Mr. Giang is considered a star resident at the Enjoy Ages nursing home in Wuhan province due to his extensive knowledge of calligraphy, painting, and music. He is a skilled hulusi player (a traditional Chinese wind instrument) and recently began learning the piano.
His room is filled with books, paintings, and musical instruments. At 102, he maintains a youthful spirit, a healthy lifestyle, and a positive attitude. His daily schedule outlines 13 activities, from morning exercises and calligraphy practice to afternoon tea and playing musical instruments.
Mr. Giang also starred in a short video produced by the nursing home, portraying a bugler in a war scene. The video quickly went viral, garnering over 16 million views and hundreds of thousands of likes on Chinese social media.
During filming, he displayed remarkable alertness and energy for his age. His talents impressed Ms. Truong, 85, and other residents.
Ms. Truong moved into the nursing home a few years ago. She is known for her delicate and skillful handiwork, especially creating silk mesh flowers, a technique requiring patience and an artistic eye.
The two met during a social event at the nursing home. They were immediately drawn to each other's talents and refined personalities.
"They both highly valued each other's abilities, and their personalities clicked, leading to a close bond," a nursing home staff member shared.
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Mr. Giang and his 85-year-old girlfriend. Photo: 163.com |
Having found love at an advanced age, Mr. Giang often plays the hulusi while Ms. Truong sits beside him, softly singing along.
They stroll together through the grounds, participate in activities, and sometimes give impromptu Peking opera performances (a traditional Chinese art form), captivating the attention and admiration of other residents.
While they initially feared their children's disapproval, their families fully support their relationship. Ms. Truong’s son expressed that as long as his mother is happy, everyone is happy.
Since Ms. Truong came into his life, Mr. Giang’s health has noticeably improved. They support each other in small, everyday tasks: she helps him fold clothes, while he adds calligraphy inscriptions to her handicrafts.
"Meeting Ms. Truong is destiny," Mr. Giang said. "We take care of each other and no longer feel lonely."
Their simple yet profound love story has become an inspiration for connection, love, and fulfillment in old age. "In old age, having a companion for emotional support is the greatest happiness," one online commenter wrote. Another added, "Their smiles are more effective than any medicine," while a third expressed, "I envy this happy old man."
Nhat Minh (Chinatimes/sydneytoday)
