Family United

After the Chinese Civil War my great-grand father, who was Yan Xishan's (Chinese Warlord) close friend and top general, took most of my family to Taiwan. My grandfather choose to stay in mainland China, and for a generation, there was no contact between the two sides. As for myself, I grew up knowing there has always been a huge part of my family that I have never known. Two days ago, I had the pleasure of meeting my first and second cousins for the first time, we talked business, learned about how we grew up, talked about our family history, the future and sought ways to see how we can help one another, as family (doesn’t hurt the family became cosemetic moguls).

Upon reflection, I am reminded of the importance of building bridges, and creating interconnectivness for a better understanding and mutual gain. It was in the late 70s when Deng Xiaoping opened China for economic reform and Taiwan begun to invest in China. While times haven’t always been smooth, the connectivness of two nations, formerly at war, opened doors, lessen hatred and many years later, allowed me to relish with family I haven’t ever connected with.

I know in my heart that global trade is the number one deterrent to war, not just because it’s a win-win to make money together, but more importantly, it creates the foundation for meaningful and cultural exchange. How will North and South Korea mend years of hatred, I believe that starts with trade.

Therefore we must, as leaders in our community and government; encourage opportunities for engagement, for delegations and creating connections for economic opportunity across the world. Not just for the economic dynamic, but because across the dinner table, while sharing alcohol and good food is when even enemies can realize that inherently in the end, regardless of race, history, or status; we all brothers and sisters of this great world.