This suitcase is at least 18 years old. Lei's parents used it when they first moved to the US. We dug it out of their basement and gave it some TLC (aka duck tape). Next week, I'm going to use it on my one-way flight to China.
Here's the original sticker from their flight! Is this cool?!
On a deeper note, here is Lei's symbolic commentary...
The suitcase (pictured above) contains a lot of symbolism. It was almost 20 years ago, that my parents sacrificed everything and used this suitcase to bring me out of China. They gave up their home, job and friends so that I may have a better life in the US. Now almost 20 years later, we are headed back to the place they brought me out of with the SAME suitcase.
I hope my parents do not take my choice to go back to China as a rejection of the wonderful gift they have given me. I love living in the US. I would not be where I am today without their sacrifice. I hope someday they will come to fully understand our decision to move back to China.
6 comments:
i like this blog!
Hey Lei - my parents feel the same way about our family moving overseas. They just don't get it...yet. Sorry I missed you before you left.
Ah. The suitcase bring back some of my own memories of coming to the US. I think we came with the stereotypical FOB bag - plastic with light blue and red stripes. Lei, you remember those, don't you? :)
Post some pictures of your new home!
Miss you guys!
thanks for sharing! it IS quite ironic. hope the transition is going well!
cant wait to read about your adventures! have a safe trip. will miss u!!
I'm so honored that I got to borrow this suitcase! My parents have a rice cooker at home that's similar in age/ meaning. It really is incredible to think about the sacrifice our parents made and the gifts we now have, including our choice to be back in China.
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