A youthful encounter with national pride

The second episode of "Strait Forward", titled "A Flag Embodies the Glory of Cross-Strait Harmony", invites viewers to explore the world of the honor guards at Tsinghua University. This installment features Zheng Tingyi, a youth from Taiwan, China, and Li Yuting, a member of the Tsinghua National Flag Honor Guard, as they share their perspectives on patriotism, their love for China, and the profound experience of participating in flag-raising ceremonies.

For Zheng Tingyi, a Taiwanese student fortunate enough to witness the National Day flag-raising ceremony at Tiananmen Square, the event left an indelible mark on him. Zheng Tingyi said, "what an exhilarating scene it was to join thousands of people in singing the national anthem," also mentioning that the patriotic spirit resonated deeply, inspiring a shared emotional connection among all present.

Li Yuting, a dedicated member of the Tsinghua National Flag Honor Guard, provides an inside look at the rigorous training and responsibilities associated with upholding the country's honor. Li Yuting shared that her initial impulse to join the National Flag Honor Guard was not complicated, saying that it may "simply have been patriotism." The episode beautifully captures the dedication of these students who, through disciplined training and commitment, contribute to the symbolic representation of the national flag.

Zheng Tingyi's journey offers a unique perspective, underscoring the unbreakable bond between youth on both sides of the Taiwan Strait, fostering a sense of unity and understanding. The episode not only provides insight into the technical aspects of the flag-raising ceremonies but also delves into the emotional and cultural significance of these rituals, reinforcing the theme of cross-Strait harmony emphasized throughout the series.