Many years ago, while shooting with Sammo Hung and Yuen Biao in Europe, I remember a guy who taught us many things. His stories were very fresh and inspiring for us youngsters. He told us that he already knew how to enjoy life when he was very young because from his point of view, enjoying life is the true way to cherish life. He always took us out for a good time; taught us wine tasting and collecting valuable items; and also taught us many ideas about filmmaking. That’s why I have full respect for him as my “half-master”. His name is Chua Lam (I usually call him Chua-san).
I was on the set when I heard the news my “half-master” had passed away. The first thing that surfaced in my mind were the times we filmed together overseas. Back then, he taught me many meaningful lessons, and it wasn’t until later in life that I started to slowly understand. I recall him saying how our time on earth is about learning how to live, how to die, and how to survive. And the most important thing in life depends on whether you’re happy or not. I know that he lived a free-spirited and joyful life, which is most important.
Chua-san once said, “People eventually leave in life. You can miss them, but don’t miss them too much.” I would like to say to him, rest in peace. Just like many other people around the world, I will always miss you.