司徒華 Szeto Wah

Szeto Wah has my utmost respect.  When asked to sum up his life in one sentence, he said he was a patriot.  He is best known working tirelessly to seek justice for those who suffered and died in the June 4 massacre, and in a broader context, for democracy in Hong Kong and China.   But he is much more than that.  He is a great teacher and story-teller.  He is a great interpreter of Chinese culture, through his writings and applications of his philosophy in his work. 

I have read most of his books in the series 三言堂之一言.  The books are collections of articles published in newspapers, and cover a wide range of topics.  I was particularly impressed by his deep knowledge of Chinese history and literature, and his passion in helping students and young people.

He is a Christian who practices his faith outside the church, by fighting for social justice ceaselessly.  Jesus is always on the side of the poor and the oppressed - that’s also where Szeto Wah is at.   

He loves his country.  He criticizes its government and fights for democracy precisely because he loves his country.

His is praised universally by people outside the establishment.  The establishment, on the other hand, tries to ignore or at least play down the significant of what he did.  That is not a sign of dishonour.  In fact, it is the opposite - as the example set for us so vividly by Jesus.  I would also like to choose to stand on the side of the poor and oppressed, not on the side of the rich and powerful.