When people talk about success, the conversation almost always revolves around effort. We hear phrases like: “Work hard and you’ll achieve anything,” or “If you just put in enough hours, success is guaranteed.” And while effort is undeniably important, I believe this perspective misses a critical element: emotional management. Think about it—how many talented, hardworking […]
Filipino Life Near Hsinchu Science Park Near Hsinchu Science Park, there are several communities where many Filipino workers live. Most of them work for semiconductor manufacturers in the Science Park. I used to be part of one of those companies, so I know that these workers are well-educated and speak excellent English. That’s why many
Cultural Encounters on the Basketball Court: A Story of Inclusion and Rejection Read More »
I don’t believe in fate, but I’ve learned that accepting it sometimes makes life a lot smoother. That sounds like a contradiction, doesn’t it? If I say I don’t believe in fate, why would I also say it’s important to accept it? Well, here’s what I mean. I don’t think every step in our life
What the Dragon King Teaches Us About Pride, Fate, and Acceptance Read More »
The Pride of a Dragon-Year Child In our family, my eldest sister has always held a special place. She is the firstborn, yes — but she is also a Dragon-year baby. In Chinese culture, that combination carries a certain weight. To be born in the Year of the Dragon is to be marked from the
Growing Up in the Year of the Dragon: What I Saw Through My Sister’s Eyes Read More »
Numbers are mostly used for calculation. But in Taiwan, particularly in Chinese culture, it’s beyond the figure itself. They are meaningful in some ways. Numbers in Chinese Expressions From this week’s episode, I explored how numbers in Taiwan go far beyond simple counting. From the lucky power of 8 to the spooky chill of
Unlocking Taiwanese Culture: The Meaning Behind Numbers in Chinese Idioms Read More »
In Taiwan, many major life events—such as moving to a new house, starting a business, honoring ancestors, or getting married—are deeply influenced by cultural traditions and taboos. Why is this the case? Because timing is believed to be essential. People often consult the Farmer’s Almanac to select an auspicious day, hoping that the right timing
The Myth of the Gu Luán Year and What Truly Makes a Marriage Work Read More »
Plus: 塞翁失馬 焉知非福 sāi wēng shī mǎ, yān zhī fēi fú Kids in Taiwan keep the tightened schedule. Kids in Taiwan often grow up with a packed, tightly structured schedule. Most elementary school students start their day around 8:00 in the morning. When school ends in the afternoon, they don’t go straight home—instead, they rush
Why Kids in Taiwan Live on Tight Schedules: A Cultural and Historical Perspective Read More »
