Beijing, China — Born in 1948, Tian Qichang grew up with an unfillable void in his life. As a child, his father was forcibly drafted and taken to Taiwan, leaving young Tian and his family behind on the mainland. The separation left a profound impact on him, fueling a lifelong yearning to reunite with his father.
In 1979, at the age of 31, Tian made a bold decision. He traveled to Hong Kong, a place where he believed he could bridge the distance between himself and his long-lost father. After tireless efforts, his journey culminated in a heartwarming reunion. The experience was transformative, igniting a passion within Tian to help others who shared similar stories of separation.
Understanding the pain of families torn apart by historical events, Tian quit his job in the early 1980s and established a liaison office dedicated to reconnecting loved ones across the Taiwan Strait. His office became a beacon of hope for compatriots on both sides, facilitating the exchange of family letters and messages during a time when direct communication was fraught with challenges.
But Tian didn’t stop there. Recognizing that many families lacked the means to reunite in person, he provided financial assistance to those in need, enabling countless emotional reunions in Hong Kong. His altruistic efforts not only alleviated the suffering caused by decades of separation but also fostered understanding and healing amid the complexities of cross-strait relations.
Tian’s legacy is a testament to the power of perseverance and compassion. By bridging the divide of the times, he brought solace to many and highlighted the enduring bonds of family that transcend borders and political differences.
As cross-strait relations continue to evolve, stories like Tian’s serve as a reminder of shared histories and the human desire for connection.
