Growing up beside the Mazu Temple in Beigang on the island of Taiwan, Tsai Fu-hsiung was deeply influenced by the sea goddess Mazu. When he discovered that Mazu originated from Meizhou Island in Fujian Province, across the Taiwan Strait, Tsai felt a profound desire to visit her ancestral temple.
In 1981, Tsai embarked on a journey to the Chinese mainland, determined to connect with the roots of his faith. Upon arriving on Meizhou Island, he met a fellow devotee who shared his reverence for Mazu. This chance encounter blossomed into a lasting friendship between their families, enduring over four decades.
Their bond, nurtured by shared beliefs and cultural heritage, stands as a testament to the enduring connections between people across the Taiwan Strait. Their story highlights the profound impact of cultural and religious ties in bridging distances and fostering understanding.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
