This morning, a violent earthquake with a magnitude of 7.2 struck Taiwan, centered in the city of Hualien, where the central office of the Tzu Chi Foundation is located, along with Master Cheng Yen and Tzu Chi members. Initial reports indicate a number of victims and the collapse of many residential buildings, in what marks the most devastating disaster in the past 25 years. According to experts, there is still a risk of a tsunami that could worsen the humanitarian situation. Today, we are compelled to stand with this generous and giving nation, a people who have shown us immense humanity, preferring us over themselves in a time of need. Let us support our brothers and sisters in Taiwan with our hearts, prayers, and whatever resources and capabilities we can offer. We extend all our prayers and hopes for a rapid recovery of those injured, and collectively wish for Taiwan to rise resiliently and surmount this challenging time at the earliest opportunity.

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