President Chen Shui-bian on January 2 received winners of the 9th Great Love Award. The awards, issued by the Chinese Mercy Love Association, are bestowed to parents and guardians of disabled people. In addition to expressing his admiration to the winners on behalf of the government and all of the people of Taiwan, President Chen also urged other families on Taiwan that are facing the same plight to continue to forge ahead.
President Chen said that as the traditional concept of family is gradually waning in today's society, the Great Love Award highlights that there are still some people who value family above all else. He said the awards help to make people aware of such instances, and that they indeed bring warmth to the hearts of people. The president stressed that people must give of themselves to be outstanding and open their hearts in order to be able to feel joy. President Chen said he hopes that every disabled person will work to his or her utmost to overcome their physical disabilities and accept future challenges. At the same time, he said he hopes society at large will express even more compassion and embrace the disabled, helping more people to find their own happiness and road throughout life.