On July 20, the day when the results of the Hong Kong College Entrance Examination DSE were announced, Steven Ma Chun Wai, a Christian actor and singer, encouraged students by using the Chinese character “jen” (or ren, meaning benevolence ) which is a key Confucian concept. He told them that scores do not mean everything, exhorting them to become more helpful persons rather than judge success or failure by their achievements.
He wrote on social media, “I attend the activity of ‘Using One Word for Encouragement’. I often say that in school, test scores are of course important. Surely I will be happy for you if you can do well in the exam. But I also often emphasize that scores don’t mean everything and won’t be the whole of your life, as long as you have tried your best. We live, not only to learn how to study but also how to be a man. Just as in the Analects of Confucius, Confucius regarded ‘jen’ as the moral principle, the standard, and life state in his ideological system. Therefore, I hope to share with all the students using the word ‘jen’. On the journey of life, success or failure will not be determined only by achievements. However, being benevolent can make you a more helpful person!"
He continued, "Dear students, by this I hope we can encourage each other and cheer each other up! I call on each person in society who cares about the students to encourage them in the way of "Using One Word for Encouragement" on their own social platforms. Receiving blessings and encouragement, they can relax and relieve pressure. ”
Fans of Steven responded as follows:
“The word ‘jen’ does a very good explanation for how to behave and cultivate one’s morality.”
“While we are working hard, we should also establish good moral character and achieve both ability and moral integrity.”
"Precious message and sincere wishes."
"We have to be persistent in everything we do!”
- Translated by Stephen Huang
