I've been taking Chinese dancing lessons for the past 11 years and want to be a dancer when I grow up. But my parents don't think much of a career in areas such as performing arts or even sports. This reflects a serious problem in our society.
It's not just a matter of parents pushing their children towards careers they're not suitable for, but also a lack of appreciation for Chinese culture. Because Hong Kong has a different legal system and lifestyle, many Hongkongers feel no connection to their motherland, let alone love it.
If we truly accept that we are a part of China, there will be fewer problems like the Occupy Central movement. We should always be proud of our Chinese culture and learn to appreciate it. Then Hong Kong will be a much happier and more prosperous city.
Angela Lie Shut-yan,Tsuen Wan Public Ho Chuen Yiu Memorial College
From the editor
Thank you for your letter, Angela. It is easy to think that the Occupy Central protests are anti-Chinese, but that is simply not the case. This is a very difficult time for Hong Kong and its people.
Many people want to hold on to the freedom they have imagined for years. Others feel it would be okay to give up that ideal for some security. Each camp has its merits. But neither is more Chinese than the other.
Neither camp prefers Chinese culture more than the other. Both sides do truly want what is best for Hong Kong.
All countries change and move forward. Whether or not they can take their culture with them is an entirely different matter.
Susan, Editor