Group 1 - The article discusses the reflections of Zhu De Yong on life, death, and the changes in Taipei, highlighting a sense of loss and nostalgia for the past [21][31][39] - Zhu expresses a feeling of being like a polar bear with nowhere to go, symbolizing the struggle to find a place in a rapidly changing world [35][42] - The narrative includes personal anecdotes about relationships, particularly the loss of friends and pets, which contribute to a deeper understanding of mortality [9][12][16] Group 2 - The article emphasizes the impact of urban development on cultural memory and community, noting that many traditional shops and practices have disappeared [38][39] - Zhu critiques the modern societal pressures that lead to a disconnection from childhood and personal identity, suggesting that many people have forgotten their roots [55][56] - The discussion touches on the broader implications of societal changes, including the loss of meaningful connections and the rise of a more isolated existence in contemporary life [19][48][50]

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the final thoughts and reflections of Zhu Rui, a prominent philosopher, as he faced terminal cancer, culminating in his last work titled "The Philosopher's Last Lesson" [1][8]. Group 1: Zhu Rui's Illness and Final Days - Zhu Rui was diagnosed with late-stage rectal cancer in the summer of 2022 and fought the disease for over a year, returning to teaching despite undergoing chemotherapy [2][4]. - He completed his last book through a series of conversations while in a palliative care unit, ultimately passing away on August 1, 2024, at the age of 56 [1][4]. Group 2: Philosophical Insights - Zhu Rui emphasized that fear of death stems from ignorance, and he believed that understanding death is essential to living a meaningful life [5][6]. - He viewed death not as an end but as a part of life, suggesting that it should be embraced rather than feared [6][5]. Group 3: Educational Philosophy and Social Concerns - Zhu Rui's teachings attracted significant attention, with classes often exceeding capacity, reflecting his impact on students and society [4]. - He expressed a desire for individuals to connect their desires with the values of their actions, advocating for a society with diverse aspirations and reduced internal competition [5][11]. Group 4: Personal Reflections and Legacy - Zhu Rui's sister, Zhu Sumei, noted that his approach to death and life profoundly influenced her perspective, highlighting the importance of his philosophical insights [9][10]. - His focus on self-esteem in education was rooted in his own experiences, emphasizing the need for individuals to understand their own value and identity [12][11].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the transformative journey of Wu Kequn following the death of his mother, highlighting themes of regret, acceptance, and the importance of living fully in the present [1][4][27]. Group 1: Personal Transformation - Wu Kequn's life changed significantly after his mother's death, leading him to confront his regrets and the meaning of life [1][3]. - The loss prompted him to reflect on his past pursuits and the pressures of societal expectations, realizing that he had been chasing goals that were not truly his own [5][27]. - He began to engage in activities that he previously would not have considered, such as organizing travel for elderly individuals to fulfill their dreams [8][21]. Group 2: Understanding Life and Death - The experience of loss allowed Wu Kequn to better understand death, which in turn helped him appreciate life more deeply [27][37]. - He emphasizes the importance of making the most of every day and cherishing relationships, as opportunities can be fleeting [21][27]. - Wu Kequn's reflections on his mother's wishes and their missed opportunities led him to create a program to help others fulfill their last wishes [10][26]. Group 3: Connection with Others - Wu Kequn's journey has included connecting with various individuals, including helping a young boy with cancer and engaging with elderly participants in his travel program [10][31]. - He has learned to appreciate the stories of ordinary people, believing that their experiences are just as valuable as those of celebrities [21][22]. - The article highlights the emotional impact of these connections, as seen in the reactions of participants in his programs [22][26].