My First Friend in Taichung

My first friend in Taichung was Jacky, a man who became like a brother to me. If I had to describe our connection with one word, it would be "kindness."

Looking back on my early days in Taichung, I was busy setting up a business as part of my investment immigration. This involved finding an office, hiring employees, and setting things up. I looked at a few places, but they were always a bit far from where I lived. One of those places was managed by Jacky. When we met, it felt as though we had known each other for years. He and his wife were exceptionally welcoming, especially after learning we were from Hong Kong. They shared insights and details about Taichung we hadn’t known. I added him on LINE and thought to myself, "This is a friend worth keeping."

I ended up choosing an office closer to home, but I kept wondering if Jacky’s place had been rented out. So, I invited him over to chat about how he could bring in more clients. Surprisingly, he arrived with drinks for all of us from 50Lan. I later learned that his office was already fully booked—he’d come just to check in and show his genuine care.

This small gesture of kindness was the beginning of a close friendship between our families.

We’ve shared countless meals, each one full of laughter, and with each gathering, we understood each other a bit more. Our friendship flowed like a gentle stream, deepening over time. In the early days, Jacky would always insist on paying, but through our “battle to pay,” I quickly learned the art of being faster. Now, we have a mutual understanding, taking turns to treat each other—a true sign of lasting friendship.

Once, Jacky took us hiking in Wuri. He drove us there and back, and on the way, I played a little ukulele, which delighted his young son. That moment created a special connection, a budding friendship with his child that grew through those simple notes. Our wives also bonded, and we found a warmth in these shared moments.

After the hike, Jacky took us to a Hakka restaurant, and once again, he treated us. The delicious food, the joyful atmosphere—it all filled our hearts with warmth.

I must mention "Yuan Jin Xiao Liu Dumplings." For those dumplings, I was willing to wait in line with friends, even though I’m not one to enjoy waiting. With friends, simple moments gain new meaning.

Jacky’s son loves playing with LEGO, so I found a set to gift him. When I saw his bright smile, it filled me with indescribable joy. I’ve often thought that money only buys temporary happiness, but that day I felt how, when given from the heart, happiness becomes a cherished memory.

Jacky and I have similar values and personalities, yet we learn from each other’s differences. This "harmony without uniformity" feels like the peak of friendship.

I’m especially grateful to Jacky’s wife, who often shares local tips with my wife, helping us settle in Taichung. I’m also thankful for their son, a young friend of good character.

Recently, we bought a house in Taichung, and Jacky has helped tremendously, making the experience so reassuring. I even felt inspired to write about this journey—it’s not just about choosing the right friends; it feels like divine timing.

Over these three years, there have been too many wonderful details to capture, yet they’re all etched deeply in my heart. I look forward to more years together, as joy and memories grow with time.

Wishing Jacky and his family health, happiness, and love.

As a fun note, just a few days ago, Jacky asked if I had ever attended a wedding in Taiwan. I said I hadn’t, but perhaps one day, I might attend his son’s wedding. Later that evening, I returned home to find a message from my first friend in Taiwan, Ken, inviting me to his wedding next year. Life’s connections have a mysterious way of appearing when least expected.

Since moving from Hong Kong to Taiwan, this new chapter has been filled with joy, thanks to life’s wonderful coincidences.

To you, dear reader, may peace, health, and happiness always be with you.

November 11, 2024