Each of them--one a philanthropist and the other a conservationist--is a leader in her own field and has worked tirelessly towards her goals for more than thirty years. In a world in which people are narrowly focused on the pursuit of their own self-interest, these two women strive to broaden their vision. With extraordinary faith and perseverance, they have not only taken action to realize their own commitments, but have also awakened the conscience of the public. Those who are following in their steps have already formed a great, relentless source of power.

Dr. Goodall has worked in the forests of Tanzania in Africa for almost forty years, observing the behavior of chimpanzees from those who live freely to those that have been hunted and captured. She stresses "understanding, care and action" due to her realization of the danger of extinction that this particular animal faces. Not wanting to see defenseless lives being slaughtered, Dr. Goodall decided to leave the field of academic research and enter the world of wildlife conservation. With a vision of all creatures living peacefully together, she has vigorously devoted herself to reversing the tide of human encroachment on nature reserves.

Master Cheng Yen has seen poverty-stricken people struggling to exist, and she calls on benevolent people from all walks of life to follow her example and donate either money or time to comfort and give hope to the poor. In so doing, those who have done their best to help others can comprehend the vicissitudes of life and appreciate their own good fortune and blessings. Thus, they feel happier and more fulfilled.

Dr. Goodall focuses her efforts on saving the natural environment, including animals which are in danger of being exterminated, whereas Master Cheng Yen labors to save human beings. However, both agree that the chaos in society and the exhaustion of nature both rise from the same originuman greed. People must have the humility and good will to create a new world in which human beings and animals can live together in harmony.

Although many people feel pessimistic because of ever-worsening environmental pollution or because of weakening social relationships caused by the constant struggle for money and power, Dr. Goodall and Master Cheng Yen still adhere to their firm faith and enthusiasm. They believe human beings basically have a kind nature and that the world has hope for improvement.

They have both given the best part of their lives for other people. After such hard mental and physical work, they sum up their experience not in long, windy speeches, but in simple words. They are both against the attitude of "It doesn't matter to me," but instead advocate the attitude of "If you are doing good deeds, count me in!"

Eight years ago, Dr. Goodall established the Roots and Shoots Educational Program to encourage youngsters to care about animals, the environment and their communities. "Roots and Shoots" refer to the potential that can change the world. Master Cheng Yen often says, "Anything great begins from a commitment and a seed," and "Don't look down on yourself, because everyone has boundless potential." These sayings are based on the same idea.