Fund-raising is never easy. This is where I must thank the Subang Jaya Buddhist Association (SJBA) for allowing us to raise funds twice a year, during the Wesak and Kathina celebrations at the temple.
Today was Kathina Day at the SJBA. Like last year, we obtained permission to set up a booth to raise funds for the animals. But this time, we did not sell tshirts. I truly needed a break from handling the tshirts because it has been pretty hard work selling tshirts over the past one year.
So, this time, it was just fund-raising and free distribution of my books, Pawprints and Indy Jones. However, quite a number of people who had seen our tshirt stopped to enquire if they could purchase it. There were also those who had purchased earlier and now, wanted to buy for their family. So, I think we’ll be selling tshirts again soon! No time to rest. The animals need the funds!
Our fund-raising actually started yesterday evening at Kathina Eve. The crowd was rather thin, though, but this morning, it was much better.
Here’s our booth. It’s always nice to see young people taking an interest in our work. Next to us was Bro Eddy’s Organ Donation booth. And next to his was the Maha Karuna Old Folks’ Home. Humans and animals – we all need help.
Here’s a young boy, Zhan Quan, asking for his books to be autographed. His father patiently explained our work to him by showing him the photos of the animals on our storyboard. Beside them, many people, young and old, were signing up to donate their organs. Religious festivals are usually a good time to reflect on how we can help others with whatever means we have and to put that thought into practice.
This lady was telling me all about a family of kittens she had recently rescued. In fact, many people stopped to share their stories with me. It was nice to know that many are interested in helping animals. By the way, do you see two more young persons pledging to donate their organs? And in the background, the SJBA youths were busy promoting their knicknacks and tshirts – the stuffs young people like!
Here are our young donors – the hope of our future. Next door to us is herbalist Ivan’s organic vegetable booth. So, as people walk along the booths, there’s a little something for the heart, the mind, as well as the body.
We’d like to thank the committee of the SJBA for their support, and all donors and well-wishers who have contributed generously to our fund during this Kathina celebrations.
May all of you be blessed for your kindness.
May all beings be well and happy!
Happy Kathina!
