Chasing Ice

After 10 LONG months, the DVD Chasing Ice has finally been released.  I am one of the very first ones who got it immediately... 

Every time when someone calls me a "photographer", I always tell them without hesitation that I am NOT a photographer.  Maybe I was trying to be humble and modest.  But deep in my heart, I never want to become a pointless "photographer" who fails to understand the true value of photography...  I've always wanted to give a meaning to my pursuit of photography -- at the very least, I hope photography can become a way for me to shape my character and enrich my life.

Go watch the movie Chasing Ice.  You'd then understand my aspiration for a true photographer -- someone who can really utilize his/her skills to contribute to human race...  To that end, I am afraid I may never become a real photographer!

25 years...

It was 25 years ago, on 9/19/1988, I arrived in this country and started my life in America...

----- Forwarded Message -----
From: Pei Tang <tang_pei@yahoo.com>
To: Pei Tang <tang_pei@yahoo.com>
Sent: Tuesday, September 18, 2007 9:21 PM
Subject: 19 years...

It was 19 years ago, on 9/19/88, I arrived in this country and started my life in America.  It's been a great experience.  Looking back, I am grateful for all the opportunities I have had over the past 19 years.  I am particularly thankful for all the help and support I received from my graduate school professor, Dr. Thomas, during the early and most difficult days of my long journey in America.      

The following is an interview Michelle did for school when she was only 10. 

By Michelle Zhang

2/25/2001

For this report, I interviewed my mother who immigrated to this country from China.  She, like most other immigrants, came here for more opportunities to be successful in her career.  She also wanted to provide a better life for her future children. 

She came here in 1988 as a graduate student.  Right before the trip to America, she was a graduate student in Beijing.  Her life was not as bad as some immigrants because she knew some English.  In her high school in China, she was taught the American Language.  She was a little scared of her new life she'd have to start.  She didn't know anyone and only had $45.  After the first few weeks, she came to realize that people here were open and friendly.   

Fortunately, she did not experience any racism and prejudice.  She made many American friends at her job and they all respect her a great deal.  She says she likes America because you have all kinds of opportunities, and if you work hard, you are sure to succeed.

Letter for Grandpa

September 6, 2013

Dear Grandpa, 

Mom tells me that you are feeling weaker, and that she is going to go visit you. I am writing to let you know that I am thinking of you. I want to let you know that everything is going to be okay. I know that you must be frightened, even though you have always seemed strong and brave. But there is nothing to be afraid of - whatever is meant to happen will happen easily, and it will be just fine. 

Mom always tells me that you want me to take care of my health and to work hard in all aspects of my life. I get my determination from you, and that will carry me through the rest of my life. Don't worry about me - I have found happiness and success in life so far, and I know that I will continue to do so. I will always be doing my best, for you and for Grandma. I am still always thinking about both of you, and I am thankful for all the time that you've spent with me, all the lessons that you've taught me, and all the love that you've given me. Even though I am half a world away from you, I still feel a very special connection with you and I always will. 

I love you, Grandpa. You are an inspiration and your wisdom will always guide me in the right direction. 

A Bao