In an act that symbolized the atmosphere of deep grief at Linkou's municipal sports stadium yesterday, even President Lee Teng-hui (
Lee and Lien were joined by more than 7,000 others, including government officials, foreign representatives, as well as family members of the quake victims, to mourn the loss of more than 2,300 people killed in the tragedy.
Standing before a 12 meter-tall memorial built at the head of the stadium, which was illuminated in low-key blue tones, Lee climbed slowly up to the stage, laying a carnation wreath at its foot and bowing three times.
``Many people lost their homes in the earthquake. They lost their closest family members and friends,'' said Lee, who quoted both biblical scriptures and the words of Buddhist leaders in his speech.
Citing remarks by Buddhist masters, Lee said: "The quake victims are all Buddhas, teachers. They died for the other 22 million residents on the island and they saved future generations."
"Breaking away from the sadness will not be tantamount to forgetting the past. Instead, it will be only when we can fill our hearts with gratitude and cherish our lives, to face our common destinies, that we will really be able to comfort the victims,'' Lee told the mourners in a plea to continue the work of rebuilding their lives.
"We should learn from the mistakes of the past and be grateful, so as to fill society with kindness and peace,'' Lee said.
At the end of a moving speech, Lee called on his fellow citizens to transform their sorrow into love and strength, and to rebuild their homeland from the ruins.
"Even though the survivors bear unbearable sorrow, as long as there is life, there is hope. I hope those who lost their loved ones can transform their sadness into strength for their homeland,'' Lee added.
Stepping down from the podium toward his seat, Lee was unable to conceal his emotions, taking out a handkerchief to wipe away his tears.
Lien then delivered an emotional eulogy for the victims.
"In the great quake, we lost our loved ones; in the great rebuilding we achieved rebirth,'' said Lien.
"During the past three weeks, we have been unable to forget your faces; since we cannot leave behind our memories, at this final moment, we want to make sure our promises are carried out sincerely,'' Lien said.
"We want to rebuild our country with the greatest love. After the devastating earthquake of 9/21, Taiwan will rise again, and that will be our common commitment to the future,'' the vice president concluded.
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