Growing up beside the ancient 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 the tales of her origins, Tsai discovered that Mazu's ancestral temple is located on Meizhou Island in Fujian Province, just across the Taiwan Strait.
In 1981, driven by a profound desire to connect with the roots of his faith, Tsai embarked on a journey to Meizhou Island. There, amidst the serene halls of the ancestral temple, he met a fellow devotee who shared his reverence for Mazu. Despite the distance and complexities of cross-strait relations, the two families forged a bond that has endured for over 40 years.
Their friendship, transcending geographical and generational boundaries, stands as a testament to the unifying power of shared cultural heritage. Through letters, visits, and mutual celebrations of Mazu festivals, they have maintained a connection that highlights the deep-rooted ties between communities on both sides of the Taiwan Strait.
Their inspiring story is featured in \"The Journey of the Goddess,\" airing on February 3, offering a heartfelt glimpse into an enduring friendship that bridges regions and generations.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
