Ma was a hard-working single parent. I am grateful for everything she did for me, for our survival, and for the values she taught me. They influenced my life path and are described and reflected in my writing projects, especially in the “Ying-Ying” book series. They are relevant to all children.
1. ENJOY BEING ALONE. The circumstances of my childhood meant many hours spent alone. But being alone doesn’t necessarily mean being lonely. I had activities that occupied my mind—homework, coloring books, paper dolls, and books. Being alone helps concentration and writing.
2. PROMOTE THE POSITIVE; IGNORE “MEANIES” AND NEGATIVISM. Most of my stories show that bad things happen, but the main character works towards a positive result. I ignore people who bully or ridicule. I will consider constructive criticisms, after which I turn my attention to my goals, and move on. That’s why I’m partial to happy endings.
3. DON’T BE AFRAID TO MOVE OFTEN. Ma and I lived simply to facilitate mobility. We adjusted to diverse neighborhoods, giving us new perspectives and new friends. Later, I worked on locations as well as travelled, experiencing different cultures (Asia, Europe, Israel, and many U.S. states) and giving me further appreciation to be an American.
4. KEEP LEARNING. In addition to academics, I learned a wide range of skills (Chinese opera and dance; playing the butterfly harp and pi-pa; typing, shorthand, technology, publishing; Tai Chi, etc.). Working in different industries was a learning opportunity (sewing/ironing in clothing factories; clerking at Kaiser Hospital; stuffing envelopes for corporate marketing; inventory at Roos Atkins; teacher with SFUSD and LAUSD, UCLA extension, Inner City Institute; food waitress at IHOP and cocktails at Mouling Restaurant; theater administration-production, film distribution and production; actor in theater, film, and television, commercials and radio).
5. ALL ACTIONS HAVE CONSEQUENCES. Think before you act. Everything you do reflects on you, your family, your race, your country.
6. RESPECT ALL. You don’t have to like everyone, but you can treat everyone in the same way, with courtesy. This attitude should extend to animals as well.
7. FORGIVE AND LOVE. Forgive others—you don’t have to keep the relationship, but you need to let go of ill-feelings or grudges, thus freeing yourself. Forgive yourself—don’t hold on to past mistakes, so you can be free to love yourself and to do better.
8. FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS. Be bold to go after what you want to do in life despite perceived obstacles. I’ve never regretted leaving San Francisco to pursue work in the entertainment industry in Los Angeles. I’m grateful for my experiences.
9. TRUST GOD; THEN YOU CAN TRUST YOURSELF. Listen to that inner voice. We can distinguish right from wrong. But some decisions are not so clear or easy. Give yourself time to ponder and act when you’re not emotional. Remember #5.
10. SHARE. Give of your time, money, and talents; pay it forward, and be kind. Offer smiles, even to strangers. When I find some wisdom, share it with friends, as I’m doing now. 😊
Ma has passed away many years ago, and I miss her very much. I can no longer call and speak with her, but I can remember her "voice". I’m sure your mother has given you similar advice. It doesn’t hurt to compare notes. Thank you for reading.
All the best,
Jeanne
1. ENJOY BEING ALONE. The circumstances of my childhood meant many hours spent alone. But being alone doesn’t necessarily mean being lonely. I had activities that occupied my mind—homework, coloring books, paper dolls, and books. Being alone helps concentration and writing.
2. PROMOTE THE POSITIVE; IGNORE “MEANIES” AND NEGATIVISM. Most of my stories show that bad things happen, but the main character works towards a positive result. I ignore people who bully or ridicule. I will consider constructive criticisms, after which I turn my attention to my goals, and move on. That’s why I’m partial to happy endings.
3. DON’T BE AFRAID TO MOVE OFTEN. Ma and I lived simply to facilitate mobility. We adjusted to diverse neighborhoods, giving us new perspectives and new friends. Later, I worked on locations as well as travelled, experiencing different cultures (Asia, Europe, Israel, and many U.S. states) and giving me further appreciation to be an American.
4. KEEP LEARNING. In addition to academics, I learned a wide range of skills (Chinese opera and dance; playing the butterfly harp and pi-pa; typing, shorthand, technology, publishing; Tai Chi, etc.). Working in different industries was a learning opportunity (sewing/ironing in clothing factories; clerking at Kaiser Hospital; stuffing envelopes for corporate marketing; inventory at Roos Atkins; teacher with SFUSD and LAUSD, UCLA extension, Inner City Institute; food waitress at IHOP and cocktails at Mouling Restaurant; theater administration-production, film distribution and production; actor in theater, film, and television, commercials and radio).
5. ALL ACTIONS HAVE CONSEQUENCES. Think before you act. Everything you do reflects on you, your family, your race, your country.
6. RESPECT ALL. You don’t have to like everyone, but you can treat everyone in the same way, with courtesy. This attitude should extend to animals as well.
7. FORGIVE AND LOVE. Forgive others—you don’t have to keep the relationship, but you need to let go of ill-feelings or grudges, thus freeing yourself. Forgive yourself—don’t hold on to past mistakes, so you can be free to love yourself and to do better.
8. FOLLOW YOUR DREAMS. Be bold to go after what you want to do in life despite perceived obstacles. I’ve never regretted leaving San Francisco to pursue work in the entertainment industry in Los Angeles. I’m grateful for my experiences.
9. TRUST GOD; THEN YOU CAN TRUST YOURSELF. Listen to that inner voice. We can distinguish right from wrong. But some decisions are not so clear or easy. Give yourself time to ponder and act when you’re not emotional. Remember #5.
10. SHARE. Give of your time, money, and talents; pay it forward, and be kind. Offer smiles, even to strangers. When I find some wisdom, share it with friends, as I’m doing now. 😊
Ma has passed away many years ago, and I miss her very much. I can no longer call and speak with her, but I can remember her "voice". I’m sure your mother has given you similar advice. It doesn’t hurt to compare notes. Thank you for reading.
All the best,
Jeanne