Letter

Dear Zhuzhu, Recently, my work has started to slow down. I really love this grounded feeling of focusing intensely to finish tasks and then leisurely sending emails. Today is Friday, and we’ll be seeing each other soon. Just thinking about it makes my heart play Like Sunday, Like Rain uncontrollably—haha, I’ve been completely obsessed with this song lately. I want to share with you a book I just finished: Flowers for Algernon. By the end, I was sobbing uncontrollably, secretly shedding “little pearls” again. ...

Dear Sister, Seeing the tears in your eyes made me realize how deeply saddened you are by Mom’s decision to move to Shuicheng. But it seems there’s nothing we can do. We’re constantly pushed forward by life’s unavoidable circumstances while trying our best to make the most of it. We’ve grown accustomed to being children, unwilling to face the separation of our big family, and wanting to keep it intact. You’ve always been the one who spent the most time with Mom and Dad, so of course, you’re also the one who finds it hardest to let go. ...

Dear Huanhuan, It’s been a while since I last wrote to you. Recently, I had been under the impression that we were in a very harmonious state. If you hadn’t told me, I wouldn’t have realized the inner journey you’ve been going through. It’s essential that you share these things with me because these issues are like whirlpools; struggling alone, you might only sink deeper. So, I’m glad you told me, but seeing you upset, I’m at a loss for what to do. The answers to these problems don’t lie with me, and you know I’m not one to offer empty words. ...

Dear Zhuzhu, Coming to my home has hurt you deeply, and seeing you in pain makes my heart ache as well. I’ve never believed that marriage must have parental blessings to be happy—happiness is something we define for ourselves. Our relationship, including the decision to marry, was made thoughtfully by the two of us. How many of our parents’ generation married for love? At least my parents didn’t. My father, in particular, carries more of a sense of responsibility than love. Perhaps his perspective has limited his ability to recognize or feel love, but that doesn’t mean our happiness needs his approval. ...