Staying Fit
Making mochi balls, developing sewing skills and learning perseverance and resilience. These are just a few of the things that Asian American and Pacific Islander staff members at AARP have absorbed from their mothers.
To celebrate Mother's Day and Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, we asked our AAPI employees to tell us about their mothers and how those women shaped their traditions and cultures. They shared tales of dancing with their mothers, celebrating milestones and soaking up wisdom. Read their stories of admiration and love here.
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Andre Lee
Analyst, Office of the Chief Advocacy and Engagement Officer
Washington, D.C.
I'm a huge, burly guy, and one of my fondest memories with my mom is learning to sew by hand. She was the head seamstress of a factory in Hong Kong, before marrying my dad.
Growing up in Central America, all my clothes outside of American imports were made by her from scratch because the stores didn't sell clothing in my size. Every few months, she would have this routine of gathering every family member's clothes and doing maintenance on them — fixing a busted thread here, a loose button there.
As an adult, I have a sewing kit. My wife tells me one of the reasons she knew I was a keeper back when we were dating was because I volunteered to repair all her sentimental pieces (she lamented that her sorority hoodie was falling apart).
My mom always repeats this bit of advice, which is very Zen for many things in my life: a bit of care early and often makes things stand the test of time.
Sophie C. Horiuchi-Forrester
AAPI Statewide Lead, San Jose Regional Manager
San Jose, California
Miso and pork go well together. Vegetables should be cut for intended flavor absorption and cooking time. Plate and serve the food at the right temperature.