Sometimes a very uplifting things happens right in the middle of working on a tedious project.  That just happened to me when I was surprised by an email from a gracious lady who was in our offices about a week ago.  Ping and I spent a lot of time talking with her.  She is Chinese, though she was born and grew up in Vietnam before moving to America.  Her reaction to our story is therefore very meaningful to us.  Here is what she had to say:

Hi Lee,

I finished reading your book 2 nights ago (a nice birthday present to myself).  Thank you for writing and sharing your wonderful story; it is a very touching and heart-warming story about love, family, and perseverance.  I especially like the part about Buck and how you can relate to Buck growing up and through the Marines, college, etc.  It is very admirable how you give this back to your children.

I remember in your office,  you were telling me how you spent 4 hours or more every night with Cici in the beginning with homework, and the transition downward to about one hour a night now, and what a great student she has become.  What a truly beautiful gift one can give a child.  I remember tutoring elementary-aged children with my roommate in college and how fantastic that experience was.

I also like the journal part of the book, where you described Ping and Cici's amazement and excitement with being here with the family all together.  I like the Mickey Mouse sticker in the toilet too.  Thank you for sharing your talents and story ...

All the best
/s/

A message like this gives me a new burst of energy.