My mother taught me that in the face of impossible odds to remain as a non - defeatist. She was clear that defeatism had no place in our family. She had no illusions then about the dangerous realities in the world. She became the first white Tai Chi Master. So I never doubted her work ethic, as everything in her life is a challenge to be met, and lessons to be learned. From her I have learned to face what ever comes and to hope against all odds.