Is Talking about Revolutionary Ideals Nothing But "Uttering High-Sounding Words"?

Abstract

When young people get together, their favorite topic is usually the issues of life. Not long ago I discussed with a few friends the problem of one's ideals. Young people, I held, must have aspirations; they should foster the lofty ideal of revolution. Most of my friends supported my view, but some did not. They said: "Ideals or no ideals, say no more of those high-sounding words. You better be more practical and make your life a bit more comfortable. Isn't revolution for the purpose of material benefit?" I disagreed, saying: "We cannot only seek personal benefit for the present. We must strive hard to create an even more magnificent future. Without the struggle and sacrifice of the revolutionary forefathers who shed their blood and gave up their lives, how could we have the life of today?" These friends of mine retorted: "Struggle, sacrifice. Wasn't it because they suffered hunger and cold and could hardly make a living? Man, times are different. Why should you ask for trouble?" As far as I know, this idea is quite common among the young people. Without straightening it out, I believe, it will impede the younger generation's progress in the four modernizations undertaking. I want very much to persuade my friends, but find myself unequal to the job. Therefore I write to you in the hope that you can get a revolutionary of the older generation to have a heart-to-heart talk with us about this issue so as to give us of the younger generation an education. Be sure to grant my request, please.