Guestbook

Dear Scott and Tyee, Simply put, Ling was my daughter. She meant the world to me. Her bravery, courage and determination to live life to the fullest, to meet all life’s challenges, is a tribute to the great woman she will always be. Ling inspired everyone with whom she had contact – her students, doctors, colleagues, friends, neighbors and family. She taught us never to give up on our dreams and to celebrate life. She was humble, kind and compassionate. She gave herself to so many -- always kind, patient and loving to those around her. She had a grace, elegance, integrity, intelligence and beauty that defined her as a woman. She was a scholar, a teacher, with an insatiable curiosity – a quality I so loved about her. She continually helped others and pushed the envelope of life. She was a wonderful listener. She saw beauty in the smallest things. Ling loved the music you wrote and recorded for her, Scott, and she told me how thankful she was for the loving way you cared for her, not just when she was ill, but the way you protected and loved her through 22 years. In our last conversation Ling told me, “Scott made me feel loved beyond my wildest dreams.” You and Ling are truly a “forever” love story. Ling called me her “American mother”—a title of honor. She made me feel very special. Ling was extraordinary in so many ways. I am so glad she was in my life. I will remember her tenacity, her laughter, her elegance and grace, the creativity with which she arranged flowers, her positivity in meeting any obstacle with a “can do.” She was unstoppable -- pushing the limits of learning – about the world -- about people, their customs, beliefs, history, ways of thinking. Her achievements were extraordinary. She enriched us all and broadened our horizons with colorful tales of her travels and adventures. Ling had a zest for life that knew no bounds. She was an exquisite culinary artist nourishing everyone who came to her table. She invited the world to her table and, at Thanksgiving, welcomed those who did not have family or friends. She fed our spirits with knowledge and hope. She sowed seeds of love and encouragement wherever she went. She looked beyond differences and saw only good. She was an advocate for peace and social change and environmental responsibility – determined to hold our leaders culpable for injustice and climate change. She made the world a better place. She accomplished tasks with smiles and enthusiasm and she asked us to be the best we could be. Ling leaves a legacy of great achievement, purpose and honor. Scott and Tyee, I love you both very much and stand by to help you in the days ahead. Tyee, you embody the spirit and courage of your mother. She lives on through you. Scott, your music, care and love of Ling honors her. Thank you for cherishing her. Ling will never be forgotten and will be in our hearts forever. Her star shines brightly.forever Elizabeth Ann Arey Santa Barbara