Nothing Lasts Forever

An Interview

By Chloe Lin

My great aunt: a loving, quiet, kind woman who knows a lot more than I do. She is a daughter, an older sister, a younger sister, an aunt, a friend, and a lot more.

She was inspired by Mother Theresa, “a lady who is very gentle and kind to all the people.” A lot of people who have known her would say that she is quiet but kind, and she values family a lot. She was the one who took care of my great-grandmother the most, even while she was sick. She was the one who contacted my great-uncle and provided him with what he needed, even after not talking for a year.  

She has taught me a lot throughout the years I’ve spent with her, from the importance of treating everyone the same way to the value of family. During our interview, she said, “The family is very important. You want to communicate well with your parents, your siblings. Just talk to them. If you have problems, always talk to your family, talk to your parents.” These words really stuck with me as I am always reading or on my phone, talking to my friends. I’ve always had trouble deciding whether family or friends should come first, and my great aunt helped navigate these decisions. This interview holds important messages that will stick with you throughout your life. 

What inspired you to move to America? 

I was a student when I was in my native country. I wanted to learn something new and advance my degree, so I came to the United States as a foreign student.

Did anything from your childhood influence who you are today?

I was really loved by my parents. I want to be a loving person too, to both the older and younger generations. 

Did anybody change your views on the world? 

It probably would be Mother Teresa. She is a lady who is very gentle and kind to all the people. 

If you could change one thing in this world, what would it be?

Since COVID-19, crime against Asian people has risen. I wish there was less anti-Asian violence.

What is a lesson you want future generations to learn? 

Be yourself, be kind to other people, and be happy.

What values do you have that you want others to have as well? 

Family is very important. You want to communicate well with your parents, your siblings. Just talk to them. If you have problems, always talk to your family, talk to your parents.

Have there ever been decisions that you regret making? 

I don’t think so. I don’t regret anything. It’s all an experience. Even if you make mistakes, you always learn something. And move forward. 

Do you ever wish things weren’t the way they are now? 

I don’t know. It’s a hard question. I’m very happy now. I have a very loving family. I have two beautiful grandchildren, so I’m blessed. 

What advice do you have for future generations? 

Future generations, don’t spend too much time on your 3C products [electronics]. Spend more time with your family, and communicate well with them. 

How are things different now compared to when you were young? 

It’s very different because I’m very old now. When I was a little kid, we didn’t have all the technology you have today. We spent a lot of time reading books. We spent a lot of time with our siblings. We played games together, we talked to each other. We had less distractions.