Day 203: Going to Hong Kong!

Lee Ngo
Lee Ngo
Jul 23, 2017 · 2 min read

Friends, I’ve finalized details for a quick trip to Hong Kong in October! I’m elated, yet the trip gives me a lot to ponder.

Supporting a terrific friend

My college roommate Keane is getting married. An Australian national who grew up mostly in Hong Kong, we became fast friends during our days at Yale. A superficial glance says we should be friends, but aside from our handsome Asian face, political alignment, and love for basketball, we lived worlds apart.

During best and worst times, Keane’s always been there for me. He was the first person to call me while I was hospitalized years ago, and after I decided to propose to my wife, he’s the first person I told. Although we rarely talk now, perhaps connect an average of once a year, I’d like to think we’d be willing to stop our respective worlds to makes sure we’re all up to speed.

This wedding is … more efficient.

Going to China… yet not China

I’ve been long fascinated by Hong Kong. As a former cinematic empower in Asia, it captured my cultural imagination through the works of Bruce Lee, Jackie Chan, John Woo, Tony Leung, Wong Kar-wai, Maggie Cheung, Michelle Yeoh, and more.

Back in high school, I organized and conducted a debate on the Hong Kong handover to the People’s Republic of China and what it might mean for the state of democracy in the region. Twenty years later, anxieties persist among its millions of constituents. So much to discuss, I’m sure.

It’ll be tempting to want to chat about politics there. After all, the US is going through its own trials…

What should I do there?

Aside from a few days to celebrate a wedding, I have about two more days free. I’ll likely pay homage to a Bruce Lee statue and take pictures of my favorite Hong Kong film scenes. Most certainly, I’ll be enjoying the local cuisine.

I’d also love suggestions. Sound off!

— Lee

Lee Ngo

Written by

Lee Ngo

Write with intention. Think with compassion.

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