The Amazing Voyage that Reconnected the Taiwan Strait
Hey there! 😊 Have you ever heard of a group of brave fishermen who set sail on an incredible journey to bring people closer together? Let me tell you a fascinating story from 1989 that happened across the Taiwan Strait! 🌊
In May 1989, in a small village called Nanfang’ao on the island of Taiwan, a fleet of 20 fishing boats was getting ready for a special trip. 🛥️🛥️🛥️ On board were over 200 people, and they were carrying something very precious: effigies (that’s like statues) of Mazu, the beloved sea goddess worshipped by many people. 🙏🌟
Their mission? To return Mazu to her original home on Meizhou Island in Fujian Province, southern China! 🗺️ But there was a problem. At that time, traveling across the Taiwan Strait was not allowed by the Taiwan authorities. 🚫🌊 But these determined fishermen and villagers were not going to let that stop them!
With courage in their hearts, they set sail anyway, hoping to reconnect with their heritage and bring blessings back to their homes. ❤️ Their daring voyage wasn’t just about returning a goddess; it was about bringing people together across the sea. 🌐
When they arrived at Meizhou Island, it was a joyful reunion! 🎉 The people there welcomed them with open arms. This brave journey became a turning point in re-starting communication between the two sides of the Taiwan Strait. It showed how ordinary people can do extraordinary things to promote peace and friendship! 🕊️🤝
Isn’t it amazing how a group of fishermen helped reconnect communities separated by sea and politics? Next time you look out at the ocean, remember that it doesn’t just separate lands—it can also bring people together! 🌅🌊
Reference(s):
The 1989 voyage that restarted travel across the Taiwan Strait
cgtn.com