The Tzu Chi Youth Life Camp continued on its 2nd day at the Carmelite Learning Center in Tontonan, Loon, Bohol on July 6,2024.
The morning began with a burst of energy as campers engaged in muscle stretches and a lively mass dance. Following this energizing activity, campers enjoyed a hearty breakfast prepared by the dining team setting the tone for a day filled with valuable learnings and exploration of Tzu Chi’s history.
Tzu Chi volunteer from Manila, Bro. Jimmy Chua delivered a discussion tracing the origins and humble beginnings of Tzu Chi. He shared the inspiring story of Tzu Chi Founder, Dharma Master Cheng Yen, whose transition from a life of comfort to one dedicated to alleviating sufferings underscores her compassion to humanity. Despite her privileged upbringing, Master Cheng Yen chose a path of simplicity and selflessness, advocating for inner cultivation and acts of kindness that lead to the founding of Tzu Chi Foundation wherein her guiding mission centered on “To work for Buddhism, and for all living beings.”
As Tzu Chi pursues to carry out its missions globally, it also believes in honing moral values starting within the youths, thus, the teachings of Dharma Master Cheng Yen are being passed down to young minds to nurture their young hearts. Through Tzu Chi volunteer from Cebu, Bro. Jack Gaisano, these teachings were imparted among the campers. He emphasized the qualities a Tzu Chi youth should embody. He encouraged them to find joy even in challenging circumstances and to approach difficulties with humor, turning life’s journey into a joyful adventure. He also stressed the importance of expressing gratitude despite hardships and concluded his discussion with reflective questions to help campers consider their life paths.
Youth camper Kier Vienne Pacatang, was particularly moved by Bro. Jack’s message on gratitude, love, and respect. He reflected, “I learned that living with gratitude, love, and respect helps us realize our full potential to serve others selflessly.”
The life camp’s exploration of Tzu Chi’s origins and the values of life provided the youths with profound insights for them to reflect on. The youth camp not only fostered new-found friendships but also helped participants discover better versions of themselves—youths united by compassionate hearts ready to light up a troubled world.
