Comrades,

With duties day in and day out, each of us is overwhelmed both mentally and physically.

Under the flaming hot summer, Hong Kong has seemingly changed.

No matter whether one is working at the sharp end on the frontline or supporting at the backend, whatever our role as frontline officers or leaders at the back, we are all facing an unprecedented challenge.

And if I really could, I would shout the command: "As you were!"

However, the world keeps moving and we still have missions to fulfil. We still have thieves to catch; files to staff; and the watch and ward duties to perform. Ain't for flattery or favour, nor requiring compromise or self-sacrifice, this is just us doing our "duties"; responsibilities that each of us had vowed to execute honestly, faithfully and diligently when we were first sworn into the thin blue line.

Recalling the word "duties" that was written in calligraphy and hung at the corridor of the Crime Wing Headquarters where I worked, I used to brush past it frequently whilst dashing manically in and out of the place. Nevertheless, however frantic and whatever the rush, it always reminded me of my oath taken when I first joined the Force.

Under the current social turmoil, serving our "duties" is exactly the one thing that we all have to remind ourselves to do. Nobody has the right to take away our law enforcement dignity and how, as indeed how well we do this without malice is entirely up to us; bearing in mind that hard words break no bones.

As we can't turn back time, we thus just have to soldier on.

To do so, we need to mutually support one another. We also need to take a breather and assure ourselves that we do not need to bear all the social burdens alone. By just simply doing what is in front of us, our "obligation" and "duties" are already fulfilled.

Indeed we have been mistaken; smeared; or even despised, but on the other hand, we have support from our families, loved ones, friends as well as supporters. Hence, never mind the nasty labelling that is well beyond our control, instead, we should treasure and take comfort in the strong encouragement from our loved ones and comrades.

Be grateful for their charcoal in the snow and warmth on chilly nights. In fact, we should love them more.

In calm reflection, we don't need to resent. Why do we put ourselves in a cage of anger which much of our society is now embroiled in. Why be like them?

This world can be less cruel and so, why add salt to injury? In whose favour would that be?

There is always public support for us to be hard when necessary but also showing mercy and compassion by default.

Time will also clear the haze and clear our name.

Tolerance and forgiveness ain't hard. And all these can start with each of us right here and right now. Let us start now.

Fellows, if one calls themselves "water", then we are the "sun"; rising day after day and shining splendidly year after year.

With our true colour, we shall remain calm and undaunted against the odds.

With us shoulder to shoulder and arm in arm together protecting our city, the dark night will pass.

With our perseverance, there will be light!

Together, let us remain steadfast and stand fast!

Marching on with our conscience and good faith, we shall confidently ride through this storm!

Noel Tai
A police officer cum Hong Kong citizen
(This article was translated by Mr Cheng Chun-kit)