A TOUCH OF GOLD

Just when we thought there has been enough metallics in fashion, gusts of gold has swept across runways of numerous Fall 2008 collections: Nicole Miller, Monique Lhuillier, Phillip Lim…etc. In fashion, gold represents indulgent glamour, vibrant disco-era, classical reminiscence. For me, gold is something of a personal touch.

The other day, I was called to the observation room during volunteering, a room where patients suffering from fevers are examined. I was assigned to help a grandmother receive urine tests. In my experiences, patients come and go in ER. Some patients, though, make lasting impressions in mere seconds, immediate bonds are then created. Since I no longer have any living grandparents, I sometimes find myself paying more attention to elderly patients. With this particular grandmother, as I helped her get on and off hospital bed, she held on to my hand. A soft, but good grip. My heart mildly melted. She was a foot shorter than me, and wore a big hat. She spoke softly, but her hand on mine, was warm and steady. I was suddenly reminded of why I volunteer at McKay Hospital. This particular hospital has a strong tie with my family. My grandmother passed away here, my uncle has had surgery here, so did my cousins, my nephew…This hospital is located far from my home, but something about it pulls me back whenever I reside in Taipei. Now I know why.

Mida’s touch turned everything to gold, a grandmother’s touch reminded me of reasons for my actions. Why I do what I do, those things that keep me going. For me, gold is a personal touch of compassionate imprints, empathetic glamour. Rare…so to be treasured.
photo of me ready for an event at Taiwan resort: Lalu