Page 49 - Stories from our Grandparents

There is almost no riots nor street fights breaking out which Back in 2005 when my wife passed on, I felt a huge loss and constantly felt
allows me to walk on the streets at night without having to lonely. Even though I struggled to get back on track, I still pressed on to be
fear. The government also takes care of the older generation as diligent in my business as before and to be self-sufficient. On some days
like me and they are effectively and rapidly growing to when I was ill, I still pushed myself to go to work even though I technically
become even better than before. did not have to, due to owning the business.

When I first came here, I was only a poor peasant’s son and had In the year 2016, I decided to retire and sell my shop away.
no other intention than to earn money for my family. From all the Now that I have retired, I have more time to reflect on
coaching and tough times I had experienced, I really benefited life. As I look back, I realised how eventful and fruitful my
life experiences were and how much have changed from
from all the hard work that I put in. As an individual with no then to now. If there is one thing that I have learnt that
scholarships nor degrees, I feel accomplished in becoming a really impacted me, it is that when you persevere and stay
Chinese physician, and in owning my own business at the resilient, nothing you have done would be a wasted effort
age of 75. but you will truly benefit from your hard work and it will
pay off.

Nowadays, to pass time, I teach my My greatest joy is when I see that my children and grandchildren are
children and grandchildren how to laughing and playing together. My hope is that even when I am not around
make and drink my tea, ‘Gong Fu in this world anymore, they will continue to stay as happy and work hard
Cha’. At my age, I am still seeking towards their own goals and dreams, just as I did. I have come a long way
to improve my own knowledge and and looking back, I am satisfied that I have done my job as the eldest son
skills. During my time in Singapore, and a father and I have taken a very good care of my immediate as well as
I have forged many close bonds extended family members.
with friends all from different
backgrounds. It was only in 1950
when my wife came to Singapore,
leaving my eldest child with my
mother back in China.

48 Grandpa Stories