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Editor's Note: The results of the fifth SCNU English Writing and Short Video Contest have been announced on the website of the Office of International Exchange & Cooperation of SCNU (see results). We congratulate all prize winners on their outstanding performance. Winning entries will be published in this column.
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By Tan Jiahua
Good morning! Welcome home! These are the warm greetings security guard Liu Guolian extends to every faculty member and student entering or exiting the library at South China Normal University’s University Town campus, from 7 AM to 7 PM daily. With a broad smile and enthusiastic waves, he greets each person with sincerity, and in return, he receives even warmer greetings; sometimes, passersby even stop to shake his hand in gratitude.
In his daily routine, Liu Guolian stands humbly at the library entrance, hands gesturing in welcome, sincerely greeting everyone who comes and goes. He strives to convey warmth and care through his actions, aiming to encourage everyone to maintain a positive attitude towards their studies and work. As a proud member of the Communist Party, Liu integrates a humanistic approach into enforcing library rules. Instead of issuing harsh warnings, he gently reminds students not to bring food and drinks inside, and when a student inadvertently does so, he provides a soft-spoken reminder, skillfully avoiding any potential conflicts. Beyond maintaining order within the library, he also cares deeply about the health of the students, often reminding those with irregular eating habits to take better care of themselves.
On rainy days, Liu Guolian remains steadfast at his post, ensuring smooth entry and exit for every student despite being drenched himself. He personally opens and closes the doors, cautioning everyone to be careful due to slippery conditions, thereby creating a haven of kindness amidst the downpour.
Off duty, Liu Guolian’s life is equally filled with warmth. He practices calligraphy as a way to cultivate his mind and spirit. Upon learning that his kind deeds had touched many hearts, he penned a heartfelt letter to express his gratitude. To ensure the letter was presented beautifully, he humbly sought advice from a colleague skilled in calligraphy, meticulously comparing notes and rewriting the letter to present it in the best light to the faculty and students.
Liu Guolian’s actions exemplify the principle of “sincerity begets sincerity.” Over time, he has received deep care and appreciation from the students. During meal times, students often offer him snacks, and one student even brought a birthday cake to the library to share with him, a moment that moved Liu to tears. Such recognition and appreciation have made him realize the value of his work, leading him to express with deep emotion, “As long as the school needs me, I am willing to continue.”
It is this simple yet pure heart that has made Liu Guolian a beloved figure on campus. His story, featured in the People’s Daily, has earned him the respect and admiration of the entire university community, instilling a sense of pride in every member of South China Normal University. In subsequent interviews, I learned that Uncle Liu no longer works at the library due to special circumstances, but has been reassigned to Building No. 5, where he continues to spread his warmth. His actions prove that regardless of one’s position, with a heart full of love, one can radiate brilliance.
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