Values to Bridge Generations: Dedication and Hard Work

One evening during a vacation, my sister and I, both dancer students at Fei Tian, were practicing our dance kicks while at our grandparents' house. My grandfather, a former hockey player and current pickleball athlete, was quietly watching us on the side, occasionally commenting on something or asking a question. Our remarks shortly morphed into a full-blown discussion of the details and intricacies of flexibility, strength training, and muscle use; after that, we turned to how my dance training at Fei Tian builds character. My grandfather was very pleased with the impartial, down-to-earth attitudes of my dance teachers. As someone who built his family, house, and career painstakingly with his own two hands (figuratively and literally), he really appreciates honest, hard work. That exchange with him was one of the most animated and meaningful conversations I've ever had with my grandfather. The joy of being able to connect through a mutual understanding of hard work and dedication is something I will always cherish.

At the end of our conversation, by which time all of my siblings and cousins present had gathered round, my grandfather remarked with a smile, "You know, not many people can boast to their friends: 'All of my grandchildren are world-class at what they do!'" From the pride in his voice at that moment, I realized something. I always thought that dancing would make it harder to connect with my family, since I saw them less. But the truth is, Fei Tian has given me more than I could ever ask for—it has taught me to appreciate those values that connect all of us, and those are what make any relationship meaningful. Far from separating me from my family, Fei Tian has made me into not only a better dancer, but a better cousin, a better granddaughter, a better sister—and a better person.