Discovering the Love Story of a Resilient Couple
On the afternoon of September 9th, we visited the home of two remarkable seniors at 18 Liaoyuan Road. Mr. Zhang Hongjin was attentively watering his flowers, while Mrs. Sun Mingxiu was busy tidying up the linens in the yard. Upon our arrival, Mrs. Sun immediately offered us some freshly picked figs, saying, "Let's enjoy the fruits of our labor!"
A Journey Through Time
It had been years since we last met, during their wedding. Despite being 89 years old, Mrs. Sun’s voice resonated like a bell as she shared their history. Originally from Gaonandong Bolin, she explained that Mr. Zhang hails from Gaonandong Dachang. Their union was orchestrated over 70 years ago when their fathers, who were friends, discussed the future of their children during a gathering. Amazingly, Mrs. Sun saw her husband for the first time on their wedding day.
Building a Family Amidst Hardship
At just 22, Mrs. Sun moved to Qingdao with her firstborn. They faced immense challenges; their family started with very little. After marrying, they sold precious belongings to cover their travel expenses to Qingdao, only to discover upon arrival that they had lost the money meant for their journey. Both were illiterate, and life was tough as they began selling vegetables and collecting refuse to make ends meet. Eventually, Mr. Zhang found steady employment at the Qingdao Steel Factory, while Mrs. Sun became well-known for her cleverness at a vegetable shop on Jiaozhou Road.
A Family Legacy
Today, Mrs. Sun boasts of a family that includes a great-grandchild who is just six months old! Together, she and her husband raised seven children—four sons and three daughters. Their eldest child is now 69 years old, while their youngest is 49. The couple reflects on the difficulty of raising a large family during financially challenging times. Now, as their children marry and establish their own households, they have created a vibrant family tree that spans four generations, with nearly 40 members!
The Key to Lasting Love
According to their son, Zhang Zhigang, “My father is introverted and stubborn, while my mother is outgoing.” Although their personalities complement each other, they have faced numerous challenges over the years. “I sometimes struggle to see my father’s strengths!” he adds humorously. Mrs. Sun jokingly mentioned their quirks, like her husband not being very considerate, yet she found happiness in managing their home and never indulged in vices. “Understanding and patience are the essence of our relationship,” she says.
Health Secrets for Longevity
When discussing their health and wellness tips, both seniors highlighted the importance of keeping a peaceful heart. “Everyone has struggles; just let them go!” Mrs. Sun advised, emphasizing that harboring distress is best avoided. She humorously noted that their 70 years of marriage is termed a platinum marriage, a rarity worth sharing among their peers.
Conclusion
In their golden years, Mrs. Sun and Mr. Zhang exemplify how love, patience, and resilience can build a legacy that spans generations. Their story serves as an inspiring reminder of the beauty of enduring relationships and the strength found in togetherness.