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picture of le wei verifying he did infact pay the headtax

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In the village of Guangdong, Li Wei bid farewell to his family, bound for Canada in search of a better life. The journey across the Pacific was long and uncertain, filled with the weight of the Chinese Head Tax. In Vancouver, he paid his dues and stepped onto foreign soil, determined to make a impact

Life in Chinatown was tough, but Li Wei worked tirelessly, taking on any job he could find. Despite discrimination, he persevered, saving every penny to bring his family to join him.

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Article title

The End of World War II 1945: The National WWII Museum: New Orleans

URL

https://www.nationalww2museum.org/war/topics/end-world-war-ii-1945#:~:text=On%20September%202%2C%201945%2C%20formal,Japan%20Day%20(V%2DJ%20Day).

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The National WWII Museum | New Orleans

Date accessed

June 8, 2024

Date published

May 07, 1970

Article title

Exclusion of Chinese Immigrants (1923–1947) National Historic Event

URL

https://parks.canada.ca/culture/designation/evenement-event/exclusion-chinois-chinese#:~:text=The%20Chinese%20Immigration%20Act%2C%201923,fines%2C%20detainment%2C%20or%20deportation.

Website title

Parks Canada Agency, Government of Canada

Date accessed

June 8, 2024

Date published

June 06, 2024

Article title

Chinese Head tax: George Yee's story

URL

https://royalalbertamuseum.ca/blog/chinese-head-tax-george-yees-story#:~:text=The%20Head%20Tax%20was%20only,in%201903%2C%20where%20it%20remained.

Website title

Royal Alberta Museum

Date accessed

June 8, 2024

Date published

January 09, 2023

Article title

The Chinese head tax and the Chinese Exclusion Act

URL

https://humanrights.ca/story/chinese-head-tax-and-chinese-exclusion-act#:~:text=In%201885%2C%20immediately%20after%20construction,%2450%2C%20called%20a%20head%20tax.

Website title

CMHR

Date accessed

June 8, 2024

Article title

The Chinese head tax and the Chinese Exclusion Act

URL

https://humanrights.ca/story/chinese-head-tax-and-chinese-exclusion-act#:~:text=In%201885%2C%20immediately%20after%20construction,%2450%2C%20called%20a%20head%20tax.

Website title

CMHR

Date accessed

June 8, 2

024

Article title

Well-off Chinese families of the 1980s and 90s in pictures

URL

https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/china/2016-03/02/content_23712381_3.htm

Website title

Well-off Chinese families of the 1980s and 90s in pictures[3]- Chinadaily.com.cn

Date accessed

June 8, 2024

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Dear Mom,

I hope this letter finds you feeling a bit better today. I've been thinking about you a lot lately and wishing I could be there by your side. But until I can make it home, I wanted to write to you and share some of the things that have been keeping me occupied here in the city.

When I'm not at work, I enjoy spending time with my friends at the local diner down the street. We often meet up there to grab a milkshake or share a slice of pie, and it's always a cozy and comforting atmosphere. Sometimes we'll even stay late into the night, chatting away until the diner owner kindly reminds us that it's closing time.

I've also been getting more involved in the community lately. There's a community center not too far from where I live, and they offer all sorts of activities and classes. I've been attending a painting class there once a week, and I have to say, it's been incredibly therapeutic. There's something so calming about putting paint to canvas and creating something beautiful.

In addition to painting, I've been spending a lot of time at the local library. You know how much I love to read, and the library has become one of my favorite places to escape to. I've been working my way through the classics, losing myself in the worlds of Jane Austen and Charles Dickens. It's amazing how a good book can transport you to another time and place.

But above all else, Mom, I want you to know that I'll be home soon to visit you. I miss your comforting presence and the warmth of your embrace, and I can't wait to spend time with you again. Until then, please take care of yourself and know that you are always in my thoughts and prayers.

With all my love,

Mei

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During the 1950s, Thomas continued to embody the spirit of adventure and exploration that had defined his youth. As the world emerged from the shadows of war and entered a new era of prosperity and possibility, Thomas found himself drawn to new horizons and opportunities for discovery.

With a passion for innovation and a thirst for knowledge, Thomas pursued a career in aerospace engineering, a field at the forefront of technological advancement and exploration. He was captivated by the promise of space travel and the prospect of venturing beyond the confines of Earth to explore the vast expanse of the cosmos.

As an aerospace engineer, Thomas played a pivotal role in shaping the future of space exploration, contributing his expertise to the development of cutting-edge technologies and spacecraft that would enable humanity to reach new heights in the exploration of space.

His work took him to the forefront of the space race, where he collaborated with fellow visionaries and pioneers to push the boundaries of what was thought possible. He played a key role in the design and development of spacecraft that would ultimately carry astronauts to the moon and beyond, paving the way for humanity to take its first steps into the cosmos.

But Thomas's contributions to space exploration extended far beyond the confines of his professional career. He became a passionate advocate for the peaceful exploration of space, using his platform to promote international cooperation and collaboration in the quest to unlock the mysteries of the universe.

In addition to his work in aerospace engineering, Thomas remained an avid adventurer and explorer in his personal life. He continued to seek out new experiences and challenges, whether it be trekking through remote wildernesses, climbing towering mountains, or sailing across vast oceans.

Through his dedication to exploration and discovery, Thomas inspired countless individuals to dream big and reach for the stars. He believed that by embracing the unknown and pushing the boundaries of what was thought possible, humanity could unlock the secrets of the universe and create a better future for all.

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During the 1950s, Mei continued to channel her passion for social justice and advocacy into a career that would leave a lasting impact on her community and beyond. With a keen intellect and a compassionate heart, she pursued a path in public service, dedicating herself to improving the lives of others and fighting for equality and justice for all.

Mei became a prominent figure in the civil rights movement, using her voice and platform to advocate for the rights of marginalized communities. She marched alongside civil rights leaders, organized protests, and spoke out against discrimination and segregation, challenging the status quo and demanding change.

As a social worker and community organizer, Mei worked tirelessly to address the root causes of poverty and inequality, providing support and resources to those in need and fighting for policies that would uplift and empower marginalized communities.

Her efforts did not go unnoticed, and Mei quickly rose through the ranks, becoming a respected leader and advocate for social change. She played a key role in the desegregation of schools and public spaces, championed fair housing policies, and fought for equal access to healthcare and education for all.

But Mei's impact extended far beyond her professional career. She became a mentor and role model for future generations of activists and change-makers, inspiring others to join the fight for justice and equality.

In addition to her advocacy work, Mei found fulfillment in her personal life. She raised a family with her loving partner, instilling in her children the values of compassion, empathy, and social responsibility. Together, they created a home filled with love, laughter, and a deep sense of community.

As the decade drew to a close, Mei looked back on her life with pride and gratitude, knowing that she had made a difference in the lives of countless individuals and helped to shape a more just and equitable society. Her legacy lived on in the hearts and minds of all those she had touched, inspiring future generations to continue the fight for a better world for all.

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The transition was not without its challenges, as the scars of war lingered in the hearts and minds of all who had endured its hardships. Mei and Thomas grappled with the memories of their father's absence, the fear of the unknown, and the uncertainty of what the future held.

But with the love and support of their family, Mei and Thomas found the strength to persevere. They embraced their father's return with open arms, eager to reconnect with the man who had sacrificed so much for their sake. They listened intently as he recounted tales of his time at war, his words a testament to the courage and resilience of the human spirit.

As the days turned into weeks, Mei and Thomas adjusted to life in the aftermath of war, finding solace in the simple pleasures of everyday life. They rediscovered the joy of laughter and camaraderie, rekindling old friendships and forging new bonds with their peers.

Mei threw herself into her studies, her determination to succeed fueled by the desire to honor her father's sacrifice. She excelled in school, her intellect and creativity shining brightly as she pursued her dreams with unwavering determination.

Thomas, too, found his place in the world, his passion for adventure and exploration leading him on a journey of self-discovery. He joined a local sports team, channeling his energy and enthusiasm into the thrill of competition and the camaraderie of teamwork.

Together, Mei and Thomas navigated the complexities of adolescence with courage and grace, their experiences enriched by the love and support of their family. They faced the challenges of growing up in a world still reeling from the scars of war, but they did so with resilience and optimism, knowing that the bonds of family would always carry them through even the darkest of times.

As they looked to the future with hope and determination, Mei and Thomas knew that the lessons they had learned during wartime would guide them on their journey forward. They carried with them the legacy of their father's sacrifice, a reminder of the strength and resilience that lay within them, ready to face whatever challenges the future may hold with courage and conviction.

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letter from Daniel to mai and his children

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letter from Daniel to mai and his children

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My Dearest children and my Beloved Wife,

I hope this letter finds you well and brings you some comfort in my absence. I cannot begin to express the depths of my longing to be with you all, to hold you in my arms and assure you of my safety. Though distance may separate us, know that you are always in my thoughts and prayers, guiding me through each day with your love and strength.

The past months have been filled with trials and tribulations, as I navigate the tumultuous landscape of war. Yet, amidst the chaos and uncertainty, I find solace in the memories we share and the unwavering bond of our family. Your faces are etched in my mind, a beacon of hope that lights my way through the darkest of nights.

I wish I could spare you the details of the horrors I have witnessed on the battlefield, but I know you would want to hear the truth. War is a cruel and unforgiving mistress, claiming the lives of brave men and women without mercy. But amidst the despair and destruction, there are moments of courage and compassion that restore my faith in humanity.

I want you to know that I am safe, as safe as one can be in times like these. I have found comradeship and camaraderie among my fellow soldiers, forging bonds that transcend the boundaries of race and nationality. Together, we endure the hardships of war with courage and resilience, drawing strength from the knowledge that our sacrifices serve a greater purpose.

As I write this letter, I am reminded of the countless sacrifices you have made in my absence. I miss your laughter and your boundless energy, your spirit lighting up even the darkest of days. I miss our conversations and the sound of your voice, a reminder of the man you are becoming., I miss the warmth of your embrace and the love that sustains me through every trial.

Please know that I am doing everything in my power to return to you, to hold you in my arms once more and build a future filled with hope and promise. Until that day comes, stay strong and keep faith in our love. Remember that no matter where we are, we are always together in heart and spirit.

With all my love and devotion,

Your Husband and Father

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Daniel(gunman on the floor to the farthest left) serving in the battle of  Britain, North

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As the war raged on, the wei family's world was upended when Daniel received a letter that would change their lives forever. It was a call to duty, a summons to serve his country in its time of need.

Daniel's heart sank as he read the words on the page, his mind racing with conflicting emotions. On one hand, he felt a sense of duty and patriotism, a desire to do his part for the greater good. On the other hand, he couldn't bear the thought of leaving his family behind, knowing the dangers that awaited him on the battlefield.

But as he looked into the eyes of his wife and children, Daniel knew that he had to answer the call. He owed it to his country, to his fellow soldiers, and to future generations who would inherit the world he helped shape.

With a heavy heart, Daniel bids farewells to his family, promising to return to them as soon as he can. hua and Thomas clung to their father, tears streaming down their cheeks as they said their goodbyes. Mrs. wei stood stoically by his side, her heart breaking with every step he took away from them.

As Daniel marched off to war, the wei family was left to grapple with the uncertainty of his fate. They clung to each other for comfort and support, finding solace in their shared memories and the hope of a brighter tomorrow.

But as the days turned into weeks, and the weeks into months, the absence of their father weighed heavily on the children. They missed his laughter, his guidance, and his unwavering love. Mrs. wei did her best to hold the family together in his absence, but her heart ached with the longing for her husband's return.

Meanwhile, daniel faced the horrors of war with courage and determination, his thoughts never far from his beloved family back home. He endured the harsh realities of battle, witnessing the devastation and loss that surrounded him on all sides.

But through it all, Mr. Lee held onto the memory of his family, the thought of their smiling faces giving him the strength to persevere in the darkest of times. And when the war finally came to an end, and Mr. Lee returned home to his family, they embraced him with open arms, their love and resilience stronger than ever in the face of adversity.

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finding hope when there seems to be none

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finding hope when there seems to be none

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Despite the hardships of wartime, the Lee family found moments of joy and connection through simple pleasures and shared experiences.

1. Family Gatherings: The weis cherished their time together as a family, often gathering around the dinner table to share stories, laughter, and homemade meals. Mrs. Lee's culinary skills brought comfort and warmth to their home, and her delicious dishes became a source of solace during difficult times.

2. Cultural Celebrations: Mrs. weis roots in Chinese culture provided a rich tapestry of traditions for the family to enjoy. They celebrated Lunar New Year with vibrant festivities, including dragon dances, fireworks, and elaborate feasts. These cultural celebrations brought a sense of community and belonging to the Lees, connecting them to their heritage and each other.

3. Outdoor Activities: Despite the constraints of wartime, the Lees found refuge in nature, exploring the nearby parks and green spaces. They enjoyed picnics in the park, leisurely strolls along the riverbank, and family bike rides through the countryside. These outdoor activities provided a welcome respite from the stresses of daily life and allowed the family to reconnect with the beauty of the natural world.

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With Daniel working tirelessly in the city's bustling Chinatown, the burden of maintaining the household fell heavily on Mrs. wei's shoulders. Jobs were scarce as the war effort demanded more resources, leaving families like theirs struggling to make ends meet.

Food shortages became a daily reality, with rationing forcing the Lees to tighten their belts and stretch their meals as far as they could. Mrs. wei spent countless hours waiting in long lines for meager supplies, her heart heavy with worry for her children's well-being.

But it wasn't just the physical toll of the war that weighed on the family; it was the constant fear and uncertainty that hung in the air like a dark cloud. Anti-immigrant sentiment ran high, and the wei's often found themselves the targets of suspicion and prejudice. There children faced taunts and jeers in public, their mixed heritage making them easy targets for people looking for someone to blame for the hardships of war. Yet, despite the cruelty of their peers, they stood tall, finding strength in the love and support of their family.

As the war dragged on, the weis endured one hardship after another, their resilience tested but never broken. They clung to each other tightly, finding solace in their shared struggles and the unwavering bond of family.

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ming (left) and hua(right) still rocking traditional clothing on special occasions to keep their culture alive  

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As they entered the Canadian schooling system, Ming Wei and Hua Wei encountered barriers that extended beyond academic pursuits. Despite the abolition of the head tax, discriminatory attitudes towards Chinese immigrants persisted, casting a shadow over their opportunities for education and advancement.

In the classroom, Ming Wei and Hua Wei faced taunts, slurs, and isolation from their classmates who viewed them as outsiders due to their Chinese heritage. Despite their best efforts to fit in, they often found themselves marginalized and excluded from social circles, making it difficult to form meaningful connections and friendships.

Outside of school, Ming Wei and Hua Wei's families faced economic hardships exacerbated by the lingering effects of the head tax. Jobs were scarce for Chinese immigrants, and those that were available often paid meager wages and offered little job security. Ming Wei and Hua Wei's parents worked tirelessly in low-paying jobs, struggling to make ends meet and provide for their families.

Despite the obstacles they faced, Ming Wei and Hua Wei remained determined to forge a better future for themselves and their families. They threw themselves into their studies, determined to overcome the barriers that stood in their way. Through hard work, perseverance, and dedication, Ming Wei and Hua Wei excelled academically, earning recognition for their intelligence and determination.

As they grew older, Ming Wei and Hua Wei became increasingly involved in community activism, advocating for the rights and equality of Chinese immigrants in Canada. They joined forces with other activists to challenge discriminatory practices and push for greater inclusion and representation in Canadian society.

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Hua Wei's story begins with her Father's brave decision to leave their homeland in search of a better life in Vancouver, Canada. Born into a family of immigrants, Hua Wei grew up navigating the complexities of cultural identity while striving to honor her Chinese heritage.

Growing up in Guangdong and then moving to ,Vancouver's vibrant Chinatown when her father payed for her mom and siblings head tax, Hua Wei was surrounded by the sights, sounds, and smells of her ancestral culture. Despite the challenges of being a first-generation immigrant, she cherished the values instilled in her by her parents: hard work, perseverance, and a deep respect for family.

As she came of age, Hua Wei forged her own path, pursuing higher education and building a career in the bustling city. It was during this time that she met and fell in love with a kind-hearted man named Daniel. Like Hua Wei, Daniel was the child of immigrants, his family having come to Canada from Europe in search of a better life.

Together, Hua Wei and Daniel built a life filled with love and laughter. They shared a deep connection rooted in their shared experiences as children of immigrants, and their bond only grew stronger with time. Despite the challenges they faced as a mixed-race couple, Hua Wei and David remained steadfast in their love for each other. However, their happiness was tempered by the lingering shadow of the Chinese head tax, a painful reminder of the discriminatory policies that had once divided their community. While the head tax had been abolished years ago, its legacy lingered on, casting a long shadow over the lives of Chinese Canadians like Hua Wei and David.

Despite the challenges they faced, Hua Wei and David remained resilient, drawing strength from their love for each other and their growing family. They worked tirelessly to provide for their children thomas and mei(named after her mother), often juggling multiple jobs to make ends meet.

But their struggles only brought them closer together, reinforcing the bond that held their family together. As they navigated the ups and downs of life in Vancouver, Hua Wei and David found solace in each other's arms, knowing that together, they could overcome any obstacle. They had four children together in total and later moved out to town to toronto in the later years.

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Ming Wei was a diligent student, his days filled with the pursuit of knowledge and the dreams of a brighter tomorrow. He was determined to make his mark on the world, to carve out a future that was distinctly his own.

But as he delved into his studies, Ming Wei couldn't help but notice the shifts happening within his family. His once bustling household had grown quieter, his parents growing older with each passing day. And his sister, Mei Ling, had embarked on a journey of her own.

Mei Ling, once Ming Wei's closest companion and confidante, had found love in the arms of a kind man named Daniel. Together, they had built a life filled with laughter and love, welcoming Four beautiful children into their home. As Ming Wei watched his sister embrace her new role as a wife and mother, he couldn't help but feel a twinge of nostalgia for the days gone by.

While Ming Wei was happy for his sister, he couldn't shake the feeling of being left behind. As his friends started families of their own, Ming Wei remained focused on his studies and his career. He was single, not ready to settle down or start a family of his own.

Despite the expectations of society and the well-meaning advice of his relatives, Ming Wei stood firm in his decision to pursue his dreams first. He poured himself into his studies, excelling in his academics and immersing himself in the world of business and commerce.

Yet, amidst the whirlwind of his life, Ming Wei couldn't deny the occasional pang of loneliness. He missed the camaraderie of his youth, the laughter shared with his sister, and the warmth of a family united under one roof.

But with each passing day, Ming Wei found strength in his purpose. He knew that his journey was his own, and that he was on the path to building a future that would make his family proud. And though the road ahead may be uncertain, Ming Wei faced it with determination and resilience.

For Ming Wei knew that someday, when the time was right, he would find his own happiness. He ended up dying alone not married without any kids but he did make an impact on his community

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For Mei, the transition was marked by a sense of awe and wonder, as she marveled at the towering buildings and bustling streets of Chinatown. Despite the language barrier and unfamiliar customs, she embraced each new experience with a spirit of resilience and determination.

Chen Wei, too, found himself navigating the complexities of immigrant life in Canada. He worked long hours in the laundry houses and restaurants of Chinatown, his hands calloused from years of toil, as he sought to provide for his family and build a better future for them.

Their children, too, faced their own challenges as they adjusted to life in Canada. In school, they grappled with the unfamiliarity of a new language and culture, yet they approached each obstacle with a sense of curiosity and determination to learn and grow.

As the years passed, the Chen family found solace and support within the close-knit community of Chinatown. They celebrated Lunar New Year with friends and neighbors, sharing stories of their homeland and preserving cherished traditions passed down through generations.

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picture of li and mei reunited with there children at last

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Months turned into years, and as the seasons changed, so too did Chen Wei's determination. He scrimped and saved, sacrificing his own comforts and desires in the hopes of one day bringing Mei and their children hua and Ming wei to join him in Canada.

With each passing day, Chen Wei's resolve only grew stronger. He wrote letters to Mei, pouring out his heart and soul in words of love and longing. He spoke of the promise of a better life in Canada, of the opportunities that awaited them in this distant land.

Despite the challenges and setbacks he faced, Chen Wei never lost faith. He held onto the hope that one day, against all odds, his family would be reunited, and they would build a new life together in Canada.

Finally, after years of tireless effort and sacrifice, Chen Wei's perseverance paid off. In 1915, he received news that Mei and their children had secured passage to Canada, their dreams of a reunion about to be realised.

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Dear Mei,

I hope this letter finds you well, my dearest wife. As I sit here in our modest apartment in Vancouver's Chinatown, surrounded by the sights and sounds of this bustling city, my thoughts are consumed by memories of our life together in Guangdong. How I long to see your smile, to feel the warmth of your embrace once more.

My journey to Canada has been filled with trials and tribulations, yet amidst the challenges, my love for you has remained steadfast and unwavering. Each day, as I toil in the laundry houses and restaurants of Chinatown, I am fueled by the hope of one day being reunited with you and our beloved children.

The road ahead is fraught with obstacles, my dear Mei. The burden of the Chinese Head Tax weighs heavy upon me, making it difficult to save enough money to bring you and the children to join me in Canada. Yet, despite the hardships we face, I refuse to lose faith. I will work tirelessly, sacrificing my own comforts and desires, to ensure that our family is reunited once more.

Please know, my love, that you are always in my thoughts and prayers. I yearn for the day when we can walk hand in hand through the streets of Vancouver, our hearts filled with joy and gratitude for the blessings that await us in this new land.

Until then, my dear Mei, hold onto hope and never lose sight of our dreams. Together, we will overcome any obstacle that stands in our way, for our love is stronger than any hardship we may face.

With all my love,

Your devoted husband

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Dear Hua Wei,

I hope this letter finds you and your family in good health and high spirits. It's been a while since we last caught up, and I've been meaning to write to you for some time now. Life here in Vancouver, Canada, has been as vibrant and diverse as ever, but I can't help but miss the days when we were all together in Shanghai.

Since you've moved to Toronto with Liang and the kids, things have been a bit quieter around here. The house feels empty without the laughter of the little ones echoing through the halls, and I find myself reminiscing about our childhood together more often than not. But I'm glad to hear that you've settled into your new home and that the family is doing well.

As for me, life in Vancouver has been quite enjoyable. The city's stunning natural beauty never fails to amaze me, and I've taken up hiking as a hobby to explore the nearby mountains and forests. There's something truly rejuvenating about being surrounded by nature, away from the hustle and bustle of city life.

In addition to hiking, I've also become quite fond of fishing. There's a serene calmness that comes with spending hours by the water, waiting patiently for the fish to bite. It's a wonderful way to unwind after a long week and recharge for the days ahead.

Of course, I still find time for my other interests as well. Vancouver's vibrant cultural scene offers a plethora of opportunities to indulge in art, music, and theater. I've been attending local performances and art exhibitions whenever I can, immersing myself in the creativity and talent of the community.

Despite the distance between us, I feel connected to you and the family through our shared memories and the bond that ties us together. Though our paths may have diverged geographically, our love and support for each other remain unwavering.

Please give my warm regards to Liang and the children. I hope to visit you in Toronto soon and catch up in person. Until then, know that you're always in my thoughts and prayers.

With love,

le wei