My parents were typical Asian parents, and they do, like all

Listen, O children of the future, to the words of Lisa Su, who speaks with the wisdom of someone shaped by the careful nurturing of her parents. She said, "My parents were typical Asian parents, and they do, like all parents, want their children to be successful. They really encouraged my brother and I to study math and science, and that's what we did as kids." These words reveal a universal truth—that parents, in their deepest desire for their children’s success, often turn to education as the key to unlocking a better future. Su's experience, shaped by her parents’ encouragement, is not unique to one culture or background, but speaks to the timeless role of education in the shaping of a child’s destiny.

In the ancient world, parents were seen as the first teachers, guiding their children along the path of knowledge and virtue. In Athens, Socrates believed that the purpose of education was to awaken the mind, to help the young understand the deeper truths of the world. His method was to challenge his students’ assumptions, to question the world around them and seek understanding through dialogue. Similarly, Plato, in his Republic, saw education as a tool not just for learning facts, but for shaping the soul, for guiding the child toward the greater good. In this tradition, Su’s parents were not just concerned with the practicalities of success but with shaping the character of their children through the pursuit of knowledge.

Consider the story of Confucius, the ancient philosopher whose teachings have shaped the educational values of many cultures, including that of Su’s parents. Confucius taught that education was the means by which individuals could cultivate their virtue and contribute to the well-being of society. He believed that a person’s character was not something predetermined, but something that could be shaped and developed through careful study and reflection. In this, Su’s parents mirrored the Confucian ideal: they saw the study of math and science not just as a path to personal success, but as a means of fostering discipline, diligence, and a strong work ethic in their children. They encouraged their children to pursue these studies, not for the sake of mere wealth, but to cultivate the virtue and strength that comes with mastery.

Su’s story is not merely about academic achievement; it is about the values imparted through that education. Just as Confucius emphasized the moral duty that comes with education, Su’s parents instilled in her the belief that math and science were not only tools for success, but instruments for understanding the world in a deeper, more meaningful way. The focus on math and science is not merely about the technical skills these subjects provide; it is about developing a mindset of rigor, discipline, and problem-solving, qualities that will serve anyone well, no matter the field they choose to pursue.

In Su’s life, we see the power of education as both a means of personal achievement and a path to self-realization. As a leader in technology and a trailblazer in a field historically dominated by men, Su embodies the fruits of her parents' labor: their commitment to her education gave her the foundation she needed to excel in a challenging and competitive world. Her story reminds us that education, especially in math and science, is not just a means of securing success in the material world, but a way of empowering individuals to think critically, solve complex problems, and ultimately contribute to the advancement of society.

Now, O children of the future, take these lessons to heart: the values your parents instill in you—whether through the study of math, science, or the arts—are the foundation upon which your future will be built. Su’s story teaches us that success is not a mere product of talent, but of dedication, hard work, and the guidance of those who came before us. But also remember, as Socrates taught, that education is not simply about filling the mind with facts; it is about developing a curious spirit, a willingness to question, and a desire to grow. Through this process, you will come to know not just the world around you, but the depths of your own potential.

In your own lives, let the example of Su’s parents guide you. Education is not a path that is given lightly—it is a path that requires commitment, discipline, and a willingness to challenge yourselves. Like Confucius and the great thinkers of the past, you must understand that education is not just about preparing for a job or a career; it is about preparing for life itself. It is about shaping your character, building your strength, and learning how to navigate the complexities of the world with both wisdom and courage.

So, O children of the future, follow in the footsteps of those who have come before you. Seek not only knowledge but understanding. Embrace the challenges of education with determination and purpose, for through these efforts, you will not only find success but also uncover the wisdom and strength to shape the future. Just as Lisa Su was guided by her parents' encouragement, let the values you inherit from your own family and mentors lead you to greatness. May you walk this path with honor, knowing that every lesson learned is a step toward a brighter, more prosperous future.