Run Run Shaw, a Hong Kong entertainment mogul and philanthropist, passed away on Tuesday morning at the age of 107. He is a legend, but such a legendary life is not only demonstrated by his longevity, but also his experiences that mirror China's sufferings and dramatic changes in over a century.

Shaw's philanthropy was the trademark of his old age. He donated about HK$5 billion ($645 million) to charities on the Chinese mainland, of which HK$3.4 billion was used for education. Buildings named after him can be seen in many Chinese universities and schools.

Shaw's life of struggle is also legendary. His successful career was made after going through half a century's social turbulence. He founded the well-known and landmark Shaw Brothers Studio, one of the largest film production enterprises in the world, laying the foundation for China's modern cultural industry.

Always a pioneer of his times, Shaw knew exactly what he should and shouldn't do for his country.

His persistent contributions to China were not made on a whim. His spirit of devotion to the country was as solid as a rock.

Besides being a philanthropist, Shaw was a patriot, which was another hallmark of his life. As an internationally famed entrepreneur, Shaw could extend his reach far beyond national borders. However, Shaw, as well as many other successful entrepreneurs of his times, was full of love for his country.

They all went through the hardships incurred by the nation's weakness and poverty. These sufferings were far more painful than those younger generations experience now. These patriots witnessed the problems of this country, and although they had thousands of reasons to leave, they chose to stay.

They helped the country stumble out of poverty and weakness. It's difficult to speculate why people like Shaw could be so persistent with their patriotism. But we can sense that a basic cultural orientation, which has been embedded in the genes of Chinese civilization, led them to make such a choice.

Shaw can act as a mirror, reflecting what has been ignored by most people who are blinded by interests. Life can be long; in order to live with more insight, we should look far and explore what we don't know. We must evolve so that we can avoid the pitfalls of unchanging mindsets.

Shaw's life cannot be imitated. But what we can learn from his colorful and abundant life is that his achievements were all oriented on his unique philosophy, which is hard to explain but easy to sense.

Making big money and then doing philanthropy is widely regarded as the happiest lifestyle. However, with this standard, most people aren't that fortunate. Shaw's life is an encyclopedia - a new leaf has been turned, but his legacy remains.