Master Cheng Yen has always had a unique way of raising funds and helping the needy. Throughout her life, she has never been daunted by lack of experience, people or money. Because of this, Tzu Chi has a long list of successful relief projects. When Master Cheng Yen announced her decision to build the Hualien Tzu Chi General hospital in the 1980s, there was a lot of opposition. But she was determined to do it because the eastern coast of Taiwan needed a hospital. The news was published in the newspapers and there was a Japanese man who wanted to donate US$200 million. The Master declined the offer giving three reasons: (1) Taiwanese citizens should be able to build the hospital with their own resources; (2) major investors might expect to have a final say in policy-making with respect to business operations and concentrating operational control in the hands of a few people ran counter to the Master's original ideal; and (3) the Master intended to set up the hospital through the united effort and love of many people, so that it would be a hospital for everyone. "Merits are to be cultivated by all." she proclaimed. "The seeds of blessings are to be planted by all."
The Master's clarity and strength of vision motivated Tzu Chi members to work even harder to raise funds.
(Gary Ho, 2009. Challenges. The Life & Teachings of Venerable Master Cheng Yen)
