Advertisement

Letters | Hong Kong has endured enough, time now for empathy and unity

  • Ceaseless condemnations will not improve the situation. Unity is what our community needs. We have to put ourselves in the shoes of others, so as to work together as one

Reading Time:2 minutes
Why you can trust SCMP
0
A little girl makes a heart with flowers from a Golden Trumpet tree at Nam Cheong Park in Hong Kong’s Sham Shui Po district, on March 14. Photo: Felix Wong
In response to Wesley Lai’s “Coronavirus: three cheers for Hong Kong’s free face mask scheme” (May 9), I was so glad to read his letter of appreciation and gratitude.
As we know, Hong Kong has been facing a lot of challenges since last June. Many locals feel frustrated, worried or furious because they think their demands are not being met. Anger has even turned into violence and hatred. The ongoing social unrest has definitely affected the local economy. The pandemic has made the situation even worse. A lot of people have lost businesses or jobs.

After living in a city full of hostility, complaints and criticism for almost one year, it is time for us to send out more positive vibes for the well-being of citizens, especially youngsters. The community can only move on and become better when we start practising the moral values taught in kindergarten.

Some people believe that they are right to fight for their rights at all costs, because of their love for the city and the future of the younger generation. However, our society needs not just love, but also understanding and respect. No matter how noble a mission is, we have to show our respect for the law and diverse points of view. Embracing differences should be a unique strength in Hong Kong.

07:26

It is always easy to complain or criticise the actions of others. But ceaseless condemnations will not improve the situation. Unity is what our community needs. That is why we have to put ourselves in the shoes of others to understand their difficulties, so as to work together as one. Empathy is an essential human quality. Our youngsters need role models to demonstrate to them how to practise this virtue.

Advertisement
Select Voice
Choose your listening speed
Get through articles 2-3x faster
1.1x
220 WPM
Slow
Normal
Fast
1.1x