[LETTERS]

DAN BLOOM

Chiayi

Don’t fear the Dalai Lama

Unfortunately, we had Typhoon Morakot. Fortunately, we then had a visit by the Dalai Lama. Morakot and the Dalai Lama are two forces that have come together so dramatically this year.

While we feel very sorry for the 700 or so victims of Morakot, the Dalai Lama stands not only for spiritual consolation, but also for freedom and democracy. Yes, the Dalai Lama came to boost freedom and democracy in Taiwan while Ma’s administration only cares about the economic ties with China.

Who is afraid of the Dalai Lama if one loves freedom and democracy? The Chinese Communist Party (CCP) has transformed the whole of China into one large prison. Of course, the Dalai Lama is hated by the CCP. While the CCP hopes the Dalai Lama will be silenced forever, we Taiwanese would love for him to visit again.

The Chinese Nationalist Party (KMT) is afraid of the Dalai Lama because it sides with the CCP. This time people power won out and the Dalai Lama was able to visit.

The impact and influence of the Dalai Lama will continue because his presence in Taiwan inspires the Taiwanese and people in many other countries.

What Taiwan needs is not only weapons against any military threat but also the spiritual power to be fearless and to abide by dreams of freedom and democracy. This is the essential meaning of the Dalai Lama’s visit. He had the heart to come; we should have the courage to welcome and thank him.

NI KUO-JUNG

Hsinchu