Connecting Through Love — The Heartwarming Story of Dalin Tzu Chi and Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, Singapore
A beautiful connection began with an international exchange.
When the team from Singapore’s Khoo Teck Puat Hospital (KTP) visited Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital, they were deeply moved by the “Great Love” artwork in the Heart Lotus Ward.
One Chinese team member shared:
“Our hospital already uses the word ‘LOVE,’ but adding the Chinese character for love (愛) would give it even deeper meaning for our largely Chinese community.”
That moment made it clear — love is not just a symbol, but a bridge,
connecting cultures, souls, and the power of healing.
So when invited to attend a conference in Singapore, I personally carried an 88-cm tall “愛” (love) sculpture across the sea.
88 symbolizes “prosperity” and blessings;
carrying its weight meant carrying a heartfelt intention.
The sculpture became a charity auction item,
donated by Khoo Teck Puat Hospital to support the construction of Dalin Tzu Chi’s Heart Lotus Garden,
contributing to the garden’s creation.
In January 2019, under the personal supervision of KTP’s hospital president,
a warm “Hanging Love Ceremony” was held.
From that day on, this “愛” became a luminous highlight of the hospital,
a beacon of light in the hearts of countless patients, families, and compassionate medical professionals.
One character carries one story;
one heart connects the goodwill of two nations.
Today, this story reminds us:
Love can travel, love can transcend, love can spread —
from one heart, it illuminates another.
May LOVE be boundless,
may everyone illuminated by it also become a light.
