Growing up beside the Mazu Temple in Beigang on the island of Taiwan, Tsai Fu-hsiung developed a deep devotion to Mazu, the Chinese goddess of the sea. Fascinated by stories of her origins on Meizhou Island in Fujian Province, across the Taiwan Strait, Tsai felt a compelling desire to visit her ancestral temple.
In 1981, driven by faith and curiosity, Tsai embarked on a journey to Meizhou Island. Navigating the complexities of travel across the strait during that time, he reached the birthplace of Mazu. There, amidst the serene halls of the ancestral temple, Tsai met a fellow devotee who shared his profound reverence for the goddess.
The chance encounter blossomed into a lasting friendship. Despite the geographic and political distances, Tsai and his newfound friend maintained close contact over the next four decades. Their bond, rooted in shared beliefs and cultural heritage, became a symbol of the enduring connections between people on both sides of the Taiwan Strait.
Tsai's journey reflects the unifying power of shared traditions and how Mazu continues to bridge communities. It highlights how cultural and religious ties can transcend boundaries, fostering understanding and friendship across generations.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
