In the tranquil village of Xiangheli, located in Kaohsiung's Taiwan region, a heartfelt tradition has been quietly unfolding for over two decades. Liu Dewen, the village head, has earned the poignant nickname \"Ferryman of Souls\" for his unwavering commitment to reuniting the final resting places of elderly military veterans with their hometowns on the Chinese mainland.
The journey began in 2003 when an elderly veteran entrusted Liu with a deeply personal request: to ensure his ashes would find their way back to his birthplace after his passing. Honoring this promise sparked a mission that would see Liu assist in the reunification of nearly 200 veteran urns across the Taiwan Straits.
Each reunion is more than a logistical operation; it's a bridge between families separated by geography and time. Through his compassionate efforts, Liu has not only fulfilled the wishes of countless veterans but has also forged enduring bonds with the families he serves, offering them solace and a sense of closure.
The \"Ferryman of Souls\" embodies the enduring connections that transcend borders, highlighting the profound human stories that lie beneath the surface of cross-strait relations. Liu's dedication serves as a testament to the power of individual actions in fostering empathy and understanding across regions.
As the Taiwan region continues to navigate its unique relationship with the Chinese mainland, stories like Liu Dewen's remind us of the shared humanity that unites communities, even amidst complex political landscapes.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
