The Way to Love Your Country
Ahn Chang-ho (1878–1938), a Korean independence activist and educator, went to the U.S. with his wife right after getting married. It was from his belief that the way to develop national power was to learn new culture, broaden horizons, and cultivate talented people.
He picked oranges with his countrymen by day and studied English by night in Riverside, California. One day, he felt an urgent need of improving the impression of Koreans when he saw Koreans being discriminated and despised. So he always dressed himself neatly and asked his compatriots to work diligently and sincerely. He also emphasized the importance of honesty. When he heard that Americans were reluctant to lease their houses to Koreans because they kept the house dirty, he visited each house of Koreans to clean it, hang curtains, and plant flowers.
Ahn Chang-ho did not neglect even small things for his country. His constant endeavors became an example for many compatriots and reminded them of the way to love their country.
“Picking one orange with great care is a way to love your country. It can change the farmers’ impression of Koreans and Americans’ perception of Korea. You are doing a great job for the sake of your country!” Ahn Chang-ho
