《Humans of a City Divided #1: Ronnie Cheng》
“That morning I was sitting on this sofa alone. It was my most challenging day as a headmaster, I was thinking what should be delivered to unite our boys with drastically different views. Considering the social unrest at that period I knew such task was almost impossible for one man, that moment I turned to God for strength and wisdom.” Ronnie Cheng, Headmaster of Diocesan Boys’ School, reflecting on students and old boys’ dispute towards a human chain activity in school, 6th September 2019.
Extraction of Ronnie’s speech content:
//But speaking of colours - my main thought is that there are not merely 2 colours and 2 houses at our school, we have 8 houses and hence 8 colours – representing a population of boys with diverse talents and gifts. In the natural world, I am told, there are at least 10 million colours in a dazzling spectrum.
Thus, we naturally reject the notion that there are only two ends, standing against each other. We reject the notion of one single solution. We reject the notion of anyone’s claim that he or she holds a monopoly over the truth. We must reflect and stay vigilant, should these misconceptions cross our minds.//
Photos:
1) Mr Cheng trying to recall the morning of 6th September 2019, sitting on the same sofa;
2) Hands of Mr Cheng;
3) Gundam figure on Mr Cheng’s desk, the bust of Beethoven and an the Eagle on the bookshelf. According to Mr Cheng, Beethoven's bust reminds him of the nobility of the human spirit, especially the 9th symphony "Ode to Joy" where Beethoven drew inspiration from Schiller's poem to celebrate the brotherhood of humanity. The Eagle refers to the Bible verse Isaiah 40:31 “but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” How about the Gundam figure? "An important reminder to always preserve a childlike heart!"
4) A Cross outside the Headmaster Office.
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Photo: Ronnie Cheng, 25/9/2020, Hong Kong.
IG：instagram.com/just.sitting.around
