
Preface
Excerpt from
Twelfth Anniversary Commemoration of Pay Fong School (1925)
by
Gu Shu Lian
A quick glance at a mushroom may seem fleeting, yet those who embrace its essence and hold its vision, though their days may be limited, are not truly short-lived. The longevity of the great cedar may span centuries, yet those who embody its essence and breadth of mind, even if they endure for thousands of years, cannot be said to have lived long merely by measure of time.
Likewise, in the endeavour of establishing a school, the distinction lies not merely in effort, but in the objectives and aspirations that guide it. Reflecting upon this, we can take pride in our school. Though newly budding, the youth here are remarkable—admired by many, with potential that knows no bounds. The journey ahead is without limit.
Centuries pass in the blink of an eye. I envision that in the centuries to come, whether it be a centennial or a millennial celebration, grand ceremonies will take place. Those who have toiled with unwavering dedication and generosity for the School’s progress will be remembered. Their noble deeds may be immortalised, whether through portraits adorning the assembly hall or statues cast in bronze, standing proudly on campus grounds. Future generations will look upon these figures with reverence and gratitude.
As time marches on and people come and go, whether at a centennial or millennium anniversary, joyful festivities will no doubt resonate with echoes of wisdom from the past. And perhaps, as humanity evolves, centuries from now, new compositions and creativity will emerge, surpassing the beauty we know today. These wonders remain hidden beyond our grasp. But such distant events need not be the focus of this preface; they belong to times yet to come’.


