Am I more like you or dad?

When you were a baby, you had Dad’s features. But as you grew older, it is obvious that you are becoming more like me in temperament. Your father is quiet and reserved, but you are cheerful and bubbly—just like me. You also loved to sing! When I taught you Disney songs, you would sing them enthusiastically. I still have videos of you singing Reflection from Mulan.

What is your earliest memory of us?

When you took your first steps at 14 months. You were our first child and we were so careful with you—too careful. Parenting for the first time is always tough, you have no idea what to expect, so it can be full of surprises! And during a family holiday in Melbourne, you suddenly started to walk on your own. I’ll never forget that memory of you walking towards me.

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How are you like your mother?

My mother has been a tremendous inspiration to me. I grew up poor, but my mother had always possessed a kind heart. Whatever little she had, she would make sure she would still give to make others happy. When I was in school, I wanted to be in a band and play an instrument. Although we couldn’t afford it, she saved her money and gave it to me to buy a melodica, so I could join the band. Through her, I developed a positive outlook, and thanks to her, I never felt like I had an inadequate childhood although we didn’t have as much as we do today.

What charitable cause is close to your heart?

To me, charity should be given to anyone who needs it. I don’t have a single charitable organisation that I favour. Every year I set aside a percentage of my salary for charity, and I don’t discriminate. As long as it is needed, I will give.

Why do you love helping those in need?

Your great-grandmother was poor, but she never failed to give to charity. She always told us, ‘Be grateful for the blessings in life'. You think you have little, but there are those who have even less than you.

Right now, what’s a piece of advice you would give me?

You are an independent girl, so I never have to worry about how you manage your career and goals, but please sleep more. As a mother, I worry about your health; you work too much and sleep too little.

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What is your first memory of me?

It was when I was 3. I was home and being a curious child, I fell off the couch. I hit my face on the glass table and cut my nose. Strangely, I don’t remember the fall. But I remember you freaking out when you found out.

What traits do I possess that you see in yourself? 

Being a shopaholic (laughs). Seriously, I’ll say it is independence. I know of peers who aspire to be tai tai and settle down without worrying about money. That’s fine for them, but it won’t work for me. Having you as a working mother, I always wanted to work and have my own career. I wanted to make my own money and live my life independently without relying on someone else.

What have you learnt from me and dad?

Humility. My brothers and I have been lucky. We didn’t start out in life as well-to-do, neither were we born poor like you and dad. But through your examples, we learnt to be humble.

What would you like to change in the world?

I would focus on championing education, because it lifts people out of their prejudices by opening up their minds.

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What does giving to others mean to you?

To me, it’s about being genuine. A lot of people give to others to validate themselves or make themselves feel better. But you have taught me that giving to others should come from a genuine place, and it doesn’t have to be only in the form of monetary donations. Your kindness and generosity have inspired me so much.

What have I given you that you cherish the most?

My life? (laughs) Everything, Mum. I love you. 

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