I used to be a primary school English teacher, and I taught for more than 38 years. Over the years, I worked at various fishermen’s children schools—near Aberdeen, Sai Kung, and Sha Tau Kok’s typhoon shelters. What I enjoyed most was seeing my students grow year after year and getting into good secondary schools. That sense of fulfillment is priceless. Some of my students even became TV celebrities! I’ve always loved writing. Many years ago, one of my poems even won an award in the United States. I first started teaching English in a school in Tai O, where I met my wife. She passed away several decades ago from colon cancer. At the time, we had three young children, and I was working while also studying part-time for a teaching diploma. It was a very difficult period—but thankfully my parents were there to help look after the kids. Now my children are all grown up. During festive seasons, we still gather and see each other—it’s something I treasure deeply.  

After I retired, I moved into Helping Hand's elderly home. At first, I helped out with part-time tasks, such as delivering meals to our residents and others in need nearby. Later on, I became a volunteer, going twice a week to the Helping Hand Association’s Father B. S. Woo Nursing Home to accompany elderly residents—especially those who are more frail—to their medical appointments. Eventually, I was elected by the residents to be the chairman of our committee, acting as a bridge between the residents and the management team. Out of 124 residents, I received 107 votes—I guess they appreciate that I used to be a teacher.

At Helping Hand’s elderly home, we enjoy a great deal of freedom. Around three to four residents share a unit, and we often have lunch together. The atmosphere is harmonious, and everyone gets along well. Every day, I make sure to walk at least 6,000 steps as part of my exercise routine. I’m very grateful to have settled down here, and I’m truly happy that I can contribute my skills to benefit both myself and others. My daily schedule keeps me quite busy—but I love having things to do. I enjoy singing, dancing, travelling, and playing number mahjong, and I’m pretty good at all of them! If I had one piece of advice for young people, it would be this: build a strong work ethic, be considerate, and treat others with kindness.

Storytelling by Hong Kong Shifts