As a human beings, we should be thankful for what we to have. Today, the Taiwanese enjoy economic prosperity and freedom. Do they know that freedom fighters sacrificed themselves and their families to pave the way for democracy?
For almost half a century, the Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) ruled under martial law in Taiwan to oppress people. The KMT was so corrupt for such a long time, up until the election of former president Lee Teng-hui (李登輝). Lee is a man of vision and he loves his people and homeland. His tireless efforts and wisdom have made Taiwan a stable and prosperous nation in Asia.
Although Lee proclaimed the doctrine of "No haste, be patient," many business tycoons have used Taiwanese money and resources to invest in China without considering the well-being of the Taiwanese people. Nowadays, the Taiwanese are labeled as people who love money and flattery, and fear dying. Even several business tycoons forced President Chen Shui-bian (陳水扁) to consider the "three-links" policy. He has rejected the idea because it will jeopardize Taiwan's stability. We should remember the "nine thoughtful considerations" in Confucian teaching. One of them says to "be righteous while seeking gain."
Although Taiwan is a democratic nation, the March 2004 presidential election showed there are still a large number of people who are irrational and ignorant of the law. Taiwan should implement the moral codes used at the US military academy West Point to educate Taiwanese people. Their credo is "country, honor, and duty."
Taiwan cannot afford to be a materially rich and culturally poor nation. This is a wake-up call to the Taiwanese.
Mar Eng-chun
Georgia, USA
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