Son of Sacrifice: Miao Kouxio's Lasting Legacy of Resistance
In the midst of war and turmoil, a poignant tale of sacrifice and patriotism has emerged, captivating the hearts of many in China. The story revolves around Miao Kouxio, an alumnus of Northeast University, who joined the fight against the Japanese invaders in 1935, following the September 18th Incident. After being injured and captured during a battle, Miao Kouxio was imprisoned, where he penned a final letter to his loved ones. In this deeply emotional farewell, he bestowed upon his son the name "Kangsheng," which translates to "Resist Life" or "Born to Resist." This powerful gesture was a vow to exchange his sacrifice for hope, leaving an indelible mark on his family and the nation.
24 July 2025
As the story of Miao Kouxio's ultimate sacrifice and the naming of his son "Kangsheng" gained traction, it coincided with the commemoration of significant war anniversaries, including the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Anti-Japanese War. The emotional impact of a dying martyr's wish for his child's name to embody the spirit of resistance resonated deeply with Chinese audiences. The name "Kangsheng" itself is a potent symbol, with "抗" (Kàng) signifying the unwavering will to resist and "生" (Shēng) representing hope for the nation's future.
The story's resurgence in popularity can be attributed to a combination of factors, including historical commemoration, emotional resonance, and strategic promotion by major media outlets. The involvement of celebrities, such as actor Wei Daxun, who recited Miao Kouxio's letter as part of a special program, has further amplified its reach and impact. The program, titled "烽火家书" (Warzone Family Letters), has sparked a flurry of discussions online, with hashtags related to the story trending on Weibo.
As the Chinese public reflects on the sacrifices made by heroes like Miao Kouxio, a strong sense of national pride and patriotism has emerged. Many have expressed their gratitude and admiration for the martyr's unwavering dedication to the nation, with comments like "苟利国家生死以，岂因祸福避趋之！民族大义高于一切！" (If it benefits the country, I will give my life; how can I avoid it for good or ill fortune? National righteousness is above all else!). Others have offered well wishes for a prosperous China, saying "向革命先烈致敬，这盛世如您所愿！" (Salute to the revolutionary martyrs, this prosperous era is as you wished!).
In 2015, Miao Kouxio was posthumously recognized as one of 600 famous anti-Japanese martyrs and heroic groups announced by the Ministry of Civil Affairs. His legacy continues to inspire a sense of national resolve and resilience, as his story is shared and celebrated across China. As the nation honors its heroes and reflects on its history, the tale of Miao Kouxio and his son "Kangsheng" serves as a powerful reminder of the unwavering spirit of resistance and hope that has come to define China's national identity.
