In 1999, Italian conductor Riccardo Chailly and Portuguese pianist Maria Joao Pires got together for a lunchtime concert at Concertgebouw in Amsterdam. They are two of the world’s most renowned musicians, and this open rehearsal concert, which was held in front of 2,000 people, was supposed to go smoothly. But it became one of the ...
An immigrant professor exemplifies an indomitable spirit by facing challenges with resilience and determination. Despite students’ initial skepticism, his persistent efforts transformed challenges into victories, earning him deep admiration and respect. Recipient of the Excellent Teaching Award As another academic year drew to a close, I excitedly returned home to share my professional achievements with ...
In an age where stories of negativity and conflict often dominate the headlines, it’s the quiet, potent acts of kindness that weave the underlying fabric of our society together. These acts of kindness, often unnoticed by the masses, hold the power to transform lives in unexpected and profound ways. The narratives that follow, set against ...
In the tumultuous times of the Qing Dynasty, a man named Fang Guancheng (1696-1768) from Tongcheng experienced a life filled with both fortuitous encounters and narrow escapes from peril. His early years were marked by adversity when his father was forcibly conscripted into the army due to involvement with a distinguished author whose works sparked ...
My mother was a high school teacher, known for her stern lectures in class or her serious demeanor when imparting wisdom. Not only were her students intimidated by her, even the parents feared her as well. It was 15 years ago. Just before the Lunar New Year, due to financial difficulties at home, my mother ...
Tsai Yide’s life story is a remarkable example of overcoming significant challenges through sheer determination and passion. Known widely as the “Disabled Singer,” Tsai Yide’s journey from a childhood afflicted with polio to becoming the “Duck King of Taiwan” showcases his incredible resilience. Despite being left with just one fully functional limb, he not only ...
The Chinese classic Roots of Wisdom states: “In life, taking a step back is a mark of greatness; showing leniency is a blessing.” This means showing kindness to others opens up a world of possibilities, and a broad mind leads to a clear sky. In life, yielding a step means leaving room for yourself to ...
In the intricate tapestry of parenting, the synergy between school education and family upbringing forms a crucial axis. This balance profoundly shapes a child’s future. The childhood story of Kiyojiro Menkura, a celebrated Japanese entrepreneur, about six meat patties is a poignant illustration of this dynamic. His formative years, set against the challenging backdrop of ...
In 2013, a phone call in a noodle shop in Zhejiang, China, triggered a remarkable story that unfolded over two decades. The tale involved a woman’s kindness and a man’s relentless quest to express his gratitude. This story is a testament to the transformative power of compassion and gratitude, and it’s sure to inspire those ...
Throughout history, humor has been an indomitable tool in the arsenal of leaders, thinkers, and innovators. It serves not just as a source of amusement, but as a bridge between contrasting ideas, a salve for wounds both personal and societal, and a testament to the enduring human spirit. The anecdotes that follow demonstrate the diverse ...