“The true secret of happiness lies in taking a genuine interest in all the details of daily life.”
— William Morris
Dear Friends,
This year, I retired. I spent time reflecting on what I can do and what I wish to pursue in the remaining years of my life. Perhaps for the first time, I have placed myself back in the narrative. As a little girl, I dreamed of being a writer, a poet, or even a movie star. As a young student, I believed I could change the world for the better. Reality, however, often clashes with fantasy, and I stopped wasting time on tears or unhappiness. I focused on striving to make the most of what life has to offer.
As I sit down at my desk in the middle of the night, writing my 2017 journal, I realize that while my life may not be exactly what I expected, it is unfolding precisely as God planned. I am deeply grateful to have lived long enough to appreciate His grace. I have a beautiful life, and retirement feels like a sweet, happy ending—a treat I intend to enjoy fully.
One of the books that touched me the most this year is What Money Can’t Buy: The Moral Limits of Markets by Michael Sandel. In recent decades, market values have crowded out non-market norms in nearly every aspect of our lives. Without fully realizing it, we’ve shifted from having a market economy to becoming a market society. Today, we can purchase and sell nearly everything, including things once thought invaluable. Sandel challenges us to consider how we can protect moral and civic goods that markets do not honor and money cannot buy. If we began to “merchandise” the things that truly matter—such as trust, family, friendships, honor, respect, knowledge, nature, health, peace, happiness—the very fabric of society would begin to unravel. This is a thought-provoking book and a worthwhile read.
Our dear families are all doing well. Yong continues his volunteer work at the Tech Museum and is happy to be receiving his full Social Security benefits. Our four granddaughters are growing up so fast. Wei, the oldest, is transitioning into a young lady, demanding special attention. Ro still faces challenges with speaking, but her smile melts everyone’s heart. Le, an intellectual toddler, is very serious yet undeniably adorable. Qing, the youngest, is a natural performer—stubborn and free-spirited, just like me. We love them all deeply.
Our children, now entering middle age, continue to strive for success as we once did. Their lives are not without challenges, but they face them with optimism, courage, and faith. As a grandmother, I stay busy with gardening, playing piano and guitar, singing in the church choir, writing, and, of course, taking care of our grandchildren.
What I have learned this year is this: “To gain wisdom, you must be humble; true strength comes from gentleness, not toughness. Purity is the most precious human trait to nurture.” And if you truly love life, do not waste your time.
I was also inspired by the song from the musical Hamilton—Who Lives, Who Dies, Who Tells Your Story. And when you’re gone, who remembers your name? Who keeps your flame? I suppose this is part of the aging process. Who will remember me?
I miss you all the most during this Holiday Season. Best wishes to you and your family.