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Ah Ma, the beloved grandmother of the author, is described
as an elegant and beautiful woman who is just the perfect size for hugs.
With a favorite scent that includes Shiseido's "Beautiful" and Revlon's
Floral hairspray, copper lipstick, and permed short dark graying hair, Ah Ma
exudes a classic beauty. Despite her eyesight declining with age, she still
applies too much powder to her face, and the author and her sister find joy
in taking it off for her.
When the author's mother is working, Ah Ma takes care of her grandchildren
and is known for her strong-willed personality and fierce protection of her
family. She is also an excellent cook, always adding a spoonful of love to
her dishes, and shares her recipes with her daughters and daughters-in-law.
Although she is known for her generosity, she has a tendency to hoard old
toys, books, and clothes, filling her attic with treasures.
The author and her sister love rummaging through Ah Ma's collection, finding
little treasures like a photograph of their mother in her baby suit. Despite
Ah Ma's traditional values, she indulges in her grandchildren's childish
escapades. During Lunar New Year, she lays out all their new clothes and
takes delight in overseeing their preparation, offering subtle remarks and
guidance.
As the author grows older, she realizes the value of her grandmother's
traditional and eternal values, which differ from the more selfish and
inward-looking values of her own generation. She sees the world through Ah
Ma's wise eyes and is grateful for the glimpses of tradition and values she
has been given.
In summary, Ah Ma is a beloved and respected matriarch who embodies
traditional values and is fiercely protective of her family. She is an
excellent cook and generous to a fault, but also has a tendency to hoard old
items. Despite the gap in years between the author and her grandmother, she
is grateful for the glimpse into tradition and values that Ah Ma provides. |
