An Event to Remember
An Event to Remember
Monica Lee (陳敏然)(’66)
The success of Ying Wa Girls’ School is like a piece of valuable tapestry woven by the past eight principals, the numerous dedicated teachers and the many past and present students.
My trip to Hong Kong for this 125th year Thanksgiving celebration opened my eyes to the beauty that emerged when everyone who loves YWGS gathered to celebrate the success of the school.
Prior to the celebration, I had the opportunity to join a guided tour of the school and visited the kindergarten which is now designated by the government as a heritage edifice. The room, though small, harbored many awards, old documents and photos of long time ago. I recognized many familiar faces …... including one of myself singing in a pretty little dress!!!
The architecture of the main school building is very modern and impressive. I was most fascinated by the outdoor courtyard tucked away in a quiet corner. It could be an oasis for meditation!! How wonderful it is!!
The basketball court on the roof top is another feature I admire! It appeared on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1FaR8krJV6/?mibextid=wwXIfr and https://www.facebook.com/share/r/1B9LBzvSkE/?mibextid=wwXIfr). The professional photographer explored Hong Kong looking for beautiful basketball courts, and he highlighted ours as a beauty!! It made me so proud!
I must say thank you to the hardworking Principal, Mr Kwan, the many generous donors and all the many volunteers in the redevelopment fund-raising committee. Your effort has greatly lifted the image of our school!!!
March 29 was the day of the thanksgiving celebration. The Silcocks Hall was well packed. The service was solemn with the usual speeches, choir singing and prayers. It was interesting to me because everyone was listening so intently, agreeing to every word! After the ceremony, the crowd became boisterous because everyone was talking to everyone else!!! People were so jubilant to meet old friends!!! Many lined up to greet Rev CC Lee and wanted her blessing and signature!!
The evening gathering at Hopewell Hotel was just as memorable. I was so impressed with the warm welcome from Mr Kwan, his singing performance, the preview of the musical and lastly, the meet-and-greet of the new principal!! That was awesome!!!
The next event in the program was photo taking with Mr Kwan in groups. Of course, we had about 150 overseas alumnae from Canada, USA and Australia!!! Happy faces abound!! And like magic moments, we shook hands, embraced and rejoiced in the reunion!!
The most touching event of the evening was to see Mr Kwan walking up and down the stage with his broken leg in crutches. I admired his strength and his endless love and contribution to make this event harmonious and cheerful. On the same note, I was extremely impressed by my sister’s classmate, Ling Che Ming (’65), who attended the evening in her wheelchair. She came with the broadest smile and most gentle words. I was moved by her strength and her effort. She was really the shining star at our table!!!
In closing, I must admit I have not authored any article as long as I can remember. However, when I was asked by my sister, Sonja Chan (’71), to speak about my impression of the 125th anniversary as an alumna from Canada, I could not say NO. Thank you to all of you who made this celebration event so successful! May God bless you all!!