Can you imagine gradually losing your eyesight to the point where you have to ask your grandson if it's time to flip the egg you are frying? This is what happened to 72-year-old Cynthia in Indonesia. When members of a local church learned of her condition during their monthly visit to the elderly living in out-of-the-way places, they took her to the church doctor for a checkup. The doctor then referred Cynthia to Tzu Chi's free clinic for surgery.
After the operation to remove her cataract, Cynthia was able to see again. Overwhelmed with emotions, she said, "I'm so moved that I want to cry, but the doctor said that my eyes should avoid contact with water, so I have to hold back my tears. I pray to the Lord that my eyes don't get wet."
Cynthia's story is a reminder of the power of community and how love transcends religious faiths. It shows us that when we come together to help those in need, we can make a real difference in people's lives. (Photos by Metta Wulandari)