Jung Tsai
From the inception to the delivery of my book, the journey took more than ten months—almost like having a baby.
Men may never truly understand pregnancy, no matter how much they try to put themselves in a woman’s shoes. Women, however, naturally experience and endure every stage of carrying a baby—from morning sickness to feeling the first kicks, from a flat stomach to a basketball-sized belly, and from wardrobe adjustments to the final moments before childbirth. It’s no surprise that, when the expected day finally arrives, a whirlwind of emotions—joy, relief, nervousness, excitement, and even fear—culminates in a single, unforgettable moment. Emotionally, I feel as though I have experienced it all through the birth of my book.
Publication day is incredibly special. It marks the moment my book is finally released into the world—a feeling that is both exhilarating and surreal. I have waited for this day, working tirelessly for over ten months, day and night, through endless revisions. As the journey neared its destination, I engaged in countless email discussions with editors and my publisher, meticulously rewriting, adjusting, and correcting every minor detail. By the time the printing process began, it became clear that the words, now set in black and white, were final and unchangeable. In a way, publication day feels like my book’s birthday, even though I have read and reread author’s copy in the final weeks leading up to it.
The book launch party was not only a promotional event but also a well-deserved celebration of the hard work that had finally come to an end. Taking my publisher’s advice, I scheduled it two weeks after the Lunar New Year to ensure better attendance. I eagerly spread the news across social media, radio stations and television channels, accompanied by a press release announcing my book’s official debut.
The event was designed and orchestrated to be engaging and dynamic, featuring a live impromptu video chat and an interactive Q&A session. We invited distinguished guests, including Taiwan past Vice President Dr. Chen,(陳建仁)former Minister of Health and Welfare Dr. Lee, (林奏延)publisher Mr. Wang, (王榮文)Dr. Chang,(張宏泰)president from the World Association for Health, Mr.Hsu,(許正國)president of SMI International Leadership College, Ambassador Mrs. Young, (楊黃美幸)and Denise, the daughter of Mr. Wang,(王義郎) a great supporter from the First Super Store. Each of them shared their thoughts and reflections on my book.
To enhance the occasion, we had a special music performance in the beginning by a local blind-deaf band led by Mr. Liao.(廖庭澔) Various vendors offering healthy food and wellness tools were also present to attract and engage attendees on a lively Sunday afternoon.
I decided to pivot my talk, sharing personal stories of my experiences between two different cultures—Taiwan and the United States—and the valuable lessons I learned about aging with humor. This unexpected shift sparked a lively Q&A session, with the audience actively participating. I was especially grateful to Ms. Liao (廖莜君)from YouTube’s Real Talk Plus and her TV crew, who served as the Masters of Ceremony, adding an extra layer of vibrancy to the event. Their live coverage helped bring the celebration to a wider audience almost immediately. Additionally, I deeply appreciate journalist Mr. Liang (凡可)for documenting the event in detail, as well as Mrs. Alice Chen (陳彥玲)and her behind-the-scenes team. A special thanks goes to my classmate, Dr. Sue Wu, (吳惠芬)who traveled all the way from southern Taiwan to show her support. Appreciation also to Taiwan Vice President Bikhim (蕭美琴)and local politician 陳乃瑜 for the bouquet and flowers.
The event turned out to be more than just a book launch—it became a wonderful opportunity for entertainment and community-building among like-minded individuals. The impact was astonishing, sparking meaningful discussions about my book’s message on aging gracefully. While stage performance was a great success the afterward photos taken, chatting and book signings were icing on the cake.
Holding my book in my hands for the first time was an incredibly powerful and surreal moment. It was the realization of a dream—one that has now become part of the world. More than just a personal achievement, it was a tangible and unforgettable milestone that I will always cherish. This will not be the end but the beginning of action movement for enhancing seniors welfare one person at a time. Together we will help to build a happy healthy island nation.