Wise Love
Heishui
Heishui County, located in the northwestern part of Sichuan Province, China, where is just near my hometown, is known for its breathtaking natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Nestled in the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, it is surrounded by mountains and rivers, making it an area of stunning beauty. The county is home to Tibetan communities, with a lifestyle deeply rooted in Tibetan Buddhism. Though remote, Heishui faces challenges in education and infrastructure, especially in rural areas. Despite this, its people are resilient, and the region offers a unique glimpse into traditional Tibetan culture while gradually embracing modernization and development.
When I arrived in Heishui County, I saw that the real challenge was not the lack of resources, but the isolation that stifled curiosity. It became clear that wise love—empowering others with the tools to help themselves—was my response.
I started by giving a science-inspired speech to the students, sharing my journey from building a drowning detection system to creating the StudyCompanion platform. I emphasized how curiosity, perseverance, and passion for learning could overcome any barrier. The eager faces of the students confirmed the universal thirst for knowledge, and it was in that moment I realized the power of sharing stories to inspire.
In addition to words, I brought practical donations to facilitate learning—scientific instruments like microscopes and calculators, as well as a selection of books, including The Moon and Sixpence and traditional Chinese texts such as The Art of War and Zhuangzi. These books aimed to inspire resilience and ambition while providing valuable lessons from both Western and Eastern thought.
To further engage the students, I organized a model plane-making workshop where we built planes from scratch, discussing the principles of aerodynamics and the joy of hands-on learning. This experience reinforced that science is not just about theory, but about exploration and creation.
Through these efforts, I aimed to show that wise love is not just about giving, but about enabling self-sufficiency and nurturing curiosity. The real value lies in what students learn, share, and build together. By providing resources and opportunities, I hoped to open doors for them, just as others had opened doors for me.