Chen Yu recalled how Chinese-Americans of the previous generation, especially his grandfather's, were exceptionally diligent and resilient.
Having grown up in a rough neighborhood and seen all sorts of people, Chen Yu always felt that the Chinese possessed a quality other groups lacked: a willingness to achieve their goals through sheer hard work.
They didn't believe in God or handouts, only in their own effort.
In psychological terms, this was an excellent quality: being clearly purpose-driven.
Knowing what you want and being willing to work for it.
And from their casual chat today, Chen Yu felt that Yao Ming clearly possessed this quality.
Thinking back to last year, his conflict with the Eastern Team over joining the NBA had led him to declare he would rather retire on the spot than be held back. That alone was proof enough of how well he knew what he wanted and how determined he was.
