Centered on Taiwan-April-2024

COVER IMAGE

Coryphellina exoptata

nudibranch by Katia Chen

For more information, please go to our website at https://centered-on-taiwan.com

COT Team

Roma Mehta

Editor

coteditor @communitycenter.org.tw

Naomi Kaly Advertising Manager

naomi @communitycenter.org.tw

Katia Chen Graphic Designer

katia @communitycenter.org.tw

Angela (Yi-an) Chen Marketing Manager

angela @communitycenter.org.tw

Art, Photography and Writing Contributors

Liliana Altamirano

Katia Chen

Herbert Chow (周文斌) Hualien County Government

Nomad Diving earthday.org

Flowers In Taipei 公園新花漾

Fun Divers

Jenny W. Hsu

Pia Munk-Janson

Jessica Lott

NTUE

Jason Portnoy

Lucy Torres

Jessica Wang-Simula

Yemay

Correspondence may be sent to the editor at coteditor@ communitycenter.org.tw Freelance writers, photographers and illustrators are welcome to contact the editor to discuss editorial and graphic assignments. Your talent will find a home with us!

FROM THE EDITOR

Please send email submissions, comments, and feedback to coteditor@communitycenter.org.tw

Dear Readers,

With April we witness earth’s awakening as flowers awaken and reach for the warm sun. The gentle rain also cleanses the world and creates a vibrant green landscape. It is indeed a fitting time to honour our home on Earth Day, a day to demonstrate support for environmental protection.

April also brings flower season, and Easter, more reasons to gather with friends and family and enjoy the outdoors. Join the Center tour to see the scenery around Thousand Island Lake and to learn more about tea and see how and where it’s grown. Did you know that Taiwan is also a great place for diving? It’s not really surprising, as it’s a relatively small island with miles of coastline.

Read about the stimulating International Master's Program of Learning and Instruction at the National Taipei University of Education from the perspective of a current student.

A ‘Silicon Valley Porn Star,’ Jason Portnoy, shares the message of love, hope and accountability in his book “Silicon Valley Porn Star: A Memoir of Redemption and Rediscovering the Self.”

“The Transformation of Kun” is one artist’s commitment to continual reinvention, embracing change, and seeking fresh experiences to broaden his horizons.

In April, Lutetia ART-at-TAC will be presenting an exhibition of oil paintings by Taiwanese artist Dardo, whose traditionalist Western paintings reflect on his childhood in rural Taiwan as well as his love for this land.

The PUX!ART Austronesian Festival in Hualien, Taiwan, is a three-day festival showcasing the rich tapestry of local indigenous weaving, Austronesian installation art, and music.

In our Wellness article, read 4 facts every parent should know about scoliosis in children

As a non-profit organisation, the Center offers COT free for all, supported by those who can. Get in touch if you would like to advertise with us or become a sponsor for future editions.

Subscribe to the COT Magazine, or just get in touch. Never miss an issue.

With gratitude

Roma

COMMUNITY SERVICES CENTER

The Community Services Center (CSC) is a non-profit foundation. CSC provides outreach and early intervention through counseling, cross-cultural education and life skills programs to meet the needs of the international community in Taipei. CSC offers the opportunity to learn, volunteer, teach and meet others. Check out our website www.communitycenter.org.tw and drop by The Center to chat with us about our programs. You can also email us at csc@communitycenter.org.tw.

Director

Office Manager

Counselors

Consultant

Intern Counselor

In-take Counselor.

Adam McMillan

Mandy Wang McCarthy

I-wen Chan, Katherine Chang, Hui-shiang Chao, Chiao-Feng Chung, Cerita Hsu, Lily Lin, Miranda Lin, Emilie Ma, KuanShan Wan, Zoe Wu, u-Chi, Lin, Zack Liu

Tom Cole

Liliana Altamirano

Ximena Lopez

Counseling Admin. Assistant

Accountant

Activities Manager

Events Coordinator

Communications

Mandarin Chinese Teacher

Systems & Operations

Advancement

Systems Manager

Coffee Mornings Coordinator

Volunteers

Matina Chen

Monica Cheng

Zoey Hoang

Sammy Driessen

Angela (Yi-an) Chen

Gloria Gwo

John Quinlan

Samson Assamnew

Kismeth Caminero

Sophie Lin, Petra Yu, Szu-Han Wang, Miyuki Boice, Misa Shibata, Bunny Pacheco

APRIL AT THE CENTER

HAVE FUN EXPLORING

April 18:

April 19:

April 30:

Visiting a local tea farm

A chance to tour a tea farm, discover tea production and indulge in a delicious lunch infused with tea flavors

Dingpu Ridge Hike

A hike with breathtaking views of Tucheng and Dahan River, and might be full of Tung blossoms

Neigoushan Hike

Experience the forest atmosphere during Tung blossom season, with views of the Xizhi Mountains and Taipei City

LEARN TO MAKE YOUR PHOTOS POP!

April 22:How to use your camera

Unveil the hidden potential of your camera's setting to elevate your photography skills

April 25:

Photography walk in Beitou

Practice taking good photographs out and about

Make your photos pop!

Learn tricks for editing your photos

CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE AND SIGN UP EARLY TO SAVE YOUR SPOT!

FUN EVENTS

April 11: Hiking In Taiwan April Coffee Morning

April 12: Evening time: Book Signing event

April 25:

May 7: Play group for Parents and Toddles

April 12: Indian Finger Food FOR THE FOODIES

April 26: Chinese vs Taiwanese

Visit www.communitycenter.org.tw or email

ce@communitycenter.org.tw for more details.

Scan code to sign-up for your favorite activities

April 12, 7:00 - 9:00 pm

Join us for a conversation with Jason Portnoy, a member of the PayPal Mafia and the author of the Amazon best-selling memoir "Silicon Valley Porn Star." As a rising star in the tech world, Jason had it all. But beneath all the glitz and glam, Jason led a dark double life and his addiction to porn and sex nearly cost him everything. Jason will be at The Center to share his self-discovery journey, what steps he took to heal, what the definition of true masculinity and femininity is, and how all of us can live a life of integrity.

Free to join - Suggested donation: NT$100

Spring & Summer Catalog

The print version of the Spring and Summer catalog is available at The Center.

For early registration

https://communitycenter.org.tw/what-we-do/activities/

Poetry Night at The Center

May 03, 7:00 pm

Come and hear poets read their work and talk about what inspired them to write. It will be an evening of spoken word and creative expression, celebrating the art of poetry and the power of language to move and inspire. We welcome poets of all ages and levels of experience to share their original works in a supportive and welcoming environment.

Free to join - Suggested donation: NT$100 2nd

TEXT AND IMAGES BY LUCY TORRES

Just as I said, “I don’t think I can eat anything else,” the lady appeared with a plate of stones and a dish of prawns. In one swift movement, she placed the plate on the table, tipped the prawns on to the stones and covered it with a lid. My fellow diners disappeared in a cloud of steam. When the mist dissipated, she removed the lid and voila, the prawns were cooked – and tasted delicious. I remember thinking to myself, this is not what I expected for lunch today!

THOUSAND ISLAND LAKE

Where was I? Somewhere in the hills above Thousand Island Lake learning all about tea. We visited a small tea farm just south of Taipei to see the tea bushes and pick leaves. The farmer explained the whole process, from leaf picking to tea brewing, showing us the machinery they use along the way. Finally, of course, we had a tea tasting and learned the best way to brew a cup.

TEA-INFUSED FLAVORS

From there we moved to a restaurant where we enjoyed six, eight, ten different dishes – I lost count! They included tea-infused rice and fish, pork and vegetable dishes, many with tea flavors incorporated. And then the prawns! It was all rounded off with tea-flavored jelly.

I have visited this farm twice now and loved it on both occasions. I learned a great deal about the tea plant and how the leaves are processed and realized how little I had known before. For instance, I thought green, white and black tea came from different types of tea plants. However, it’s actually the way the leaves are dried and processed that gives us the different teas.

If you would like to learn more about tea and see how and where it’s grown, then I highly recommend visiting a tea farm. If you’d also like to see the scenery around Thousand Island Lake, then join Yasuko on The Center tour on 18 April.

I can guarantee that after the tour, you’ll appreciate your cups of tea even more!

Lucy Torres is a volunteer at The Center but is more often found on a hiking trail. She loves exploring different routes to find beautiful views and relax in the great outdoors.

Exploring the Deep Blue Around Taiwan

TEXT BY LUCY TORRES

Asia is well known for its wonderful dive spots and I’m sure you’ve heard about beautiful places in Indonesia and the Philippines with crystal clear water teeming with colorful corals and fish. Did you know that Taiwan is also a great place for diving? It’s not really surprising, as it’s a relatively small island with miles of coastline. It has multiple diving locations where you can see anything from tiny nudibranchs to sea turtles and purple coral to shoals of barracuda.

Photo by Miguel Torres

Diving Locations

We are really spoiled for choice here. You can dive all around the island from Long Dong on the northeast coast to Green Island off the southeast coast. There’s Kenting in the south and Xiaoliuqiu just in front of Kaohsiung; not to mention Orchid island and Penghu. Along with this variety of locations comes the advantage of easy access. If you live in Taipei, many dive sites are just an hour’s drive away and if you want to visit sites in the south, you can hop on the train or drive down in a few hours.

Dive shops

How do you go about diving? Where do you rent the equipment? There are numerous dive shops all over the country which you can choose from. Here, I’m going to highlight two which are particularly good for those who don’t speak Mandarin as they have Englishspeaking staff. While I don’t dive, just snorkel, my husband and two sons love diving and have been out with both companies. The boys did their PADI Rescue Diver courses with Fun Divers and they have experienced fun dives with both shops. They would recommend them both because they offer well-organised trips, good diving equipment and the staff are super friendly and helpful.

Fun Divers

Fun Divers was founded in 2013 and is based in Yonghe district in New Taipei City. Dennis Wong and Billy Evalt are the co-owners and as dive instructors they join the dive trips too. They offer day fun dives and overnight trips. They also offer many different courses from the PADI open water course for beginners to specialized classes. For day trips leaving from Taipei they usually provide transport from the dive shop or you can meet them at the dive location.

https://www.fundiverstw.com/ fundiverstw@gmail.com

LINE: fundiverstw

Daniel Ulrich

Did a fantastic one day dive trip with Fun Divers off the east coast of Taiwan. I also did my Nitrox certification with them. Great crew and dive guide, good vibes, nice, spacious modern boat, and good rental equipment. Looking forward to more dives with Fun Divers.

Sammy Driessen

Two years ago, I embarked on my scuba journey with Fun Divers. Intrigued by the underwater world, I chose them for their English-speaking team and stellar reviews. Dennis and Billy made every dive safe and enjoyable. Now, I'm hooked, diving with them and their vibrant community almost every weekend. Taiwan's seas offer a treasure trove – from sea turtles to vibrant fish. Xiaoliuqiu's wrecks and tranquil vibe are irresistible. Through diving, I've found new friends and a lifelong passion. Thank you, Fun Divers, for an unforgettable adventure!

Photo by Fun Divers

Photo by Katia Chen

Elzanne Lötter

Nomad Diving has secured its place as our go-to Dive Center in Taiwan. Our experiences diving with Joa have consistently been nothing short of amazing. Joa's warm hospitality always makes us feel welcomed, even on cold, rainy dives when he surprises us with comforting ginger tea.

Each dive with Joa is a unique adventure. His dedication to providing unforgettable underwater encounters is evident, as he goes above and beyond to ensure we witness the beauty of marine life. Night diving with Joa is particularly exhilarating. He meticulously selects the best and safest locations for an exciting night dive, where we've been fortunate to witness incredible animals in their nocturnal habitat.

As a dive instructor, Joa's expertise shines through. His wealth of experience enriches our dives, and we consistently learn new things under his guidance.

Miguel Torres

I’ve done a few dives with Nomad and enjoyed them all. Nomad helped me to rediscover the beauty of macro underwater photography. Following Joakim’s recommendations I captured photographs of tiny creatures I never thought to see in Taiwan. I’m looking forward to going again as soon as the season starts up.

Nomad Diving

Nomad Diving is another dive shop that also comes highly recommended. The co-owners are Joakim and Mongren, and Joakim is also a dive instructor. The shop is in Mao'ao right on the north coast, so they have a house reef. They offer many different PADI courses, along with underwater photography classes, day fun dives and overnight trips for divers of all levels. Joakim is a very experienced dive photographer and can offer a lot of helpful advice in this area. Take one look at their Facebook page and you will want to start diving immediately!

https://www.facebook.com/Nomad.diving.tw/ Joakim.ollikainen@hotmail.com

Instagram: nomad.diving

If you would like to explore the beautiful blue world that surrounds Taiwan, what are you waiting for? Check out these dive shops to find a course or trip that suits you. Grab some fins and splash into the sea – see what creatures you can find!

Lucy Torres is a volunteer at The Center but is more often found on a hiking trail. She loves exploring different routes to find beautiful views and relax in the great outdoors.

KidScubaDiving

OpenWaterCourse

AdvancedCourse

UnderwaterPhotography

BuoyancyCourse

NitroxCourse

8+specialtycourses

DiveTrip/FunDive

locatedontheNorthEastCoastof Taiwan,near Fulongtrainstation. Wehave morethan25divesites suitableforbeginnersandmore advanceddivers.Weofferabig rangeof PADICOURSES andDive Trips.Welovesharingourpassion fortheamazingworldbelow,ina safeandenjoyableenvironment.

resilience& positive affirmations workshop

At Taipei American School, students learn from outstanding, diverse, and caring faculty. Our faculty is highly qualified, with 85% holding advanced degrees (Master's or Doctoral). With 60% of our teachers from the United States, and the remainder from countries such as Canada, the UK, New Zealand, and Australia, excellence goes global at TAS.

Our community is bound together by our shared dedication to learning, personal well-being, and service.

Join us for an empowering 4-hour workshop designed to cultivate resilience and self-discovery through creative expression and storytelling. Each participant will be given a personal piñata as a symbolic tool for exploring their personal strengths, sharing stories of resilience, and fostering connection with others in a supportive and uplifting environment.

Facilitator: Liliana Altamirano (Counseling intern)

Who’s this for? Adults

When? Saturday, May 18th, from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Where? Taipei Community Services Center 2F (2F., No. 238, Section 6, Zhongshan North Rd., Shilin District, Taipei City 111032, Taiwan (R.O.C.)

Fee to join — 500 NTD

ARt at The Center

Browse our listings

https://communitycenter.org.tw/art-at-the-center/

Open Hours | 9am – 5pm, Monday – Friday

Location | 2F., No. 238, Section 6, Zhongshan North Rd., Shilin District, Taipei

The Community Center’s Art display showcases a captivating blend of exquisite paintings, antique furniture, collectibles and handcrafted works by artisans that spark joy.

This month’s community gallery highlights antique, collectible furniture and art from Bai Win Antiques.

“You don't need to live in a museum to have Chinese antiques. They are surprisingly affordable and a great way to breathe life into a space. Collectibles add a sense of uniqueness and personality to any interior, modern or classical.

Bai Win has both: forty years in the business and an ever-changing collection of more than 1,500 items from China, Myanmar, Taiwan and Tibet, ranging from small brass trinkets to 17th century wall-sizes apothecary sideboards.”

https://www.baiwincollection.com/

BOOKS

u published by The Center t

Invest in the future of our community by supporting local artists at The Center. Every purchase makes a difference. Visit us and find the perfect piece to bring happiness and inspiration to your home or office. A small portion of all proceeds from items sold will support The Center.

APRIL 9

u available at The Center t

MORNING BOOK CLUB

10:30-12:00, second Tuesday of the month., contact Julie Hu at: mcelroy22000@yahoo.com

The Violin Conspiracy by Brenden Slocumb. 2022. 345 pp.

Small cabinet with floral paintingsStorage jar with cover, blue and white floral

Large offering basket with paintings

Pair of horseshoe back chairs

NTUE IMPLAI

Program Overview

Having grown up in a multicultural environment in a megacity, regularly meeting people from diverse walks of life and then feeling a lack of this type of zeal in my day-to-day life in Taipei, I think I may have been primed to love my time as a master's student at the International Master's Program of Learning and Instruction at the National Taipei University of Education (or simply, IMPLAI at NTUE). Full disclosure done, now onto the good bits!

INCREDIBLE DIVERSITY

My two years at the master's program have been so full of life. Many days proved to be delightfully stimulating and satiated my hunger for impactful and constructive exchanges. Some were an assortment of exasperation, desperation and amusement at the ridiculousness of where my self-induced stress was capable of taking me. On most days, there was an ever-present feeling of belonging, community and connection to other professionals involved in education who possess a precious mix of competence and care. These professionals were my professors, Taiwanese who had themselves been international students and then educators for a number of years (that might just hint at their real age despite their youthful spirits). And also my peers, who convened from over a dozen different countries (incredible diversity for such a small program) and also had a whole spectrum of prior work experience that made class discussions intriguing and thought provoking.

OVER 120 YEARS OF EXPERIENCE IN TEACHER TRAINING

Despite having had a number of teaching years under my belt, along with a CELTA, I learned far more during my studies at IMPLAI than I had

-Interdepartmental instructors bring their own unique expertise and experience.

-Meticulously structured curriculum revolving around four key pillars:

1)research methodology (social research methods, higher education statistics, qualitative research, and academic writing);

2) fundamental instructional methods (learning theories, instructional design, development, reading comprehension, and diverse assessment strategies);

3)cutting-edge teaching approaches (innovative instructional trends, technology and learning, and adaptive instructions);

4)transfer of theories into on-site teaching observation and practice (field trips, on-site teaching observation and practice involving real-world classroom challenges, immersive experiences and action research).

TEXT AND IMAGE BY YEMAY

imagined I would. I already knew that NTUE boasted over 120 years of experience in teacher training when I first applied, yet I was still quite impressed by how systematically structured the program is, in a way that allows its students to learn and effectively put into use existing pedagogical frameworks. I also loved discovering and getting lost in the English selection of books on the whole top floor of the NTUE library. The program has been growing since it was first set up in 2017, together with the alumni network within Taiwan (and abroad, albeit much more scattered).

I have no doubt that a Master's in Education from a well established and respected Taiwanese university is a concrete stepping stone for those who consider working in education in Taiwan or abroad. Especially given the bilingual 2030 policy. I sincerely believe there is room for anyone who is serious about their work and interested in working in education to grow professionally. I also hope that present and future students at IMPLAI are able to benefit professionally and personally from their studies as much as I have, and perhaps, to love and cherish this supportive and inspiring community of passionate educators as much as I have grown to.

Yemay considers herself to be a third culture kid and has called Taipei home for the last seven years. She proudly identifies as an educator, actor and forever student of life, and believes that communities are built and nurtured through exchanged and shared narratives. This piece was born out of her desire to contribute to the educational community in Taiwan by sharing an experience and resource that has been invaluable to her both professionally and personally.

https://www.instagram.com/yemay_

Official social media for the program:

https://www.facebook.com/NTUE.IMPLAI

https://www.instagram.com/implai_ntue

International Student Applications

The 100% English-taught International Master’s Program of Learning and Instruction (IMPLAI) is now accepting international student applications. Enrollment is open until Tuesday, April 30, 2024.

All coursework takes place during the daytime on weekdays.

More information on the application requirements, costs, etc. can be found in the following brochure:

https://exam2.ntue.edu.tw/e_doc/ NTUE%202024%20Admission%20 Brochure%20for%20International%20 Students.pdf

Official site:

https://laintue.ntue.edu.tw/index.php

Email: implai@mail.ntue.edu.tw

IMPLAI Office: 02-27321104#52169

When I first heard of Jason Portnoy, I was immediately drawn to his story. A highpowered Silicon Valley executive who was part of the “PayPal Mafia'' and was almost defeated by his addiction to porn and sex. He meets a straight-shooting life coach who helps him confront his own childhood traumas and eventually he finds redemption through self-love and self respect. To help other people trapped in their own struggles, the guy writes a memoir and exposes his ugly past to the world. For me, this was material for a binge worthy Netflix special. I was hooked.

The person who told me about Jason is named Melissa. At the time, I thought Melissa was the only thing Jason and I had in common. Melissa is a life coach and we both were and still are her clients. (Disclaimer: Jason had given Melissa permission to let her tell me about him.)

NOT SO DIFFERENT

After my first call with Jason, it was clear that we indeed had many things in common. While I never helped establish a billion-dollar global company, suffered an addiction, later founded a successful venture capital firm and now sit on the board of a handful of companies, Jason and I bonded over the feeling of abandonment which we both experienced as children. When Jason talked about his urgency to break out of the vicious cycle, I knew exactly what he meant. As he was sharing his intention to help others to live a life of integrity, I nodded with vigor in agreement. By the end of the conversation, we agreed that it would be amazing if we could share his story with the readers in Taiwan.

Straight away, we went to work. He sent over a full manuscript of his book,“Silicon Valley Porn Star: A Memoir of Redemption and Rediscovering the Self”. As I expected, it read like a movie script. But what I didn’t expect was the emotional rollercoaster that I went on. In the span of a few hours, I experienced sadness, yearning, disappointment, anticipation, disgust, pain, anxiety, fear, confusion and peace.

Moreover, I experienced a sense of sure-footedness that comes when you know you are understood and loved without judgment. It was a feeling that I rarely felt growing up and I liked it.

Embracing Your Inner “Porn Star”

TEXT BY JENNY W. HSU , IMAGE BY JASON PORTNOY

TIME TO GROW UP

Many have asked me why Jason refers to himself as the porn star of Silicon Valley. Well, he doesn’t but he also kind of does. “Porn Star” was definitely not his profession but it was an integral identity inside Jason. In chapter 10, Jason details a session with Melissa when she explains that we all have a host of different identities inside of us and they each serve a function. They could be “Hard Worker,” or “Party Animal,” “Gracious Host,” “Doting Dad,” “Liar,” “Helper”, etc.

With the help of Melissa, and after several lengthy selfreflection and internal dialoguing sessions, Jason realized that the “Porn Star” identity was the force that made him act out. But it was also what made him so successful. It was “Porn Star”’s risk-taking and go-getter attitude that landed Jason his lucrative career. It was “Porn Star” that got Jason the wealth and freedom he treasured. It was “Porn Star” that created his fancy lifestyle. However, it was Jason who could not keep “Porn Star” in check. As the leader of the identities, Jason was solely accountable for giving “Porn Star” free rein.

DRAGON AND PORN STAR

The recognition of his inner “Porn Star” and his need to grow up was followed by a gush of love for this identity that had worked so hard to please Jason. The identity was doing the right things in the wrong ways. Jason eventually reconciled with “Porn Star.” Instead of berating and quashing that particular identity, Jason made peace with it and even came to love him. “Porn Star” was able to retire now because Jason stepped up.

Jason Portnoy on a hiking trip with his children, Maya and Milo, and his wife, Anne Marie, in Hawaii.

On the surface, Jason’s book is about a recovering addict. But if you read deeper, you will see it is a book about loving yourself wholly, inclusively and unapologetically. This kind of love is brave. It gives you the courage to be brutally honest with yourself. It nudges you to face your own worst inner enemy. When you can offer yourself love and forgiveness, that’s when you can fully radiate.

In the words of Rainer Maria Rilke, “perhaps all the dragons in our lives are princesses who are only waiting to see us act, just once, with beauty and courage. Perhaps everything that frightens us is, in its deepest essence, something helpless that wants our love.”

Go and love your dragon. Go and embrace your inner “Porn Star.”

It was in the early 2000’s. Tech companies were sprouting up everywhere in the Bay Area. While all boasted to have the next best revolutionary technology, many wilted before reaching full bloom. But that was not something Jason Portnoy had to worry about because his startup, where he was employee #34, broke all traditional barriers and went on to become a mega global powerhouse. The company was PayPal.

As part of the “PayPal Mafia”, Jason’s inner circle included names like Peter Thiel, Elon Musk, Max Levchin and Reid Hoffman. With his sterling credential as a graduate of Stanford University and coupled with his own talent for numbers and all-things finance, Jason quickly ascended as a shiny star in Silicon Valley. In 2002, when Peter Thiel needed

Jenny W. Hsu is the editor-in-chief of 「走出 慾望矽谷：新創浪子救贖自白」, the Chineselanguage version of “Silicon Valley Porn Star: A Memoir of Redemption and Rediscovering the Self” by Jason Portnoy. She is the CEO of Cetacea, a communications advisory she founded in 2022. Prior to this, Jenny worked in Hangzhou as part of the Alibaba Inc’s international affairs team. Before entering the PR world, she was a foreign correspondent for The Wall Street Journal in Taiwan and Hong Kong. She also worked at Taipei Times, Central News Agency, and Taiwan News . As an avid animal lover, Jenny recently published her first bilingual children’s book, “Billie”, (available at The Center) about a dog she rescued in China. Jenny is the proud big sister of three dogs– Gnocchi, Hunter and Radar –and one cat named Scoops.

Author of “Silicon Valley Porn Star”

a chief financial officer for his hedge fund Clarium Capital, he tapped Jason. He did it again in 2003 when he co-founded Palantir Technologies, a software intelligence company now with a market capitalization of US$54 billion.

From the outside, Jason appeared to embody the definition of a successful man. He had it all – a beautiful young bride who was his college sweetheart, an upscale apartment in San Francisco, a sexy red sports car and a coveted job title that evoked immediate respect in and outside of Silicon Valley. He made climbing the corporate ladder look easy. But beneath all that glitz and glam, Jason was leading a very different and dark private life mired in porn and sex addiction.

“My ego just was swelling, and I just thought I could do anything. I thought I deserved anything I wanted. And that’s when — that was the first kind of peak of bad behavior, where I was just spinning like

a top. I had just lost all sense of direction,” said Jason in an interview with Tim Ferriss.

His sexual addiction not only nearly jeopardized his professional reputation, it sabotaged his family life as his relationship with his wife became icy. His lack of selfcontrol resulted in many risky situations. One of them finally caught up with him one morning when he got a call from an angry woman demanding to know the whereabouts of her daughter.

That fateful call nine years ago turned out to be a watershed moment that finally forced Jason to take inventory of his life and be accountable for the damages he was doing to himself and others.

After countless rounds of intense internal cross-examination and conversations with his life coach, Jason learned that even though his bad behavior as an adult resulted from unhealed childhood traumas, the first step to healing was to

take responsibility for his own actions.

Throughout his own journey of self-probing and healing, Jason realized his issue wasn’t unique and that many people, especially men who have been taught to chase after material wealth as the benchmark of success, were flailing in their own quicksand of doubt and shame.

With the intention of using his story as a cautionary tale and an encouragement for people struggling to overcome their own vice, Jason published “Silicon Valley Porn Star: A Memoir of Redemption and Rediscovering the Self” in 2002 to share the message of love, hope and accountability.

“I hope by sharing my story openly, through this book and follow up conversations, I can help young men and women avoid the pitfalls I encountered. I also hope that, for anyone who feels trapped in a dark place, my story offers a beacon of hope that you CAN change and you can find that light again,” said Jason.

Jason Portnoy

Austronesian Festival

太平洋南島布是藝術節 PUX ART

Organised by the Hualien County Government

太

平洋南島布是藝術節 PUX!ART Austronesian Festival 為台灣花蓮重 要的節日，花蓮為南島原住民藝術 風華的中心，這個節日為花蓮注入 繽紛藝術的活力。這場為期三天的 「布」藝術盛宴，匯聚了來自花蓮 在地原住民織布藝術、南島裝置藝 術及音樂的精彩活動。

「布」是藝術節，PUX是太魯 閣族語驚嘆、讚嘆、驚奇的語氣 詞！有繼續、強力、往前意，布是 藝術，不只是藝術，美麗的持續的 PUX!。這個藝術節在推動原住民織 布文化藝術的國際交流，透過在花 蓮舉辦這樣的藝術節，向來自南島 各國的鄉親，展示原住民織布文化 藝術的美麗與價值，促進跨文化的 交流與尊重。

The PUX!ART Austronesian Festival, a significant event in Hualien, Taiwan, is at the heart of Austronesian indigenous arts. This three-day festival injects vibrant artistic energy into Hualien, showcasing the rich tapestry of local indigenous weaving, Austronesian installation art, and music. "PUX" in the Truku language expresses awe, admiration, and surprise, symbolizing continuity, strength, and progression. "布" (bù), meaning "cloth" or "fabric," is seen not only as an art form, but also as a beautiful and ongoing expression – a continual PUX! The festival promotes international exchange in indigenous weaving culture and arts. By hosting this event in Hualien, it aims to showcase the beauty and value of indigenous weaving culture and arts to Austronesian communities worldwide, fostering cross-cultural exchange and respect.

https://www.facebook.com/puxartfestival

Flower Season

March - April

Yangmingshan

Flower Festival

APRIL — MAY

https://flowersfestival.taipei/ https://www.facebook.com/taipeiflowers

Experience the changing seasons amidst flower fields alive with colour. In March and April the cherry blossoms, calla lilies, and hydrangea are in full bloom. Some of the best places to enjoy the flower season in Taiwan:

Alishan Cherry Blossom Festival

MARCH

Hakka

Tung Blossom Festival

Earth Day

Celebrated every year on April 22nd, is a global event dedicated to protecting our planet.

Earth Day, celebrated every year on April 22nd, is a global event dedicated to protecting our planet. It's a day to raise awareness about environmental issues and to inspire people to take action.

Earth Day is a reminder that we all have a role to play in protecting the planet for future generations. It's a day to celebrate our beautiful Earth and take action to ensure its health for years to come.

https://www.earthday.org/earth-day-2024/

The Transformation of Kun

Valuable Lessons on Life's Boundless Horizons and Navigating a Stress-Free Existence.

Last winter, I delved once more into Zhuangzi's (庄子) timeless poem “Carefree Living,” (逍遥 游), a work still resonating with readers two and a half millennia later.

The poem tells the tale of Kun, a colossal fish yearning to transcend her aquatic confines and take flight as a bird.

Stretching a thousand miles in length, Kun reigned supreme in her underwater domain. Yet she yearned for the boundless liberty of the skies. Shedding her fish-like biases, Kun, fueled by an unwavering desire for growth, transformed into the magnificent bird Pang, soaring to unimaginable heights.

THE TRANSFORMATION OF KUN

Kun's metamorphosis isn't a fleeting whim but a conscious evolution, devoid of greed and driven by an unyielding thirst for growth. Each day, she meticulously cultivates her strength, outgrowing the confines of

her habitat until she's compelled to defy her limitations and ascend to new heights. Her transmogrification spawns a whirlwind of change, carrying her to realms previously unattainable.

Rather than succumbing to impulsive desires, we're urged to emulate Kun's calculated approach, viewing obstacles as stepping stones to growth and transformation. Kun's journey, allegorical in nature, inspires us to pursue loftier aspirations, transcending limitations to achieve personal fulfillment.

KUN'S TRANSFORMATION INTO PANG

Fascinated by this tale, I crafted a mural portraying Kun's transformation into Pang. At first I thought the story concluded with Pang’s transformation, symbolizing the attainment of spiritual freedom and carefree living, Xiāo yáo ( 逍遥 ). Surprisingly, Zhuangzi hints that despite Pang’s apparent success,

she is still far from attaining a state of carefree existence. While I may not fully grasp the full depth of Zhuangzi’s poem, I am committed to delving deeper into its meaning.

Zhuangzi underscores the importance of humility amidst success, cautioning against the pitfalls of self-importance. True success lies not solely in reaching new heights of achievement, but rather in managing the pride that often accompanies success. Zhuangzi advocates for the concept of wú jǐ (无己), teaching that releasing pride is essential to finding peace and authenticity in life. Beyond pride, he emphasizes the importance of reducing reliance on external validation such as fame (wú míng - 无名) and recognition (wú gong - 无功).

THE CONCEPT OF WÙ DÀI 无待

Building upon Laozi's principles of letting go ( Fú shì - 弗恃 & Bù shì -

恃 : Passages 2 and 10 of Tao Te Ching,

Surprising Insights from my Painting of Zhuangzi’s 'Carefree Living'

respectively), Zhuangzi introduces the concept of Wù dài (无待 - non-clinging) emphasizing the importance of nonattachment and relinquishing insatiable self-interest. By renouncing the pursuit of external validation, we pave the way for genuine accomplishment.

An illustrative demonstration of these principles can be found in the leadership style of wise mentors, who prioritize nurturing others' growth over personal acclaim. Through selfless actions, these mentors exemplify the virtues of humility and non-attachment, leaving a lasting impact beyond their individual achievements.

A PHILOSOPHY THAT CULTIVATES A PROFOUND AND PURPOSEFUL LIFE

Through the courageous journey of Kun and Pang, we're reminded to transcend self-importance and embrace a carefree existence, aligning our intentions and attitudes with the path of righteousness. By cultivating humility and non-attachment, we attain genuine contentment, living in harmony with nature and savoring the beauty of our journey. The foundational principles of "Carefree Living'' now radiate with unmistakable clarity. Both Zhuangzi and Laozi champion a philosophy that cultivates a profound and purposeful life,

encouraging us to set lofty aspirations. Laozi emphasizes that the gravest error lies in yielding to insatiable desires and self-interests (Tao Te-Ching Passage 46). Good intentions and attitudes lead us to moral and ethical actions that align with the natural rhythm of the universe, known as Dào ( 道 ). Similarly, the Wù dài mindset encourages us to embody the attitudes of Fú shì and Bù shì, guiding us to act selflessly with wú jǐ, wú míng, and wú gong. Through these conscientious actions, we shield ourselves from the harmful effects of self-serving interests and excessive attachments to specific outcomes, fame, rewards, and praises. These actions foster an iterative process that not only propels us toward greatness but also guides us away from hubris, vanity, and reliance on external validation.

CAREFREE LIVING, A BEACON OF ENLIGHTENMENT

Instead of fixating solely on the end goal and outcome, we embrace a process-oriented approach, allowing us to fully savor and cherish our journey. Ultimately, "Carefree Living" emerges as a beacon of enlightenment, guiding us towards a state of genuine fulfillment and inner freedom, Xiāo yáo (逍遥). As we align our intentions

with Zhuangzi's teachings, we unlock the transformative power of Wù dài, leading us to a life of purpose and authenticity.

As my understanding of Zhuangzi's ‘Carefree Living’ deepens, the magnificent Pang in my mural resonates differently within me now. Though still vibrant with the power of thunder, she no longer exudes pride. Instead, she carries herself with the quiet grace of a dove. Gone is the smug expression, replaced by a thoughtful gaze that reflects introspection. Her focus has shifted from self-aggrandizement to a deeper understanding and appreciation of others' perspectives. Her declarations, once boastful, have softened into measured and respectful communication.

Through this transformation in the portrayal of Kun, I find myself undergoing a metamorphosis as well. I shall seek contentment in personal growth rather than relying on approval from others or external sources. Similar to Kun, I'm committed to continual reinvention, embracing change, and seeking fresh experiences to broaden my horizons. In doing so, I aim to embody the spirit of Zhuangzi and Laozi, living authentically and embracing a carefree existence.

Herbert Chow (周文斌 )

Residing in San Diego with roots in Hong Kong and Taiwan, Herbert bridges the gap between science and art. By day, he works as a biotech professional, but his true passion lies in expressing himself in acrylic paintings and introspective writings. Herbert's paintings of landscapes, seascapes, and soaring birds capture the essence of nature's tranquility and power. Inspired by the wisdom of Zhuangzi and Laozi, he delves into themes often overlooked in our fastpaced world: self-reflection, interconnections, and the true essence of life. Through his art and writing, Herbert invites viewers on a journey of mindfulness, offering a deeper understanding of life's complexities and a path toward a more fulfilling existence.

https://twitter.com/RubiconMFA

Lutetia ART-at-TAC March Exhibition

4 In Celebration of the Hobbyist Painter Dardo Solo Exhibition

In April 2024, Lutetia ART-at-TAC will be presenting an exhibition of oil paintings by Taiwanese artist Dardo, whose traditionalist Western paintings reflect on his childhood in rural Taiwan as well as his love for this land.

Born and raised in rural Miaoli, Dardo showed an interest in drawing at a young age, constantly doodling in school books and helping classmates in art classes. During the 1960s and 1970s, when resources were scarce in Taiwan, he would often use cooking coal as pencil and “mantou” wheat flour buns as erasers.

DARDO, THE CAREER DIPLOMAT

This interest took a backseat during his youth as he focussed on academic success and career. Dardo eventually became a career diplomat for 35 years. During this long career he was stationed in Uruguay, Paraguay, Nicaragua, El Salvador and Spain. Of all the projects

that Dardo had worked with, be it economic, agricultural, environmental, social or educational, he had been most proud of Taiwan’s medical team’s work in Nicaragua. This included pro bono knee replacement surgeries for locals, and further education in Taiwan for medical professionals from El Salvador.

PAINTING AS FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION

Dardo studied portraiture from El Salvadorian artist Dinorah Preza, and picked up painting again when he was stationed in Spain. While in Spain, he joined Círculo de Bella Arte and made the most of the abundant cultural resources by attending life

drawing classes and studying works by the old masters in museums. Now retired, Dardo paints regularly as a hobby. He sees painting as a freedom of expression - its greatest value being the freedom to choose his subject, style and emotions.

A blank canvas, to him, is a symbol of ultimate freedom.

A regular at ART-at-TAC openings, Dardo took the difficult first step of approaching the organisers to propose an exhibition of his own work. As anyone who has shown their work to the public would know, making this first step takes courage, and to complete an exhibition takes commitment.

TEXT: JESSICA WANG SIMULA IMAGES: DARDO

Lutetia ART-at-TAC is a platform for budding artists to have this experience, to show their work to strangers, to celebrate their commitment. Dardo Solo Exhibition opens on Friday 5 April, with opening reception from 5:30 to 8:30pm. All are welcome.

All art sales at ART-at-TAC are commission-free, with 10% of the proceeds going to charities of the artist’s choice. Follow our Instagram @lutetiaartattac or the latest news and links to artists.

Jessica Wang Simula was born in Taiwan but has lived in six different countries since adolescence before relocating back to Taiwan with her family over three years ago. Having worked in the arts in Shanghai and London, she is interested in how the arts can start new conversations, build communities and connect people.

Simplifying Scoliosis in Children

4 Important Facts Parents Should Know

Scoliosis is the medical term for an abnormality in the curvature of the spine that causes a visible deformity. The spine has 4 natural curvatures: cervical, thoracic, lumbar, and sacral. These can be seen from the side view of the body. With scoliosis, an abnormal curvature in the spine occurs laterally, which can be seen when looking at a person from behind. Often there is a rotational component to the curvature as well as a lessening of the normal spinal curvatures. The curve can be a single thoracic or lumbar curve or a double curve with both a thoracic and a lumbar curve present. Below are 4 facts every parent should know about scoliosis in children.

1.The Cause is Unknown

Two types of scoliosis can occur in children, congenital and idiopathic. Congenital scoliosis is present from birth and a result of abnormal formation of the spinal bones during pregnancy. Idiopathic scoliosis develops as the spine grows during childhood into adolescence. However, the cause

of the abnormal development is unknown and there is no known prevention method. It is also important to know that bad posture and carrying heavy backpacks do not cause scoliosis and 80% of childhood scoliosis cases are idiopathic in nature. After the age of 10, idiopathic scoliosis occurs more prevalently in girls than boys at a rate of 4:1.

2.Early Screening Is Key

The earlier scoliosis is identified, the easier it is to prevent further progression or worsening of the curve. Common signs that can indicate scoliosis include the head not being centered over the body, uneven hips or shoulders, one shoulder higher than the other, one shoulder blade sticking out more than the other, an unequal gap between the trunk and the arms, and a curve in the spine.

Recommended screening age is between 11 and14 years at the beginning of puberty when the rate of development of

TEXT: JESSICA LOTT, DOCTOR OF PHYSICAL THERAPY IMAGE: WEB

spinal curvatures is most rapid. Current evidence suggests that spine examinations are the best screening tool, indicating regular physical exams are especially important during adolescence. During a spine examination, a health practitioner will assess the child’s overall posture and spinal alignment and perform a forward bending test. A positive forward bending test will determine the need for further examination of the spine.

3.Diagnosis Requires a Spine X-Ray

If further examination is indicated based on the results of the screening, a standing X-Ray of the spine is recommended. From the X-Ray image, the degree of lateral curvature of the spine, called the Cobb Angle, can be measured to determine if scoliosis is in fact present. A minimum Cobb Angle of 10 degrees is required in order to make a diagnosis of scoliosis. Scoliosis curves are then classified based on the measured Cobb Angle (see table below).

Low Up to 10

Moderate

21 - 35

Moderate to Severe36 - 40

Severe

Severe to Very Severe

using the RISSER Scale, can also be determined from the X-Ray upon examination of the pelvis. The combination of the Cobb Angle, the Risser Scale score, and the age of the child at diagnosis will determine the treatment approach as well as help to predict the likelihood of progression prior to the end of bone growth.

4. Conservative Treatments Are Available

41 - 50

51 - 55

Very Severe56 or more

Furthermore, the amount of bone growth remaining for the child,

The goals of conservative treatment for scoliosis are to stop curve progression at puberty (and possibly reduce the curve), prevent or treat breathing dysfunctions, prevent or treat spinal pain syndromes, and to

improve the aesthetics of the spine using postural correction. In order to achieve these goals, one or more of the following treatment approaches may be used: observation, education, scoliosis specific exercises, and bracing.

If you think your child may have an issue with their spine or you would like them to be screened for scoliosis don’t hesitate to seek medical care. The sooner scoliosis is caught, the better the outcome. This information is based on The International Scientific Society on Scoliosis Orthopaedic and Rehabilitation Treatment (SOSORT) 2016 Guidelines for Idiopathic Scoliosis.

Jessica Lott is a Doctor of Physical Therapy, living in Taipei since 2021. She is from the United States and has been living and working in Asia since 2014. Prior to living in Taiwan, she lived in Shanghai, China where she worked as a Physical Therapist at Shanghai United Family Hospital and UP Clinic. Jessica has experience treating various conditions and injuries and works with individuals of all ages. She is passionate about physical health, wellness, and helping people achieve their goals. You can contact Jessica at physicalrestorations@gmail.com

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