When little, what did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was growing up, I wanted to be a secretary. I wanted to help successful leaders become even more successful and to lead people into greatness as a result of my efforts.
What do you want to be now?
For now, I wish to be a good student, son, and a violin maker. Within all of my outlets, whether they are public or private, I want to demonstrate quality work for people to know me by the good works and the extra effort I put into all that I do.
What was your most embarrassing moment?
When I was ten years old, I was playing violin in a school talent show. Midway through, I forgot my part and just stood there for five minutes while the piano continued to play. I wish I could have raised the standard in my performance, but I learned from what happened.
If you could edit your past, what would you change?
I would like to change the way I treated my friends. I would have paid more attention to those people who benefit from my life, and who I can benefit from in return. I would treat them better, so I would never lose them.
Which living person do you admire the most?
My master who teaches me how to make violins. He is the one who told me “If you want to make a good violin, you have to become a good person first.” My master’s skillful handiwork and attention to detail have always been attractive to me, and are traits that I wish to train in my life.
Which living person do you most dislike?
A stranger from another province that I met on a Line 10 subway station. He beat his wife and publicly insulted her instead of standing up for her and protecting her like a good husband should have. These kinds of things I most dislike.
What do you owe your school?
I owe the school so much for the new way of learning English and all the opportunities I’ve had here. Really I am so glad for all my fellow students and the teachers who care for me. Olive International School has changed my outlook on studying and opened many doors in my education.
What is the best lesson life has taught you so far?
When you respect someone, you may or may not get their respect back. Even when some are undeserving of your respect, it is important to show them kindness anyway. For in doing so, others will see what you’ve done and go and do the same.
What makes you unhappy?
What makes me unhappy is when I believe a topic to be very serious, but those around me take it too lightly or even make jokes. For example, in my English class, we are learning that illegal drugs are a big problem all over the world. It makes me sad and unhappy when people believe this is not their problem or issue to deal with.
What trait do you most dislike in others?
Gossiping is a distasteful trait. Whether it is your business or not, it is never good to talk about other people behind their back. Instead, people should say how they feel with confidence and care, openly trusting others. Even a sad song is pleasing when played to the right tune.
What trait do you most dislike in yourself?
I’m worried too much all the time. Maybe that is the part of me that pushes me to want to do my best in my work and studies, but I’d like to be more carefree at times.
What is your greatest achievement?
I once designed and made a wooden spoon by myself. I took my time to carefully and meticulously draw, cut and carve the piece until I was quite satisfied with the outcome of the utensil. Like everything else, I made a point to do my best and make something really nice.
When did you last cry?
I last cried at my great-grandfather’s funeral a few years ago. It was a very emotional time for me and my family because we care for each other very much. There are troubles that come from time to time, but we can always overcome when we come together as a family.
All photos courtesy of OIS
