Well-respected architect and philanthropist, William Ming Sing Lee, was born into one of the wealthiest families in Shanghai. (see post one.) As a child, he wanted for nothing...except that which was unattainable: good health and a more empathetic mother. (see post two and post three.) While the war made some things--like great medical care--impossible, it gave him a window into western culture. He began studying at the Shanghai American School, and eventually came to study in the U.S. (see post four and post five.) While Billy's father prepared him for life in America, the man could not prepare Billy for what was to happen in China. (see post six.)
In the 50’s and 60’s, while the Cultural Revolution was
simmering in China, Billy was doing his best to recover from his father's sudden death, while at the same time adapting to America.
“I wasn’t too
aware of political situations. I was only aware of what was happening around
me.”
What was happening around him was that he was running into a lot of very kind, caring people.
“In China you do have caring
people, but most are very reserved….unlike Americans who are more outgoing, and
if they like you, they go all out.
"Most Chinese are not used to inviting people
to their homes. They are very concerned about face, reputation, prestige. If they cannot help enough, they will refuse to help in
even the smallest way.
"In America, people reach out more generously. In fact,
some of the poorest people in America show greater kindness, generosity, giving.”
To this day, Billy remains touched by the care he received
from American families. The idea of "homestay"—housing foreigners with families--
is one of his passions. He continues to promote the idea, especially in China, and an article he wrote on the subject was published in Women of China and Voice of Friendship. “If things go right, the bonding is true and
lasting forever.”
(To be continued: Next: Billy Brings Back Culture to the Laughing Stock of China.)
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