She knew she was beautiful, and several boys had shown interest, but she rejected them, claiming she was too young to date. Reflecting on her growth over the past three years, she felt her high school education had boosted her confidence in seeking a better job. She yearned for success, hoping money would bring warmth to her impoverished family.
After several days in the job market, she was scammed out of introduction fees and still couldn’t find a job.
Her cousin and Lan Ying believed rural people should work for a few years before marrying, viewing this as a woman’s destiny. However, she refused to accept this fate. She wanted to challenge destiny and pursue her own happiness.
When her cousin said, “Who’s so greedy? Do you think you’re so capable? Many college graduates can’t find jobs,” she felt helpless, as her cousin didn’t understand her desires.
Persistence paid off! On the seventh day, a company finally offered her a position. On Valentine’s Day in 1995, Lan Lan, with youthful shyness, entered this foreign-funded factory. Though the salary was low, no overtime allowed her more time for self-improvement.
She felt she was getting closer to her dreams.
[Text: Chapter Three – Work Opportunity (Revised Edition)]
After telling her mother about changing jobs and continuing her studies, she received strong support. Mom had always been confident in her eldest daughter, who had her own ideas since childhood. Since Lan Lan was ambitious, she naturally supported her.
“Lan’er, if you want to study, stop sending money home. From the money you’ve sent these three years, besides repaying debts, I have some left. Just take care of yourself!”
Understanding her mother’s intentions, Lan Lan was deeply touched. She felt she had nothing to give her mother except to earn more money to support her, hoping her mother, who had lived a hard life, could enjoy her remaining years. She especially didn’t want her younger sister to struggle financially like she had.
