移了；這樣心念的變化、輪迴相信常常出現在我們的生活中。該如何維持這念心呢，我想到的是做中學，學中覺。當一份感恩心生起，我們應該用它去幫助更多的人，将這念心化成實事。這樣，既將這份愛傳遞了下去，又幫助我們自己維持了這念心。所以我相信，做，就對了。在做中慢慢摸索、嘗試、學習，同時，在學習中也可以慢慢地琢磨、領悟，幫助我們更好的理解一些人生哲理。值得做的事，就值得做好，值得做妙。

「明天先到，還是無常先到？」

謝師伯在課中講解了果報，並問我們信不信？我想我是信的。像蕙珊學姐分享的經歷，在實習的地方遇到慈濟的師伯，得到幫助與鼓勵；返回心靈的故鄉-花蓮，遇到之前在營隊認識的師姑，得到她的陪伴去拜訪各處，最後，在芝加哥慈濟會所附近工作。我想這一切應該是冥冥中自有安排吧，是因緣將大家繫到了一起，所以我們更要在平時廣結善緣。

同時，參與過去年的龍捲風風災發放，直視那些受災房屋，我深切的感受到了大自然的力量，體會到了什麼是人生無常。而我覺的這些無常應該就是我們生生世世積累的因果業力所造成的，面對這些無常，我們是無力的，因為師公上人說過，人生的劇本都是上輩子自己寫的。然而，我想，我們也是有力的，因為如果我們見苦知福，並且惜福、造福，人生還是可以被改變的。所以，其中的竅門，我想依舊是，做。

面對無常，活在當下很重要，所以我們更要做在當下，而不是總給自己找諸多藉口，說以後再做。記得Annie學姐在“菩提種子信願行”中也有提到過行善、行孝不能等。事親不孝喪後悔，事親就要孝；見義不為過後悔，見危就要救。這是我在別處看到的一句話，相信是在告誡我們事親奉孝，和合互助，應行在當下。Annie學姐在課上也給了大家三個有關孝順的建議：聽爸媽的話，不要讓爸媽生氣，不要讓爸媽操心。這我深有體會，記得高中時，也常常與媽媽爭吵，總覺得她不懂我。然而出國之後，遠離家的溫暖，才慢慢意識到爸爸媽媽是有多麼的愛我。空間上的距離甚至讓我害怕，子欲養而親不在，並且想到無常就在身邊，我開始明白為什麼行孝不能等。於是我開始漸漸的理解他們，不再試圖頂撞他們，也慢慢學習如何表達自己對他們的那份愛。像學姐所說，這三個建議，說起來容易，做起來難，所以我們需要付出更多的愛心，耐心，與恒心。

「縮小自己 善解包容」

有人的地方就一定會有紛爭。最近一年我在慈青社也發生了不少事，也曾迷茫過，彷徨過，想著要不要繼續走下去。我一直覺得自己會堅持下去的原因，不過是最初的那一份心，那份想用自己渺小的力量去幫助更多人的心。可是，還是會有疑問，我們該如何面對這些紛爭，化解這些紛爭。

我想從Edward學長的課中，我找到了答案。學長分享了星椋鸟群在夕陽下飛舞的景象，鸟群时而似飞舞彩带，时而化作飘渺烟雾，一转眼又散成漫天落叶，這般斑斕壮阔的景象令人驚叹。然而，這上萬只星椋鸟是如何可以有條不紊地整齊飛舞呢？學長分享到，這是因為，當右邊的一隻鳥轉彎時，左邊的那一隻仿若是它的一部分，也自然的轉彎。就像浴佛節時，看到的慈濟的立體琉璃同心圓，也是那樣的整齊劃一，肅穆莊嚴。師公上人曾經說過，團體的美，來自個人的修養。我想，在團體中縮小自己是很重要的，只有將自己放輕，才會減少與別人的摩擦，更會突顯出團體的美。

除了縮小自己之外，善解包容應該也很重要。這次營隊中，最後的分享環節，UM慈青郭愷仁分享了他在慈青社的故事。我很佩服他的勇氣，可以在這麼多人面前，大方的坦誠之前曾與學姐和別的慈青有過意見不合。但我想，正是這樣的大聲講出，他們才會放下，心結才會打開。人與人之間總會有摩擦，所以我應向他們學習，當矛盾出現時，想想對方的好，並儘量要善解包容每一個人，每一件事，每一時刻。並像他們最後所分享的，大家都是希望慈青社可以更好，既然有這樣的願，那有什麼不可行的呢？

福從做中得歡喜，慧從善解得自在。這是我最喜歡的一句靜思語，希望可以跟大家共勉之。

撰文 慈青胡希驍

2011 US TCCA "Bring Love to South Africa" Retreat -- Sharing by Tsun-Hui and Dennis

In the Summer of 2011, three of our Tzu Ching members, Tsun-Hui, Vicky, and Dennis, traveled to South Africa with 21 other Tzu Chings from around the United States to observe and learn from the activities of the South African Tzu Chi volunteers. What they brought back were touching stories and memories that inspired us to continue to do Tzu Chi for the rest of our lives.

2011 US TCCA Leadership Conference - After Thoughts

For the past 10 months, my understanding of Tzu Chi was limited to the seemingly simple events that my local Tzu Ching chapter does, as well as the very nice, warm and friendly people in it (including the SG/SB’s who constantly surround and give us so much support in all the ways that they can). That understanding has now deepened with my participation in the New Jersey Tzu Ching conference.

As an international student coming to the US, the first few months of my arrival were tough. I was time zones away from my family for the very first time, in a country that I have never set foot on before in my life. Just two weeks after my arrival, I had been fortunate enough to bump into this group of blue angels. Very quickly, I was accepted into this family of initially random strangers, and soon enough, I found my home away from home. Half a year later, I received my uniform.

Being in Tzu Chi(ng) for barely a year, this conference was my first exposure to what I now call a “Tzu Chi spirited” environment. Despite it lasting only a mere four days, the things I learned from it was more than I had imagined.

One of the more memorable activities that really caught my interest was the etiquette class. I had been exposed to Tzu Chi’s many etiquettes during a training session I attended prior to receiving my uniform. However, it never occurred to me to question them or understand them any deeper. It was good knowledge to have, as all these gestures and protocols, physically embodied Tzu Chi and its core beliefs.

This conference amazed me in the sense that it could bring people – more specifically, Tzu Chings and SG/SBs – together. The people who attended the conference were people I have never met before. Each person came from a different corner of the US, and individually, each brought with them their perspective, their stories, and their understanding of the organization as a whole. But, what made it unique was how everyone could come together and almost immediately, connect with one another through this vast yet all-embracing common ground called Tzu Chi. To be able to witness and be a part of such a group, was truly an awe-inspiring moment for me. Such is the power of the Tzu Chi spirit.

The things I’ve learned from the conference were way too many to list down individually. To be able to hear the stories from other Tzu Chings and Tzu Shaos have moved me countless times. They’ve inspired me to want to “up my ante” with my understanding and contributions to the organization. My love for Tzu Chi and what it stood for was evidently maximized when I came back from the conference randomly deciding to eat at least one vegetarian meal a day, not counting breakfast. Then, there was the feeling of disappointment when I came back and started going back to my ‘pre-conference’ life. This stemmed from seeing how my friends were ‘left out’ in a sense that they were not able to learn the things I learned in the conference and share the experience I had then.

With that, I am very grateful to have been able to attend the conference – to have gone through such an enlightening experience; to have met my fellow Tzu Chings around the US, but most of all, to have been able to share the stories and the memories with them. My understanding of Tzu Chi has changed me for the better and hopefully, I’ll be able to impart and apply all that I’ve learned to not only my local chapter but also the people around me.

P.S. The camp songs were stuck in my head for more than a week after I got back from NJ!

Written by Syn Dee Chua

Photo by Yuru Yang

2011 US TCCA Leadership Conference - After Thoughts

師姑師伯們總是會為我們精心準備好所有的東西，我從來都沒見過的漂亮的名牌、學員袋、筆記本，每一樣東西都讓我們feel welcomed.

第一天晚上學習了four noble position. 雖然這四個動作從小就耳熟能詳，但是很慚愧從來沒有做到過，尤其是我特能抖腿。在整個營隊我都一直在不停地抖腿，基芬和舒筠師姑一直在提醒我。知恥近乎勇。我想，以這個為開始，我一定要改掉這個毛病，並且循序漸進地將four noble position 融入我的生活，做到力行近乎仁。那天晚上大概是太困了，頭腦不清楚，所以我居然不知羞恥地在大家面前分享。從一開始到結束，學員長充分做到了four noble position，他是我們的好榜樣。

在大家分享交流時，我瞭解到基芬師姑是很有智慧的，他把“先以欲鉤牽，漸令入佛道”體現地淋漓盡致。她一開始用大地和風拳來吸引學生，然後問他們要不要去參加讀書會，從而傳播上人的法。

在用餐的時候，跟大家唱感恩歌的時候，我的第一感覺是，一幫傻子。但是時間一久，我感覺真的愛上那些歌了，這大概就是“入芝蘭之室，久而不聞其香。”這給我的啟示是，我需要天天都聽法、學習，因為熏習的力量是很巨大的。

我覺得舒筠師姑在這個慈濟家庭是對我最好的，她永遠都是不厭其煩地提醒我應該怎做。我的確是那種很沒有家教的人，因為爸爸媽媽對我的教育很疏忽，從某種意義上講，在我聽聞佛法之前，我對做人方面是零，在行為禮節方面也是零，我會把垃圾隨便放在桌子上，我會在大家沒有互相盛好飯之前，就自己先開動了。我想，在慈濟這個大家庭裡面，有像舒筠師姑這樣的慈濟媽媽的教導，我會漸漸地成長起來。

我以前都沒有聽到過會歌，這是我第一次聽到過這首歌。我想這首歌充分地體現了慈青精神，是它把我們緊緊地捆綁在了一起。“我們是慈青的菩薩，肩負著佛陀的使命。我們是慈青的菩薩，傳承慈濟歷史的腳步。”

I learned something from the course of time management. As one of Shi Gu said, “you must treat your schoolwork as first priorities. If you don’t get job, we won’t let you work in Tzu Chi anymore”, so the time management seems important here. We must allot our time very wisely, conscious of what time for what and we need to not only get involved with Tzu Chi super actively but also study at university efficiently.

我去聽了一節課忘記叫什麼名字了，總之從中瞭解到，有一些慈青成為慈青學長之後，被告知要作為新慈青的榜樣，而且覺得師姑師伯不像以前那麼愛他們了，我想舒筠師姑也聽了那堂課。舒筠師姑一開始對我說：“你們將來是要肩挑大任的。“ 但是很快就改變態度說，不,我們依然會很愛你，不要覺得有壓力” , but I want to say that the fact that one Tzu Ching 學長 feel pressure does not necessarily mean all the Tzu Ching need unconditional love forever, as far as I concerned, I am eager and ready to 肩挑大任。 There is nothing more important that spreading Dharma to all over the world to benefit all living beings，especially the human beings.

我一直以來都是一個獨來獨往的人，但是從穿上制服的那一刻開始，我就意識到，我們是一個team我們是一個group，我們代表整個團體，從這裡，我要鍛煉自己所需要的團隊精神。

撰文：慈青宋承澤 

2011 US TCCA Leadership Conference - After Thoughts

Before coming to New Jersey, if someone had asked me why I was going to the retreat, I might have had to take a moment or so to think about my answer. Sure I wanted to learn how to help Tzu Ching here at OSU and in Columbus, but there was a slight uncertainty in my heart. Maybe I was coming because my friends at OSU had decided to go and I was simply tagging along. Whatever the case, I was not quite sure what to expect at my first retreat. In the three days I spent at the NJ Retreat and the following days, however, I've come to realize it was one of the best decisions I've made in my life. 

Having only very recently stepped out into the adult world and seen the world for what it really is, I feel that my parents have shielded me form much of the real world. Seeing all this conflict in the world, both natural and man made, it was extremely easy for me to become discouraged and pessimistic towards other people. Listening to fellow Tzu Ching at the New Jersey Retreat, along with SG's, SB's, and Masters from the Jing Si Abode, I really believe that Tzu Chi is the best way I can help the world. It was there at the Retreat, hearing first hand stories about how Tzu Chi Volunteers help people all around the world, that I realized I could confidently say I wanted to be a part of Tzu Chi for the rest of my life.

Now comes the part where I talk about what I learned at NJ. What was the greatest thing I learned? I learned that in order to improve the world around me, I would have to change. In my 8 years of doing volunteer work in Tzu Chi, I've always just followed others around. Sure I fulfilled my tasks to the best of my ability, but I've never taken any action to lead. During the Retreat, I experienced some slight awkwardness when I was asked for advice/experiences from fellow Tzu Ching who were technically less experienced, but far more active in their roles. Perhaps I had been too complacent with my involvement with Tzu Chi. At these moments I was asking myself what had I been doing my last few years and resolved to take up more leadership roles in the future.

I really do believe coming to NJ was one the best decisions I made in my life so far. I've always been told what Tzu Chi is about, from both my mother and the SG's and SB's here at Columbus. At NJ, I was able to feel what Tzu Chi was about and on a far greater scale than any Tzu Chi event I had attended before. I, for one, had never seen so much of the Tzu Chi family gathered together in one place. Normally I'm somewhat distant towards people and I make only a few true friends, but it was so easy to connect with fellow Tzu Chings at NJ. It's hard to explain, but there was so much positive energy at NJ, it was impossible not to make friends with everyone I met. I also had a great time teaching 大地和風拳 despite being in front of so many people and the feedback I got was all positive. All in all, I'm really grateful for the opportunity to have been able to attend the 2001 NJ Retreat and to the people who made it possible. I look forward to future Tzu Ching Retreats, and in the meantime, I'll always be sure to be more mindful while walking my own path. 感恩! 

Written by Tzu Ching Alex Xu

Photo by Tzu Ching Yuru Yang

     

在营队里成长

八月二日下午两点多，我到机场接儿子Alex（ 中文名徐润阳）。他刚参加了2011年全美慈青、学长、慈懿干部研习营，并参观了联合国。正想着怎么还不见人影，就看见一位身着蓝天白云，面带微笑，气宇轩昂的青年人，随着人群走出大门来。我眼睛顿时亮了起来，那就是Alex！不仅仅是他的衣着很吸引人，更让我赞叹的是他的整个精神面貌。 几天在外， 不仅没有一点倦容， 反而容光焕发，比在家时还精神。当他走进面前，我就禁不住对他说“ 你真神气，个子也高了呢！”他笑道“感恩哪！”

一进车，Alex就跟我讲他要用在营队里所学的知识，制定新计划。我好奇地问什么计划?  他说目标是做好慈青；目前有三个自我完善的内容：第一，时间管理； 第二，演讲训练， 第三，学好中文。我听了心中大喜，因为这些自我完善的方面正是我一直希望他能做到的。过去，他常常生活没规律，时间颠三倒四。周末或放假的时候更是半夜不睡觉，第二天不到中午不起来。好像做事的效率也不高； Alex非常善良，但从小就内向，不善言辞和人交往。在众人面前一说话就脸红，能躲就躲不愿说话；对学中文也没有兴趣。 我费了很多力气，也没有起到什么效果。现在他自己要想改变了。我能不高兴吗？我马上回应“ Alex， 你太棒了！有什么需要我的地方尽管说。”但是在高兴之余， 我心里也还嘀咕着： 他是不是一时的头脑发热呢？从小就有的习惯哪有这么容易改变的。说不准几天后又回到老样子了。所以我又叮铃他，说到要做到不容易，你要有个每天要做的具体计划才好。Alex答道： 我知道。

接下来这一星期里，Alex 的表现真的是跟以前有很大的不同：

1）乐于做家务，一直保持愉悦的心情。以前Alex也是比较温和的，在外人眼里，他总是笑嘻嘻的。 但在家里，他的心情有晴雨变化。 有时躲在自己的屋子里，把门一关，对谁也不理。弟弟叫开门也不给开。弟弟让他帮着复习词语，他也时常会心烦。经常是 在我的强列要求下，Alex 只能心不甘情不愿地 敷衍了事。营队回来后，每天都有好心情。每天都听他哼着“幸福的脸”这首歌，不时手里还舞着动作； 弟弟敲门，他就开门，随时尽量满足弟弟的要求。如果手头正忙，他会解释，让弟弟稍等。还对弟弟说，现在我牵着你走，以后我会放手；自己的路要自己走。在旁的我听得大为感动，这孩子好像对人生挺有感悟了！他还时常为全家提供按摩，要我们及时反馈感觉。他说这样可以提高技巧为别人提供更好的服务。在家还会做饭。有一天我带弟弟去上课顺便买菜，回到家已经下午两点。没想到Alex 已经把饭菜做好，等我们吃饭。以前肚子饿了，就在冰箱里找点吃的打发，现在会为家人做可口的饭菜了（顺便也感恩哥城慈青妈妈和师姑们早就教会做菜）。

2）生活开始有规律，不再睡懒觉了。晚上再晚，第二天八点会起来，如果睡过头，我一叫，他就赶快起床。然后自觉运动半个小时左右吃早饭。这次在营队里， 师姑让他做大地和风拳的助教。回来后，他把练好基本功，打好拳作为自己的一件要事。平时努力做到身体中正，头正颈直。看得出他还不是那么的自如 ；但能这样坚持，好习惯一定能养成。以前我一直很担心他的身体。他从小体质弱，看上去总是精力不够，时常弯腰驼背，东倒西歪，一幅没骨头的样子。在上大学的一年里，明显地看到他的肩旁有高低。这个暑假在家，我逮住机会 就要他昂首挺胸，让他多打拳，注意平衡身体。他开始有些烦了。没有想到经过几天的营队生活，就用不着我唠叨，他自己就会主动锻炼了。我赞他现在身体很正， 他回我说，师公 上人说了： 站如松，坐如钟，臥入弓。看来通过这次大会，上人的法水真的有入心。

3）另外， 我还看到他正在积极参与哥城的慈青同学们新规划。他要承担慈青三合一的工作。这下子，他对摄影也有兴趣起来。以前我一直担心他太书呆子，兴趣不够广。他总是说读书睡觉都没时间，哪有时间玩其他。现在却是信心满满。他说他会有效利用时间，做慈青。

通过这次研习营， Alex 又成熟了，在慈济的道路上又上了一个台阶。回想起当初他和弟弟第一次上慈济儿童人文班的情景，还那么记忆犹新。 从踏进班里一看谁也不认识马上变脸 ，到现在成为一个以做慈济为荣的慈青， 一路走来，我心里一直充满感恩。                         

在此，我想借一笔之力，在与大家分享喜悦的同时， 我要深深地感恩组织这次大会的学长、姐们的精心准备与付出；我要深深地感恩师姑师伯们长期的用心陪伴和鼓励； 我要深深地感恩上人为我们开辟的慈济人间路！

撰文：慈青Alex的媽媽 陈蕙

照片人物：慈青Alex(徐润阳)

攝影：慈青楊育儒