14 September 2023 This school year started with a new challenge. Fortunately, the Observatory was able to issue an alert signal on August 30 as Super Typhoon Saola moved closer to Hong Kong. The government also notified the public through different channels on August 31, and all units made comprehensive arrangements and preparations, allowing the people of Hong Kong to prepare appropriately. Thanks to the janitors, the school was also ready as on the 31st they made sure the doors and windows were tightly closed, the plants were tied up, and outdoor items were put away. When the Hong Kong Observatory issued the typhoon signal No. 8 on September 1, the Education Bureau announced the suspension of classes. Although Typhoon Saola hit Hong Kong head-on, the public stayed safe and took shelter. Our teachers and students were all safe, and the damage to the school building was not serious. I would like to thank the group of janitors, staff and teachers for volunteering to return to school on September 2 to clean up collapsed potted plants, remove fallen branches, clear blocked channels, etc. As a result, teachers and students were able to return to school safely in time to hold the School Opening Ceremony on September 4. This is just a small example, but do not assume that living in a safe environment is inevitable. In fact, there are many people behind the scenes silently guarding Hong Kong - our home. Every experience God gives to people is to equip us to face the next challenge. The Bible says: “Knowing that adversity produces perseverance, and perseverance produces experience, and experience produces hope; and hope does not put you to shame...” (Romans 5:3-5). With that in mind, are we well equipped for adversity? We did not expect that a once-in-500-year black rainstorm warning (now categorised as extreme weather) would hit Hong Kong on September 7. Fortunately, our school building did not have any major problems. Another thanks goes out to the janitors, staff and teachers who came to the school on September 8 to treat waterways and the clear the clogged water channels. However, many places in Hong Kong were in a completely different situation. Many places were and still are seriously flooded and damaged, including basement levels flooded with muddy water, and huge rocks that have fallen down in landslides which have led to blocked roads, etc. Due to geographical location, it is impossible for some places to avoid extreme weather, the only thing we can do is repair them afterwards. Without the unsung heroes we would still be waiting for many places to reopen. Look at the Wong Tai Sin MTR station for example; it is inconceivable that it could be re-opened just one day after the flooding. However, the staff worked tirelessly to repair it showing devotion, dedication and an incredible work ethic. Their extraordinary efforts will be remembered and respected for many years to come. This is just one small story in the city of Hong Kong where people silently contribute to society. Always be grateful and praise the beautiful things you see, even if you can’t see the process behind it. There are many people out there giving selflessly because of their love for where they live. Are you one of them? If so, I heartily applaud you. Today, September 14th, there was another sudden red rainstorm signal, and the Education Bureau announced the suspension of classes again. We must understand that many unpredictable things happen in life. I hope that we can learn to endure hardships instead of complaining, and learn to practise patience. When facing difficulties, we must continue to advance. Rely on God’s peace and hope, and you will be given the strength and will to overcome the obstacles and setbacks in you path. Only in this way can we continue to overcome what is in front of us, and only in this way can we continue to move forward and make progress! Hong Kong, our home, needs us to be selfless. Let us be more tolerant and less complaints. This is something that pleases God.
Best regards, |
 |
|