Dear
Alice,
Today,
you are 18. Two months later, you will be flying to the US to pursue your
undergrad degree. Life is just beginning a new chapter in front of you. Enjoy
it but make sure that your decisions make you a better person each and every
day. You may be a handful but I have witnessed you blossom these last 18 years
and though I don’t say it often I am proud of you. What I take the most pride
in is that you are so independent that I didn’t even worry about throwing you
into a new culture to force you to mature. However, as your departure date
approaching, I can’t help starting to wonder “Do you really know what
independence means?”
When
I was sorting out your photos last night, I found one meaningful --- your field
trip to Shanghai at 15. It is easy to tell from the picture that you were pumped
for this first journey on your own. Undeniably, living away from protection of
parents is a significant indication of independence. But I want to remind you
that besides lifestyle, the independence of your heart is the top priority, that
is, your independent thinking. However, due to the fact that your generation is
glued to your smartphones since every morning, I will be very pleased if you
are willing to spare 15 more minutes on books every day, which may not be as
thrilling as your games and gadgets, but it is absolutely the most effective
way to develop this independent thinking mode.
Another
interesting photograph was taken at your last years’ birthday party when you
were surrounded by your friends. I want you to take this happy scene to heart
and keep in mind that independence doesn’t equal to isolation, whereas, it
means responsibility. Namely, you are expected to be responsible for your words
when interacting with others. In the era of team work, much importance should
be attached on expanding your network and making true friends, because their
support and connections can take you further on your way of pursuing
independence and maturity, as long as you can remain your integrity and sense
of responsibility.
Last
but not least, the picture I love most is the great photo of our family, for
when I look at our family, I feel so blessed. I hope you know that we are
always right there with you to help you express your independence. Don’t be
afraid to make mistakes, for an independent individual trusts himself and
believes in his ability to stand up from where he was tripped over. Thus, be confident
and brave. Whether we’ll be mad or happy, if you need someone to talk to, we’ll
be all ears trying to understand you.
I love you, little girl. Hopefully,
this letter and these three pictures will become one of your special birthday
presents this year.
Love,
Mom
Hey Zoe,
ReplyDeleteYour post is really special and I like it! I know it's very tough for a young kid to fly thousands of miles away from home and to have a new life alone, especially for a girl. But your mom's resolution of putting your abroad proves that you are a very independent girl and that her mental education on you is effective. Your mom's explanation of Independence are all very thoughtful and helpful for you, me and all of us. I believe you, as such a independent girl, will be totally fine of living in NYC on your own! GOOD LUCK!