美麗新國度 Beautiful New Jerlusalem

Joining the Euro Day Dinner for five consecutive years, the 2012 event wasn’t as spectacular as the 2011 Euro Day.  Probably it’s because 2011 is the 50th anniversary of the European Social Charter, but another reason, most may know, could be the recent controversies over the erratic government policies- electricity and petrol prices rise.

Last night as usual I was listening attentively to the President’s speech.  President Ma somehow lost his charisma and poise.  Harnessed with worry, I prayed that the Lord strengthens him with enough wisdom so as to lead Taiwan to march toward a promising future.  In the meantime, pray his health be well cared during the difficult hour.

One of the fun (or maybe tedious) things at the dinner is to meet different people.  I had a good time with meeting Tiffany, Natalie, Jessie from JTI; Betty from Far Eastern Hotel, Nick from Financial Times, Emily from American Club, Hungdah and Marc from the European Union Center, Jessica from TBAF, and some from the NGOs. 

Most surprisingly, however, I met Veronica, the associate partner of a law firm, who recognized me through my Chinese name.   We were neighbors when we were kids.  She and her wealthy family lived in a Japanese house with a courtyard.  I never met her, but she saw me through the window every day, fighting with boys, playing outrageously that my grandma often chased me on the street.  Now many years passed, we bumped into each other at the 2012 Euro Dinner.  We look forward to meeting again for more talk about the good old days. 

Kanbade, President Ma!