In the coastal town of Beigang on the island of Taiwan, the echoes of temple bells and the scent of incense have long been part of daily life for Tsai Fu-hsiung. Growing up beside the revered temple of Mazu, the Chinese goddess of the sea, Tsai was immersed in traditions that spanned generations.
When Tsai discovered that Mazu's origins traced back to Meizhou Island in Fujian Province on the Chinese mainland, he felt a profound connection beckoning him across the Taiwan Strait. Driven by a deep spiritual yearning, he embarked on a journey in 1981 to visit Mazu's ancestral temple.
Upon arriving on Meizhou Island, Tsai met a kindred spirit who shared his devotion to Mazu. What began as a meeting of faith blossomed into a lifelong friendship. For over 40 years, Tsai and his friend have maintained a bond that transcends borders and cultures, embodying the enduring ties between people across the Taiwan Strait.
Their story is a testament to the unifying power of shared beliefs and traditions. Through letters, visits, and the shared reverence of Mazu, they have bridged distances and fostered understanding.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
