| Everyday Heroes |
'Two roads diverged in the woods, and I took the one less traveled by, and that has made all the difference.' CharityFocus volunteer Valeri Shah epitomizes those words.[ more ... ] |
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| Everyday Heroes |
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Jean Yao: Impermanence is the ultimate of life
-- by Anita Iyer
Gifted with a sensitive heart, Jean Yao is often moved to
tears by her spiritual master H. H. Dalai Lama's
unconditional love for all, and believes in Mahatma Gandhi's selfless
principles. A people's person, Jean will befriend you the
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Jean in India!
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first time you speak to her.
Jean is a web designer
by profession, but more than that, she is a universal soul - born in
Taipei and living in the US, she feels India is her true home. Early
on, from her childhood in Taiwan and her initial years in the US,
while studying, she's learned valuable lessons like kindness,
compassion, acceptance and endurance.
Money was tight when Jean made her move to the US, but
what held her in good stead was her fearlessness. 'There was
little money but plenty of laughs and intellectual exchanges,"
reminisces Jean. There were many students around Jean who
had just returned from the Peace Corps, exposing her to their very interesting
experiences. "All I did during that period was explore, try new
things and learn new concepts. Being
fearless was the greatest treasure I had. I could withstand
having nothing but water for days and I could jump into a friend's
car and travel to wherever he/she took me, to know more about
the world.'
It was then that Jean learnt, that no matter where we come
from and who we are, ACCEPTENCE is the key. 'We must learn
not to judge people or matters. I don't say we can be
completely free from prejudice, but we must consciously fight it
and keep it out of our lives.'
Jean's first volunteer act of service was when she helped
create helpothers.org. Jean feels that 'nothing matters
except the true love and compassion people can give to one
another.' The idea of being a part of an organization that
functions with the spirit of serving people captivated her.
Jean possesses a strong sixth sense. 'It is uncanny but
every time I have been alone or dejected, God has
mysteriously sent a friend to be with me. I only want to pass on what
I have received from others all my life,' she informs.
Despite her altruist demeanor, Jean's humility and simplicity
have helped her keep her feet rooted to the ground. Jean
asserts that CharityFocus gives her strength to help others.
'There are wiser people everywhere to remind us how
wonderful life could be if we just remember to stop ourselves
sometimes to smell the roses, to love life, to embrace
everything and everyone around us,' she muses.
Jean is quick to add that she has just started walking the
path of service and that her life mission is yet to be
fulfilled.
[ email jean ]
© CharityFocus 2002
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