Keep traditional culture alive

Comment on "Qingming values remain the same", (China Daily, April 4)

I have noticed regional and socio-economic differences when it comes to observing traditional Chinese festivals. In Changshu, Jiangsu province, for example, my students took Qingming Festival very seriously and refrained from using their iPhones and iPads on the day. But those who celebrate American cultural products didn't pay heed to the solemnity of the occasion.

In Jieyang, Guangdong province, most students ignored the day, although the adults still took it very seriously. And in Nantong, Jiangsu province, many students saw the festival as a means to having a longer weekend.

This is very sad, because if the youths of today, who will become parents tomorrow, do not respect the sanctity of such festivals, traditional culture will die. This is what happened in England. American culture filled the gap created by the demise of English traditions and eventually led to creation of the social and political problems that now plague what was once distinct English culture.

ANGUS, from China Daily forum

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(China Daily 04/15/2014 page9)