Letter to a Mentor - Xiaomin Huang

May 21, 2020

By Beth Johnson

Dear Dad,

Thank you so much for sending me all the way to the U.S. back when I was 15 and supporting me financially and spiritually. Now I think about it, it’s probably very hard for you to make that decision as I only come back home once a year and stay for less than one month.

You have taught me so much from showing your garden to discussing with me about topics including values, politics, culture, news and etc.

You are a businessman, but you challenged my views of businessmen. Over the past years, you have planted trees, flowers, and raised fish which inspired me to work hard but also to enjoy life and be thankful for happiness around you. You have trained me to be a strategic thinker. You would always ask me what I would do in certain situations, and gradually, I learned to be empathetic and find it so helpful throughout my college career. Most importantly, you have taught me to give back when you can. A month ago, you sent me masks to give out to people and hospitals, and as a result, I have donated 1100 masks. When I delivered them, I felt so rewarding, but I knew I wouldn’t feel this way without you.

I am very lucky to have you as my dad, and I will always be. I hope you feel lucky too.

See you soon,

Xiaomin Huang