Xia Liang recalled her youth, noting that the social environment was vastly different from today. She told He Ruizhe, "Life was much harder back then. We needed all sorts of coupons to buy things, such as grain coupons, oil coupons, cloth coupons, and so on. Moreover, there was strict control over everything, unlike the freedom and openness we have now."
She continued, "In that environment, it was extremely difficult to start a business from scratch. However, your grandfather and I always believed that as long as we were hardworking, honest, and innovative, we would definitely be able to find a way to survive and thrive."
Xia Liang recounted how she and Gu Yanxiao started from the most basic small businesses, gradually building up customers and reputation. She said, "Back then, we didn't have the internet or mobile phones. All our business was built on our own two feet and through persistent persuasion."
She also mentioned the hardships and challenges of starting a business, such as raising funds, stabilizing the supply of goods, and expanding the market. Xia Liang said, "Every step is difficult, but we have never given up. We believe that as long as we persevere, we will definitely see hope."
He Ruizhe listened with great interest, deeply captivated by his grandmother's story and proud of her and his grandfather's resilience and wisdom. He asked, "Grandma, what do you think was the most important thing in your entrepreneurial journey?"
Xia Liang thought for a moment and said seriously, "I think there are three most important points. First, you must have confidence and determination and believe that you can succeed; second, you must be diligent and hardworking, not afraid of hardship or failure; and third, you must be honest and trustworthy, and treat your customers and partners sincerely."
He Ruizhe nodded in agreement. He said, "Grandma, your story has inspired me a lot. I know starting a business is not easy, but I also hope that in the future, I can do my own thing, just like you."
Xia Liang smiled and patted He Ruizhe's hand, encouraging him, "Ruize, Grandma believes you can do it. You have the excellent qualities of our family. As long as you persevere and work hard, you will definitely achieve your dream."
On New Year's Eve, Xia Liang's conversation with He Ruizhe not only deepened He Ruizhe's understanding of his grandmother's entrepreneurial story but also filled him with confidence and anticipation for his own future. He knew that his grandmother's story and experience would become a guiding light on his life's journey, illuminating his path forward.
Xia Liang's thoughts drifted back to that special period as the conversation continued, and her eyes revealed a distant yet profound memory. She said softly to He Ruizhe, "One year, I went to Yangcheng—which is now Guangzhou. At that time, Guangzhou was at the forefront of reform and opening up, full of opportunities, but also full of challenges and risks."
Xia Liang recalled, "That experience was probably the most thrilling one in my life. I went to Guangzhou with your maternal great-uncle and Grandpa Ji for an important business deal. Back then, transportation wasn't as developed as it is now, and communication wasn't convenient either. Many things had to be resolved through face-to-face communication."
She continued, "In Guangzhou, we encountered a seemingly lucrative business opportunity, but who knew that it concealed enormous risks? I almost fell into an irreparable predicament because of that transaction." Xia Liang's tone carried a hint of relief, as well as a deep reflection on the past.
He Ruizhe listened intently, and asked nervously, "Grandma, how did you escape danger?"
Xia Liang smiled slightly and replied, "In the end, it was the police who saved me. I was seriously injured and spent a long time in the hospital. Since then, I've realized that life is the most important thing. I have your grandfather and your mother, and they are more important than my life. Although I didn't make any money that time, at least I survived, and I learned a valuable lesson—in the business world, risk and opportunity always coexist, and we need to use wisdom to distinguish them."
He Ruizhe nodded earnestly. He could feel the weight in his grandmother's words and admired her courage and wisdom even more. Xia Liang's story made him realize that, whether in the past or present, the business world is complex and ever-changing, and only by constantly learning and accumulating experience can one gain a foothold in it.
Xia Liang concluded, "Ruize, remember Grandma's words: no matter what difficulties and challenges you encounter, stay calm and rational. Don't give up easily, but also don't take unnecessary risks. Trust your own judgment, and be brave enough to take responsibility."
This in-depth conversation not only gave He Ruizhe a deeper understanding of his grandmother's experiences but also provided valuable guidance and inspiration for his upcoming life journey. Xia Liang's story has become a precious treasure in his heart, inspiring him to keep moving forward on his future path.
Hearing Xia Liang recount her harrowing experience in Guangzhou, Gu Yanxiao felt a surge of complex emotions. He knew that incident had been a tremendous challenge for Xia Liang and a severe test for their marriage. He held Xia Liang's hand tightly, his eyes filled with concern and deep affection.
Gu Yanxiao said softly to Xia Liang, "That time was really worrying. I still remember how I felt waiting for your news back then; it felt like centuries had passed. But your courage and wisdom make me incredibly proud."
Xia Liang felt the strength in Gu Yanxiao's hand and the warmth in his heart. She held his hand back and smiled as she replied, "Yanxiao, although it was difficult back then, I knew that no matter what happened, you and this family would always be there to support me. This belief gave me the courage to face any difficulties."
Watching his grandparents interact, He Ruizhe felt the deep affection between them and the strength of their mutual support. He realized how important family support is when facing challenges.
Gu Yanxiao turned to He Ruizhe and continued, "Ruize, you must remember that no matter where you go in the future, the support and love of your family will be your strongest backing. We always believe that no matter what storms we encounter, as long as we are united, there are no difficulties that we cannot overcome."
Xia Liang continued, "Yes, Ruize. What Grandma wants to tell you is that you must have the courage to face challenges, both in your career and in life, but you must also learn to seek help in adversity and rely on the strength of your family."
This conversation gave He Ruizhe a deeper understanding of the importance of family, and also allowed him to witness the enduring and unwavering love between his grandparents. He knew that no matter what difficulties he encountered in the future, nothing was impossible as long as he thought of his family's love and support.
The whole family continued watching the Spring Festival Gala in the living room, enjoying the festive joy and the warmth of family. Xia Liang and Gu Yanxiao's story became the most touching part of this New Year's Eve, allowing everyone to feel the power of family and the hope for the new year.
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