Living Bodhisattva – Dr Ho Xin Qin

I learned about Tzu Chi through its Silent Mentor programme. At that time, I strongly felt that I had found the answer. I realised that in this world, there was such a group of people who would really care and teach medical personnel about humanistic care and compassion. I recall that when Dharma Master De Chan was giving us a talk, I was so touched that I cried continually. I felt that she spoke out my heartfelt feelings. I really don’t want to be such a doctor, but I didn’t know what to do. That was really a turning point in my life. When I was in the medical school, I kept telling myself that I don’t want to be a cold and aloof doctor. Although such a doctor may have superb medical skills, he may not be able to interact well with patients. I don’t want to be such a doctor. I find that she is quite different from the modern-day youngsters. Is it because of her past connection with Tzu Chi? I don’t know. A lot of patients like her. She is very eager to share and contribute her efforts, and time is nothing to her. Once, Dr. Chiang Li Wei shared with me. He said, “Don’t we want to treat patients like family?” He would imagine his patients as his own children and they are in great pain. When he sees his children every day, he hopes that they will be well, so he gives them treatment. But it’s only through what Dharma Master Cheng Yen has taught that we started to think about it. Otherwise, we would feel that we were already very compassionate when in fact, we were far from it. So, it’s only when we are aware of it that we know our direction. Most of the new doctors, when they are seeing a patient, usually, they will look at the computer and are not facing the patient directly. There is no human touch. That kind of feeling is very different. So, as compared to a doctor seeing a patient…they look at you and talk to you... its their tone of voice that is very, very important. On top of that, their gestures, such as a slight touch on the hand or a slight smile… It makes a lot of difference to the patient. That will make the patient feel that the doctor really cares for him. Anri Lee Volunteer： She is a very gentle person and I’ve a very good impression of her. I brought my neighbour here. My neighbour has depression. Dr. Ho spoke with her in a caring manner. In giving medical care, it’s very important to show concern. Regardless of whether the patient is new or has known you for a long time, and regardless of how highly qualified you are, you must show care and concern for the patient. I’ve learned a lot from her, especially Master Cheng Yen’s teachings. She really has much wisdom. Master Cheng Yen has opened up our eyes and let us see the suffering of living beings. If we don’t do anything to help them, our conscience will naturally not allow us to turn a blind eye. After joining Tzu Chi, I find that it’s a different world here. Everyone is so good, and I feel happier here. I can come out and serve, and I gain a lot of Dharma. Master Cheng Yen has really helped me a lot.