Having just gone to your Mom’s memorial service, I am remembering all the wonderful stories people told … stories that spoke of her firm and tough opinions, but also her firm and tough love — which permeated all else.
That reminded me of a birthday party we attended at the Chen’s house in Holmdel. It was probably in the late 80’s and Stacy was 3 or 4 years old. All the other kids were swarming around the playroom and enjoying their cake and ice cream. Stacy, however, was still in the dining room with the adults. “Stacy needs to finish her vegetables before she can have cake,” you explained.
I am not sure of the cause/effect relationship here, but I would guess that Stacy is now the best vegetable eater of all our 9 kids!
Later on in life, I remember you telling Aaron, “be part of the solution, Aaron, not part of the problem.” This is a lesson he learned early, and probably still lives by — although not always happily!
How wonderful that they can be with you today to celebrate your birthday! In our earlier years, we never wanted to be compared to our mothers. We wanted to be our own persons! Now, however, I think you will appreciate the tribute when I repeat the old phrase, “the apple doesn’t fall far from the tree.”
You were a wonderful daughter, and you are a wonderful mother and wonderful friend. That tough love your mother showed throughout her life emanates from you as well. I feel honored and privileged to have shared a friendship with you for all these years!
With love,
Liz
Diane Sheng 