LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Dear Editor,

I wanted to write to you to let you know just how much I enjoy reading your magazine. I am an American-born Chinese who has never been to mainland China and has only visited Taiwan a few times, staying no more than three weeks at a time. Your magazine has numerous articles which allow me to gain greater insight into the Chinese culture that I had never known before. It has allowed me to understand my parents' and grandparents' background as well as that of my wife, who was born and raised in Taiwan and has been in the United States only five years. Being an American-born Chinese, I frequently encounter cultural differences when dealing with my parents, in-laws and relatives. I see everything from an American perspective. Sinorama has made me more aware and knowledgeable of Chinese society, values and customs. When my wife talks about her past experiences while growing up, I can relate to them and offer feedback because of my knowledge of Taiwan. I feel that the more knowledge that one has about one's heritage, the more he/she will want to learn. Learning Chinese has opened up numerous opportunities for me in business, school, friends, and entertainment. I am always trying to improve my Chinese whenever I get an opportunity. My wife and I speak Mandarin to each other. I enjoy practicing my writing whenever I get a chance. Reading is difficult, but I am able to recognize some key words and phrases. Your magazine, being bilingual in English and Chinese, is perfect for someone such as myself. My goal is to be able to obtain the knowledge of both cultures and pass it down to the next generation.

Ching-An Cheng

USA