Volunteering
How did Jui-Wen Chen develop such a deep-rooted bond with the construction industry? The story began in the Shin-Lin Temple of Zhutang Township in Changhua County.
When he was a child, Jui-Wen Chen lived in the Minjing Village of Zhutang Township. The nearby Shin-Lin Temple became his playground. When he was in junior high school, the Shin-Lin Temple was under major remodeling, and new sections were added to the temple. He went there every day to help, and he even laid the foundation of the Wenwu Temple.
At first, Jui-Wen Chen could only work on something easy, but he thought building a temple was still much more interesting than going to school. He thought the master craftsmen were like magicians, for they could create many amazing designs, like the roaring dragons and phoenix statues on the rooftop, the stone carvings on the wall, and the abundant paintings, all of which were made from scratch. This learning experience was different from learning through those dull textbooks in school, and he was immediately hooked.
The master craftsmen did not talk much while they were working; they only tried to let Jui-Wen Chen know that all he needed to do was follow their steps. The method worked well with him because, from his observation and hands-on experience, he could really think about how the building materials were crafted and why they were set in specific places of the temple. Under the guidance of the master craftsmen, Jui-Wen Chen was finally able to think carefully and work patiently, and he developed many useful skills that he would greatly benefit from later.
When the time came to get his pay, he was surprised to see he got the same pay as the master craftsmen. He asked the chief master if it was a mistake, and the chief master simply patted him on the shoulder, smile and said, “You are one of the master craftsmen now, son.”
The compliment from the chief master helped Jui-Wen Chen realize it is only by doing what others had given up that he could make a difference; only by running further and pushing himself harder that he could have the chance to overcome what others could not.
From this experience, Jui-Wen Chen discovered his passion. He not only found his path but, unwittingly, learned the way of life.
By Ariel Tsai