Times have changed, from the era when we were young to the era  when we are old. The ways of life of these periods are completely  different. In this era, we are very blessed. Since the Restoration  period¹, the economy and society have been stable, the education  system is sound, and education is universal. 

Before, when we used to ask people, “How many children are studying?  Where are they studying?” The parent would answer, “We hope they  can at least attend junior high school.” We would then say, “You’re so  capable that you can afford to send your children to study until junior  high.” Parents would say, “In today’s era, we must ensure our children  receive education.” This was the situation during the several decades  after the Restoration. 

Now, everyone receives education, and the education level has risen  significantly, with improved educational quality. We should cherish our  blessings and reflect on the upbringing we have received from society.  How can we give back to society? Some people think: “I achieved things  through my own efforts.” But without the larger societal environment  and resources, how could one strive to do things? 

I emphasize that everyone must be grateful; only those who are grateful  will feel fulfilled. A life that is fulfilled is one that is joyful and at ease.  Pursuing things endlessly is very exhausting. We should ease up a bit,  and refrain from straining ourselves in the chase for economic success.  Let us take a moment to experience how to enjoy the blessings we  have. Who is the most fortunate? Those who can benefit others are the  most fortunate. If one does not know how to benefit others, no matter  how much they have, they will always feel it is not enough—this is  suffering. Ignorance and suffering arise from greed, and there is never  true satisfaction. Merely being satisfied does not bring happiness. One  must give; helping others is the root of happiness. By giving, one will  gain spiritual enrichment and wisdom. 

I was deeply moved when I heard about the term “drivers” and “driver  groups”2. It turns out that this kind of system exists in society. Scam  groups are formed by those lacking a sense of contentment and a  friendly community. If organizations like Tzu Chi could guide and educate  those who are in such groups, it would be a form of redemption. It is  like how teachers enter prisons to educate inmates, who, after their  release, continue to receive care, improving their families through a  thorough process of assistance. 

It is truly touching! Teachers use various methods to educate, even  creating teaching tools. With teaching tools designed with care by  the teachers, every unit is rich in content. Not only is the knowledge  profound, but it is also “methodical”–those who receive education  move from ignorance to understanding, from lack of experience to  gaining insight. When one has gained insights, the Dharma will enter  one’s heart, and then, one will return those benefits to society. 

I’m very grateful to every member of Tzu Chi. You and I have a connection,  a teacher-disciple bond. Regarding the Education Association, the Tzu  Chi youth groups, and other groups, each team is sincere and they use  all their efforts to promote Tzu Chi to every corner of society. It is not  just about personal connections. When the Education Association was  at its peak, whether retired or current teachers, they would include  cases of charitable care and examples of mischievous students in their  teaching materials, promoting them in high schools, middle schools,  primary schools, and kindergartens. In every educational institution,  there was a focus on being “methodical.” 

Once one grows older and retires from school, one might think, “It is  time for me to retire from Tzu Chi as well; it is time for my activities  to come to an end.” If we do this, are we admitting that we should  “rest” in this world? No. Because every day, every moment, we are  still enjoying the blessings of Heaven and Earth. Just like now, we can  sit and listen to the Dharma, feeling warmth and nourishment for our  hearts and minds. 

Looking at the disciples, their hair has turned silver, from speckled  white to fully white. Time passes invisibly, and even if I don’t want to  admit that I am aging, I must admit that is the natural law. Even though  I feel reluctant, I need to take hold of this aging process. The time that  has passed is history, but during that time, what we have done that is  worth sharing is precious. Time that passes without anything done is  empty! 

Perhaps we may feel guilty if we pass the time only enjoying the Earth’s  resources. But if we truly contribute to the world, we can say, “I am glad  I have given back.” We should not let our past causes and conditions  dissipate. Teachers, please count how many students you have. We  need social education, we need to care about what our students are  doing. 

For Tzu Chi Bodhisattvas in the world, I encourage you to watch Da  Ai TV and learn about Tzu Chi’s work internationally. As you see that  there is much suffering in the world, you are inspired and may wonder,  “Should I help with donations?” Or, “Maybe I should go there and visit  to help.” So, when you interact with students or former colleagues,  I encourage you to bring topics for discussion and allow yourself to  develop relationships. 

I often say, “Develop relationships, extend love.” By drawing on  relationships you’ve had in the past, you can create great karmic  connections and benefit the world. 

To benefit the world, there must be people. With people there is  strength, and Dharma can be passed on. The Education Association  must have ways of transmission. Teachers in the active Education  Association must passionately and continually encourage new and  younger teachers to emerge, passing things down generation by  generation. We must strive to benefit people, extend wisdom, and  walk the Tzu Chi path–the Bodhisattva path, with both blessings and  wisdom.