A Friendship and Compassion That Have Endured for More Than Fifty Years

Shun-Mei Wu

Today, I witnessed a heartwarming scene that deeply touched me.

Our Kiology master, Professor Ching-Tse Lee, not only teaches Ling Long Gong and Zhan Zhuang, but also genuinely cares about the health and well-being of his students. When he learned that Chia-Der’s right leg had become weaker, he immediately bent down and personally massaged and gently tapped his leg to help improve circulation and mobility.

At that moment, I saw more than a teacher caring for a student. I saw a lifelong friend expressing sincere compassion and concern.

Professor Lee and we have known each other for more than fifty years. We are not only close friends but also fellow church members and photography enthusiasts. Through the decades, our friendship has grown richer and more meaningful with time.

One experience remains forever etched in our hearts. On the evening of November 12, 2024, around 10 p.m., Chia-Der became critically ill with sepsis and needed immediate emergency care. As soon as Professor Lee received our call, he did not hesitate. He immediately drove us to a hospital on Long Island. Because of his prompt assistance and God’s grace, the medical team was able to begin treatment without delay, and Chia-Der’s life was saved.

Whenever we remember that frightening night, our hearts overflow with gratitude. An old saying teaches us, “At home, we rely on our parents; away from home, we rely on our friends.” We have experienced the truth of those words firsthand.

This photograph captures much more than a simple act of care. It reflects a friendship built over decades, a heart filled with kindness and compassion, and a bond that has endured through the many seasons of life.

Above all, we thank God for His amazing grace and loving providence. Through the challenges and uncertainties of life, He has faithfully guided and sustained us and has brought into our lives a gentle and caring friend like Professor Lee—a blessing for which we will always be grateful.

To have a true friend is one of life’s greatest gifts. To have a friend who has walked beside us for more than fifty years is truly a blessing from God.

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