Give, and warm their hearts
On reading the news about the earthquake in Sichuan, I was disheartened and have been worrying about the victims’ struggle in the wake of the destruction. No one should disregard this disaster of human beings as long as he or she is a human on this planet.
The latest reports tell us that the confirmed death toll from China’s worst earthquake in three decades was 68,977. In addition, about 200,000 people have been evacuated and more than 1 million warned to be ready to leave as Chinese authorities prepare to drain a lake formed by the disastrous earthquake.
We must save these people and the reconstruction of their homes and morale should be the top priority of the Chinese government.
However, although this terrible quake has created many problems, it has also brought Chinese closer, with many demonstrating goodwill toward those in need. On Sunday, for example, many Chinese and Taiwanese artists gathered in Hong Kong for a charity concert.
College students in Taiwan could also show compassion by, for instance, refraining from buying a snack after class and sending the money saved to China, or giving it to the Red Cross.
Taiwan has had its own experience with devastating catastrophes and those affected understand fully well how important help under such circumstances is.
Peter Cheng
Taipei
Good laws for the planet
Amid rising oil prices, some gas stations have attempted to hoard gasoline, prompting the government to crack down on the illegal practice. These incidents have made drivers anxious and increased the burden on the transportation system.
The government’s raising of gasoline prices has affected people from all walks of life, especially consumers. How to keep the industry sustainable is an important issue because soaring oil prices affect social stability.
Without price controls and wage adjustments to coincide with the rising cost of living, people will be tempted to do things they would otherwise never consider to make ends meet.
To mitigate the impact of such prices, we should take the bus or MRT more often, which can help us save money and protect the environment. Recycling paper is also an option.
For the sake of the planet, we should encourage people to recycle more.
There is no doubt that any utopia is a fantasy. However, we can get closer to such a state if good laws are enacted. The government governs society by rendering public services.
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