Seattle

After the car accident, Lily and Paul began their newlywed life in Seattle, Washington. Lily juggled several different jobs to support her and Paul during his long recovery. When his condition improved enough for him to begin working at the Boeing Corporation, Lily applied for classes at the University of Washington, enrolling in the School of Social Work.

During the next two years in graduate school, Lily and Paul also unexpectedly started a family. Lily became pregnant with Arthur first in 1961, then Helen in 1962.

Life became extraordinarily busy after Helen’s birth, balancing her schoolwork with taking care of her children. To make her schedule more feasible, she decided to hire a babysitter whose name was Shiang-ling. Shiang-ling, took care of Arthur and Helen for the duration of Lily’s master’s program. Even after 40 years, Shiang-ling remembered Lily and found her through a mutual friend, leading to a heartfelt reunion.

During this time, Lily’s days began at five in the morning. She’d wake up, bundle Helen and Arthur up to take them to Shiang-ling, and then ride the bus to class.  Classes were often scheduled in the mornings, from 7-9 am. After class, she’d eat lunch in the cafeteria, study, pick up the children, and then head back to work. 

Despite her hectic schedule, the 1960s was an exciting era in which Lily became increasingly passionate about civil rights. She was especially inspired by President Kennedy. His 1963 Civil Rights Address and support for immigration reform was a symbol of hope.

On November 22, 1963, Newscaster Walter Cronkite tragically announced President Kennedy’s assassination.

President Kennedy’s death and President Lyndon B. Johnson’s ensuing Great Society spurred Lily’s desire to work with social services. Lily knew that the 60s was an opportune time to make her own contribution to her community.

President Johnson’s ideas inspired Lily, and reminded her of the teachings of Confucius and Sun Yat-Sen (老吾老以及人之老幼吾幼及人之幼). 

Huntington Beach

After Lily finished her masters degree, the Chen family moved to California in 1965. They settled in Huntington Beach, which was predominantly white at the time. Lily worked at the Long Beach El Cerritos County Hospital, where she provided group therapy for patients recovering from substance abuse. Paul worked at TRW Aerospace Company.

Lily was actively involved with her children. She enjoyed attending Parent and Teacher Association (PTA) meetings and talking with other parents.

When Arthur turned five, his birthday party was an eye-opening experience for Lily. She noticed that he was the only Asian boy among his friends who were all Caucasian. While their community in Huntington Beach was welcoming, Lily wanted her children to be connected to their culture as they grew up. In 1969, the Chen family relocated to Monterey Park 孟母三遣.