As a Merchandising Manager for ready-to-eat food, Yap Yee Chin faced a massive challenge when she was asked at very short notice to come out with a special Ramadhan menu that would be profitable despite the restrictions and uncertainties during the pandemic and Movement Control Order (MCO) period.

Yee Chin says, “During that time, my company was undergoing a restructuring. There were many restrictions and uncertainties that my team and I faced. Furthermore, being a frontliner in the F&B industry meant I was out and about during the MCO. Stress crept up on me as I was worried about my mother who falls under the high risk group and with whom I stay. I had to be extremely vigilant in my hygiene practice.”

Instead of drowning in stress, Yee Chin chose to employ her Buddhist practice to squarely confront and overcome the challenges. Praying earnestly magnified her life force, wisdom and confidence. Many around her have commented that she is always smiling and her sunny disposition has been a source of encouragement to the people around her. Her product launch was a success and she gained the support from her team members.

Recalling the words of SGI President Daisaku Ikeda, “A smile is not a sign of happiness but the cause of happiness,” Yee Chin determines to win over herself first. Challenges help reveal the limitless hope and potential we have within us. Smiling cheerfully, Yee Chin continues to give hope and offer support to her staff and customers.

Source: SGM Facebook, 2020