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Altruism back on people's radar

(China Daily)
Updated: 2011-01-19 07:59

Two teenagers in Shenzhen were awarded 10,000 yuan each for rescuing a senior citizen, reminding us that helping elderly and helpless people is still a cherished virtue, says an article in Shenyang Daily. Excerpts:

Recent years have seen some kind-hearted people suffer for helping or trying to help others. Such incidents have made the simple question of helping people in need a difficult one for many good Samaritans.

The fear that people who help others could fall in trouble has shocked conscientious people. What's worse, the negative effects are becoming wider and more complicated, testing people's social morals and leaving quite a few needy people without help.

Under such circumstances, the Shenzhen government's decision to reward the two youths is like providing "first aid" to social justice. The reward is not only deserving, but also a timely sigh of relief for the whole society. It will make people cherish the traditional value of altruism, especially when it comes to helping senior citizens.

Hopefully, society as a whole will restore among people the obligation to help others and spread the spirit of harmony. And relevant departments at all levels have to make greater efforts to realize more promises and take practical actions.

(China Daily 01/19/2011 page9)