A woman of humble origins, Grace Leu says that without the kindness of her family, she would not have received an education, and go on to gain ACCA accreditation and seven years of experience in the accounting industry. Saying that her childhood experiences made her grow up quickly, Grace is a tenacious lady who says that without hard work, there are no results. Together with her husband Alan Chan, the Vice-President of Kechara Southern Jewel Chapel, she has dedicated herself to spreading Setrap’s practice in south Malaysia.

What was life like before you came to Kechara? What were you doing that time?

My life back then revolved around work, home and family. I didn’t participate in any religious activities – whenever friends asked me to go to a temple, I was reluctant to join them. Whenever I agreed to go with them, I didn’t feel compelled to go again. I felt that perhaps it wasn’t my ‘time’.

How did you come to know about Kechara? Presumably you were introduced with or through Alan?

Yes, it was Alan who introduced me to Kechara. I don’t know what it was about Kechara that attracted me – when Alan shared with me how H.E. Tsem Rinpoche and Setrap had helped him during his difficult time, I surprised myself because I didn’t have any doubts; I just accepted Rinpoche’s teachings and Setrap came into my life naturally.

Can you tell us then what attracted you to Kechara? Was it something that Alan told you, or through your own observations?

It was through both Alan and my own observations. I saw Kechara as a big family, with everyone supporting each other. I like that there are 12 departments to allow us to practise Dharma in a way that suits us best, and not just through chanting mantras or meditating. I also like that Rinpoche is based in Malaysia so we can directly receive his teachings.

Why did you join Dharma work? What inspired you to get involved with Kechara Southern Jewel Chapel?

I joined Dharma work because it has helped so many people I know. It has helped to calm down my mind, reduce my temper and increase my patience when facing problems. Dharma and Setrap have helped to reduce Alan’s burden. Dharma has also inspired my family members, like my brother Chong Hin. He told me that after reciting Setrap’s mantra, he is able to sleep more easily and has gained confidence. I know that a lot of people are still suffering, have lost their direction in life or have problems they don’t know how to solve. I hope that by joining and spreading Dharma, I can help to ease those people’s suffering in the same way Dharma has eased mine.